Gidget hanging out with Cassy at her soon-to-be new studio and custom-frame shop

It all began a little over three years ago. Little did I know then that this young lady would become embedded not only in my heart, but in the heart of John as well.

I’ve written about Cassy before on my blog. A dear friend, a talented artist, and a beautiful young lady with passion that is contagious. Ever since she came into this world thirty years ago she has known she wanted to be an artist. She has pursued that dream with a vigor  like no other person I’ve ever known.

Cassy has sacrificed many things to make this happen. Some of it quite painful and many times having her question if she should move forward. But with determination and a deep knowing, she keeps following her heart.

You may recall that Cassy came to live with John and I this past summer as she went through a divorce. We all grew in ways we could have never imagined. We took Cassy under our wings and did our very best to nurture and support her.  Though yes, trying at times as we will all admit, we would do it all over again.

I’ve always believed the Universe will support you if you show it you are serious about what it is that you want. Cassy is a great example of that.

As we moved through the summer, she began to bloom. The day came when she announced she was moving out into a little apartment. She had to prove to herself she could make it on her own. Though there were many tears shed, it would turn out to be another example of moving forward so more could bloom in her life.

A little over a week later she was approached by the soon-to-be owners of a new wine bar that is opening in our area. The other half of the building was up for rent and they thought Cassy and her art would be the perfect match.

While I mentored Cassy as she went through following her heart and pursuing her art dream, it soon became evident that John would play a beautiful role in Cassy’s dream of a new studio and shop.

To say I am proud of John is not big enough of a word. But indeed, I am so proud of all he has done, and continues to do to help Cassy. He has volunteered his labor building out her new store front, while also voluntarily mentoring her with business decisions.

Not only have I watched Cassy bloom before my eyes, but  to also watch as John’s heart has expanded has been one of my greatest joys.

Cassy often thanks us for helping save her life and her dream. But honestly, this could not have been done if she didn’t want this with all her heart.

One moment that sticks in my mind and now makes so much sense to me is when I first brought Joie home in October 2012.  Cassy knew my love of special needs dachshunds having known Frankie as well.

One evening as she was struggling to make changes in her life she sent me a text that said, “I want to find my Joie.” At the time I wasn’t sure what she meant.

Now I completely understand. Her art is her dream. It’s her heart. It’s her joy. As was my Frankie and Joie, and now Gidget. We get each other. We know what it means to follow our hearts even when big obstacles are in the way, as well as when it becomes scary and painful.

So this week we celebrate!  Today John and our JT Construction crew are moving Cassy into her new studio and shop. Tomorrow and Friday I’ll be helping at the new space getting things in order. December 6th is the Grand Opening from 6-8pm. You can bet John and I will be there, our hearts full of love, and beaming with pride for Cassy.

To help someone else bloom has an amazing affect… not only has it been a joy to watch Cassy bloom, but to feel the blooming that has taken place in our own hearts is quite magical and special.

The A-Team from left to right:  Tim Tully (Cassy’s Dad), Pat Tully (Cassy’s Mom), Cassy, Barbara and John

If you wish to learn more about Cassy and her exquisite art, here is where you can find her:

Cassy Tully – Fine Art website

Cassy Tully – Fine Art on Facebook