"Bobby"

8"x10"

acrylic on hardboard

I love looking at old photographs.  When I came across this one recently I knew I had to paint it. This is my aunt Bobby.  I always thought my aunt's real name was Bobby, because that's what everyone called her. It wasn't until adulthood that I even questioned it. Bobby is a male's name after all.  I think I was addressing formal invitations (probably to my wedding) when it dawned on me that her real name was Barbara and not Bobby.  Some of my relatives have horrible nick names, so she got off easy. I have had several nicknames throughout y own life.  Sister, was one and pretty common I am finding out. Tutau, was one I hated the most and put an end to right before I entered kindergarten.  But the one that has stuck and outlasted them all is Lisa. My immediate family calls me Lisa and I respond as naturally to it as my real name Felicia. I don't think about it at all, I just answer to it when a familiar voice calls it. Weird, I can't find the logic in it.