Daily Practice
Journal
The kids have gone back to school, the labor day holiday is behind us, though a train-trail of hurricanes are in the Atlantic, the days are still hot and dry, and the beaches are so dang inviting with their sands, blues and peacefulness .... I imagine the calls of the gulls asking where we are ... and I'd like to be there to answer them -- wouldn't you?
Our trip yesterday was fabulous ... our first vineyard the most incredibly informative -- we got to see the harvesting, taste the grapes, take photos of the vines, grapes and harvesting, taste a few wines. Our second vineyard, larger in sales and size, was more focused on the inside production of the wine -- interesting - but not as much, at least to me, as seeing the fields, the grapes, and the ENTIRE process in one place. Such beauty too!
We've Plant a Row for the Hungry this morning and we'll be gathering herbs and checking on the growing greenhouse plants.
Hope your day is great!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Ripening Grapes
Daily Practice
Journal Size
We're off with a group of Arboretum guests for a local winery tour and viticulture education. We'll explore the harvesting of the grapes, have lunch, and then tour the winery and learn how wine is produced. The sun is expected to be bright and cheerful and this trip kicks off our 2010-2011 lecture series.
I hope your day is wonderful!
Journal Size
We're off with a group of Arboretum guests for a local winery tour and viticulture education. We'll explore the harvesting of the grapes, have lunch, and then tour the winery and learn how wine is produced. The sun is expected to be bright and cheerful and this trip kicks off our 2010-2011 lecture series.
I hope your day is wonderful!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Old Shed in the Yellowing Woods - Oxford
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
The fields are turning yellow - and are filled with those wonderful yellow-daisies that seem to amass this time of year. This shed, located about 3 miles from my home, seems to represent the view I'm seeing these days.
We're off to install some fall plants for a nearby town -- garden day for us .. so I"ll be away from the computer for a while.
That bug 'busyness' continues to follow me and I find myself dashing from fire to fire ... hope it slows down a bit ...
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
The fields are turning yellow - and are filled with those wonderful yellow-daisies that seem to amass this time of year. This shed, located about 3 miles from my home, seems to represent the view I'm seeing these days.
We're off to install some fall plants for a nearby town -- garden day for us .. so I"ll be away from the computer for a while.
That bug 'busyness' continues to follow me and I find myself dashing from fire to fire ... hope it slows down a bit ...
Have a great day!
Monday, September 13, 2010
Orchids on Masa
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
A busy but fun day yesterday! It was so good to share a meal with our good friends followed by music and a bit of painting. We walked before nightfall, the weather cool and pleasant ... and we again noticed how quickly it seems that the season is turning.
I am still enjoying my masa experiments and this time wanted to see how splash and splatter worked on it ...
It'll be another week of classes and getting different gardens ready for the change in season ... so I'll be away from the computer much of this time this week as well.
I hope your week is fabulous!
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
A busy but fun day yesterday! It was so good to share a meal with our good friends followed by music and a bit of painting. We walked before nightfall, the weather cool and pleasant ... and we again noticed how quickly it seems that the season is turning.
I am still enjoying my masa experiments and this time wanted to see how splash and splatter worked on it ...
It'll be another week of classes and getting different gardens ready for the change in season ... so I'll be away from the computer much of this time this week as well.
I hope your week is fabulous!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Maple leaf
Yes - the leaves are actually these colors --- not all - but at least one-third of our canopy has already changed leaf color and has begun dropping leaves.
We've had several days of cooler nights, and last night a good soaking rain ..coupled with the last years and the last few months of drought, this fall promises to be mighty early.
I sketched these quickly before the grands got up in the morning ...
C has his jam today and we've company for dinner ...another busy time ...
Hope your day is terrific!
We've had several days of cooler nights, and last night a good soaking rain ..coupled with the last years and the last few months of drought, this fall promises to be mighty early.
I sketched these quickly before the grands got up in the morning ...
C has his jam today and we've company for dinner ...another busy time ...
Hope your day is terrific!
Maple leaf
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Yes - the leaves are actually these colors --- not all - but at least one-third of our canopy has already changed leaf color and has begun dropping leaves.
We've had several days of cooler nights, and last night a good soaking rain ..coupled with the last years and the last few months of drought, this fall promises to be mighty early.
Journal Size
Yes - the leaves are actually these colors --- not all - but at least one-third of our canopy has already changed leaf color and has begun dropping leaves.
We've had several days of cooler nights, and last night a good soaking rain ..coupled with the last years and the last few months of drought, this fall promises to be mighty early.
Tulip Poplar leaf
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Yes - the leaves are actually these colors --- not all - but I'd has at least one-third of our canopy has already changed leaf color and has begun dropping leaves.
We've had several days of cooler night, and last night a good soaking rain ..coupled with the last years and the last few months of drought, this fall promises to be mighty early.
Journal Size
Yes - the leaves are actually these colors --- not all - but I'd has at least one-third of our canopy has already changed leaf color and has begun dropping leaves.
We've had several days of cooler night, and last night a good soaking rain ..coupled with the last years and the last few months of drought, this fall promises to be mighty early.
And more!
Yesterday after Emily and Nick watched our friend Tom work with the bees, we decided to take Emily and Nick to the Museum of Life and Science. They've always loved visiting there to see the butterflies, the tornato maker, animals, play in the large fort, beat on the drums and ride the train.
Unknown to us, the Museum was having its annual "HERO" Day, and the entire place was so packed with chidlren and people that we had to park a few miles from the buildings and take a shuttle in! (They enjoyed that too! LOL)
When we got inside, there were 'hero' figures all over the place, mostly from Star Wars. Every boy sported a light saber, no naturally, it was a trip to the gift shop for one of those (Emily got a diary with secret ink -- I think she's going to take after her Nonna and write! LOL) ... then off we went to visit figure by figure, butterflies, animals, space crafts, play with the other children in the fort, make music, eat lunch, and more. They had a blast!
Shopped a bit for some more school clothes for them; dashed home for dinner and then got them to Mike's finance's parents for the night.
When I finally got to chat with Mike-the event went exceptionally well with most chicken plates sold, funds raised, a successful motorcycle ride (the rain held off for him - thank heavens), and he was dragging himself to the dance for the final fund-raising portion of the day. He sounded tired, as we all were! but grateful that the event went off well!
Whew -- some day!
Unknown to us, the Museum was having its annual "HERO" Day, and the entire place was so packed with chidlren and people that we had to park a few miles from the buildings and take a shuttle in! (They enjoyed that too! LOL)
When we got inside, there were 'hero' figures all over the place, mostly from Star Wars. Every boy sported a light saber, no naturally, it was a trip to the gift shop for one of those (Emily got a diary with secret ink -- I think she's going to take after her Nonna and write! LOL) ... then off we went to visit figure by figure, butterflies, animals, space crafts, play with the other children in the fort, make music, eat lunch, and more. They had a blast!
Shopped a bit for some more school clothes for them; dashed home for dinner and then got them to Mike's finance's parents for the night.
When I finally got to chat with Mike-the event went exceptionally well with most chicken plates sold, funds raised, a successful motorcycle ride (the rain held off for him - thank heavens), and he was dragging himself to the dance for the final fund-raising portion of the day. He sounded tired, as we all were! but grateful that the event went off well!
Whew -- some day!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Cattails and Yellow Flowers - and Peace
9" x 12"
Arches 140# CP
There was a definite chill in the air last night when we picked up the grands - so much so that even my granddaughter was happy to borrow a sweatshirt! After we took them to dinner, Emily read to me -- READ!! at 6 years old - brought tears to my eyes! We spent a bit of time at the park as well-- climbing, running, walking, picking leaves that have already changed color. Though there fast becoming more and more yellow trees - the poplars and sycamores in particular, here and there a maple has already turned red.
In the parking lot of my local library, the water retention area is chock-full of cattails in their chocolate-brown glory - and yellow "ditch daisies' brighten up the rocks and greens.
Today I'd like to offer this view in peace as the world remembers the US tragedy of 9/11.
We'll spend the day with the grands while my son raises funds for his injured friend, and the world over will be remembering a terrible day of incredible sadness ... and yet there are so many more incidences of kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness -- that each of us through our daily acts and relationships can bring this good, good earth a measure of peace and of love ...
May each one of us decide to do that very thing, especially today ....
God bless.
Arches 140# CP
There was a definite chill in the air last night when we picked up the grands - so much so that even my granddaughter was happy to borrow a sweatshirt! After we took them to dinner, Emily read to me -- READ!! at 6 years old - brought tears to my eyes! We spent a bit of time at the park as well-- climbing, running, walking, picking leaves that have already changed color. Though there fast becoming more and more yellow trees - the poplars and sycamores in particular, here and there a maple has already turned red.
In the parking lot of my local library, the water retention area is chock-full of cattails in their chocolate-brown glory - and yellow "ditch daisies' brighten up the rocks and greens.
Today I'd like to offer this view in peace as the world remembers the US tragedy of 9/11.
We'll spend the day with the grands while my son raises funds for his injured friend, and the world over will be remembering a terrible day of incredible sadness ... and yet there are so many more incidences of kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness -- that each of us through our daily acts and relationships can bring this good, good earth a measure of peace and of love ...
May each one of us decide to do that very thing, especially today ....
God bless.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Rose Fence on Masa
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
It's been a long week with back to back meetings, long days and longer nights, and a busy weekend ahead.
My son is holding his fund raiser for a friend who was severly injured in a motocycle accident - there'll be a motorcycle run, chicken dinners, door prizes, and more -- and the event concludes with a dance and music. He's been able to secure almost all he needs through donations -- and if you'll pardon a mother's prejudice -- I am truly proud of this young man. To do this while still recovering from his own bout with doctors, a full schedule of work and children -- shows a determination and kindness that is commendable. Please send your good thoughts for its success and the well being of his friend.
We'll keep the grands for part of the weekend while Mike coordinates all the event's details. We're expecting fine weather -- fingers crossed!
We'll also have company and Charles' jam on Sunday -- so I'll be a bit scarce and will have to squeeze in a bit of painting as I can.
I painted this landscape a few weeks ago - and for those areas or gardens with a bit of rainfall or water, the knock-out roses are still blooming - though even these vigorous plants are showing signs of the season. At the Arboretum, our roses are a bit sparser and have already lost some leaves.
When I drove home late yesterday I was astonished to see so many yellow tree leaves on the ground.... and I even spied my first bits of red in the treescape ...the heat and lack of rain have certainly accelerated the season!
I hope you have a wonderful weekend!!
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
It's been a long week with back to back meetings, long days and longer nights, and a busy weekend ahead.
My son is holding his fund raiser for a friend who was severly injured in a motocycle accident - there'll be a motorcycle run, chicken dinners, door prizes, and more -- and the event concludes with a dance and music. He's been able to secure almost all he needs through donations -- and if you'll pardon a mother's prejudice -- I am truly proud of this young man. To do this while still recovering from his own bout with doctors, a full schedule of work and children -- shows a determination and kindness that is commendable. Please send your good thoughts for its success and the well being of his friend.
We'll keep the grands for part of the weekend while Mike coordinates all the event's details. We're expecting fine weather -- fingers crossed!
We'll also have company and Charles' jam on Sunday -- so I'll be a bit scarce and will have to squeeze in a bit of painting as I can.
I painted this landscape a few weeks ago - and for those areas or gardens with a bit of rainfall or water, the knock-out roses are still blooming - though even these vigorous plants are showing signs of the season. At the Arboretum, our roses are a bit sparser and have already lost some leaves.
When I drove home late yesterday I was astonished to see so many yellow tree leaves on the ground.... and I even spied my first bits of red in the treescape ...the heat and lack of rain have certainly accelerated the season!
I hope you have a wonderful weekend!!
Thursday, September 09, 2010
Foggy Morning
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
This is from an exercise by Faith Love-Robertson (http://www.yourart.com/go.php?id=94623&url=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5mYWl0aGxvdmVyb2JlcnRzb24uY29t). I thought I'd post it this morning since I drove to work in a thick fog .... we don't have mountains where I am -- but that foggy, wet feeling sure speaks to my morning!
Far too busy this week with another day of obligations ... things are going well, just non-stop ...
We had a smattering of rain -- insignificent to give the plants the moisture they need -- but it was good to reduce temperatures for a little while.
Hope your day is grand!
Arches 140#CP
This is from an exercise by Faith Love-Robertson (http://www.yourart.com/go.php?id=94623&url=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5mYWl0aGxvdmVyb2JlcnRzb24uY29t). I thought I'd post it this morning since I drove to work in a thick fog .... we don't have mountains where I am -- but that foggy, wet feeling sure speaks to my morning!
Far too busy this week with another day of obligations ... things are going well, just non-stop ...
We had a smattering of rain -- insignificent to give the plants the moisture they need -- but it was good to reduce temperatures for a little while.
Hope your day is grand!
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Eno River - Tree Bank
Daily Practice
Journal Size
The week before last, C and I took a long walk along the Eno River. The foliage had begun to change, the river was rather quiet, and the promise of cooler weather didn't come. Instead, it was a hot, humid day - making the climb over rocks and up hills a bit more tiring. Still, it was a good time out of doors.
It was an intensely busy day yesterday and today has already started out similarly ...
I hope to catch up with everyone once things slow down a bit!
Have a great day!
Journal Size
The week before last, C and I took a long walk along the Eno River. The foliage had begun to change, the river was rather quiet, and the promise of cooler weather didn't come. Instead, it was a hot, humid day - making the climb over rocks and up hills a bit more tiring. Still, it was a good time out of doors.
It was an intensely busy day yesterday and today has already started out similarly ...
I hope to catch up with everyone once things slow down a bit!
Have a great day!
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
Hydrangeas - Patsy's Challenge
9" x 12"
Arches 140# CP
Patsy's been working on flowers and asked the floral watercolour group how we might go about painting her photo of hydrangeas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/patsyjenningsart/4961446054/). I had a bit of time before the grands came last night - and so I painted this. I took a direct approach, fairly realistic, but trying to keep the hydrangeas varied, filled with light and a bit impressionistic. The scan is a bit darker in the flowers and lighter in the glass vase area than the painting itself. Next time -- I'd like to try this a bit looser ...
It was a busy time with the grands and it's going to be a busy week. I leave for work shortly and have a meeting the moment I get there with a week filled with meetings.
Temps are returning to the mid-90s so it'll be hot -- Still no rain -- and the trees are responding with yellow leaves that are dropping a bit early this year.
Have a great day!
Arches 140# CP
Patsy's been working on flowers and asked the floral watercolour group how we might go about painting her photo of hydrangeas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/patsyjenningsart/4961446054/). I had a bit of time before the grands came last night - and so I painted this. I took a direct approach, fairly realistic, but trying to keep the hydrangeas varied, filled with light and a bit impressionistic. The scan is a bit darker in the flowers and lighter in the glass vase area than the painting itself. Next time -- I'd like to try this a bit looser ...
It was a busy time with the grands and it's going to be a busy week. I leave for work shortly and have a meeting the moment I get there with a week filled with meetings.
Temps are returning to the mid-90s so it'll be hot -- Still no rain -- and the trees are responding with yellow leaves that are dropping a bit early this year.
Have a great day!
Monday, September 06, 2010
Harvest Challenge - Blackberries
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Another challenge by Bill (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/4935493833/). This time - blackberries! My painting of them tended to show them more 'unripe' than ripened ... but it was fun -- and challenging --- to get all those berries highlighted!! LOL THANKS once more, Bill!
Another incredible morning - cool, cool, cool! I slept with the windows open last night, falling asleep to the music of cicadas and crickets .... the scent of my Tea Olive wafting thru the screen .... how I LOVE these early days of fall! We've another cooler day today ... and I'll enjoy it with the grands ... but the high 90s return later this week as the new season teases its way here.
It's a labor day celebration in the US - and most offices are closed. There are still so many folks unemployed ... and today of all days we need to offer thoughts, encouragement and prayers that they find work. For those of us with jobs, the economy still makes us nervous for the employment situtation has not yet begun to improve very much ... fingers crossed for us all!
Meanwhile, I'm grateful for another day spent at home with my loved ones .. and -- REST!
Have a terrific day!
Arches 140#CP
Another challenge by Bill (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/4935493833/). This time - blackberries! My painting of them tended to show them more 'unripe' than ripened ... but it was fun -- and challenging --- to get all those berries highlighted!! LOL THANKS once more, Bill!
Another incredible morning - cool, cool, cool! I slept with the windows open last night, falling asleep to the music of cicadas and crickets .... the scent of my Tea Olive wafting thru the screen .... how I LOVE these early days of fall! We've another cooler day today ... and I'll enjoy it with the grands ... but the high 90s return later this week as the new season teases its way here.
It's a labor day celebration in the US - and most offices are closed. There are still so many folks unemployed ... and today of all days we need to offer thoughts, encouragement and prayers that they find work. For those of us with jobs, the economy still makes us nervous for the employment situtation has not yet begun to improve very much ... fingers crossed for us all!
Meanwhile, I'm grateful for another day spent at home with my loved ones .. and -- REST!
Have a terrific day!
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Field of Queen Annes Lace and Chickory Flowers (Crop)
Daily Practice
(Cropped Version)
A very early cat-fight woke me this morning, and so unable to return to sleep, I thought I'd get an early start to the day.
I think I like the cropped version of this field a bit better than the landscape version. It was painted from a photo I took while visiting my friend, Lorraine in KY.
The weekend, finally, has been cooler -- and last evening when C and I went for a walk just before sundown, cool enough for me to wear a sweatshirt!! LOL -- almost 30 degrees lower than we've had almost all summer ...! WONDERFUL!
I managed to get the front garden pruned back and watered - then spent the day relaxing and painting a bit. Today will be much of the same ....
Hope you are enjoying the weekend!
(Cropped Version)
A very early cat-fight woke me this morning, and so unable to return to sleep, I thought I'd get an early start to the day.
I think I like the cropped version of this field a bit better than the landscape version. It was painted from a photo I took while visiting my friend, Lorraine in KY.
The weekend, finally, has been cooler -- and last evening when C and I went for a walk just before sundown, cool enough for me to wear a sweatshirt!! LOL -- almost 30 degrees lower than we've had almost all summer ...! WONDERFUL!
I managed to get the front garden pruned back and watered - then spent the day relaxing and painting a bit. Today will be much of the same ....
Hope you are enjoying the weekend!
Field of Queen Annes Lace and Chickory Flowers
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Even in Kentucky while visiting my friend, Lorraine, the car-stopper for me was a wonderful field of Queen Anne's Lace and Chickory. We were heading to the store or another town early one morning, when I spotted the field and thought we're return to it after our trip. When we did, the chickory had disappeared! We returned to the field the following morning -- and -- the chickory was there!! I had forgotten that these wonderful blue flowers close at night!! GEEZ!!!
But what a wonderful sight in the early morning!
Journal Size
Even in Kentucky while visiting my friend, Lorraine, the car-stopper for me was a wonderful field of Queen Anne's Lace and Chickory. We were heading to the store or another town early one morning, when I spotted the field and thought we're return to it after our trip. When we did, the chickory had disappeared! We returned to the field the following morning -- and -- the chickory was there!! I had forgotten that these wonderful blue flowers close at night!! GEEZ!!!
But what a wonderful sight in the early morning!
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Season's Turning
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Dashing around town before Jodi came for our paint day, I was struck again by the changes in the landscape. Day by day the vibrancy of the trees and shrubs has been slowly fading, and yesterday I noticed a distinctive yellowing of more and more leaf color. Though September usually marks a beginning of seasonal change, the drought we have continued to experience has hastened its arrival - despite the high temperatures. Unless we get significant rain (we are down 6"), leaf drop will be early and the usual blaze of color will be a mere memory.
Still, this painting was done from a photo I took when I stopped by our local library yesterday. A water collection ditch runs along its side and so perhaps it has had a bit more moisture than other parts of our landscape. Behind me is a large collection of cattails, but this small field was chock-full of wonderful textures, colors, and all sorts of wild plants. I've enhanced the quantity of the Queen Anne's Lace ...and most of those were brown - but here and there, tiny white daisylike flowers made a showing, along with yellow tickseed. Looking at view though, one would never guess you were standing in a parking lot! LOL
Jodi and I had a relaxing day ... watched an art DVD, painted, ate more of C's scrumptious gelato, and even got a chance to remove seeds from dried purple coneflower heads while we sat on the porch! My tea olive is in bloom again, and its sweet fragrance kept us company while we worked!
It's a three-day weekend as we celebrate Labor Day on Monday! Today I will play a bit in the garden as the weeds are having a good time depite the lack of rain .... and it's time to cut back the spent flowers and stalks.
Hope your weekend is terrific!
Journal Size
Dashing around town before Jodi came for our paint day, I was struck again by the changes in the landscape. Day by day the vibrancy of the trees and shrubs has been slowly fading, and yesterday I noticed a distinctive yellowing of more and more leaf color. Though September usually marks a beginning of seasonal change, the drought we have continued to experience has hastened its arrival - despite the high temperatures. Unless we get significant rain (we are down 6"), leaf drop will be early and the usual blaze of color will be a mere memory.
Still, this painting was done from a photo I took when I stopped by our local library yesterday. A water collection ditch runs along its side and so perhaps it has had a bit more moisture than other parts of our landscape. Behind me is a large collection of cattails, but this small field was chock-full of wonderful textures, colors, and all sorts of wild plants. I've enhanced the quantity of the Queen Anne's Lace ...and most of those were brown - but here and there, tiny white daisylike flowers made a showing, along with yellow tickseed. Looking at view though, one would never guess you were standing in a parking lot! LOL
Jodi and I had a relaxing day ... watched an art DVD, painted, ate more of C's scrumptious gelato, and even got a chance to remove seeds from dried purple coneflower heads while we sat on the porch! My tea olive is in bloom again, and its sweet fragrance kept us company while we worked!
It's a three-day weekend as we celebrate Labor Day on Monday! Today I will play a bit in the garden as the weeds are having a good time depite the lack of rain .... and it's time to cut back the spent flowers and stalks.
Hope your weekend is terrific!
Friday, September 03, 2010
Grapes on Masa
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Thank you all for your most kind comments yesterday and well wishes for Hurricane Earl. Earl 'kissed' the North Carolina coast at 2 am this morning as a catagory 2 hurricane. We were exceedingly lucky as the eye missed our coastline by almost 100 miles. The outer banks has some beach erosion, some flooding, some areas without power, but all in all, for the size of this storm, we were exceptionally fortunate. Prayers now for the Cape Cod area of Massachusettes as Earl veers northward ....
I painted this work of grapes on masa last week while Jodi came to visit and I was sharing a few masa techniques ...FUN .... I DO LOVE the textures that masa paper produces ... a bit of abstract - a bit of realism. Jodi returns today for another shared painting time! YAHOO!
On the way home last night, I had one of those McDonald Caramel Fappes because I was dragging after the Plant a Row session. We spent the better part of the morning and early afternoon planting more seeds for fall, continuing our viticulture experiments and then making a TON of pear butter. We cut, boiled, seasoned two LARGE pots of the butter - but didn't quite get to finish the process. So I brought home the mix plus a large bag of pears that we didn't have room enouugh to cook during our session. I worked last night to finish the butter we began (simmer until thick, place in jars, boil bath to seal), and then started from scratch with the pears I brought home. In all - I wound up with 60 JARS OF PEAR BUTTER!! WHEW And with the unpacking of the car, laundry, mail, bill paying and the like, it was well after midnight before I hit the bed. So now I know what to do when I'm tired -- a CARAMEL FRAPPE!!! LOLOLOL Nothing like caffeine and sugar to get things me energized again! LOL
Anyway, I'll bring in all those jars when we return to work on Tuesday (Monday is a holiday - Labor Day).
I'm really looking forward to a relaxing day of art today ....with the storm gone, and still no rain (you would have thought we'd have some with a hurricane less than 100 miles from us!! SIGH) -- temps are to reach almost 100F! I'll have to find some time this weekend to water the plants and do some much needed weeding and seed-collecting ....
Have a restful day!
Journal Size
Thank you all for your most kind comments yesterday and well wishes for Hurricane Earl. Earl 'kissed' the North Carolina coast at 2 am this morning as a catagory 2 hurricane. We were exceedingly lucky as the eye missed our coastline by almost 100 miles. The outer banks has some beach erosion, some flooding, some areas without power, but all in all, for the size of this storm, we were exceptionally fortunate. Prayers now for the Cape Cod area of Massachusettes as Earl veers northward ....
I painted this work of grapes on masa last week while Jodi came to visit and I was sharing a few masa techniques ...FUN .... I DO LOVE the textures that masa paper produces ... a bit of abstract - a bit of realism. Jodi returns today for another shared painting time! YAHOO!
On the way home last night, I had one of those McDonald Caramel Fappes because I was dragging after the Plant a Row session. We spent the better part of the morning and early afternoon planting more seeds for fall, continuing our viticulture experiments and then making a TON of pear butter. We cut, boiled, seasoned two LARGE pots of the butter - but didn't quite get to finish the process. So I brought home the mix plus a large bag of pears that we didn't have room enouugh to cook during our session. I worked last night to finish the butter we began (simmer until thick, place in jars, boil bath to seal), and then started from scratch with the pears I brought home. In all - I wound up with 60 JARS OF PEAR BUTTER!! WHEW And with the unpacking of the car, laundry, mail, bill paying and the like, it was well after midnight before I hit the bed. So now I know what to do when I'm tired -- a CARAMEL FRAPPE!!! LOLOLOL Nothing like caffeine and sugar to get things me energized again! LOL
Anyway, I'll bring in all those jars when we return to work on Tuesday (Monday is a holiday - Labor Day).
I'm really looking forward to a relaxing day of art today ....with the storm gone, and still no rain (you would have thought we'd have some with a hurricane less than 100 miles from us!! SIGH) -- temps are to reach almost 100F! I'll have to find some time this weekend to water the plants and do some much needed weeding and seed-collecting ....
Have a restful day!
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Calm before the Storm
Daily Painting
Journal Size
Sunup -- and Earl still threatens the NC Coast. Evacuations are taking place and landfall is expected along the northern coast of North Carolina .....My fingers are crossed and prayers offered that the hurricane doesn't cause too much damage. Emergency preparations are being made and will be dispatched as needed tonight or tomorrow.
Although we are about 100 miles inland from the coast, we'll be feeling some gusts of winds - hoping for some rain, though none is predicted - and watching our friends on the coast. With more storms on the westward hurricane track this season, Earl is only the first storm we'll be watching.
We have a busy day today with the Plant a Row for the Hungry. We'll do more planting, do additional work on our viticulture project, and work on making pear butter .... FUN!
Take care today ...!
Journal Size
Sunup -- and Earl still threatens the NC Coast. Evacuations are taking place and landfall is expected along the northern coast of North Carolina .....My fingers are crossed and prayers offered that the hurricane doesn't cause too much damage. Emergency preparations are being made and will be dispatched as needed tonight or tomorrow.
Although we are about 100 miles inland from the coast, we'll be feeling some gusts of winds - hoping for some rain, though none is predicted - and watching our friends on the coast. With more storms on the westward hurricane track this season, Earl is only the first storm we'll be watching.
We have a busy day today with the Plant a Row for the Hungry. We'll do more planting, do additional work on our viticulture project, and work on making pear butter .... FUN!
Take care today ...!
Yep -- pretty tired lady!
Long days have taken their toll -- I look mighty tired here beside my paintings!
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Harvest Challenge - Plums
Bill suggested another challenge - the great fruit harvest (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/4936082942/) and posted these luscious yellow/red plums! YUM! THANKS Bill -- another fun challenge!
Our own plum trees have finished fruiting and will now set bud for next year's harvest. I wish I could have made some plum jam from these!!
My paintings, altered books and displays for the Arboretum all go up in our local library today! My walls at home are bare as are my bookshelves .. but it will be fun to see everything on large walls ...!
Meetings follow the set up along with budgets and preparations for more classes ... busy time!
Thus far, Hurricane Earl is still scheduled to miss landfall in NC -- my fingers are still crossed!
Have a great day!
Our own plum trees have finished fruiting and will now set bud for next year's harvest. I wish I could have made some plum jam from these!!
My paintings, altered books and displays for the Arboretum all go up in our local library today! My walls at home are bare as are my bookshelves .. but it will be fun to see everything on large walls ...!
Meetings follow the set up along with budgets and preparations for more classes ... busy time!
Thus far, Hurricane Earl is still scheduled to miss landfall in NC -- my fingers are still crossed!
Have a great day!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Dreaming of Sandy Beaches
Daily Practice
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As Hurricane Earl makes his way eastward, folks along the Atlantic coast, including NC, watch with worry as his track comes closer and closer to land. He's expected to remain at sea and turn northward WITHOUT making landfall, but predictions are 'best guesses' and one won't know until this hurricane is out to sea again. The North Carolina coast will definitely experience riptides and beach erosion from wind and rain ... and we will all hold our breaths until, at least, THIS storm has passed.
Meanwhile, I still dream of leisure days, sand between my toes, and CALM seas ....
It's a busy time here but the frantic first weeks of school are settling into routine and our monthly workshops will begin shortly ....
Take care.
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As Hurricane Earl makes his way eastward, folks along the Atlantic coast, including NC, watch with worry as his track comes closer and closer to land. He's expected to remain at sea and turn northward WITHOUT making landfall, but predictions are 'best guesses' and one won't know until this hurricane is out to sea again. The North Carolina coast will definitely experience riptides and beach erosion from wind and rain ... and we will all hold our breaths until, at least, THIS storm has passed.
Meanwhile, I still dream of leisure days, sand between my toes, and CALM seas ....
It's a busy time here but the frantic first weeks of school are settling into routine and our monthly workshops will begin shortly ....
Take care.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Poppy Challenge
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Bill offered another wonderful challenge photo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/4936083880/) for the Floral Watercolourist group. I attempted a somewhat more realistic perspective for this one and altered the shadows and leaves somewhat to help the light pink petals of the poppy stand out even more -- lots of fun! THANKS Bill!!!
We finished more chores yesterday including the framing of my son's painting, packed the car for a week filled with exhibition set-ups, workshops, cooking and gardening classes. C is really enjoying his ice cream maker, and we finished off the last of the figs as he rendered them into fig gelato -- RICH! I'd better walk a LOT this week!
Temps are going to be high in the 90s again with little chance of rain and we've a busy schedule ....
Hope your week is terrific!
Arches 140#CP
Bill offered another wonderful challenge photo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/4936083880/) for the Floral Watercolourist group. I attempted a somewhat more realistic perspective for this one and altered the shadows and leaves somewhat to help the light pink petals of the poppy stand out even more -- lots of fun! THANKS Bill!!!
We finished more chores yesterday including the framing of my son's painting, packed the car for a week filled with exhibition set-ups, workshops, cooking and gardening classes. C is really enjoying his ice cream maker, and we finished off the last of the figs as he rendered them into fig gelato -- RICH! I'd better walk a LOT this week!
Temps are going to be high in the 90s again with little chance of rain and we've a busy schedule ....
Hope your week is terrific!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Late August Foggy Morning
Daily Practice
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As the sun makes its way above the woodlands, the last bit of fog clings to the interior sections, and its moisture remains on the grass and my windows. It's cooler, right now, and the heat of the day won't descend until much later. It's a typical, end of August morning letting us know that autumn quickly approaches. This is a memory painting - done partly from memory, partly from imagination, but fully from the experience of this week's foggy mornings .....
C and I took a long hike in one of our favorite parks yesterday. Already the trees shading us have lost their vibrancy and were beginning to show signs of fall yellow/greens - despite the low 90F temps. The overhead canopy was somewhat thinner as we tampled on fallen, dry leaves, and even the air had that fragrance of change. We're less than 30 days until the offical date of fall.
Today we rest and finish the chores we put off yesterday ... Hope your Sunday is wondrous!
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As the sun makes its way above the woodlands, the last bit of fog clings to the interior sections, and its moisture remains on the grass and my windows. It's cooler, right now, and the heat of the day won't descend until much later. It's a typical, end of August morning letting us know that autumn quickly approaches. This is a memory painting - done partly from memory, partly from imagination, but fully from the experience of this week's foggy mornings .....
C and I took a long hike in one of our favorite parks yesterday. Already the trees shading us have lost their vibrancy and were beginning to show signs of fall yellow/greens - despite the low 90F temps. The overhead canopy was somewhat thinner as we tampled on fallen, dry leaves, and even the air had that fragrance of change. We're less than 30 days until the offical date of fall.
Today we rest and finish the chores we put off yesterday ... Hope your Sunday is wondrous!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Inspired by Blanket Flowers
Daily Practice
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The brilliant red and yellow blanket flowers have graced my garden all summer; but try as I might, I've had a heck of a time capturing them to my satisfaction. Even now, while the 'feeling' of these flowers are evident in the 'splash and splatter,' I'm not entire satisified that I caught the 'essence' of those wonderful plants. Ah, the challenges of watercolor!! LOL
My friend Jodi and I got together yesterday to do some painting. We played with masa paper, enjoyed C's home made pistachio ice cream, and time away from chores to explore watercolors. Fun!
This week, the Arboretum donated several pounds of herbs to the Food Bank, and I brought home some extra basil to make into pesto for the Plant a Row volunteers - I finished that project last night.
I also viewed a new DVD by David Bellamy "Summer Landscapes in Watercolour" ... really terrific. In this DVD he addresses the 'challenge' of all that green of summertime, ways to capture those roadsides (hedgerows) and clumps of vegetation (my favorite!!!! LOL), and how to make interesting fields and mountains of greens ... excellent!
We're due this weekend for a drop in humidity and temperatures... so I'm hoping to head outdoors for a while ... maybe I can attempt some of those 'green things' this afternoon!
Have a great weekend!
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The brilliant red and yellow blanket flowers have graced my garden all summer; but try as I might, I've had a heck of a time capturing them to my satisfaction. Even now, while the 'feeling' of these flowers are evident in the 'splash and splatter,' I'm not entire satisified that I caught the 'essence' of those wonderful plants. Ah, the challenges of watercolor!! LOL
My friend Jodi and I got together yesterday to do some painting. We played with masa paper, enjoyed C's home made pistachio ice cream, and time away from chores to explore watercolors. Fun!
This week, the Arboretum donated several pounds of herbs to the Food Bank, and I brought home some extra basil to make into pesto for the Plant a Row volunteers - I finished that project last night.
I also viewed a new DVD by David Bellamy "Summer Landscapes in Watercolour" ... really terrific. In this DVD he addresses the 'challenge' of all that green of summertime, ways to capture those roadsides (hedgerows) and clumps of vegetation (my favorite!!!! LOL), and how to make interesting fields and mountains of greens ... excellent!
We're due this weekend for a drop in humidity and temperatures... so I'm hoping to head outdoors for a while ... maybe I can attempt some of those 'green things' this afternoon!
Have a great weekend!
Friday, August 27, 2010
Cliffs on Masa
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Working on masa paper has proved to be far too much fun! The 'instant texturizing' of the subject, while providing challenges of all kinds, also encourages me to work with the subject as the painting itself demands. In other words, while my intention of subject or paint placement may be in one specific area, if a fold, crevice, or 'line' forms a different way in this same area, this 'surprise' encourages me to work with what I have - the subject before me - and not necessary what I had first intended. This loss of control can definitely be challenging!
I suppose this is also a good lesson for living as well ... that need for constant 'adjustment' to life's circumstances and 'surprises' .... some of those welcome, others not so much.
With the economy still in its difficulties, changes of all kinds happening around us, perhaps that is another reason I keep painting on masa ....so I can learn to be more flexible with the changes that are ever constant ....
Returning to work yesterday was busy, but productive and good. The drive went well, the volunteers were incredible uplifiting and fun, and each day, my 'brain' is adjusting more and more the changes brought about by new eyesight. Maybe my head could use a brush and some masa paper too! LOL
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
Working on masa paper has proved to be far too much fun! The 'instant texturizing' of the subject, while providing challenges of all kinds, also encourages me to work with the subject as the painting itself demands. In other words, while my intention of subject or paint placement may be in one specific area, if a fold, crevice, or 'line' forms a different way in this same area, this 'surprise' encourages me to work with what I have - the subject before me - and not necessary what I had first intended. This loss of control can definitely be challenging!
I suppose this is also a good lesson for living as well ... that need for constant 'adjustment' to life's circumstances and 'surprises' .... some of those welcome, others not so much.
With the economy still in its difficulties, changes of all kinds happening around us, perhaps that is another reason I keep painting on masa ....so I can learn to be more flexible with the changes that are ever constant ....
Returning to work yesterday was busy, but productive and good. The drive went well, the volunteers were incredible uplifiting and fun, and each day, my 'brain' is adjusting more and more the changes brought about by new eyesight. Maybe my head could use a brush and some masa paper too! LOL
Have a great day!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Fall's Anticipation
Daily Practice
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A quickly done, sketchy watercolor to mark the onset of seasonal change. After a morning rain, the sun was shining so brightly, but our temps reached only the mid 70s yesterday. Restless from being still too long, I took a slow walk around our neighborhood - the scent or damp earth, kudzu flowers, ripening muscadine grapes and sweet autumn clematis kept me company (along with 3 of the kitties) - and everywhere I looked, the vibrancy of summer color was fading to the first hints of sienna ....
I came in and painted this with a bit of fall color exaggeration -- but mostly in anticipation of the season to come. We'll get these days between now and October that forewarn us that a new season is coming .... and I delight in the freshness of them ...
I'm feeling so much better that I will head into work for a short time today. The Plant a Row volunteers are coming, and they're such delightful company that I really want to be there with them as we explore viticulture with one of our volunteer experts ....
It'll be a short day - and I am eager to see my friends again ....
Hope your day is grand! I will take your advice though, and take it very easy and carefully ...
Hugs ...
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A quickly done, sketchy watercolor to mark the onset of seasonal change. After a morning rain, the sun was shining so brightly, but our temps reached only the mid 70s yesterday. Restless from being still too long, I took a slow walk around our neighborhood - the scent or damp earth, kudzu flowers, ripening muscadine grapes and sweet autumn clematis kept me company (along with 3 of the kitties) - and everywhere I looked, the vibrancy of summer color was fading to the first hints of sienna ....
I came in and painted this with a bit of fall color exaggeration -- but mostly in anticipation of the season to come. We'll get these days between now and October that forewarn us that a new season is coming .... and I delight in the freshness of them ...
I'm feeling so much better that I will head into work for a short time today. The Plant a Row volunteers are coming, and they're such delightful company that I really want to be there with them as we explore viticulture with one of our volunteer experts ....
It'll be a short day - and I am eager to see my friends again ....
Hope your day is grand! I will take your advice though, and take it very easy and carefully ...
Hugs ...
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Garden Zinnia
Daily Practice
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I seemed to have slept the day away yesterday, waking every now and again to work a bit, then return to resting - probably well needed ... LOL
This lone zinnia graces my garden in fall dress and this week has been encouraged by daily rain showers. I wanted a loose look and so splashed and splattered the majority of it and used negative painting to give the petals a bit more form.
I like zinnias, and this year the Arboretum grew a variety of colors, shapes, sizes and forms. I don't have very many in my own garden, but I'm hoping that the few that I have planted, will drop their seeds for next year's blooming.
Speaking of gardens, so many of my plants are shedding their petals now and turning the browns and sepias of autumn. I love this season as much as I love the colorful spring. This season, though, shows a bit more of the 'architecture' of plants --- trees, shrubs, the pods and seedheads of so many annuals and perennials, and the ornamental and wild grasses have their time on stage. A beautiful view - special for the season.
It's raining again, and I'm resting one more day. The eye is cleaing and my feet are steadier under me ... I am ever so grateful ....
Have a super day!
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I seemed to have slept the day away yesterday, waking every now and again to work a bit, then return to resting - probably well needed ... LOL
This lone zinnia graces my garden in fall dress and this week has been encouraged by daily rain showers. I wanted a loose look and so splashed and splattered the majority of it and used negative painting to give the petals a bit more form.
I like zinnias, and this year the Arboretum grew a variety of colors, shapes, sizes and forms. I don't have very many in my own garden, but I'm hoping that the few that I have planted, will drop their seeds for next year's blooming.
Speaking of gardens, so many of my plants are shedding their petals now and turning the browns and sepias of autumn. I love this season as much as I love the colorful spring. This season, though, shows a bit more of the 'architecture' of plants --- trees, shrubs, the pods and seedheads of so many annuals and perennials, and the ornamental and wild grasses have their time on stage. A beautiful view - special for the season.
It's raining again, and I'm resting one more day. The eye is cleaing and my feet are steadier under me ... I am ever so grateful ....
Have a super day!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Morning Glory and Sweet Autumn Clematis
Daily Practice
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Thank you all for your most generous, thoughtful and kind well wishes ..... Surgery went well, and this morning, my eye is still a bit foggy - something expected. It should be clearing by tomorrow - and I should, by then, be able to tell how much I will be able to see. My eye doctor and I discussed lens implants, and I opted for a 'near vision' improvement so I could see better close-up .... which means I will probably have to have bi-focals to drive .... not a bad option, in my opinion ... LOL I won't be able to be fitted for these until both eyes fully recover - probably after a few weeks. Meanwhile, I won't know until tomorrow how well I can see to drive -- I expect I'll be able to do so using my left eye - adjusted for more distant vision. It boggles my mind to think of such incredible medical breakthroughs!
I started this painting over the weekend from a photo I took of a corner of my garden. The sweet autumn clematis is in full bloom, and those midnight blue/purple morning glories have found a way to wind themselves around and through the other vine. I'm not very happy with the way this turned out - I think it needs some darkening, the morning glories need shape improvement and all of it needs adjustments in composition. What I like about it though is the soft background and overall color scheme...... I see another attempt in my future! LOL
I might mention that if you've never grown sweet autumn clematis, you may want to give that robust plant a try. Last year, the entire vine was skeletonized by hordes of cucumber beetles -- not once, but TWICE, and yet grew back to full size, blooming three times! This year, the vine is as vigorous as ever -- with the sweetest fragrance ... so easy to grow -- just give it lots of vertical space to climb!
It's raining and the garden is rejoicing! It'll be a day of rest today ....
Again, my humble thanks for your kindness ...
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Thank you all for your most generous, thoughtful and kind well wishes ..... Surgery went well, and this morning, my eye is still a bit foggy - something expected. It should be clearing by tomorrow - and I should, by then, be able to tell how much I will be able to see. My eye doctor and I discussed lens implants, and I opted for a 'near vision' improvement so I could see better close-up .... which means I will probably have to have bi-focals to drive .... not a bad option, in my opinion ... LOL I won't be able to be fitted for these until both eyes fully recover - probably after a few weeks. Meanwhile, I won't know until tomorrow how well I can see to drive -- I expect I'll be able to do so using my left eye - adjusted for more distant vision. It boggles my mind to think of such incredible medical breakthroughs!
I started this painting over the weekend from a photo I took of a corner of my garden. The sweet autumn clematis is in full bloom, and those midnight blue/purple morning glories have found a way to wind themselves around and through the other vine. I'm not very happy with the way this turned out - I think it needs some darkening, the morning glories need shape improvement and all of it needs adjustments in composition. What I like about it though is the soft background and overall color scheme...... I see another attempt in my future! LOL
I might mention that if you've never grown sweet autumn clematis, you may want to give that robust plant a try. Last year, the entire vine was skeletonized by hordes of cucumber beetles -- not once, but TWICE, and yet grew back to full size, blooming three times! This year, the vine is as vigorous as ever -- with the sweetest fragrance ... so easy to grow -- just give it lots of vertical space to climb!
It's raining and the garden is rejoicing! It'll be a day of rest today ....
Again, my humble thanks for your kindness ...
Monday, August 23, 2010
Inspired by Daisies
Daily Practice
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It seems a long time since I splashed and splattered my way through a painting and I almost forgot how to 'see' that way of doing things .... I worked on this piece as a horizontal, and didn't like the way it was going - so I worked another painting. When I came back to my art table, it was sitting vertically, and suddenly, I could 'see' the flowers -- ! Funny!! LOL So I finished it last night.
I'm off to have my second cataract removed this morning, so I'll be back on line once I'm fully recovered ...
Take care today!
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It seems a long time since I splashed and splattered my way through a painting and I almost forgot how to 'see' that way of doing things .... I worked on this piece as a horizontal, and didn't like the way it was going - so I worked another painting. When I came back to my art table, it was sitting vertically, and suddenly, I could 'see' the flowers -- ! Funny!! LOL So I finished it last night.
I'm off to have my second cataract removed this morning, so I'll be back on line once I'm fully recovered ...
Take care today!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Rocky Shore
Daily Practice
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The light of early morning is just beginning to separate individual trees from the dark clump that night turns our woodlands. The skylights are streaked with dewy moisture and here and there bits of fog cling to low places. As my coffee brewed, I fed the cats. The air outside is ' heavy and pregnant with rain' as well as heat, and everything outside has a damp, wet feel to it. Rain is in the forecast - and hopefully the clouds will 'give birth' soon ...
The day was incredibly busy yesterday, but the feeling of accomplishment soothes our aching muscles. We removed all the spent vegetable plants and spread crimson clover seeds. Once these plants are up, we'll use them as green manure - the nodules on their roots capturing nitrogen in the air and fixing it in the soil. And their blossoms will be a wonderful sight as well. We weeded out the beds along the fence, trimmed the eleagnus, did laundry, collected figs and framed my paintings for the September exhibition. And took a much needed nap! LOL
I painted this before heading to the garden from a photo reference from Wet Canvas - fun!
Today we check on the grands and rest.
Hope your day is great!
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The light of early morning is just beginning to separate individual trees from the dark clump that night turns our woodlands. The skylights are streaked with dewy moisture and here and there bits of fog cling to low places. As my coffee brewed, I fed the cats. The air outside is ' heavy and pregnant with rain' as well as heat, and everything outside has a damp, wet feel to it. Rain is in the forecast - and hopefully the clouds will 'give birth' soon ...
The day was incredibly busy yesterday, but the feeling of accomplishment soothes our aching muscles. We removed all the spent vegetable plants and spread crimson clover seeds. Once these plants are up, we'll use them as green manure - the nodules on their roots capturing nitrogen in the air and fixing it in the soil. And their blossoms will be a wonderful sight as well. We weeded out the beds along the fence, trimmed the eleagnus, did laundry, collected figs and framed my paintings for the September exhibition. And took a much needed nap! LOL
I painted this before heading to the garden from a photo reference from Wet Canvas - fun!
Today we check on the grands and rest.
Hope your day is great!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Poppies
Daily Practice
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Long day yesterday -- spent more time WAITING at the hospital than the actual time it took for procedures and tests for my son. I worked on this piece as we waited and finished it at home...
We got some good news ruling out a few potential causes of my son's discomfort - but unfortunately, little answers. We'll have to seek a second opinion - and worst, there is little relief to his symptoms ...
I thank you for your kind and generous thoughts for him -- the search for answers will continue ....
This weekend is another busy one - it's time to do a bit of work in the garden. Our vegetables that have really produced well this summer, are about spent, and like the gardens at the Arboretum, it's time to do a bit of freshening up on my own plants. Once we get some of that done, we'll be framing paintings for the exhibition in a couple of weeks.
The figs are still producing well and we'll be using those for some recipes my husband wants to try, and I need to see the grands before they start school next week ....
I hope to get to the art table for a bit of time each day -- I'm missing those relaxing days with Lorraine ... responsibility free -- and painting, painting, painting! LOL
Have a great day!
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Long day yesterday -- spent more time WAITING at the hospital than the actual time it took for procedures and tests for my son. I worked on this piece as we waited and finished it at home...
We got some good news ruling out a few potential causes of my son's discomfort - but unfortunately, little answers. We'll have to seek a second opinion - and worst, there is little relief to his symptoms ...
I thank you for your kind and generous thoughts for him -- the search for answers will continue ....
This weekend is another busy one - it's time to do a bit of work in the garden. Our vegetables that have really produced well this summer, are about spent, and like the gardens at the Arboretum, it's time to do a bit of freshening up on my own plants. Once we get some of that done, we'll be framing paintings for the exhibition in a couple of weeks.
The figs are still producing well and we'll be using those for some recipes my husband wants to try, and I need to see the grands before they start school next week ....
I hope to get to the art table for a bit of time each day -- I'm missing those relaxing days with Lorraine ... responsibility free -- and painting, painting, painting! LOL
Have a great day!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Beaches and Getting Away from it All
Daily Practice
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I got home late last night and my practice paintings weren't going well after such a long day. I painted this several weeks ago, but the sentiment remains ...! LOL
Had to run errands after unpacking the car, laundry, and getting our ripened figs into the dehydrator, and today is busy as well. I will be with my son as he has a few more tests at the local hospital -- fingers crossed that all goes well. The procedures tend to take a bit of time, so I won't be on line until some time this evening, and I hope to catch up with everyone then.
We've had more rain - but not significant amounts. Still, it was wonderful to collect another bowl of figs while they were plumped from needed moisture!
Have a great day ....!
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I got home late last night and my practice paintings weren't going well after such a long day. I painted this several weeks ago, but the sentiment remains ...! LOL
Had to run errands after unpacking the car, laundry, and getting our ripened figs into the dehydrator, and today is busy as well. I will be with my son as he has a few more tests at the local hospital -- fingers crossed that all goes well. The procedures tend to take a bit of time, so I won't be on line until some time this evening, and I hope to catch up with everyone then.
We've had more rain - but not significant amounts. Still, it was wonderful to collect another bowl of figs while they were plumped from needed moisture!
Have a great day ....!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Early Fall Grasses
Daily Practice
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With the sound of croaking frogs serenading me through the dark ...
Early yesterday morning, I took our new VP for a tour around the Arboretum. While we passed the ditchbank, I noticed early fall wild grasses in full bloom and some skeletons of Queen Anne's Lace. Before leaving for my friend's last night, I plucked a bit of plant material so I could put the stems into a vase and use the 'bouquet' to sketch.
I am really crazy about wild grasses as well as the seedpods that are left behind when the beautiful.petals of so many flowers drop off to reveal another 'side' of the plant world. These tawny browns and ochres herald the onset of fall for me, though the 'official' turn of the season won't take place for another 30 days or so. Nonetheless, there are signs all around me that fall is on its way.
We had a bit of rain last night - less than an inch, with more promised today. The Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers arrive this morning to plant the fall garden .... if we can beat the rain, the timing would work out very well to give these new seeds a good drink of water to get established.
Have a great day!
Journal Size
With the sound of croaking frogs serenading me through the dark ...
Early yesterday morning, I took our new VP for a tour around the Arboretum. While we passed the ditchbank, I noticed early fall wild grasses in full bloom and some skeletons of Queen Anne's Lace. Before leaving for my friend's last night, I plucked a bit of plant material so I could put the stems into a vase and use the 'bouquet' to sketch.
I am really crazy about wild grasses as well as the seedpods that are left behind when the beautiful.petals of so many flowers drop off to reveal another 'side' of the plant world. These tawny browns and ochres herald the onset of fall for me, though the 'official' turn of the season won't take place for another 30 days or so. Nonetheless, there are signs all around me that fall is on its way.
We had a bit of rain last night - less than an inch, with more promised today. The Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers arrive this morning to plant the fall garden .... if we can beat the rain, the timing would work out very well to give these new seeds a good drink of water to get established.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Wildflower Landscape on Masa
Daily Practice
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It's early as I write, the dark of night still clinging to the sky, shrouding the woods and the roads here. The promise of rain held in low-hanging clouds darken the outdoors even more. At my desk, the lights blaze warmth, and the coffee begins its work to energize me for another busy day.
The first weeks of school, coupled with heat, weeds, deadlines, unexpected needs, visitors and new-year planning have tired me each night so that painting, my typical relief, has been a bit of a struggle. This painting was finished over the weekend, as the small practice work I did last night will take me longer than it might have if my energy levels were higher. Still, I am always glad to put paint to paper! LOL
My friend has been so very kind this week -- she's been playing comedies each night while I paint and she works on some of her work, and so the house is lifted with our laughter, and the day's fatigue is slowly lifted ..... a gift for sure.
I've an early morning meeting and several others throughout the day ... I'm hoping for that much-needed rain -- our landscapes are so dry ...
Take care today ....!
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It's early as I write, the dark of night still clinging to the sky, shrouding the woods and the roads here. The promise of rain held in low-hanging clouds darken the outdoors even more. At my desk, the lights blaze warmth, and the coffee begins its work to energize me for another busy day.
The first weeks of school, coupled with heat, weeds, deadlines, unexpected needs, visitors and new-year planning have tired me each night so that painting, my typical relief, has been a bit of a struggle. This painting was finished over the weekend, as the small practice work I did last night will take me longer than it might have if my energy levels were higher. Still, I am always glad to put paint to paper! LOL
My friend has been so very kind this week -- she's been playing comedies each night while I paint and she works on some of her work, and so the house is lifted with our laughter, and the day's fatigue is slowly lifted ..... a gift for sure.
I've an early morning meeting and several others throughout the day ... I'm hoping for that much-needed rain -- our landscapes are so dry ...
Take care today ....!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Circles Again with Webbing
Daily Practice
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While visit Lorraine, I was showing her how to create the circles and lines of this type of abstract. I added acrylic webbing for some of the black lines on this.
Busy time at work and the college is hopping with new students - between the cars trying to find a parking spot and the students hunting for classrooms, it's a tad chaotic --- by next week, though, things will become routine and those first nervous days of class will long be forgotten.
Have a great day!
Journal Size
While visit Lorraine, I was showing her how to create the circles and lines of this type of abstract. I added acrylic webbing for some of the black lines on this.
Busy time at work and the college is hopping with new students - between the cars trying to find a parking spot and the students hunting for classrooms, it's a tad chaotic --- by next week, though, things will become routine and those first nervous days of class will long be forgotten.
Have a great day!
Monday, August 16, 2010
Crab Apples
Daily Practice
Journal
I'm still playing with styles and methods -- and attempting a blend of loose and realistic. Though these may look like cherries, they are actually crab apples from one of the trees on our property. I've added a few more leaves than our tree currently has as the lack of rain has created an early leaf drop. But the tree is filled with many, many small apples, and they're almost ready for picking. My husband loves crab apple jelly, and if I can get to these before the birds and wildlife, I'll render them into several jars.
I caught some kind of stomach virus this weekend, so I haven't been as productive as I like to be on weekends. I'm feeling better, but sure wish I could have that 'time' back! LOL
School starts today and the college will be jumping ...
Take care and have a great day!
Journal
I'm still playing with styles and methods -- and attempting a blend of loose and realistic. Though these may look like cherries, they are actually crab apples from one of the trees on our property. I've added a few more leaves than our tree currently has as the lack of rain has created an early leaf drop. But the tree is filled with many, many small apples, and they're almost ready for picking. My husband loves crab apple jelly, and if I can get to these before the birds and wildlife, I'll render them into several jars.
I caught some kind of stomach virus this weekend, so I haven't been as productive as I like to be on weekends. I'm feeling better, but sure wish I could have that 'time' back! LOL
School starts today and the college will be jumping ...
Take care and have a great day!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Another Fall Landscape and Pond - Splash, Karlyn, Haines, Carbonetti
Daily Practice
Journal Size
I'm finding it both challenging and fun to play with different techniques and approaches to watercolors, and this one combines a number of them.
I started with my own 'splash and splatter', added textures from some things I've learned from Karlyn Holman, kept some areas a bit dreamy like Jean Carbonetti and left more of the paint running as Jean Haines does. It's interesting to me to see what aspects of their painting styles I tend to ''adopt' to my own way of working.....
I didn't have much time to sit yesterday. Our chores took us out of the house most of the day, and when at home, I prepared a ton of food for the dehydrator in preparation for a class I'll teach in a few weeks. Today, hopefully, will be less busy!
We've decided on a dozen new paintings to be framed and half a dozen of my already framed paintings to be hung next month. Whew, all those frames and mats get expensive!
Another hot day and still no rain ...I'll be spending a bit of time with the water hose to keep those luscious figs producing!
Have a great day!
Journal Size
I'm finding it both challenging and fun to play with different techniques and approaches to watercolors, and this one combines a number of them.
I started with my own 'splash and splatter', added textures from some things I've learned from Karlyn Holman, kept some areas a bit dreamy like Jean Carbonetti and left more of the paint running as Jean Haines does. It's interesting to me to see what aspects of their painting styles I tend to ''adopt' to my own way of working.....
I didn't have much time to sit yesterday. Our chores took us out of the house most of the day, and when at home, I prepared a ton of food for the dehydrator in preparation for a class I'll teach in a few weeks. Today, hopefully, will be less busy!
We've decided on a dozen new paintings to be framed and half a dozen of my already framed paintings to be hung next month. Whew, all those frames and mats get expensive!
Another hot day and still no rain ...I'll be spending a bit of time with the water hose to keep those luscious figs producing!
Have a great day!
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