Chapter 42

Mikayla's POV
Seeing them so excited made me happy.
“Okay, grab everything you need! We’re going to make an amazing art project!” I helped them pick out supplies with a smile.
After we were done exploring the stationery store, we continued on to the bookstore that happened to be next door.
The atmosphere inside the bookstore was cozy, filled with the scent of paper and new books.
“Come on, let’s check out the books!” I said excitedly. Emma and Daniel followed enthusiastically, listening to my instructions as we explored the shelves.
“Mom, they have storybooks!” Emma exclaimed, pointing to a shiny picture book on the shelf. “Can we read this later?”
“Of course! We’ll pick out some books to read when we get home,” I replied with a big smile. I know that reading is a very important habit for them.
Daniel did not want to be left behind. “Mom, I want to start learning about painting too! Are there any books about art?” he asked hopefully.
I felt so proud to see the children have an interest in learning. “Of course! Let’s look for books about painting and drawing. I’m sure we’ll find the right book for you,” I said as I helped them check the bookshelf.
We went around, choosing some interesting books. In addition to picture books, we found an art guidebook for beginners, which seemed perfect to start our drawing journey together.
After collecting some books and painting supplies, we rushed to the cashier. When Rudolf saw the pile of books and tools we had chosen, his smile grew wider.
“Looks like we’re ready to develop our creativity together!” he said as he paid.
The next day, I was ready to welcome my new painting mentor. Rudolf said her name was Serena. I couldn’t wait to meet and learn from her. Since the initial agreement to start painting, my enthusiasm has been burning, and I feel that this is the right step to explore my creativity.
After preparing all the painting equipment that we just bought yesterday, I tidied up the living room to make it clean and comfortable for the study session. A feeling of trepidation enveloped my heart. "Hopefully, Serena can help me improve my skills," I said to myself while imagining what this lesson would be like.
I felt enthusiastic and confident, especially since today was just me at home, without the distractions of the children, and Rudolf who had gone to work. This could be the perfect opportunity to concentrate and really focus on each technique taught.
After checking all the equipment, I prepared the place where we would paint. Supported by the calm atmosphere, I felt quite confident. Today was a new day full of opportunities and learning.
As the time approached for Serena's arrival, I began to feel a little anxious, but mostly a sense of excitement. I couldn't wait to work with someone who was experienced and shared new tips and tricks.
"Hopefully I can absorb all the knowledge she shares," I whispered while contemplating for a moment. This was an opportunity to not only learn to paint but also to discover a new part of myself.
When the bell rang, my heart was pounding. I rushed to open the door, and before me stood a woman with a warm smile and a positive aura that radiated good energy.
“Hello, I’m Serena! It’s so nice to meet you!” she said excitedly.
“Hello, Serena! Thank you for coming. I’m so excited to learn from you,” I replied, inviting her inside.
Inside the house, the atmosphere immediately felt comfortable.
“Have you ever painted before?” Serena asked in a friendly manner that made me feel at ease.
“I did it when I was younger, but I only tried it out,” I answered honestly, nostalgic for the old days when I spent time with canvas and paint.
Serena nodded, “Okay, that’s great! Everyone has their own journey. The most important thing is the desire to learn and experiment. I’m here to help you find your own style and technique.”
Her words lifted my spirits. “Thank you, Serena. I’m really excited to learn from you.”
“Great! Let’s start with the simplest basic techniques,” she said as she pulled out her painting tools from her bag. “First, we’ll learn about basic painting techniques using brushes. We’ll try dry brush techniques to give texture to the painting.”
She showed me how to hold the brush properly and apply the paint with smooth strokes. “With this dry brush technique, you can create unique effects that add depth to your painting,” she continued, demonstrating how to move the brush across the canvas.
I followed Serena’s movements, trying to copy the way she showed me. It felt a little awkward at first, but over time, I began to feel the flow of the paint on the canvas.
“I love it! It feels like I’ve taken back the pleasure of the past,” I said as I continued to try different textures on the canvas.
“That’s great, Mikayla! Keep going. Don’t be afraid to take initiative and experiment,” she encouraged, giving me even more motivation.
We spent hours experimenting with paint, and every stroke of the brush on the canvas felt so liberating. The frustration I had felt when trying to paint before slowly disappeared. Instead, I felt a sense of freedom in artistic expression.
As the class drew to a close, I looked at my work. Although it was still simple, there was a sense of satisfaction welling up in my heart. I felt like I could mix colors and shapes in a different way.
“Your confidence is growing! Now we can move on to the next technique in the next session,” Serena said with a big smile, seeing my enthusiasm.
“Thank you, Serena! I can’t wait to continue this lesson,” I replied, feeling a new wave of enthusiasm.
I couldn’t believe that this day had gone by so quickly and not at all boring. After a great painting session with Serena, I felt satisfied and excited about my work. When Rudolf came home, his smile immediately greeted me.