I’m Lucy Black. I am lucky because I make my living by doing what I love—painting.

I painted my first picture when I was just 4. One day, I took out my crayons and painted on one blue wall. I painted myself and my dog Clyde in the grassland. I painted the sun above us. I just finished the painting when Mum walked into my room. “I will be in big trouble. Mum must be unhappy.” I thought. But I was surprised when Mum said, “What a beautiful picture, Lucy!” The picture still stays on my bedroom wall. Almost 30 years later, I see it every time I go home to visit Mum.

I tell this story because it shows how much Mum supports my love of painting. Mum saved all my paintings. She put up many of them on the walls of our house. She never said, “Paining is a fine hobby, but it is hard to make a living.” But she always said, “You are so talented! Honey, you’ll make it.”

Today, I am a successful painter. I am happy that people love my paintings. Some of my paintings are in famous museums. Most of all, I am thankful that Mum is always there for me.

Alison cornered me in the kitchen. “Daddy, I really want a rat!”

“Again?” I saw the ugly grey things with round eyes and long tails in my mind.

This topic was around in our family for about one year. This time, Alison told me seriously how she would take care of the rat herself, and how she would learn to be responsible. I wanted to say “no” as usual, but it was not the right reply for this situation.

“Well, you should at least do some research about rats: How much do they cost? What care do they need?” I said, thinking that the answers she’d find might change her mind.

But Alison acted. She searched for information and made many notes. She learned what the best cage for rats is and what types of food they can (and can’t) eat. She even learned that two rats are better than one—they like staying together.

I finally gave in. We called up several pet stores, asking for baby rats. One store told us it just received some that would be ready on sale in a week. Alison was so excited—her dream would come true soon.

On Sunday afternoon, I drove Alison there. I must say, the rats were much cuter than I’d imagined.

Alison carefully picked out two little ones with her soft little hands. She cradled the cage with them, singing with a huge smile.

“I can’t believe I have them after a year of begging!”

“It wasn’t your begging.” I told her, “You showed me you were responsible, so I wanted to reward that!”