Modern Dog "Cutest Couples" Portrait Progress...

I finally had a chance to start the winner of the Modern Dog's "Cutest Couples" contest portrait. The winner was Elvis, a miniature Dachshund, super cute, he is all spotted and has these piercing light green eyes. On top of hosting and updating the MARCH MADNESS! contest I am currently running, I recently found out that my grandfather passed away. He was the last of my blood related grandparents and he was also a survivor of the Holocaust. He was an outstanding man. I can't say he was easy, but he loved his 2 grand daughters very much and even though sometimes he would say things without thinking about it, we knew that we were surrounded by love and a piece of history. My grandfather always said, "Mamala, all I wish for you is that you are happy, healthy, and that you have money." It brings tears to me whenever I think of that because I can hear him saying it clear as day. This is why it is so important to me to be able to having painting as a tool to release any emotion that I have built up inside. Painting Elvis' portrait couldn't of come at a better time when I needed help directing my focus in a positive way rather than feeling sorrow and isolating myself- although in a way I am currently isolated since I am in my studio alone, but I am not because I have my paintings to help pull me through. I know this piece is going to come out beautiful not only because Elvis is a great study, but all my energy is pouring out onto the canvas and I am so very grateful to be able to share that with someone very deserving. I will keep posting my work in progress as I work on Elvis' portrait and I hope you enjoy watching how I work. Thank you.