It was heart-rendering to bring an old, wrinkled photograph back to life for an older gentlemen.  I could have said "no" for this commission, but his story touched my heart.  This was Johnny's childhood buddy, Popeye.  I loved this candid shot that showed the energy of the dog being held back by the young lad.  No doubt he is telling his companion to "be still" before Popeye jolts forward to romp and play.  I enjoyed painting everything, but that darn complex, plaid shirt.  It was a challenge to interpret the non-color value to different colors.  It was worth it when the elderly, Johnny saw the painting for the first time.  We were both choked up.  I felt so blessed to have brought back his childhood memories in full color!  I think it made God smile too!  "What happened to Popeye?" I asked Johnny? "Ahh... he got cancer and my Dad had to put him down."