My wife, Carole, loves her stuffed animals; she treats them as if they had a life of their own. When Carole's birthday came this year, I wanted to give her something of myself. I often think about all the paintings I sign my name to and how they are really done by both of us. Her help, suggestions, advice and honest criticism are as important as any brushstroke that I put on canvas. I noticed these two little friends of hers; they seemed to be alive, with feelings for each other. I painted this little scene for Carole. Her best friends are my best friends because they remind me of her, and I will love her always. - JD