AVM & Harrison Hawkins in AVM’s Private Studio in Houston, Texas.

Last year during the summer, I babysat my 5 month old nephew just for a quick, few hours. This was my first time babysitting a young baby EVER, by myself.

Little Fredo was napping, and the Hubby + Bro-in-law went to run a quick errand while I stood on watch.

At the time, I was painting in the studio and, an idea struck! Sure enough, I searched + found a baby monitoring app that used the devices I already had on deck that allowed me to paint in my studio and watch my nephew as he napped. When he awoke, I placed him in the “back pack” and he painted with me.

Watching my nephew attentively as he slept, while not missing a beat in my studio, was life changing. It was the first time, where I thought, “I can do this.” I can be a great Mom and a great Artist. This moment with my nephew, was where I felt ready to be a Mom.

AVM & Harrison Hawkins working in AVM’s Private Studio in Houston, Texas.

Here in this picture, is my first time painting with Harry, testing out our “parachute” (baby carrier). He did so well. Harry has already assisted his Daddy with prepping mushroom croquettes, and has helped Mommy with paining some large paintings. Lol.

It is a full-circle moment like this, where I remind myself, I am actually doing what I thought + said I was going to do. I am actually living in real time, what I once dreamed of. Life can be so distracting + challenging at times, where I can easily forget how I am living my actual dream, now.

Creating my new rhythm as an artist + entrepreneur has definitely not been easy. Postpartum adjustments have been real. I am learning so much about myself—what I need, so that I can be my full best self, and actually taking the time to take care of me first. I am so grateful for Mark + my Village for being so supportive + loving, always, but also espcially during this time. I am truly a lucky lady. 🥰❤️🙏🏽

Living Now, What I Once Dreamed