Monday, October 15, 2012

Husband II


 
Husband II.  Stitched words: I put my wife through law school.  Xylene photo transfer on tea-stained muslin. Hand embroidery and beading. Unframed 25" x 19"; framed 31" x 25".  Click on image to enlarge.

Patrick Parise (http://www.patrickparise.com/main.php) is a wonderful artist, a master print-maker, and devoted to his family. His wife Sandi runs her own law firm and enjoys well-earned respect and admiration from her peers in the legal field. They met in college, got married, and were trying to support themselves working in food service positions. Of course, they were barely getting by. I relate to "those days". Steve and I tried it too; something had to give! Lots of young newlyweds work in low paying, under appreciated positions. Perhaps that's why so many marriages end in divorce; financial problems cause too much friction...but...now back to Patrick and Sandi.

Sandi had an opportunity to work in the public defender's office.... as a secretary, nothing particularly special...a little more money.... but importantly, the opportunity to see what other, better jobs entailed. One day, she told Patrick that she thought she could do a lawyer's job; she wanted to go to law school. Patrick's reply, "Will it make you happy?" She said, "Yes!"

Without hesitation, Patrick found a way.... taking more shifts, moonlighting, working several jobs to keep Sandi in school. He support her every dream, including setting up her own practice. He maintains the house. He was a hands-on parent to their only child, a daughter.... who, with the help of her parents recently finished law school and is working with Sandi!

Patrick Parise is also a brilliant man, articulate, educated, and talented. He could have been anything he wanted to be.... and he is exactly that.... someone’s soul mate.... for over thirty years of marriage. His artwork is as meticulous and beautiful as the man who created it!

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