Morning Practice

I have been trying to get a little painting in when I first get up in the morning. I enjoy painting florals and later adding some ink.

The painting, above right, I almost abandoned. It took me a few days to get it finished, and I am still not happy with it. I decided I should keep it and learn from my mistakes. Perhaps I can cut it up and incorporate it into a collage.

This angled brush came in a set that I purchased last month. It's called a shading brush, but I had fun creating flowers with it.
While the painting continues, making pots is still happening. Last week we glazed, loaded, and fired the kiln. We were moving slowly due to the heat. We fell behind schedule, but we got it done and didn't suffer heat stroke! Jeff and I took a break on Independence Day. It felt good to hang with friends, grill some burgers, and generally eat too much. Now it's back to the making cycle.

A little time for me

 I took a much needed break from the rehab center this afternoon. Not only did I need a break, but my Dad was looking like he could use a nap. The good weather and the tourists have descended upon Wolfeboro for the 4th of July weekend. The only route between my sister's home and the rehab center is directly through Main Street. Traffic is bumper to bumper due to the multiple stops for pedestrians on the many crosswalks. I am sure the restaurants, shops, and galleries are very happy to see the multitudes.
                      
 My sister's home is like an oasis. She lives in what once was a vacation lodge that has been turned into four apartments. Right now all the residents are women, each with a variety of cats and dogs. Both the humans and the pets are very friendly.

The end of the driveway faces the big lake, Winnipesaukee. The side yard abuts Mirror Lake which is much smaller. Mitt Romney has a summer home on Winnipesaukee, my niece takes care of their horses during the summer. Jimmy Fallon and other celebrities are frequent visitors as well. Most of the small traditional cabins have been replaced with mansions that dot the shore line. 

Mirror Lake is nice and quiet, no big motor boats or jet skis stirring up a wake. Just a relaxing dock where you can dip your feet into the water, which was surprisingly warm considering it was 52 degrees when I arrived on Sunday.

I will head back the rehab center around 6pm. Hopefully the traffic will have eased, and five minute drive won't take twenty-five minutes. I can tuck Dad into bed and come back to this oasis and enjoy a glass of wine on the deck.