People Close to My Heart

Meet Paul “Bear” Vasquez: The Double Rainbow Guy

Today we honor and introduce Paul “Bear” Vasquez, the beloved soul behind The Double Rainbow Guy. In a world that often tells us to hold back, Bear showed us the power of feeling everything — joy, amazement, and connection to something greater.

Through contagious laughter, he changed the world with his viral video and transformed how we see rainbows. His moment lives on as a symbol of authenticity, innocence, and the beauty of simply being human.

LISTEN TO THE SONG

John Bliefernich

John Bliefernich, my Stepdad, was a steady and guiding presence in my life. His strength, care, and quiet wisdom helped shape who I am, and his love continues to inspire everything I do.

“Stronger” was written in his memory — a reflection of resilience, of becoming who we are through love and loss. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. I only wish you could have stayed longer. Your presence lives on in the strength you helped me find.

LISTEN TO THE SONG

Written for my Aunt, Marilyn Keohane

“Distant Calling” reflects the bittersweet space between longing and letting go. Born from dreams where my Aunt would visit me, the song speaks to the quiet pull of love that remains — the feeling of being called from somewhere beyond.

It’s about knowing her spirit is free to fly, the door open before her, while my heart lingers behind — closed not by fear, but by love and the ache of missing her.

LISTEN TO THE SONG

Getting By Without Gram” — Written for My Grandmother, Muriel Hedemark

Getting By Without Gram” is a tender reflection on love, loss, and the enduring presence of my Grandmother’s spirit. I learned to play music on her 1890 Steinway when I was three years old, and those early moments shaped my heart and love for music.

She was very close to me — an incredible musician, a gifted organist and pianist, a composer, and a beautiful singer. Through simple truth and deep emotion, the song reminds us that those we love never truly leave us.