Rocky

The latest out of my studio is a portrait of Rocky! When I visited him to take photos, my camera frightened this handsome little guy. Luckily, Rocky's mom had a wonderful picture of him standing among some pumpkins - making this a fitting Halloween announcement!

It took me a few tries to settle on a background color. Rocky's mom wanted his portrait to look sophisticated over cute, and I wanted something that would enhance his coloring, not compete with it. Ultimately I think this blue suits the sophisticated tone and will stand out nicely on the wall. It was a pleasure, little Rocky!

Meet Elvis!

Dreamboat alert! Elvis, true to his namesake, is a hunka-hunka-burnin' love! This guy is a foster of mine through Our Pack Inc. Pit Bull Rescue. I can't say enough good things about this dog! He's sweeter than sugar, always coming up to me and sitting at my feet for pets and TLC. A VERY well-mannered fellow. He gets along terrifically with my other dogs; I have no doubt he'd do great in a home with a nice dog buddy. He's tested safe around my cat - another plus for any cat & dog owner out there. He makes goo-goo eyes at all the neighborhood kids who want to come up and say hello.

I plan to get him started in therapy work soon, and earning his CGC certification should be a snap. All in all he's a fantastic dog - if I didn't have a full house I'd be keeping him for myself!! Elvis is a true goofball and sweetheart, willing to make a fool of himself for your love. Did I mention he plays fetch? He actually brings the ball back too! :) If you know anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dog (and I really do mean that, you don't find these dogs everyday), have them email me!

Brody & Clara

Meet Brody & Clara! These sweet goofballs are Labs through and through. They're ready to go at the wag of a tail and will charm the pants off of you with their happy smiles. Mom & Dad wanted to capture them in a slightly more dignified moment but that Lab lovability just shines through.

Thanks guys!

Photo Books by Jill Cody

Have your photos arranged in a professional-looking book by Jill Cody! Jill (Sassy's mom, see blog entry below) will present your favorite baby pictures, travel snapshots, wedding photos, and even cute pet pictures in a fun book to show family and friends! There's a variety of template designs to choose from and you can include an introduction and captions. The final product is a hard bound book with an optional, full-color paper jacket.

I've seen one in-person and can vouch for how professional and colorful these keepsakes are - like something you'd buy at the bookstore! You also don't have to worry about cutting up your own original photographs, a major plus in my opinion.

A 20 page book (40-60 photos) starts at $75. Contact Jill Cody for details! Makes a great gift!
codyassoc@mac.com
408.298.1182
408.836.0401

Sassy in Doggles

Meet Sassy! As her name implies, this little girl is full of life and can't wait to tell you about it! Case in point: Sassy loves riding in the car, but she can't start travelin' until she's got her Doggles! Sassy's portrait was worked from the photograph shown below. Her owner wanted vibrant colors that matched colors in their home as well as Sassy's personality.

Aaaaaahhh! It's a SNAKE!

Meet the latest addition to my ever-growing zoo: a Super Tiger Reticulated Python. While at the San Mateo Pet Expo, I had the chance to meet and talk snakes with Jean Bolinger and B.K. Baker, the folks behind The Creature Company - a SoCal-based reptile breeder that specializes in snakes.

After handling a handful of different boas & pythons, I ended up purchasing TWO snakes, one for my brother as an 18th birthday present, and the other for myself. Snakes are amazing creatures and must always be handled with prudence and respect.

This guy just had his first meal since his homecoming a couple days ago. What an experience that was! Definitely not for the faint of heart. :(

As you can see from the photos, my brother's snake looks quite different from mine. That's because he has a Pastel Red Tail Boa, one with exceptional coloring. It's hard to tell from the pic, but that snake has salmon pink coloring along its sides, jaw, and head, something that will intensify as it ages.

At the moment, my guy is going name-less. After coming up with a few names (and struggling to decide on one), I decided to leave it in your hands. Thanks for voting! I'll let you know the results....

San Mateo Family Pet Expo 2008

Last weekend was a blast at the San Mateo Family Pet Expo! I got a chance to meet so many new people and their pets. We even saw Gibson, the World's Tallest Dog! Throughout the day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday I was in my booth painting and finished a commission (check back soon for photos). Not to mention I brought two VERY special guests: Capone and Miso! These guys are two of the best behaved Pit Bulls you'll find. They eagerly welcomed visitors to my booth and even changed a few minds about the breed. Way to go guys!

Miso was pooped out at the end of the day

I also bought (drum roll) a snake! The Creature Company was there with pythons & boa constrictors and boy, was I amazed! I haven't named him yet....but I'll definitely introduce him to you guys soon.

Thanks for stopping by the booth - it was a pleasure meeting you!