I Have a New Palm

No, this is not a review about the latest technology -- but about my grandchildren, Duane and Suné, who are my pride and joy. I dote on them because they are simply amazing.

I had a Palm Zire 72 which I depended on to keep me organized. It was a gift and was not something I could have bought for myself at that time. My granddaughter, Suné, discovered a feature: to write a memo you can use the stylus directly on the screen. However, she went one better and proceeded to draw her scribbles… I mean her art. I must have known subconsciously that it would eventually destroy my Palm but I could not take it from her. Seeing her so focused on making her “mark” was to me more important than saving a tool. Recently I introduced her to the program “Paint” on her mom’s computer. Who knows how far this will take her?

Artists need encouragement, cheering on, resources, and support. Okay – I went a little overboard here, that was too expensive a resource to give to a four year old! But you know what I mean.

Years later, Suné is still pursuing her art and recently sold a painting for $20. I would strongly advise you to put in your order now… I predict the price will go up. She will be seven in January.

Full disclosure: I have received many of Suné’s artwork as gifts. That $20 painting was sold to her Dad! Her brother, Duane (8), was more reasonable – his was only $2.

Here are ideas to encourage budding artists: http://www.pbs.org/parents/supersisters/archives/encouraging-young-artists/

I hope you'll share with me how someone special inspired you to explore the arts...