a little help from the other side ✨

Sometimes, just when you need it most, life surprises you.

A couple of weeks ago, I was frightened. I thought I might actually be homeless on November 2.

I started thinking about what I would need to survive outside. First on my list was a sleeping bag. 🥶

I contacted the Kettle Society to see if I could get one. I didn't hear back right away.

I was also talking to my mom, asking her for help and telling her how scared I was.

Mom passed away in 2007, but I've always felt she's close by. She had a difficult life and experienced housing struggles herself. I think she would understand.

I found myself thinking about Mom, my ancestors and all the people I've loved who are no longer here.

And then, in the middle of all this, an announcement appeared:

Last call to drop off artwork for the Eastside Culture Crawl at 620 Clark Drive!

I went to Recovery Café to see about leaving a couple of paintings.

Damian took 20!

TWENTY PAINTINGS! 😁🎨🐳

Zipolita'Z ArtworkZ 2026

I was thrilled, but also a little nervous and sad. I've carried these paintings around, photographed them in different places, and put so much of my heart and soul into them. They're my little babies! 💙🩵💚

But if someone falls in love with one, takes it home, and it helps me put food on the table in Mexico, then I couldn't be happier.

And that was my little miracle.

Things began to fall into place. Unexpected kindness, an opportunity, a door opening just when I needed one.

I can't explain it, but moments like this have happened throughout my 64 years.

I've been thinking about how frightened I was, wondering if I'd even make it to 65. The last six years have been some of the hardest of my life, but also some of the most beautiful.

I'm still here! Still painting, still blogging, still making plans and looking forward to another adventure.

Maybe it's timing. Maybe it's the kindness of people. Maybe the people we love, who are no longer here, somehow remain close to us.

I like to think Mom and my ancestors are still cheering me on. ❤️

So here's my message: HANG ON.

When things seem impossible, leave a little room for tomorrow. Ask for help. Keep your eyes open. Think about the people who loved you. Believe that something unexpected might happen.

You don't have to be religious to believe in a little magic.

I'm grateful for everything I've received, and I'm still hoping for a few more miracles!

Today, I'm also thinking about everyone who needs a warm, dry place to shelter from the incoming atmospheric river. And I'm hoping for beautiful weather for all the artists participating in the Eastside Culture Crawl.

Come see my paintings!

November 19–22, 2026
Recovery Café — 620 Clark Drive, Vancouver

I'll be exhibiting with Art Against Stigma, sharing my Water Is Life collection — mermaids, whales, otters, waves, forests and plenty of love.

I hope to see you there! 🧜‍♀️🐋🌊🎨

Sometimes a miracle is simply someone opening a door.

Sometimes it's an opportunity you almost missed.

And sometimes, you just have to hang on until tomorrow.

❤️ There's still a little magic left in the world.

If you or someone you know needs help

Please share these resources. A phone call doesn't guarantee a bed or supplies, but these organizations may be able to connect people with support.

604-872-3311 — Vancouver Coastal Regional Distress Line.

911 — Immediate danger or emergency.

Vancouver community and housing support

The Kettle Society: 604-251-2801 — Mental health and community support. 

Union Gospel Mission: 604-253-3323 — Meals, shelter, recovery and housing information.

UGM Women & Families Centre: 604-253-4044. 

BC 211: Dial 211 for community and shelter referrals. Availability can be limited; a referral is not a guaranteed bed.

Please look out for one another. A warm meal, a sleeping bag, a little kindness — it all matters.

#EastsideCultureCrawl #ArtAgainstStigma #WaterIsLife #VancouverArtists #Zipolita #KeepHangingOn #HopeAndKindness #SupportLocalArtists #CommunityCare #LittleMiracles