Same bouquet, different day
Posted: January 25, 2017 Filed under: Uncategorized 170 CommentsLast Wednesday I painted this same bouquet, but a lot has happened since. I don’t usually include personal stuff on this blog but today is special. It wouldn’t feel right if I wrote about technique or materials or colour today. Instead, I am dedicating this post to my mom who passed away last Friday, just four short months after my dad.
My mom was an amazing woman — a trailblazer in education and a mentor to many (including me). She broke the glass ceiling many times in her career and in doing so, taught me that there was nothing I couldn’t reach for. A true believer in lifelong learning, she took up art later in life and when she gave up painting because of illness, I inherited her brushes, paints, paper and books. I still use a lot of those materials today. She was always the first person to encourage me to paint, to exhibit my work and to enter shows. In her own strong, humorous, gentle, loving, intelligent way, she set the bar very high and the world will just not be the same place without her.
Shari Blaukopf's Sketchbook 
Shari, I am so sorry to read this. My deepest sympathy. Your life and your art, and your endless dedication to us, your students, is the greatest tribute you could pay to your mother. I am certain she was an extraordinary woman, and the acorn did not fall far from the tree.
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Janine, thanks so much for writing. Yes, she was an amazing woman in so many ways. Messages from colleagues are continuing to come in. Hearing about her will certainly help me be a better teacher.
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Condolences. You have a strong legacy to hold on to.
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I really do. Many thanks Rick.
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Oh my! I am so sorry about the loss of your mom.
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Thanks so much Cleti.
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my deepest condolences to you and your family. What a sad day and the loss of clearly and great woman. How lucky you were to have her for so long.
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Zuzala, we were very lucky to have her around for so long. Thanks for taking the time to send me a note.
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A wonderful tribute to a life well lived. Her spirit will always be with you A big loss for you and your family
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Many thanks Geri. It is a big loss for all of us.
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My deepest sympathy to you on the loss of your parents. My parents died a great many years ago but I still, in my old age feel their loss. Sincerely, Kathleen Knowling
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Thanks so much for sending me a note Kathleen. I really appreciate it.
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We are never ‘ready’ to lose our parents, no matter how old THEY are, or how old WE are. I
miss my parents every day, but the happy memories also give me something to treasure.
My sympathy on the loss of your mom………………savor all your special memories!
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So true Mary. I will savour all my memories and I thank you for writing.
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So sorry to hear about your mom passing, Shari. She sounds like a wonderful woman. Thanks for sharing your beautiful work.
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She was a wonderful mom. Thanks for writing Lori.
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I’m sorry you’re going these very difficult losses so close together. I’ve lost both my parents, and although the immediate pain did get better, I will always miss their presence.
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Thanks Sharon. That is what I hear from so many people.
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A Mother’s love never ends. And you will miss her for the rest of your life and your Dad too.
I lost both my parents within months as well. You will carry them with you forever in your heart.
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Many thanks for your words of comfort Patricia.
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Shari, I am so sorry to hear of your loss…..and what a double loss for you to have lost both parents in such a short time! Your mother sounds like an amazing woman, and she gave you some wonderful gifts.
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She was a wonderful woman Kathy, and this week I am remembering more and more about how she was before she got sick. It is certainly helping me get through this very sad period. Thanks so much for writing.
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Shari, such enormous losses, so close together. Sending deep sympathy.
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Many, many thanks Joanne.
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Hi Shari
I am very sorry for your loss.
Chris
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Thanks so much Chris.
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I am truly sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and precious memories with us. My prayers tonight are for your peace. Sincerely, Bernadette
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I am very appreciative of your thoughtful note Bernadette. Many thanks.
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Sending love and sympathy! Today’s painting is just right to be a memorial to your mother’s gifts and inspiration to you! The daughter of an artist, too, I still am inspired daily by my mother’s work and encouragement. Such a blessing in our lives! Her brushes painted on! Hugs!
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That is such a nice thought about the brushes. Thanks so much for writing!
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I’m so sorry about your Mom. Keep those memories alive each day. Pass on her messages to you. Keep painting.
Your paintings are beautiful.
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Dottie, many thanks for writing.
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Very sorry for your loss, Shari.
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Thanks for writing Janet.
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And I offer my condolences
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Thanks so much Fred.
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Shari,
Je vous serre dans mes bras.
BIG BIG Hug et MERCI d’être là.
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Merci beaucoup Louise!
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Shari,
You are in a large passage that could be an abyss if your parents weren’t such treasures. You’ve shared how wonderful both were and judging you by your generous sharing, teaching & accomplishments, that’s already been a given. It’s just a plus gift to have you elaborate about them.
Thank you and hoping you recall all your great memories as time allows.
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I really appreciate your note Soni. A big thanks.
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My deepest condolences from afar. Thank you for sharing such wonderful feelings about your mom. Luisa sailing vessel Airborne.
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Thank you so much Luisa.
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What a beautiful tribute. Thinking of you Shari.
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Many thanks Sandi.
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That is a beautiful tribute to your mom, Shari, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to you. I’m sure you will think of her every time you pick up one of her brushes.
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I will certainly do that Bev. Thanks for writing. Hope you are well.
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I’m so sorry, Shari. It’s so hard to lose a mom…AND a dad. Lifting you in prayer.
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Many thanks Anne.
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What a loss. Such a beautiful dedication. I have some of my mother’s and grandmother’s brushes and things. It makes the creative experience all the richer when I use those things.
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I agree Robin. I’m very happy to have a lot of her brushes and even a lot of paper that is probably to old to paint on. I am still hanging on to it.
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What a lovely tribute to your mother. My thoughts are with you and your family.
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Thanks so much Christine.
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Oh, Shari. Your words are beautiful and show the love for your mother. Sending heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Missy
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Missy, you know I love to hear from you. See you soon!
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My deepest sympathy for the loss of your parents.
Marc
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Merci beaucoup Marc.
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I feel your pain and send my condolences to you and yours. Seventeen years ago I lost my mom and my dad passed away15 days later, and as Kathleen says so eloquently, even in our old age we still feel their loss.
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Ineke, I am so sorry to hear about your parents, even if it was a long time ago. This happens quite frequently, apparently. Thanks so much for writing.
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Mes plus sincères condoléances. Deux pertes en si peu de temps. Take care !
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Hugs to you…so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom and dad.
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So sorry for your loss. I love your work and have enjoyed both your Craftsy classes. Nice way to honor your mother.
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Thanks for sharing this very personal loss, Shari. You are fortunate to have grown up with someone supporting you and striving to achieve her personal best. Wishing you the time you need to grieve and heal in the coming months. Very best wishes, Jean
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Your beautiful paintings are a reflection of and a tribute to your parents legacy. Thank you for sharing so generously those wonderful gifts. I pray their enduring love will comfort you.
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So sorry about your loss, Shari. Your Mom must have been an exceptional woman in so many ways. She must have been proud of your achievements. My thoughts are with you. Elke
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I am so sorry for your loss Shari. The wonderful memories you have of your mother will be precious to you always.
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So sorry for your loss Shari, may your mother always be with you when you pick up one of her brushes.
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Shari, So very sorry for your losses. I am sure she is watching over you in spirit and continues to encourage you.
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Shari, I am so sorry for your loss. How wonderful to have shared the passion for art with your mom! Thank you for sharing with us. Warm thoughts are sent your way.
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Dear Shari,
WHat a sad loss and so close to loosing your Father. NOt only dear parents but major supporters in many ways. MY sincerest condolences? You are very blessed to have had so much in common with them both. THeir legacy goes on in your wonderful expressive sketches and generous sharing.Your memories will hold you up in this terrible time of loss . as will all our thoughts and prayers Sincerely Barb.
.
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So sorry for your loss.
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Sorry for your loss, it’s tough losing your Mom. My Mom taught me how to paint and I remember my first oil painting set and she showed me how to paint shadows in the snow. Cherish your memories
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Shari
I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Mom’s are special to us all. You and your family are in my prayers
Lisa
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Thank-you, Shari, for sharing your personal loss with us and this beautiful tribute to your mother. We are grateful that she inspired you to paint because you share so much of your work and your tips with us — you motivate us as she motivated you. It is hard to lose a parent, and even harder when the second one is gone. Most sincere condolences.
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What can I say? I am so sorry, and I feel thankful that they gave us you. Thank you for being the special person that they spent their lives cultivating and molding.
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I am so sorry to hear about the recent loss of your parents, Shari. Thank you for allowing us to be with you in the spirit of friendship during this difficult time. Take care.
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What a huge loss in such a short time. By reading your post, I can see your loving admiration and pride in the woman your mom was. I’m certain that using her brushes will draw you closer to the warm memories you have of your mom as well as your dad. I’m praying for peace in your heart in these sad days.
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Shari, I’m so sorry for your loss. Such a marker in one’s life and even more reeling to lose both parents so close together.
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I’m so sorry, Shari. Your mom sounds like she was a very lovely woman. Moms are so special. I hope all those wonderful memories help you through the days ahead.
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I am sorry for your loss Shari – you are a real chip off a very wonderful “block”. Thank you for sharing this difficult time in your life.
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Shari, I am so sorry to hear that your mom has passed away, and so soon after your dad. What a beautiful legacy she has left you, as an educator, mentor, creator, and mother. I feel blessed that you shared her with us here today, through both your words and your painting. Both are just lovely.
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So sorry for your loss. She sounds like a very special lady! Karen
From: The Sketchbook To: navywave60@att.net Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 2:54 PM Subject: [New post] Same bouquet, different day #yiv9159145429 a:hover {color:red;}#yiv9159145429 a {text-decoration:none;color:#0088cc;}#yiv9159145429 a.yiv9159145429primaryactionlink:link, #yiv9159145429 a.yiv9159145429primaryactionlink:visited {background-color:#2585B2;color:#fff;}#yiv9159145429 a.yiv9159145429primaryactionlink:hover, #yiv9159145429 a.yiv9159145429primaryactionlink:active {background-color:#11729E;color:#fff;}#yiv9159145429 WordPress.com | Shari Blaukopf posted: “Last Wednesday I painted this same bouquet, but a lot has happened since. I don’t usually include personal stuff on this blog but today is special. It wouldn’t feel right if I wrote about technique or materials or colour today. Instead, I am dedicating th” | |
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So sorry for your loss. Beautiful tribute to your Mother.
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Sending you my deepest condolences and hugs.
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I am so sorry that your mother passed away. That mush have been so difficult so close to your dad’s death. Thank you for sharing that with us. Your emails and information at Craftsy mean a lot to me. I look forward to your posts and adventures.
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I am so, so sorry for your loss. Been there, done that and it’s a terrible blow. Just remember, just ’cause your Mother is in heaven doesn’t mean she won’t find a way to cheer you on and bust your chops! Mothers are Mothers for ever and ever.
Terry
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So very sorry to hear of your loss. Even isn’t your sorrow you reach out to make your followers happy! Thanks for your beautiful talent.
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May God bless you and yours. Loss of a special mom (like yours, like mine) is indescribable. The pain is deep, but the blessings of memory of love, support and example are equally overwhelming.
Your posts, your classes and your amazing talents and tips are a joy to receive. I am 72 and teaching myself to WC. Love, love,
Alice Kolb, Texas
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Shari I am so sorry. Losing loved parents is so sad. I adore your work like so many others and hopefully your love of painting helps you through the tough days ahead. Thinking of you.
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I am so sorry to learn of the loss of your mother, Shari. Hers was a life well-lived. I have no doubt that she took pride in your accomplishments and in the person you have become.
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My sincere condolences to you and to your family. Carol Koffler
Sent from my iPhone
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So sorry. Deepest condolences. She was an amazing woman. My thought are with you and your family.
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Shari–I am so very sorry. The love between two people who pass so soon after the other amazes me. I hope you find strength in their love.
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In 1995 my mom passed. A friend commented that of all the passings in your life one of the most difficult is when your mother passes. My parents and step parents have all passed now and I am the oldest in my family. Almost every day I have cause to recall things about them, jokes we shared, the sound of their laughter and their bravery in facing the next great adventure.
I marvel every day when you post another watercolor. As I tell my children and grandchildren: don’t seek for beauty, admire all the beauty around you right now.
We don’t know what to look for in your paintings but your mother’s influence is in each painting. Thanks to both of you for the paintings
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Hugs, Shari. Very sorry for the void in your heart.
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My deepest condolences. What a beautiful tribute to someone who was apparently wise, funny,strong and of course-quite lovely. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
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Shari, I am so sorry for this deep and significant loss. Your mother sounds like such a treasure. And she blessed so many of us by gifting you with love for your fellow painters. The inspiration you provide to me, and to so many of us, is such a wonderful testimony to the beautiful relationship you had with your mother. My deepest sympathy at this profound loss.
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Dear Shari, i am thinking of you in your loss and in your remembrance of love given and received. How wonderful that you could take up your mother’s brushes, at least metaphorically, and paint an impression of a bouquet as beautifully as you just have. I think she would be happy.
Holly (angel in the dust)
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Oh my, Shari…I’m so sorry…and from scrolling down this loooong list of condolences, I see how very much people care about you,….an apt tribute to your Mom who raised you.
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I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing Shari. She was a lovely woman
I feel lucky to have met both your sweet mother and your Dad who always had a funny story whenever we chatted. My condolences to the whole family
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My sincere sympathy on the loss of your parents. Doubly difficult when so close together. Every time you pick up your brushes you will have a beautiful reminder of your mom’s legacy.
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Thinking of you Shari and your family . May all your wonderful memories sustain you in your grief . Parents are with us forever in mind and spirit..
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I said a Hail Mary for your mom.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Tab®4
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My condolences, you will find strength and comfort in her legacy to you.
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Oh Shari – I am holding you in my heart. The loss of parents, especially in such close proximity, marks a transition like no other. I hope you are surrounded and sustained by the comfort and love of those nearby–and I know the wider community of us who have a connection to you through this blog, workshops and Urban Sketchers are also surrounding you with good care and love at this time.
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Dear Shari, My sincere condolences to you and your family in the loss of your beloved mother. Her strength and values must have been passed down to you. May you keep the memories of your mother close to your heart. Sincerely, Jorie Richman
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Shari, such sad news, my deepest sympathies, a mother is so precious! The only consolation is they are together.
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My sincere condolences on your losses. I too lost both parents in the same year, a very strange feeling, to be sure. Sounds like your Mom was a lovely inspiration to you. In time, after grief, it’s nice to think of them smiling down on you.
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I’m so very sorry, Shari.
Tina
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My condolences to you and your family, Shari. Thank you for sharing that lovely tribute to your mom.
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Our parents are such treasures in our lives. They guide us, love us, and nurture us. They remain a part of our being eternally. Time softens the loss, however we continue to miss all those precious moments with them. May these memories help you through this most difficult time. And thank you for your kindness and sharing your knowledge through your blog.
Jean
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My deepest sympathies to you and your loved ones Shari. Thank you for sharing and for choosing to honour your loving mother in this manner. Big hug!
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I’m so sorry for your loss. Your flowers are a beautiful tribute to your mom.
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It sounds like your mom gifted you with a lot of her spirit – she’ll live on in you and your lovely paintings. I feel your loss, and wish you love and great memories.
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My deepest condolences Shari. In times like these, I have found consolation in the words of Kahlil Gibran: “ The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.” But grief first has to run it’s course and know that our thoughts are with you throughout these difficult times. And may your beautiful creative expressions continue to be a living tribute to your mom and dad and their beautiful legacy.
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So sorry for your loss…what a beautiful tribute to your dear Mum.I am sure she continues to be proud of you.Thank you Shari for sharing in spite of such a difficult time.
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My thoughts and prayers are with you, big hugs, keep going and keep smiling.
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Quel bel hommage tu lui rends !! Toute mon affection.
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I’m sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. Woe,woe,woe.
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I’m so sorry, Shari. My deepest condolences. May you always remember her with joy.
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Very sorry for your loss. Please receive my sincere condolences.
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Your mom is an inspiration, even second hand, through your description of her. What a legacy– to leave the world a better place than one found it. Thank you for sharing a glimpse of her life, and thank you for your own inspiring work.
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I’m very sorry for your losses in such a short time,Sharing. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
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What a beautiful tribute Shari; beautiful, bright and cheery….Mom would be honoured. xo
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Shari, I am so, so sorry for your loss.
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I am sorry for your loss..what a wonderful mom and mentor she was to you..
2 passings in 4 months are not easy at all..
I lost both mine within 6 months and I was 19..
it has been difficult becoming an adult through the years without her.
She was an artist and I wish I coulld hold her brushes♥
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Shari, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your mom sounds like a beautiful woman — thank you for sharing her beauty with us. I’ll now always feel her beauty in all you paint. Sending love to you and your family.
Denise
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Dear Shari and family, sending condolences. Please take care of yourselves now, literally. Grieving can take a physical toll on your body.
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Sincères condoléances! Je ne connaissais pas votre mère mais je l’aime déjà !
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You are well loved! So sorry for your loss.
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Shari, I’m so sorry for your losses. God be with you.
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Shari, I was saddened to hear of the loss of your precious mother and father. I know they were amazing people and their legacy lives on in you. May the lord be with you and your family and comfort you in this time of so much loss. God bless.
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My deepest sympathy goes out to you, Shari. Be well.
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Sorry for your losses.
Bill Fagan
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So, so sorry for your loss. I lost my mother 18 years ago yesterday and still miss her every day.
So sad that you now have two enormous gaps in your life.
Condolences..
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So sorry, Shari. A double blow for you, and bravely recorded.
You’ll wake up and feel better one day.
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My condolences to you and your family. Our mothers are so special, cherish the memories.
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Accept my condolences , I’m sorry.
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I’m so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences.
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Condolences Shari, so sad reading about your losses.
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I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother, Shari. Sending you much love my friend❤️ ❤️ This is a beautiful tribute to what sounds like a truly amazing woman.
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The loss of your mom so quickly after losing your dad is such a hard blow. We are thinking of you and sending you our love and best wishes.
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ohhh Shari, my heart breaks for your loss. I very well know how terrible it is to loose both parents, and I am sending a warm hug of aloha from Hawaii.
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I am sorry to hear about your loss. Mothers are very special and even when they depart they stay with us for ever. May yours be with you through your art.
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So sorry to hear about your sad loss Shari. Wonderful mum, wonderful daughter, wonderful tribute. Sending you a big hug from me and Mo.
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Oh, Sherry, I am so sorry for you. It is hard to lose one parent, so I can’t imagine losing both of them in so short a time. ((Hugs!!!) I am glad she was such a supportive parent and an inspiration to you. Wishing you and your family loving thoughts of both of them to comfort you.
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Shari, I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. She sounds like a woman of great character & strength. Prayers for you & your family.
Leslie & Ashley Wright
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I am very sad to hear about the loss of your Mom. My mother picked up painting late in life, I used her oil brushes until I switched to watercolor. Last fall a friend of mine who was a children’s art teacher had all her supplies stolen, so I gave her my mom’s oil brushes. Your Mom sounds like a wonderful person and I’m sure she left this world a better place.
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Losing your mum is probably the worst loss… but she inspired you and encouraged you – how good is that!
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You were so fortunate to have such a remarkable force in your life. She will be undoubtedly be deeply missed. My condolences.
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Sorry to hear about your mom. Losing a mom is never easy, but made more difficult so close to your dad’s death. You certainly have inherited her talent and she will live on through your art.
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Thanks for sharing. Sorry for your recent great losses. Donna
On Wed, Jan 25, 2017 at 4:54 PM, The Sketchbook wrote:
> Shari Blaukopf posted: “Last Wednesday I painted this same bouquet, but a > lot has happened since. I don’t usually include personal stuff on this blog > but today is special. It wouldn’t feel right if I wrote about technique or > materials or colour today. Instead, I am dedicating th” >
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Saddened by your loss.
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My deepest condolences for your loses.
Mona
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May I add my condolences, Shari. And thank you, too, for your sketchbook posts which bring me great pleasure.
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So sorry for your loss.
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So sorry to hear about your Mum, Shari. My thoughts are with you and your family.
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My condolences to you. Your beautiful artwork will always be a tribute to your mom. So sorry for your loss.
Denise
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I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing your parents is so hard but cherish the memories.
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Your mom sounds like a very special woman, deepest sympathy to you, nothing harder than when you lose your mother
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I am so sorry for your loss. Dedicating the flower painting to your mother is lovely way to honor her.
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Toutes mes sympathies Shari … que vos doux souvenirs apaisent votre grande peine … votre mère et votre père réunis dans votre coeur , vous protégera … my condolences Shari … really … Lise G.
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{{{hugs}}}
Thank you for sharing her with us, and for sharing your art with us every day!
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Hi Shari,
So sorry to hear about your loss. Your mom sounds like an amazing woman. The loss of our parents is one of life’s greatest challenges. May the memories of your life together sustain you through this difficult time .
Warmly,
Nancy
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Thanks so much for writing Nancy. She was an amazing woman and I really appreciate your kind thoughts.
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Dear Shari,
My heartfelt condolences on the loss of your mother. As the days pass and the shock eases, you will see that your mother’s spirit lives on, not only through you , but through your work, and what you give to all of us who learn from you. We are learning from your mother too.
May you find comfort and peace in the days ahead,
Louise
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Thanks for writing Louise. Almost every day I receive several sympathy cards from former colleagues and employees of my mother. Each one is so heartfelt and thoughtful. It is a testament to her character that so many years later, in fact 20 years after her retirement, that people are still thinking about her. What a lady.
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Hi Shari. I just learned today about the passing of your mother as well as your father. You have my sincere condolences. Your mother was a great influence on your life that she will be remembered daily in the little things you do or see. We are fortunate to have had wonderful parents and parents are never forgotten. May they rest in peace.
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Blessings to you and your family. Cherish your memories, and know that she’d be proud your wonderful art and kindness to others.
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God bless you! your Mom is so proud.
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I hope so Ginger.
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