I was recently forced to give up my nursing career due to health problems. I picked up painting again after many years, mainly to lift my spirits. It was a huge blow to my identity to give up nursing. I felt lost and devastated. I posted one of my paintings on facebook and the response was amazing. Someone asked if I would paint her dog and long story short, I’ve been busy with pet portraits ever since! While it isn’t as lucrative, I am doing something that gives me joy and peace.