Both of my Grandfathers families where sharecroppers, farm animals were daily life and necessities. My one Grandfather who influenced me greatly raised birds, all kinds of birds, from homing pigeons, peacocks, turkeys, chickens, pheaseants to doves. He would also from time to time have pigs, rabbits, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, parrots and on and on. My Mom has always loved nature and that rubbed off in a big way on my younger brother. We thought he might be the next "Steve Irwin" at one time. Me, I liked being outdoors but would rather draw or read back then than have to muck out some cages or feed the animals. I do love creation though, and most of what I paint are wildlife.