Daily Practice
With all the rain we're been having this week, I am still practicing skies and fog ... and as Hurricane Ike threatens the Texas coastline, my thoughts and prayers go out to the folks in this strong Hurricane's path. Ike is HUGE; according to the news this morning, it occupies 40% of the GULF area ... so flooding is a severe threat.
May all those in his way be safe ...
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Antique Pump in Garden
Daily Practice
I love garden 'art' of all kinds -- and can only wish our garden (home and Arboretum) had a pump like this one I found in a reference photo.
I wanted to paint something a bit brighter today -- it's been raining all week and we're still engulfed in fog each morning ... fall is certainly on its way!
I love garden 'art' of all kinds -- and can only wish our garden (home and Arboretum) had a pump like this one I found in a reference photo.
I wanted to paint something a bit brighter today -- it's been raining all week and we're still engulfed in fog each morning ... fall is certainly on its way!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Arboretum Azalea Bed In Fog
With the fall approaching and more rain in the forecast, our mornings are often foggy and present wonderful opportunities to try to capture the misty-ness of the views I see.
I walked to the Azalea Gardens yesterday - the plants moistened with rain and the backdrop a curtain of hazy pines. One of the horticulture classes had just relined the paths with granite screenings, and somehow, the entire area looked fresh and clean -- as though the fog created a backdrop to bring the young plants into the spotlight.
BTW, the young red tree is a Crape Myrtle in wonderful dynamite red that gets more 'What's That!" questions when in full bloom (August).
I walked to the Azalea Gardens yesterday - the plants moistened with rain and the backdrop a curtain of hazy pines. One of the horticulture classes had just relined the paths with granite screenings, and somehow, the entire area looked fresh and clean -- as though the fog created a backdrop to bring the young plants into the spotlight.
BTW, the young red tree is a Crape Myrtle in wonderful dynamite red that gets more 'What's That!" questions when in full bloom (August).
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
My Creek after TS Hannah
A few hours after Hannah finished with her rains, I walked down to our creek to see how far it had risen. There was evidence that the creek rose enough to flatten the vegetation along its banks, and for the first time in a LONG time, there was water RUNNING, and running FAST, enough to create this little falls.
I snapped some photos to sketch by, hesitant to remain too long by the waters with snakes on the prowl.
Though it is predicted that Hurricane Ike will miss this part of the US, my thoughts and prayers are with those who have or will be experiencing this vicious storm.
I snapped some photos to sketch by, hesitant to remain too long by the waters with snakes on the prowl.
Though it is predicted that Hurricane Ike will miss this part of the US, my thoughts and prayers are with those who have or will be experiencing this vicious storm.
Oxford Sky after TS Hannah
More sky practice ...
This is what our sky looked like after the storm from the vantage point across our neighbor's farm.
This is what our sky looked like after the storm from the vantage point across our neighbor's farm.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Sicilian Street
Every time I review my photos of Sicily, I 'see' something in a scene I didn't notice before or thought I couldn't attempt to paint. This scene was one of those.
Everywhere we went in Sicily, we found clothes hanging on lines and the tiniest of winding streets. I don't often paint buildings... but thought I'd give this one a go. I so love revisiting those photos for inspiration and for remembering one of our favorite trips.
Everywhere we went in Sicily, we found clothes hanging on lines and the tiniest of winding streets. I don't often paint buildings... but thought I'd give this one a go. I so love revisiting those photos for inspiration and for remembering one of our favorite trips.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
After the Storm -- Another Guest
Storm clouds have passed and thank heavens there has been minimal damage to major roads. Areas reported some flooding and a few collapsed roads, but overall, in the history of North Carolina storms, Hannah was quite mild -- the 4"plus rains we've had have replenished water supplies that had been droughted -- Areas that are low-lying will still be prone to flash floods until all the rivers have crested ..
and so overall, we are incredibly grateful.
Here at my home in the woods, we're all doing well -- infact, we must be doing so well that we have another 'guest' .....This spotted turtle showed up at our steps yesterday -- and no, I didn't feed it -- ! LOL I figured with all the water around, s/he found plenty to consume. Boots checked it out though and rendered it harmless ...s/he sauntered off to our grass area - probably for cover or, as others have in the past, to built a nest and lay a few eggs .. (if it is indeed a female!) ...
Our concerns now turn toward Hurricane Ike - a most powerful hurricane heading, it seems, for the Gulf Coast -- a part of the US already saturated by Hurricane Gustav ... we'll monitor the weather as one never really 'knows' what these storms will do. Meantime, prayers for those in the path of this killer storm.
and so overall, we are incredibly grateful.
Here at my home in the woods, we're all doing well -- infact, we must be doing so well that we have another 'guest' .....This spotted turtle showed up at our steps yesterday -- and no, I didn't feed it -- ! LOL I figured with all the water around, s/he found plenty to consume. Boots checked it out though and rendered it harmless ...s/he sauntered off to our grass area - probably for cover or, as others have in the past, to built a nest and lay a few eggs .. (if it is indeed a female!) ...
Our concerns now turn toward Hurricane Ike - a most powerful hurricane heading, it seems, for the Gulf Coast -- a part of the US already saturated by Hurricane Gustav ... we'll monitor the weather as one never really 'knows' what these storms will do. Meantime, prayers for those in the path of this killer storm.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Boots babies 9 6 08
They're growing so fast ... I love how they fall asleep all in a furry heap. Their eyes are not yet open .. but follow one another by scent until they crawl into a black and white ball ...
Too cute!
Too cute!
Boots babies 9 6 08
Huddled together in the nest on the porch - safe from the storm ... Momma Boots nearby.
Marsh and Approaching Storm
Imagination Painting
All eyes these days have been turned to the sky as hurricane after hurricane threatens and lands in the US.
I painted this yesterday from my imagination as I watched clouds forming with Tropical Storm Hannah's approach.
As I write, Hannah has come ashore on the NC/SC border, and we are having lots and lots of rain and wind. Gratefully, our electricity and Internet connections are still holding, while flooding is threatening areas of the region.
Boots moved her babies yesterday to a spot in the woods that 'seemed' to be protected from the rain. Regardless, I set up a dry, covered and protected area on a corner of our porch. Early this morning when rains and winds woke me, I checked the porch, and thank heavens, Boots had moved her babies once again -- but this time, in the safe 'nest' on the porch. Sappy me -- I cried.
Hannah heads north later this morning, but creeks will rise and flooding will be a threat for a while longer.
Stay safe everyone. Keep your eyes on the sky -- Hurricane Ike is expected later this week.
All eyes these days have been turned to the sky as hurricane after hurricane threatens and lands in the US.
I painted this yesterday from my imagination as I watched clouds forming with Tropical Storm Hannah's approach.
As I write, Hannah has come ashore on the NC/SC border, and we are having lots and lots of rain and wind. Gratefully, our electricity and Internet connections are still holding, while flooding is threatening areas of the region.
Boots moved her babies yesterday to a spot in the woods that 'seemed' to be protected from the rain. Regardless, I set up a dry, covered and protected area on a corner of our porch. Early this morning when rains and winds woke me, I checked the porch, and thank heavens, Boots had moved her babies once again -- but this time, in the safe 'nest' on the porch. Sappy me -- I cried.
Hannah heads north later this morning, but creeks will rise and flooding will be a threat for a while longer.
Stay safe everyone. Keep your eyes on the sky -- Hurricane Ike is expected later this week.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Oxford Tobacco Barn at Sunrise
I'm still playing with different lighting affects -- sunrise, skies, shadings ...
This tobacco barn is from a series of photographs taken during a 'sketch material search' my husband and I took a few months ago throughout rural Granville County. I've 'played' a bit with the lighting and sky trying for a different 'feel' as I continue my experimentations.
This morning's chores will find me securing the remaining objects still outdoors. Though the earlier predictions for Hannah's landfall in North Carolina have been downgraded in severity, here in my county, we are still expecting significant winds and rain. We're making full preparations nonetheless in case forecasters miss the mark.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Ike, a far fiercer storm, is another threat we're all keeping our eyes upon (http://www.wral.com/weather/hurricanes/page/1451614/?m=atl&p=8hrloop). And Josephine is right behind him ... busy time in the tropics this month.
Kittens have grown so much since Monday! LOL Now to find them shelter from the rain and HOPE Boots will approve of a move ...
Stay safe ...
This tobacco barn is from a series of photographs taken during a 'sketch material search' my husband and I took a few months ago throughout rural Granville County. I've 'played' a bit with the lighting and sky trying for a different 'feel' as I continue my experimentations.
This morning's chores will find me securing the remaining objects still outdoors. Though the earlier predictions for Hannah's landfall in North Carolina have been downgraded in severity, here in my county, we are still expecting significant winds and rain. We're making full preparations nonetheless in case forecasters miss the mark.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Ike, a far fiercer storm, is another threat we're all keeping our eyes upon (http://www.wral.com/weather/hurricanes/page/1451614/?m=atl&p=8hrloop). And Josephine is right behind him ... busy time in the tropics this month.
Kittens have grown so much since Monday! LOL Now to find them shelter from the rain and HOPE Boots will approve of a move ...
Stay safe ...
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Calm before the Storm?
Daily Practice
The path of Hurricane Hannah is on the minds of most South and North Carolinians this week, as her hobbling path for landfall is still in question. Following along the same trajectory are two other tropical weather makers and so this daily painting ... calm waters before the Great Unknown.
It'll be a very late night tonight before I can drive the 2 hours back home and see my kitties ....but once there, it'll be battening down the house, making preparations for the 'what if's', finding a dry, safe place for Boots and Babes, removing anything outdoors that could be tossed in high winds.
Fingers are crossed that we merely get the rain we need to bring the water tables back to normal .....
The path of Hurricane Hannah is on the minds of most South and North Carolinians this week, as her hobbling path for landfall is still in question. Following along the same trajectory are two other tropical weather makers and so this daily painting ... calm waters before the Great Unknown.
It'll be a very late night tonight before I can drive the 2 hours back home and see my kitties ....but once there, it'll be battening down the house, making preparations for the 'what if's', finding a dry, safe place for Boots and Babes, removing anything outdoors that could be tossed in high winds.
Fingers are crossed that we merely get the rain we need to bring the water tables back to normal .....
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Beach at Sunrise
I'm continuing to play with various ideas as I challenge myself to stretch my boundaries, so to speak.
My good friend, Karen (http://www.flickr.com/photos/artezoe) has permitted me to use her glorious photo of Amelia Island for this watercolor -- THANK YOU, Karen!
I painted this not only for the sunrise and morning, but for the calm it brings me ..I remember driving into Charleston, SC over the various bridges that link the peninsula to other regions of the County and watching the sun rise over the boats moored at the harbor. The 'hope' symbolized by that bright orb as it glistened over the water never failed to make me smile and face the day with a bit more optimism...And this photo, this painting, brought all those feelings right back.
I am SO missing the wee kitties. C tells me mom and babes are doing well ... but being a mom and a Nonna, I want to SEE for myself!! LOL The work week won't end fast enough, I'm afraid ...
My good friend, Karen (http://www.flickr.com/photos/artezoe) has permitted me to use her glorious photo of Amelia Island for this watercolor -- THANK YOU, Karen!
I painted this not only for the sunrise and morning, but for the calm it brings me ..I remember driving into Charleston, SC over the various bridges that link the peninsula to other regions of the County and watching the sun rise over the boats moored at the harbor. The 'hope' symbolized by that bright orb as it glistened over the water never failed to make me smile and face the day with a bit more optimism...And this photo, this painting, brought all those feelings right back.
I am SO missing the wee kitties. C tells me mom and babes are doing well ... but being a mom and a Nonna, I want to SEE for myself!! LOL The work week won't end fast enough, I'm afraid ...
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
House and Sky after Bellamy and Kersey
After all the excitement this weekend, I felt like sketching something a bit different from my 'normal' pallet, and so, using a combination of ideas and images, I painted this -- the farmhouse is one C and I saw in the rural parts of Oxford, the sky and foreground from color suggestions of Geoff Kersey and the style is more like David Bellamy's ....It was fun and the colors so different for me ...
Boots is doing well and getting 'out' from under the stairs more and more. I am so reluctant to leave for work -- I'm going to miss keeping an eye on the brood.
We're expecting some kind of 'weather' from Hurricane Hannah this Friday and Saturday ... fingers are crossed for only rain ...
Boots is doing well and getting 'out' from under the stairs more and more. I am so reluctant to leave for work -- I'm going to miss keeping an eye on the brood.
We're expecting some kind of 'weather' from Hurricane Hannah this Friday and Saturday ... fingers are crossed for only rain ...
Monday, September 01, 2008
Boots' Babies
Okay, I admit it -- I"m hooked on watching these tumbling, little balls of fur!
Boots is doing well, too -- finally left the babes long enough to eat and use the bathroom!
Boots is doing well, too -- finally left the babes long enough to eat and use the bathroom!
Door and Roses
I have to admit to much distraction yesterday -- I kept dashing outside to sit on the front steps to watch Boots and her babies -- just to see how things were going. Being a 'first-time kitty Nonna" has its 'musts' afterall! So painting took a backseat to this 'under-my-nose' event!
We also worked on pear butter preserves between 'Boots-Watching' .. so things have been a bit out of the ordinary for me.
I can report that Mom and her five are doing well, and once the sun is up, I'll take more photos -- but I have to admit that watching that tumbling mass of fur balls has tickled me to pieces -- as a kind friend wrote yesterday, I'll have my own built in comedy team with this group -- and I can see already she's absolutely right. I'm also finding they're a fabulous stress reliever ... !! Only wonder if I could feed them all those preserves I've been working on? (just kidding! LOL)
We also worked on pear butter preserves between 'Boots-Watching' .. so things have been a bit out of the ordinary for me.
I can report that Mom and her five are doing well, and once the sun is up, I'll take more photos -- but I have to admit that watching that tumbling mass of fur balls has tickled me to pieces -- as a kind friend wrote yesterday, I'll have my own built in comedy team with this group -- and I can see already she's absolutely right. I'm also finding they're a fabulous stress reliever ... !! Only wonder if I could feed them all those preserves I've been working on? (just kidding! LOL)
Sunday, August 31, 2008
CORRECTION!!! FIVE!!! A Pre-Labor Day Labor Event - 5 Kittens Born to Boots
CORRECTION!!! FIVE!!! A Pre-Labor Day Labor Event - 5 Kittens Born to Boots
Originally uploaded by linfrye
As I went outdoors this morning to feed Boots, I noticed that the 'bulk' she carried last evening was slackened -- so I followed her after she ate -- and I'm a Nonna again -- FOUR --- OOOPS -- FIVE!!!! baby kittens --- From what I can see -- one is entirely black, one greyish and white, and the others with Boots' black and white markings.
A Pre-Labor Day Labor Event - 4 Kittens Born to Boots
As I went outdoors this morning to feed Boots, I noticed that the 'bulk' she carried last evening was slackened -- so I followed her after she ate -- and I'm a Nonna again -- FOUR baby kittens --- From what I can see -- one is entirely black, one greyish and white, and the others with Boots' black and white markings.
A Pre-Labor Day Labor Event - 4 Kittens Born to Boots
Congratulations, Boots! You've made me a Nonna again!
She's had them under our front steps ...
She's had them under our front steps ...
Hope
To K, MK, and J ....
May your spirits and hopes rise as the morning sun and the darkness of these days be brightened by love's light ....
And for all my beloved friends who are going through difficult, troubling times ....
May your spirits and hopes rise as the morning sun and the darkness of these days be brightened by love's light ....
And for all my beloved friends who are going through difficult, troubling times ....
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Stream and Flowers
Our summer heat and humidity has returned, and with it the kind of late August, 'wet-blanket' kind of oppressive air that makes it hard to breath ....
I added to all that heat yesterday spending the day in the kitchen preserving a basket of figs and one of pears. We'll enjoy these fruits this winter -- but mercy, our air conditioner was doing double-time to keep the house (and me -- me, who is always cold), somewhat cooler than the out of doors.
Our pear trees are so heavy with fruit that their branches have snapped ... so it'll be several days (weeks?) preserving the bounty with more of my time at the stove. I haven't preserved this much fruit in several years, and my jam cabinet is fuller than it has been in quite a while. I have heard that the Farmers Almanac predicts a colder than normal winter, and if one believes in reading Nature's signs, all this abundance would echo that prediction. We'll see.
This sketch was done from a photo reference -- guess I was dreaming of rest and cooler climes! LOL
I added to all that heat yesterday spending the day in the kitchen preserving a basket of figs and one of pears. We'll enjoy these fruits this winter -- but mercy, our air conditioner was doing double-time to keep the house (and me -- me, who is always cold), somewhat cooler than the out of doors.
Our pear trees are so heavy with fruit that their branches have snapped ... so it'll be several days (weeks?) preserving the bounty with more of my time at the stove. I haven't preserved this much fruit in several years, and my jam cabinet is fuller than it has been in quite a while. I have heard that the Farmers Almanac predicts a colder than normal winter, and if one believes in reading Nature's signs, all this abundance would echo that prediction. We'll see.
This sketch was done from a photo reference -- guess I was dreaming of rest and cooler climes! LOL
Friday, August 29, 2008
Charles' Pears
The support and encouragement from Flickr friends just humbles me to my toes -- and I cannot thank each of you enough for your kindness and most encouraging comments.
Such support keeps me picking up that brush when I'm too tired to think, or have put in a long, difficult day -- so to you -- I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude. Each of you bless my life ...and I am ever, ever grateful.
These pears, a surprise from my husband, have a touching story I'd like to share because, like your words, they encourage me to work harder to improve my painting.
Charles is a sweet, thoughtful man, and kindly does the grocery shopping for our family -- a task, I really dislike. Somehow, no matter how many sweaters I wear, the grocery store is always so FRIGID, that after 15 minutes of strolling the aisles, I am trembling with the cold. Anyway, he went to the store to pick up a few things for dinner, and came home about as excited as a child Christmas morning. The moment he walked through the door, he handed me a plastic bag with the look on his face each of us holds when we're giving a loved one something precious and valuable, the joy showing in his wide grin.
In the bag, these three pears ... "For YOU -- he said, giggling and grinning -- "Sketch Material"! I was laughing, but he was serious --- "Look at the color! Look at the shape! Aren't they exquisite?!!"
And they were -- and so was he.
And so, the pears ... a most loving, encouraging, supportive gift ... like your words ... keep me painting.
I am beyond humbled by such grace. Thank you.
Such support keeps me picking up that brush when I'm too tired to think, or have put in a long, difficult day -- so to you -- I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude. Each of you bless my life ...and I am ever, ever grateful.
These pears, a surprise from my husband, have a touching story I'd like to share because, like your words, they encourage me to work harder to improve my painting.
Charles is a sweet, thoughtful man, and kindly does the grocery shopping for our family -- a task, I really dislike. Somehow, no matter how many sweaters I wear, the grocery store is always so FRIGID, that after 15 minutes of strolling the aisles, I am trembling with the cold. Anyway, he went to the store to pick up a few things for dinner, and came home about as excited as a child Christmas morning. The moment he walked through the door, he handed me a plastic bag with the look on his face each of us holds when we're giving a loved one something precious and valuable, the joy showing in his wide grin.
In the bag, these three pears ... "For YOU -- he said, giggling and grinning -- "Sketch Material"! I was laughing, but he was serious --- "Look at the color! Look at the shape! Aren't they exquisite?!!"
And they were -- and so was he.
And so, the pears ... a most loving, encouraging, supportive gift ... like your words ... keep me painting.
I am beyond humbled by such grace. Thank you.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Double Decker Tea Cup
Daily Practice
I probably have uncovered a week's worth of sketch material after my cleaning frenzy....and this double decker tea cup (it SO reminds me of English buses!!) was another 'found' object. I brought it to work so I could paint it while away from home.
Fay's rains have really given us a good soaking ... and we've 'found' a few 'leaks' in the office windows ...but the plants are REJOYCING in the ample water they've inbibed!
Last day of the workweek for me -- yahoo ....! But I wouldn't be surprised if the pile of paper I DID manage to get off my desk finds its way back there by Monday ...!
Uploaded by linfrye
I probably have uncovered a week's worth of sketch material after my cleaning frenzy....and this double decker tea cup (it SO reminds me of English buses!!) was another 'found' object. I brought it to work so I could paint it while away from home.
Fay's rains have really given us a good soaking ... and we've 'found' a few 'leaks' in the office windows ...but the plants are REJOYCING in the ample water they've inbibed!
Last day of the workweek for me -- yahoo ....! But I wouldn't be surprised if the pile of paper I DID manage to get off my desk finds its way back there by Monday ...!
Uploaded by linfrye
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Goldenrod and River
Daily Practice
Daylight is fading sooner and sooner these days -- readying us for the winter solstice in December. Leaving my office after 7 pm, the brightness of sunny summer days has begun to weaken...and by 8:15 pm or so, dusk has fallen and the glow of indoor lights peeks out from windows yet uncurtained. More and more I must rely on photos for my evening's practice ... such is the case here.
I chose this photo for the goldenrod and grasses -- already turning our roadsides yellow, sepia, umber and russet .... and high in the trees, the first sprinkling of yellow has flecked the tulip poplars and sycamore. While summer's heat and humidity will linger into October, signs of the fall can be seen in the nooks and crannies ... and the frenzy of harvesting vegetables and fruits for the coming cold continues.
Fay's rains will be with us for several days, and we're all hoping that our rain deficit for the last two years will be lessened significantly.
Daylight is fading sooner and sooner these days -- readying us for the winter solstice in December. Leaving my office after 7 pm, the brightness of sunny summer days has begun to weaken...and by 8:15 pm or so, dusk has fallen and the glow of indoor lights peeks out from windows yet uncurtained. More and more I must rely on photos for my evening's practice ... such is the case here.
I chose this photo for the goldenrod and grasses -- already turning our roadsides yellow, sepia, umber and russet .... and high in the trees, the first sprinkling of yellow has flecked the tulip poplars and sycamore. While summer's heat and humidity will linger into October, signs of the fall can be seen in the nooks and crannies ... and the frenzy of harvesting vegetables and fruits for the coming cold continues.
Fay's rains will be with us for several days, and we're all hoping that our rain deficit for the last two years will be lessened significantly.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Yates Mill, Apex, NC
Okey dokey, K -- I finally got my mill painted this weekend ... There are some boo-boos to be sure -- but each painting experience teaches me yet again how to 'see' better!
This painting is from a photo I took several weeks ago at the plein air event I attended. I felt the scene was far too complex for me to try plein air, so I snapped some photos to use at home where I could take more time at my art table.
We'll still working on the house, but the frenzy of the clean-up is lessened and though there are still some major repairs we've got to make, we're now working on framing paintings and adding final touches. It's an astonishing experience to see my own work on my walls ... mercy ...!
This painting is from a photo I took several weeks ago at the plein air event I attended. I felt the scene was far too complex for me to try plein air, so I snapped some photos to use at home where I could take more time at my art table.
We'll still working on the house, but the frenzy of the clean-up is lessened and though there are still some major repairs we've got to make, we're now working on framing paintings and adding final touches. It's an astonishing experience to see my own work on my walls ... mercy ...!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Grasses - The Forgotten Harvest
Walking along the roadsides lately, I am amazed at the abundance of seedheads produced by wildflowers and various grasses. During our evening walks, I'll often stop to pluck a few for a small bouquet ...reveling in their seemingly forgotten beauty.
We spent yesterday hunting for various house-fixing needs -- no luck finding the fabric color or pattern I was looking for - and came home ready to put our feet up and relax. I did manage to find homes for most of my former school books -- and that's a relief!
Still more to do today and next week, but C's got his group coming to jam, so I'm hoping to get some quiet painting time in before the workweek swallows me tomorrow.
We spent yesterday hunting for various house-fixing needs -- no luck finding the fabric color or pattern I was looking for - and came home ready to put our feet up and relax. I did manage to find homes for most of my former school books -- and that's a relief!
Still more to do today and next week, but C's got his group coming to jam, so I'm hoping to get some quiet painting time in before the workweek swallows me tomorrow.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Cone Flowers and Trelllis
I can tell the seasons are beginning to turn as, unlike these cone flowers, my own are beginning to droop and turn into dark brown seedheads. I"ve begun the process of seed-spreading for next years flowers -- a certain sign that summer is winding down.
We also got a welcome hint of fall yesterday with temperatures in the low 80s, a clear Carolina blue sky and mild winds .. so welcome after days of intense heat.
We're off today to continue the clean-up and reorganization house project. But coming home to a newly painted house this week, with most of the clutter gone, was like entering a brand NEW home -- fresh, clean and welcoming. Now if only my muscles would enjoy the freshness instead of remembering all the work!
We also got a welcome hint of fall yesterday with temperatures in the low 80s, a clear Carolina blue sky and mild winds .. so welcome after days of intense heat.
We're off today to continue the clean-up and reorganization house project. But coming home to a newly painted house this week, with most of the clutter gone, was like entering a brand NEW home -- fresh, clean and welcoming. Now if only my muscles would enjoy the freshness instead of remembering all the work!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Live Oaks, Magnolia Gardens
I have always been enthralled with the magesty of the live oak and studied these giants from all aspects -- their biology, distribution, use, mythology, folklore, and symbolism. While in Charleston this year, I captured several photos of this species and thought I would try to paint them in all the glory that belongs to this incredible bit of nature.
Though I'm not totally satisfied with this painting and will probably do it again, it does represent the live oak in its habitat - its home along the salt marsh, its association with Spanish moss, the maritime forest at its back. And the lawn - well, that's one of those symbols of South Carolina plantations -- the human manipulation of the natural world into something a bit less wild, a bit more under human 'control.'
For me, the enormous canapy produced by these trees, the quiet of flowing water and sounds of birds and marsh winds, seems a perfect place to lie on a blanket, enveloped by soft shade -- and immerse myself in a really deep dose of tranquility ....
One can always dream ...
Though I'm not totally satisfied with this painting and will probably do it again, it does represent the live oak in its habitat - its home along the salt marsh, its association with Spanish moss, the maritime forest at its back. And the lawn - well, that's one of those symbols of South Carolina plantations -- the human manipulation of the natural world into something a bit less wild, a bit more under human 'control.'
For me, the enormous canapy produced by these trees, the quiet of flowing water and sounds of birds and marsh winds, seems a perfect place to lie on a blanket, enveloped by soft shade -- and immerse myself in a really deep dose of tranquility ....
One can always dream ...
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Yellow Roses
As much as I love paper -- especially watercolor paper! LOL, it astonishes me how much paperwork is involved to complete everyday work obligations -- sigh.... the thought that we may one day be a 'paperless' society is so far from reality -- it makes me chuckle. And so I plow, hour after hour, through growing stacks of the stuff ... wishing I could use my paints on it instead of my pen ...
These roses are from a photograph ... I seem to be drawn to vases and flowers of all sorts, and I've had the reference photo for months. It's overcast this morning, though we have yet to have any rain from Tropical Depression Fay, and I find the blossoms cheerful on a dreary morning....
My prayers are with the folks in Florida and the flooding caused by Fay ... be safe, all ...
These roses are from a photograph ... I seem to be drawn to vases and flowers of all sorts, and I've had the reference photo for months. It's overcast this morning, though we have yet to have any rain from Tropical Depression Fay, and I find the blossoms cheerful on a dreary morning....
My prayers are with the folks in Florida and the flooding caused by Fay ... be safe, all ...
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Rebecca's Ichibon Eggplants
Daily Practice
Nope, not snakes, not apostrophes, not beached whales --- merely three Ichibon eggplants Rebecca had lying on her kitchen counter last night ... and my feeble attempts to capture their deep, lustrious colors after a 12 hour workday ...
Things are slowing down somewhat -- at least in intensity, so perhaps tonight I'll be able to do better justice to my sketch topic! LOL Meanwhile, I"m thinking Eggplant Parmesan would be a fitting end to these poor things ...
Nope, not snakes, not apostrophes, not beached whales --- merely three Ichibon eggplants Rebecca had lying on her kitchen counter last night ... and my feeble attempts to capture their deep, lustrious colors after a 12 hour workday ...
Things are slowing down somewhat -- at least in intensity, so perhaps tonight I'll be able to do better justice to my sketch topic! LOL Meanwhile, I"m thinking Eggplant Parmesan would be a fitting end to these poor things ...
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Sunflower Still Life
Back at work, the first week of classes, and it's just as insane as the preparations for this week!! Sigh! It should even out, though, by Friday when everyone's settled, meetings are over, and we really have a meeting-free day to get all those 'must-have's' done! LOL
I worked on this still life over the weekend and finished it before I left for work yesterday. What drew me to this scene was the 'rediscovered tea pot' -- again 'forgotten' in the recesses of cupboards ....and I wanted to paint something to hang in our newly painted, pale yellow kitchen -- and include the colors we're accenting -- earth tones, yellow, green, a bit of russet, umber, teal, blue, gold, orange. The light shading on the 'wall' of this still life is not evident in this scan ... which looked much more intense on my computer screen at home. Anyway, it's a quarter sheet of watercolor paper, and the sunflowers are from the silk arrangement on my table and I grew the 'olive' tomatoes -- which, even in 90F heat, are producing the most incredibly sweet fruits!
I hope folks in Florida remain safe with the storm coming ashore .. I called my mom who lives there this morning and she said it was raining, and dark ... so be safe everyone!
I worked on this still life over the weekend and finished it before I left for work yesterday. What drew me to this scene was the 'rediscovered tea pot' -- again 'forgotten' in the recesses of cupboards ....and I wanted to paint something to hang in our newly painted, pale yellow kitchen -- and include the colors we're accenting -- earth tones, yellow, green, a bit of russet, umber, teal, blue, gold, orange. The light shading on the 'wall' of this still life is not evident in this scan ... which looked much more intense on my computer screen at home. Anyway, it's a quarter sheet of watercolor paper, and the sunflowers are from the silk arrangement on my table and I grew the 'olive' tomatoes -- which, even in 90F heat, are producing the most incredibly sweet fruits!
I hope folks in Florida remain safe with the storm coming ashore .. I called my mom who lives there this morning and she said it was raining, and dark ... so be safe everyone!
Monday, August 18, 2008
The Walled Landscape
I've been working on this for a while, but had a lot of difficulty with the lighting and my tendency to be 'heavy-handed' ...
We've gotten the house liveable again -- thank goodness! There's still a lot to do, valences to sew, furniture to think about, pictures to frame and hang --many of my own (!!!), etc. But for now, the majority of the work is behind us ...
I'm taking a few hours this morning to rest a bit more. Funny thing about all that activity -- not only does one uncover forgotten pottery and such, but mercy, I've found muscles I never knew were mine -- and oh, are they protesting about their neglect!! LOL
We've gotten the house liveable again -- thank goodness! There's still a lot to do, valences to sew, furniture to think about, pictures to frame and hang --many of my own (!!!), etc. But for now, the majority of the work is behind us ...
I'm taking a few hours this morning to rest a bit more. Funny thing about all that activity -- not only does one uncover forgotten pottery and such, but mercy, I've found muscles I never knew were mine -- and oh, are they protesting about their neglect!! LOL
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Pottery Birdhouse
Daily Practice
Funny thing about massive cleanings -- it's amazing what you 're-discover' in all the sorting and organizing -- like this pottery birdhouse. Apparently it's been sitting atop one of our 7' bookcases, unseen by my eyes (short as I am) for a while. Not very practical I must admit, but if I remember right, one of the college's pottery students sold it during one of our plant sales and I just 'had' to have it ...
We're finally seeing the light - thank heavens -- and most of the disorder is at least put to rights and we can walk through the rooms .... so last night, C insisted we get out of the house and away from the smell of paint and 409 and Windex (helpful dates that they were! LOL) and have a real 'sit-down' meal.
We drove to one of the closest malls (still 60 miles away!) where new stores and an 'outdoor' area was built of eateries, ponds, and beautiful landscaping, and yet in our 'home focus' we hadn't visited in over a year. We found a small restaurant, not insanely busy -- "Home-Baked Bistro' and went in. To our surprise, we sat overlooking the pond while a guitarist and singer helped set the mood and encouraged our relaxing. We were swiftly served -- but it seemed our dinners were taking a bit longer than anticipated. When the food did arrive (along with the manager) --- he explained about a kitchen/chef issue -- and told us for the bit of delay we had, that HE was picking up the check! And we were free to add dessert to our meal! The food was outstanding -- truly -- and worth the wait -- what a generous, and kind suprise. We were planning to return simply for the good food and atmosphere -- and with this good will effort -- he made us instant customers!
We then visited a few stores and replaced our everyday dinnerware, got some new fixtures for the bathrooms .. and finally wended our way home with a full moon over our shoulder ...
What a blessing of grace.....
Funny thing about massive cleanings -- it's amazing what you 're-discover' in all the sorting and organizing -- like this pottery birdhouse. Apparently it's been sitting atop one of our 7' bookcases, unseen by my eyes (short as I am) for a while. Not very practical I must admit, but if I remember right, one of the college's pottery students sold it during one of our plant sales and I just 'had' to have it ...
We're finally seeing the light - thank heavens -- and most of the disorder is at least put to rights and we can walk through the rooms .... so last night, C insisted we get out of the house and away from the smell of paint and 409 and Windex (helpful dates that they were! LOL) and have a real 'sit-down' meal.
We drove to one of the closest malls (still 60 miles away!) where new stores and an 'outdoor' area was built of eateries, ponds, and beautiful landscaping, and yet in our 'home focus' we hadn't visited in over a year. We found a small restaurant, not insanely busy -- "Home-Baked Bistro' and went in. To our surprise, we sat overlooking the pond while a guitarist and singer helped set the mood and encouraged our relaxing. We were swiftly served -- but it seemed our dinners were taking a bit longer than anticipated. When the food did arrive (along with the manager) --- he explained about a kitchen/chef issue -- and told us for the bit of delay we had, that HE was picking up the check! And we were free to add dessert to our meal! The food was outstanding -- truly -- and worth the wait -- what a generous, and kind suprise. We were planning to return simply for the good food and atmosphere -- and with this good will effort -- he made us instant customers!
We then visited a few stores and replaced our everyday dinnerware, got some new fixtures for the bathrooms .. and finally wended our way home with a full moon over our shoulder ...
What a blessing of grace.....
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Sky and Land
Daily Practice
A VERY quickly done sketch to continue my daily practice despite all the scrubbing, bending, twisting, mopping, dusting, tossing, deciding after the painters finally left yesterday afternoon.
The largest room is about finished, including its 3 closets, and dozen cabinets -- now to move onto the other 3 rooms -- far less to do other than mopping, more tossing, and a bit of scrubbing. Good thing, too, I'm mighty sore! LOL But the squeeky-cleanness, less cluttered look sure is uplifting and keeps me pressing on!
We've had a bit of rain -- and I'm hoping that today too will continue with more of it -- keeps me focused and despite the chores, a bit restive with its quiet moodiness...
Have a great day!
A VERY quickly done sketch to continue my daily practice despite all the scrubbing, bending, twisting, mopping, dusting, tossing, deciding after the painters finally left yesterday afternoon.
The largest room is about finished, including its 3 closets, and dozen cabinets -- now to move onto the other 3 rooms -- far less to do other than mopping, more tossing, and a bit of scrubbing. Good thing, too, I'm mighty sore! LOL But the squeeky-cleanness, less cluttered look sure is uplifting and keeps me pressing on!
We've had a bit of rain -- and I'm hoping that today too will continue with more of it -- keeps me focused and despite the chores, a bit restive with its quiet moodiness...
Have a great day!
Friday, August 15, 2008
My Weekend Date!
I guess it had to happen sometime .. I needed a bit of strength, grit and determination by my side ... and I suppose Mr. 409 is going to be my 'mate' for the weekend ... but I think C will understand -- I think he's taken up with Ms. Windex ....
Back home and the painters are almost done. But four rooms are in quite a disarray -- well, big mess, actually, and before I dare put back the first appliance, our 'dates' are going to get a thorough work-out. Us too, I'm afraid.
So we'll be a tad busy 'double-dating' this weekend ... Hope the children understand ... !!! lol
Back home and the painters are almost done. But four rooms are in quite a disarray -- well, big mess, actually, and before I dare put back the first appliance, our 'dates' are going to get a thorough work-out. Us too, I'm afraid.
So we'll be a tad busy 'double-dating' this weekend ... Hope the children understand ... !!! lol
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Rainy Day Mushroom
Daily Practice
It rained all day yesterday, and temps were in the 70s!! Felt like fall!!!! Today, the mist shrouds everything -- but in a few hours, it will disappear and our summer humidity and high temperatures will return.
Yesterday was meetings -- but the INTENSITY of the earlier part of the week was gone and again, I am so grateful. A few more obligations -- a visit by 30-40 teachers in about 40 minutes-- another meeting -- and then home for obligations there. But the worst is over, thank heavens!
Didn't have much of a chance to hunt around for something to sketch, so I found a photograph of this mushroom that came close to looking like those I've been spotting through the last bout of rain showers.
Have a great day!
It rained all day yesterday, and temps were in the 70s!! Felt like fall!!!! Today, the mist shrouds everything -- but in a few hours, it will disappear and our summer humidity and high temperatures will return.
Yesterday was meetings -- but the INTENSITY of the earlier part of the week was gone and again, I am so grateful. A few more obligations -- a visit by 30-40 teachers in about 40 minutes-- another meeting -- and then home for obligations there. But the worst is over, thank heavens!
Didn't have much of a chance to hunt around for something to sketch, so I found a photograph of this mushroom that came close to looking like those I've been spotting through the last bout of rain showers.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Misty Morning
I certainly missed this one -- instead of a nice misty morning, today it is RAINING in buckets!!! But we are all grateful ....!!!
And I too am rejoicing that yesterday was far calmer and quieter ---! Thank the good Lord!
More meetings this week so I'm dashing ....
And I too am rejoicing that yesterday was far calmer and quieter ---! Thank the good Lord!
More meetings this week so I'm dashing ....
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Rebecca's Zinnias
Daily Practice
Despite the long, tiring hours, constant student registrations, two meetings, lack of 'down' or meal time, I wanted to do one quick sketch before I collapsed. There sure has been a stream of these days lately, my apologies for moaning!!!!
I sat at the B&B, ate a late dinner, and sketched Rebecca's pink zinnias -- those right in front of me. I used ink and wash, more ink than I normally do, more doodling than painting or sketching ... the day taking it's toll.
I have three more days like yesterday ... so sketching, doodling, or splashing paint is about all I can hope to muster. The light at the end of this tunnel, though, is Friday ....
Despite the long, tiring hours, constant student registrations, two meetings, lack of 'down' or meal time, I wanted to do one quick sketch before I collapsed. There sure has been a stream of these days lately, my apologies for moaning!!!!
I sat at the B&B, ate a late dinner, and sketched Rebecca's pink zinnias -- those right in front of me. I used ink and wash, more ink than I normally do, more doodling than painting or sketching ... the day taking it's toll.
I have three more days like yesterday ... so sketching, doodling, or splashing paint is about all I can hope to muster. The light at the end of this tunnel, though, is Friday ....
Monday, August 11, 2008
Roses in Shadow
I worked from a not-too distinct photo to do these roses, and tried to vary the shadows for more depth -- but quite honestly, I'm not sure the shadows are correct -- so I'd love any input, please. There are times I think they're 'right' -- other times -- no ... so I'm posting with questions! LOL Thanks, truly ...!
We spent a good amount of time this weekend deconstructing the downstairs -- frankly it looks like we're moving -- boxes everywhere, stuff piled in the middle of the floor, lots of books to sell and give away -- all for the painters who come in this week. I don't look forward to the work involved restoring it all to order -- but it will be so good to refresh the house!! LOL
Off to a busy week with registration, meetings and all the preparations for students' return.
I"m tired already!! LOL
We spent a good amount of time this weekend deconstructing the downstairs -- frankly it looks like we're moving -- boxes everywhere, stuff piled in the middle of the floor, lots of books to sell and give away -- all for the painters who come in this week. I don't look forward to the work involved restoring it all to order -- but it will be so good to refresh the house!! LOL
Off to a busy week with registration, meetings and all the preparations for students' return.
I"m tired already!! LOL
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Yates Mill, Cary, NC
Our plein air group met at Yates Mill outside Cary yesterday ... a beautiful old mill and lake, woodland trails, and a large, well-designed recreation facility. One often doesn't know just who'll attend a particular plein air event, and this day seemed to draw folks I hadn't seen since the first plein air outing I ever attended. And to my surprise -- I finally did meet a friend I had chatted with on line who lives only an hour from me --!! We hope to get together for our own 'sketch crawl' before too long.
Though the weather was milder than it has been -- mid to high 80s -- and the humidity was rather low, I still wasn't feeling my spunky self - There's some kind of bug going around and it seems to be nibbling at my head ...
I sat by the lake, leaving the architectural challenge of the mill to another time, and sketched a view I tend to favor --- flowers and trees! I fussed too much with this and it certainly isn't one of my better paintings -- but I loved being out with this incredible group of talented artists and simply having the time to relax with a bit of the natural world that I love and always find peaceful ...
Though the weather was milder than it has been -- mid to high 80s -- and the humidity was rather low, I still wasn't feeling my spunky self - There's some kind of bug going around and it seems to be nibbling at my head ...
I sat by the lake, leaving the architectural challenge of the mill to another time, and sketched a view I tend to favor --- flowers and trees! I fussed too much with this and it certainly isn't one of my better paintings -- but I loved being out with this incredible group of talented artists and simply having the time to relax with a bit of the natural world that I love and always find peaceful ...
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Sun through the Fog
I was going through some of my sketchbooks and ran across this one that I never posted .... so I thought, with the fog outside my window this morning, I'd post it, even though I painted it months ago.
Still busy -- but did manage to practice a sketch or two yesterday. Today's a paint-out and though I'm truly tired, we're heading out and hoping that some new scenery, friends and a day out of doors will give us some energy!
It's supposed to be in the 80sF today -- now THAT would be a welcome change! Have a good one!
Still busy -- but did manage to practice a sketch or two yesterday. Today's a paint-out and though I'm truly tired, we're heading out and hoping that some new scenery, friends and a day out of doors will give us some energy!
It's supposed to be in the 80sF today -- now THAT would be a welcome change! Have a good one!
Friday, August 08, 2008
Xeric Garden
Daily Practice
Though my garden isn't especially designed for xeric (dry) conditons, I thought I'd use my daily practice to sketch one -- especially since we're still hoping for more rain. Though there were spotty showers yesterday, I think I counted 16 drops on my window -- sigh.
I'm still enmeshed in writing as my work-related projects are taking longer than estimated ...so I'll be scarce again.
This weekend we ready the house for painting next week, so there'll be lots of disruption in terms of finding a place to cook in the kitchen or finding a place to sit in the living room ... I'm just looking forward to having it all 'refeshed" oh yes -- and DONE!
Though my garden isn't especially designed for xeric (dry) conditons, I thought I'd use my daily practice to sketch one -- especially since we're still hoping for more rain. Though there were spotty showers yesterday, I think I counted 16 drops on my window -- sigh.
I'm still enmeshed in writing as my work-related projects are taking longer than estimated ...so I'll be scarce again.
This weekend we ready the house for painting next week, so there'll be lots of disruption in terms of finding a place to cook in the kitchen or finding a place to sit in the living room ... I'm just looking forward to having it all 'refeshed" oh yes -- and DONE!
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Window Box with White Petunia
Several weeks ago, my friend Shirley offered me some of her Italy travel photos to paint --- and I've finally painted another one! (Life does have a way of interferring, doesn't it! LOL)
This one is from Venice I believe, and I fell in love with the limited palette and brick and grillwork. Thank YOU again, Shirley!
I've got to hunker down for several time and mind consuming writing projects today ... and I'm hoping for rain to help keep me in my computer chair to 'get them done!'
Have a good one!
This one is from Venice I believe, and I fell in love with the limited palette and brick and grillwork. Thank YOU again, Shirley!
I've got to hunker down for several time and mind consuming writing projects today ... and I'm hoping for rain to help keep me in my computer chair to 'get them done!'
Have a good one!
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Fig Tarts
I absolutely ran out of time yesterday -- between reports and meetings all day and part of the evening and a dinner 'catch-up' and 'chill-out' with a beloved friend, and the continued chatting at the B&B, sketching was all I could do for daily practice.
I did manage to remember the fig tarts I made on the weekend, and I had several left from those I brought in for co-workers. I brought these to the B&B for Rebecca and my friend to enjoy ... and mercy, they were good, if I say so myself.
I included the recipe here in case there are ripe figs available for anyone else to enjoy. The tarts aren't overly sweet -- and the figs mixed with the tartness of the lemonade, remind me more of plums ... really really yummy!
The plan today is to continue with the writing, reports, budgets, grant frenzy and to head home late tonight to work tomorrow in a more quiet environment on a presentation due next week, 2 modules of an on-line class I"m taking in preparation of another grant writing session, writing our major disaster plans, etc. etc.
I did manage to remember the fig tarts I made on the weekend, and I had several left from those I brought in for co-workers. I brought these to the B&B for Rebecca and my friend to enjoy ... and mercy, they were good, if I say so myself.
I included the recipe here in case there are ripe figs available for anyone else to enjoy. The tarts aren't overly sweet -- and the figs mixed with the tartness of the lemonade, remind me more of plums ... really really yummy!
The plan today is to continue with the writing, reports, budgets, grant frenzy and to head home late tonight to work tomorrow in a more quiet environment on a presentation due next week, 2 modules of an on-line class I"m taking in preparation of another grant writing session, writing our major disaster plans, etc. etc.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Goldenrod Landscape
Sunday afternoon after all the preserving and drying and canning and packing up for the week, my husband and I went for a walk around our neighborhood. It struck me how beautiful the goldenrod seemed to glow despite the intense hot temperatures, and I snapped a few photographs to use for my daily practice while away from home.
This view looks through the trees into a field of my neighbors and ususally houses a small herd of cows. On this hot, sweltering evening, though, the cows apparently found a shadier place to graze or rest.
Work remains insanely busy with meetings, reports and too much computer work. My eyes are getting so tired at night lately .. still, I was glad to have a peaceful evening last night and enough energy to be able to continue my daily practice. Temps are supposed to reach over 100F today ...
This view looks through the trees into a field of my neighbors and ususally houses a small herd of cows. On this hot, sweltering evening, though, the cows apparently found a shadier place to graze or rest.
Work remains insanely busy with meetings, reports and too much computer work. My eyes are getting so tired at night lately .. still, I was glad to have a peaceful evening last night and enough energy to be able to continue my daily practice. Temps are supposed to reach over 100F today ...
Monday, August 04, 2008
Still Life with Tom and Irene's Gifts
With another bounty of summer gifts from our friends -- figs, corn, tomatoes -- I spent the weekend making preserves and drying tomatoes, and only a bit of time painting their lush forms and colors. But oh, how I LOVE the colors of summer!
We finished our last fig preserve making and tomato drying yesterday, and last night enjoyed fresh corn with our dinner -- YUM!
We've been so blessed to have met Irene and Tom and simply overwhelmed by their generosity. We visited with them a bit yesterday exchanging stories and helping them through some of their computer issues -- it felt good to return something to this incredible couple!
Off to a week filled with obligations, meetings and computer work, and the online class I'm taking starts this week as well. I will really be pressed to do some QUICK sketches this week!!
Have a good one!
We finished our last fig preserve making and tomato drying yesterday, and last night enjoyed fresh corn with our dinner -- YUM!
We've been so blessed to have met Irene and Tom and simply overwhelmed by their generosity. We visited with them a bit yesterday exchanging stories and helping them through some of their computer issues -- it felt good to return something to this incredible couple!
Off to a week filled with obligations, meetings and computer work, and the online class I'm taking starts this week as well. I will really be pressed to do some QUICK sketches this week!!
Have a good one!
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Ridgeway Cantaloupes
A super-super busy day yesterday, and this morning, I'm sore and so tired my early cup of java can't seem to get my eyes open wide enough...!
We spent the day running errands--Farmer's Market, home improvement shops for our huge paint project, running 30 miles in the opposite direction to pick up C's repaired car. Then home to put up preserves, make tarts, dry tomatoes, etc. etc. Sketch time was nominal and late.
I sketched this cantaloupe, the last of the ones we bought at the festival, still as sweet as those we've been eating for the last week or so. The preserves I rendered from those have been sealed and labled and ready for holiday gift giving.
Once my coffee kicks in this morning, I'm anxious to get back into the relaxed meditation painting and sketching brings, especially after such a chore-filled yesterday.
We spent the day running errands--Farmer's Market, home improvement shops for our huge paint project, running 30 miles in the opposite direction to pick up C's repaired car. Then home to put up preserves, make tarts, dry tomatoes, etc. etc. Sketch time was nominal and late.
I sketched this cantaloupe, the last of the ones we bought at the festival, still as sweet as those we've been eating for the last week or so. The preserves I rendered from those have been sealed and labled and ready for holiday gift giving.
Once my coffee kicks in this morning, I'm anxious to get back into the relaxed meditation painting and sketching brings, especially after such a chore-filled yesterday.
Oranges
Summer is an incredible time of abundance it seems. The Farmer's Market is filled with vendors and the displays, fruits, vegetables, jams, and wares are like candy with their colors and fragrances tempting you at ever turn.
We don't grow oranges in NC, at least not these navals that came from California, but when it's been as hot as it has, a cool glass of orange juice can be mighty refreshing. C turned these into a chicken and chestnut dish that was absolutely outstanding!
We don't grow oranges in NC, at least not these navals that came from California, but when it's been as hot as it has, a cool glass of orange juice can be mighty refreshing. C turned these into a chicken and chestnut dish that was absolutely outstanding!
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Terra Cotta Still Life with Tomatoes
What an incredible art and friendship filled day yesterday!
My friend Nancy and I got together at her amazing studio for art and chat time! There is nothing better than being able to share what you love doing with a friend you love to be with! I don't think we stopped talking all day!!
This was my first time painting in a studio where the lighting was natural and perfect and clearly illuminated all the nuances of color and shadow in the still life we set up to paint. My gracious, the difference LIGHT makes!! But of course, we all KNOW that -- but to really SEE that and experience that -- wow!
The day was such a joy!
I came home to a further extension of grace. My neighbors (the honey and zinnia growers) called to say their figs were ready for picking ... so off we went to spend some time beneath the boughs of their huge fig tree, chatting, picking and eating the sweetness of these plump, delectible fruits while the sun wound its way westward.
Home again to begin the weekend's jam and preserve making activity and to send prayers of gratitude for friends, food, art and days that are an extraordinary blessing.
My friend Nancy and I got together at her amazing studio for art and chat time! There is nothing better than being able to share what you love doing with a friend you love to be with! I don't think we stopped talking all day!!
This was my first time painting in a studio where the lighting was natural and perfect and clearly illuminated all the nuances of color and shadow in the still life we set up to paint. My gracious, the difference LIGHT makes!! But of course, we all KNOW that -- but to really SEE that and experience that -- wow!
The day was such a joy!
I came home to a further extension of grace. My neighbors (the honey and zinnia growers) called to say their figs were ready for picking ... so off we went to spend some time beneath the boughs of their huge fig tree, chatting, picking and eating the sweetness of these plump, delectible fruits while the sun wound its way westward.
Home again to begin the weekend's jam and preserve making activity and to send prayers of gratitude for friends, food, art and days that are an extraordinary blessing.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Morning Glory Landscape
The blue/purple morning glories have erruped throughout our property. When I spotted this photo, I knew I had to paint it . These open in the morning-only flowers thrill me with their morning greetings -- bright, open as if they were joyously welcoming the dawn .
Morning glories were my wedding flower -- blue for the sky, the peace and calm their color represents, and for the words of songs about morning "Morning Has Broken" and the the song John Denver "In the Grand Way She Loves Me"
In the grand way she loves me,
The way she holds me close to rest with me.
And to know she is my life to me,
empty days are done, my running days are run.
For the first time I love the morning.
Burning sundowns, colored autumn trees,
Mountain rivers, country livers put my mind at ease.
And to realize such perfect harmony
I'm standing in the dawn of a new day coming on.
And I'm looking for no tomorrow.
I can still hear the lonely sound,
The engines of the midnight freight train, as it's northward bound. And to feel my life, my life slowly losing ground.
I never quite understood, though I see it for the good.
And it seems like I've just been dreaming.
The way she holds me close to comfort me
My empty days are done, my running days are run.
for the first time I love the morning,
For the first time I love the morning,
For the first time,
The first time.
Ah yes -- the Glory of the Morning!
(But don't forget the coffee!!!!)
Morning glories were my wedding flower -- blue for the sky, the peace and calm their color represents, and for the words of songs about morning "Morning Has Broken" and the the song John Denver "In the Grand Way She Loves Me"
In the grand way she loves me,
The way she holds me close to rest with me.
And to know she is my life to me,
empty days are done, my running days are run.
For the first time I love the morning.
Burning sundowns, colored autumn trees,
Mountain rivers, country livers put my mind at ease.
And to realize such perfect harmony
I'm standing in the dawn of a new day coming on.
And I'm looking for no tomorrow.
I can still hear the lonely sound,
The engines of the midnight freight train, as it's northward bound. And to feel my life, my life slowly losing ground.
I never quite understood, though I see it for the good.
And it seems like I've just been dreaming.
The way she holds me close to comfort me
My empty days are done, my running days are run.
for the first time I love the morning,
For the first time I love the morning,
For the first time,
The first time.
Ah yes -- the Glory of the Morning!
(But don't forget the coffee!!!!)
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