Pack Up

I finally got my Christmas present from Sergio & the girls!

I was told about it and nervously anticipated it's arrival home.

A few years ago, they bought me this Nancy Noel print tittled "Pack Up". It is one of my favorites of her work. Although I owned the print, I had not gotten it framed. I had mixed feelings about what kind of framing and where I would proudly display it.

I have admired Ms Noel's work for years. I am blessed to own a few of her prints (an original is but a dream). I favor her animal prints but love her Amish, Angels, and African works as well. (Hmm~ I never noticed they all start with A).

When the girls were quite small we met her and she signed my daughters shirt (Emily just happen to be wearing a T-shirt with a piece she did for our Zoo). I found her charming. I dreamed that one day, like Jane Seymor, I would have her paint my daughters (until I realized the cost). My girls later took me to a lovely Gallery that Nancy opened in nearby Zionsville. It is a fabulous church that she converted into a Gallery. It is THE place to see her work and grab a bite and tea in the cafe.

I had wanted something very different than what Sergio chose, so I was very nervous about how it would turn out. I can't believe how perfect it looks! He did very good! I would not have chosen this type of frame & thought I knew exactly what I wanted, but, my dear husband took a gamble and, well, he did GOOD! I absolutely LOVE it!

"Pack Up" is of my Riley Girl's breed. Nancy Noel has captured my Riley's expressions in four of the dogs. It is a limited edition, so I know, few are out there. Also, with our recent scare of losing Riley, having this print means even more to me.

I was very surprised that Sergio & the girls did this for me. Pack Up has been rolled up in it's protective tube for about 4 years waiting on me to get it framed!

I can't stop starring at it! Isn't it beautiful?