After sneakers, eggs, and canvases, I thought I had tried it all—until my wife surprised me with a new kind of “canvas”: her beautiful, growing belly.
She was pregnant with our second son, Thomas, and one day, she looked at me and said,
“Why don’t you paint something here?”
I was speechless for a moment. This wasn’t just about art anymore—it was about capturing a memory, a feeling, a moment of love and anticipation.
This time, I wasn’t alone. Nicholas, our firstborn, was excited to help. He had already developed a strong interest in colors and painting (maybe it’s in his blood!), and he was thrilled to be part of this project for his little brother.
We used the Maydear Face Painting Kit—safe, non-toxic, and perfect for something as delicate and meaningful as this.
We chose a sweet design: a big, happy teddy bear holding a heart, with the name “Thomas” written in soft blue. And next to the teddy bear, we added a water polo ball—a small tribute to my passion for the sport, and maybe a playful hint at what Thomas might grow to love too.
And perhaps it was destiny, but Thomas was born on June 4th, 2024—the exact date Napoli officially celebrated its historic second Serie A title. From painting an Easter egg in Oshimen’s honor to painting my wife’s belly… this journey feels perfectly timed, filled with passion, pride, and unforgettable memories.
We painted it in stages—me working on the outlines, Nicholas helping with the heart and filling in the background (with a bit of mess, of course!). It wasn’t perfect, but that wasn’t the point. It was personal. Emotional. Real.
We took photos throughout the process—laughing, painting, stepping back to admire our work. Looking at those pictures now, they remind me how creativity can bring a family together, how a small idea can become a big memory.
This belly painting wasn’t just a piece of art—it was a celebration of the little life growing inside, and the love already waiting for him on the outside.
If you’re thinking about doing something creative and personal during your pregnancy, I absolutely recommend it. Whether it’s painting, journaling, or taking photos—capture the magic while it’s happening. You’ll never forget it.
