The “Rooster”, for those landing here for the first time, is the chosen doorbell sound we hear in the back of the shop to let us know we have a visitor. We hear a cock-a-doodle-doo and never know what lies in store. One exception being Ryan, our mail currier. Like clockwork, mid morning, before we can even make it out front, we hear a warm and very sincere “HELLOOOO!”. He never fails to bring a feeling of enthusiasm to the shop; it’s contagious. Even on a day without mail, he pops in to say hi. His attitude reminds me to slap a smile on my face despite the day of the week, wind, snow, rain or shine. It’s interesting how someone can change the energy in a room without even trying, just by being themself.

*Early Evening Moonrise*, Katie Swatland , oil on linen 24 x 36 Price upon request

Just before the holidays some incredibly good vibes came through the door. We were in the thick of it (very busy time of year in a frame shop), when a first-time customer picked up his piece. Matthew had helped him and his wife chose a gorgeous metal frame. They had patiently waited weeks, as metal frames take a while, but are very much worth the wait. The piece was a striking painting of oversized lemons measuring 3 feet by 4 feet. The customer was so thrilled. He said it turned out exactly the way he had wanted. He was full of gratitude, the piece miraculously fit in his car, and off he went.

Katie Swatland

Framed watercolor, *Sacred Reverence*
The Eternal Student
A breathtaking book inviting you into Katie’s world. Through word and image she inspires us to find our fire for the creative process. A book for the seeker.
Owl Sketchbook
An exquisite surface for writing, journaling, composing, dreaming and drawing with a variety of mixed media. Sixty blank pages of 100# Mohawk Superfine, white eggshell paper awaits your sketches and notes!
All available at Newburyport Framers

Fast forward a week or so, and the same gentleman walked in the door. He had a bag with him for the three of us to share. It held a beautiful homemade lemon tart. Oh, and fresh whipped cream, a LOT of it… and don’t forget a package of gorgeous napkins. It was a glorious surprise picnic! We were stunned by how delicious it was and we were very, very touched. He also included a picture of the lemon painting in it’s new home. That was another gift, as we naturally don’t often see the final landing spot of our work. This kindness landed deeply on all of us, it was unexpected and shockingly kind. I won’t name names but if you are listening, dear, kind customer with lemon painting, thank you so much for thinking of us. (And we do still have your Tupperware from the whip cream!)

When I think of visitors with good vibes, many pop into my mind. I could write on and on of the countless stories of people, all with the common thread of straight-up goodness. It shows itself in gratitude, kindness and humility. Humility is one of my most favorite qualities in people. It’s like a super power specializing in I-can-meet-you-right-where-you-are… no worries, no need to put on airs. That brings Katie Swatland to mind. Katie is a local artist who has been in and out of the shop for years. We have helped her with a variety of projects and have been honored to do so. Her work is superb; it conjures up my love of John Singer Sargent. Her paintings have their own mythology. We have chatted many times about life, art, and process. Katie is an accomplished painter I believe because she listens. Not to her ego, but to the painting. Katie doesn’t seem to “paint” paintings, she finds them with sincerity and humility. She coaxes them out of hiding. A creative process at the hand of a humble servant. If you have not had the chance to see Katie’s work, please stop in. We are so honored to be representing her. She brings a bit of magic to the shop.

All of these visitors make it fun to come to work and their kindness, joy, and humility give me hope. So, when you come by with a project or to check out the shop, remember, around 10:15 a.m. our beloved Ryan will be here with our mail and a big “Hellooo!”

Happy Trails,

P

P.S. We really do love to see pics of our work when it lands in your home!

When the Rooster Crows Part 5: Kindness, Gratitude, Humility