Westies and the American Girl Doll

A few weeks ago I ran into friend at an art show. We began to talk about all the talent and creativity exhibited in that space. Although Katie was not exhibiting in that show, she could have been. She sews and quilts and does beautiful work.

I commented to her that I loved seeing her Facebook posts of her work. Much of what she does has a Westie (West Highland White Terrier) theme - wonderful fabrics depicting Westie puppies and dogs. More recently, a family member (recognizing her sewing talent) asked her about making clothes for an American Girl doll. So now she posts pictures of these adorable dresses and outfits along with photos of her Westies - frequently lying all over the sewing projects. So cute!

We talked some more and she asked me if any of my granddaughters were into American Girl. As it happened, we were about to have a visit from two of the girls who are beyond the doll age, but one of their younger sisters was about to have a birthday. Katie invited me to come over with them and pick out a birthday outfit.

When the girls and I arrived at her house, she took us upstairs to view several outfits laid out on a bed. They were adorable! Katie said, "They are ALL for you!" When I tried to pay her for them, she refused to accept anything. I offered to make a contribution to a cause that she supported. She then suggested that I paint a picture of a Westie that she could offer at auction. She would give the money to a Westie Rescue organization. What a great idea - we could each share what we love to do!

I have never painted a Westie before, so I did a little Google research... These are such adorable little dogs. I couldn't stop at one painting. Yesterday I delivered these pastels to her. She tells me that she is going to wait until closer to the holidays and then put them up for auction. Talk about a feel good experience...there are a lot of winners in this story.