[Kimberly Dow]

Mike - I know, I know. Those girls have been mocking me for 6 months now. I'm so close to finishing. It's not that I've lost interest in the painting itself, but maybe lost a little interest in the process of that particular one. In the past, if that happened I'd finish quickly to get it over with and move on. Im afraid of doing that to this one, so I keep putting it off. I think this is the first time I've had a type of psychological block when it comes to working on something. It would crush me if I messed it up...and I dont ever usually worry about that. After all - you can always start over. I love that painting. Im really attached to it. I think it's the best work I've ever done. Somehow all these thoughts have got me all tied up. And then all visitors to my studio rave about it...telling me to use it to get into a bigger name gallery. That it will up my prices, etc. I never ever have been bothered by rejection or criticism, but I fear I will be where that one is concerned. I'm hoping all this new angst means it's good - and not that I'm losing my grip on reality. I don't generally do 'angst'. Someone get me a shrink, quick!