Meet Linda! She's a talented local artist, whose work is currently on exhibit in the Landmark District's Bean Scene!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born in Manitoba but have lived in Kelowna since 1986 with the exception of ten years living in Ireland from 1997-2008.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
I never turn down an invite to spend time with my kids. I have six ranging in age from 37yrs -19 yrs old.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I love the Restore. I have many lovely furniture pieces there that didn’t cost much, but are one of a kind!
Describe yourself in one word.
Grateful.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Hawaii - been thinking of how beautiful and warm it is there ....especially these last few wintry days.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love to walk along the lake.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
My bathing suit fell off in a public swimming pool when I was young.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Watching my daughter love and take care of her sick husband and family this past year, before he passed away. She is my hero. There were so many people here, who rallied around her and the family and gave support and love.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Riding my bicycle on the trails in Ottawa and going for picnics.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have done children’s camp work at MorningStar camp, with puppets, crafts and singing.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Instead of judging and finding fault; could we be more welcoming and inclusive of those who don’t present themselves as we would expect them to. Small kindnesses can have a big impact.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I have a chair in my trunk and I love to sit beside the lake.
Where would you like to see a positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think the homeless situation is serious here, and especially since the cold snap that has come. Shelter is a basic need and I am conscious that many are freezing outside. I would like to see a better housing solution, that would be a saving, in the long run, helping people to take care of themselves.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The weather, and natural beauty are big benefits. It is a good place to relax and have fun.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. I would like to have more time to paint.
2. I have so many ideas. I would like to do a bit more travelling just for fun.
3. I would like to return to Ireland for a visit to see old friends.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am addicted to puns, love to sing, and can be very funny.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
I have an art Instagram page: @art_by_linda_c and a Facebook page: Acrylic Art & Design By Linda Catherine Hood
What is the name of your business/organization?
I am a freelance artist.
Why did you get into this business?
I have always loved to draw and paint. I have taken art history and appreciate the great influence art has had in the world. Art is vital to help express in pictures what words cannot.
What is the goal of your business?
I want to elevate the greatness of small things. There is so much that goes unnoticed or overlooked but has beauty and presence and importance. I love to bring out the small details. I think God cares about everything both great and small, and I want to give a picture of that.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
To accept both my shortcomings and abilities. To be grateful for who I am right now.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I have learned from my mistakes. To look back and ponder the “what if’s” can only leave me regretful and maybe bitter. No good can come from that. I will take my lessons learned and be grateful for another chance each day to look forward. Mistakes can be the best teachers, building humility, and thankfulness. I appreciate even more now the simple things and know that this was all part of a good plan. Short answer: I wouldn’t change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Thank you.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Don t carry life’s burdens alone.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Someone famous? Hmm, I really admire Joni Erikson Tada. She has been such an overcomer and is so joyful.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To shop locally supports the community that I live in. This can help us all financially and socially. We have all got to make a living and we have to make it where we live. I like to shop in my town as I also know that there is a quality of product (especially produce).
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My family. I homeschooled for 22 years and put a lot of time into these guys. I count myself lucky to have been able to do that.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My daughter Valerie Lalonde is my hero. She has loved and cared for her husband, and children through some of the toughest times. She did Christmas, and birthdays for her children without their dad who passed away this past year. She did an amazing job. She chooses to smile and see victory and many people are watching her and learning how to have victory too!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Okanaganmomstyle.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I appreciate Kelowna Now and love to see your articles when they come up.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
