Another galaxy~ far away

I am still feeling like I'm in a another dimension here. It really is different, with all the sights , sounds, and smells hitting you from all sides at once. Riding is an experience, but let me tell about the restaurant we went to for lunch today.  It is called Juggernaut and is located in the Kalish Colony Market in New Delhi.

I cannot begin to tell you the names of things, but oh the tastes were amazing. This is by the way a vegetarian restaurant, all served with an unbelievable flair. We started with a drink that had crispy wafers served with it. I'm assuming it was to start your meal off right, because this is served to everyone that comes to eat there. Small glass with a kick, I am sure I tasted tumeric, and several other spices within all in a hot, spicy, drink that was delicious. I think Bappa and his family were surprised to see me drink it with no problems. The wafers were light and crispy, and just enough to temper the spices. We then went on to another course with a soup in a light broth, served with several different curries. I liked the red curry most of all. We then went on to our vegetable stew, several vegetables cooked with a creamy coconut based thick broth. The stew was served with a bread that closely resembles a crepe, lightly browned on one side only. I also tried and enjoyed a vegetable cake that tasted like it has sweet potato in it that you dipped into a yogurt type dressing. Too many things to eat, and several hours later, I am still satisfied. We finished off the meal with steaming hot cups of coffee, that when poured into a bowl and swirled around becomes cool enough to drink. All reasonably priced and served with lots of flair and a beautiful setting.

Speaking of setting, I wanted to photograph the entire space we were in. (I didn't though, because I didn't want to be that tourist!) Incredibly beautiful murals painted on the walls, with gorgeous medallions depicting people at work in the fields. The furniture was painted as well, with lots  of incredible flowers. there were also baskets of flowers at every corner.
I would love it if we went back!

Today's painting seems like kind of a ho hum creation after seeing Juggernaut. Another galaxy of starfish ~ far away in India!

Another galaxy~far away, Acrylic on canvas, 12x24
day 55 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Sea Turtle's looking at you!

Today's post is the last of the three turtle series.

I am also nearing the end of my trip here. While I have another week, each day brings me closer to home, taxes, painting the new bed, and getting ready for shows.

I am so grateful I have a husband that says yes when I want to go. We do have to budget in order for me to come here as it is expensive. I will take away many happy memories from this trip, and sad I can't spend more time here. Our daughter is a bit melancholy too, knowing Neel won't have the extensive Ya ya and Yoyo time that Archer had when he was a baby.

What's so calls will be frequent I hope!

Home , husband and hounds are calling and I will go.

What a day it has been discovering the delights and demands of a 4 month old. He is not sleeping well and consequently neither is Christina. I have asked her to bring him to me at night, but alas I cannot feed him. Once fed, he goes to sleep, but the moment he is out into the crib becomes wide awake. He also gets uncomfortable with gas and has a bit of colic at times.

The joys of parenthood, best survived in your much younger years.

Sea Turkey's looking at you!, Acrylic on canvas, 12x24

Day 54 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Sea Turtle see me

Today's posted painting was an adventure to complete. In between baby duty, Christina and I both completed pieces today. I really appreciate my son in law allowing me to basically take over his childhood desk, allowing me to paint. Another day, another painting, not enough sleep. My bed will feel wonderful when I get home, but most of all I will enjoy the quiet. indi a is a noisy place.
I awakened early this morning about 530. I was trying to go back to sleep as it was still dark. As I snuggled down, expecting to sleep, doors in the kitchen, people talking and water running all disturbed my reverie. I listened and heard distant singing, the mosque calling worshippers to prayer. Not a bad idea, I thought. I got up, read my bible and chatted with Chris this morning.
A good day indeed!

Sea Turtle see me, Acrylic on canvas, 12 x24 inches
Day 54   of the 100 days~100 paintings, Spring 2019

Sea turtles are beautiful

My post comes this evening as the day for me comes to a close. I painted this guy in between meals, discussions, and a little afternoon trip to drop off an entry for Christina at one of the state owned museum galleries here. I took the baby carrier along with Neel and wandered two of the galleries featuring a national watercolor show. Several of the pieces were so so and some were quite nicely done. One piece in particular spoke to me with an older bearded man pushing his bicycle in a crowded market. The main colors were red orange and turquoise and it was lovely. Unfortunately, they had a guest book, but no price list anywhere to be seen. I walked away, wondering if I could've afforded it for our home.  Neel was getting restless so I wandered outside to the sculpture garden. There were artisans working on pieces in the side yard, but we did not disturb them. It was then time for lunch at the Imperial. The Imperial is a beautiful hotel with excellent things in their menu at the restaurant. Chicken panini with fresh mozzarella, small salad and fries. The sandwich was so large I only ate half.

I have very intention of finishing it for lunch tomorrow. We then headed back using a roundabout that had absolutely no rhyme or reason. I really hope my words convey the visual of the traffic here, our driver is a master of his craft!

Sea Turtles are beautiful, Acrylic on canvas, 12x24

Day 53 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Pick a shell, any shell

This one completed in one day was very tough!

 By the time I was finished, my back hurt, my eyes were kinda crossed and I still had to post and blog. On top of that, I was also trying to listen to our church service online. Neither the blog, nor church happened. I did manage to hear a good bit of the worship portion of our church service though. Blogging however did not occur because the fire would not cooperate. It did not have enough charge to photograph, and I didn't have the energy to wait! So here I sit, blogging on my Monday, but your Sunday in the USA. Don't know what date will show up!

We spent the majority of the day inside the house here in New Delhi. The air quality is poor and the temperature colder than normal for this time of year. We set up breakfast for the morning, and our it into the refrigerator till cooking time. 

After Neel's nap, we ventured out to get a pair of glasses reworked for Christina's Father in law from the mall. We also picked up a good bit of groceries from a market in the mall. This concept is kinda new to me, groceries alongside Forever 21 , H&M, Cinnabon, and many other large retailers familiar to us as Americans.

 One thing not familiar is the security outside the mall. When you arrive, your car is checked inside and out, hood, and trunk. You then go through another security point at the entrance. Bags are scanned, you walk through a detector, bodies are wanded in a curtained off area for women. With a nod of her head, the guard waves you into the mall. 

I am sure something like this may eventually come to the USA, in an effort to stop mass shootings and possible bombs.

We rushed to do our errands and got back to the car. 

Loading up, we headed into Sunday afternoon traffic. 

Dusk was falling, and this adds a while new element to riding in India. I have to ride in the front seat, because there is not enough room in the back for carseat and two people. I have become somewhat used to the melee, not slamming my foot to the floor in an effort to brake. I have also become more silent as to not distract the driver. You also ride as a passenger in the opposite side here , adding to your level of anxiety. 

Now it is dark, and our ride continued into the night. 

The bicycles with no lights take on new hazards as they ride.

Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets, but instead carry them on their arm, hand hooked through the chin guard.

People step off the curb, dressed in dark clothing and from between parked cars, taking their life in their hands with every step they take.

The auto rickshaws are everywhere, beeping and whipping in and front of cars and buses. Some of the autos don't have headlights, making them difficult to see. The motorcycles weave in and out of traffic taking every imaginable tiny space they can occupy. Street wise dogs, patiently wait for traffic to slow for just a brief second so they can cross somewhat safely. Buses lumber along their way, traffic flowing around them much like water around a rock in a river. Then there are the cars, most of them bearing scars of battles lost in the fight for space in the road.

in the midst of this, someone stops looking for directions on their phone. Horns honking, headlights coming head on to our car in somewhat of a game of chicken, suddenly whipping to the side avoiding collisions.

All this with a somewhat cranky baby in the backseat.

Even been in Mr. Toads wild ride in Disneyland?

This is traveling in India!

Pick a shell, any shell , Acrylic on canvas, 8 x 24 inches

Day 52 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Just Clowning Around

Swim Free

Today's post is one of my favorites so far. I enjoy painting in color and this springs shows will have some for sure. There is more to come in this series. detail

As an artist, you are constantly contemplating your next move. Layering, glazing, scrumbling, color upon color to add depth and detail.
 Me personally, I pray while I paint. I pray for the lost, for those who are hurting, for those with illness, for those in office, friends, family, and strangers alike. I talk with God a lot, even though it is a private conversation most of the time.
Sometimes it is a small thought of a prayer, for the woman I saw wiping tears from her eyes on the street as we drove past.
Sometimes it is a prayer for our first responders, not knowing if they will come home.
Sometimes it's a prayer for people I am grateful to have in my life, especially my husband, children, grandchildren,  and our marriage.
Sometimes it's a prayer for our church, pastors, and our "church" family.
Sometimes it's a prayer for whomever is in the ambulance as it drives by the house, sirens making noise.
Sometimes it's a prayer for people who've had a pet and companion leave their space in this life.
Sometimes a prayer for politicians that need to wake up and realize that they were elected to do a job.
Sometimes it's a prayer for people to have it get a job.
Sometimes it's a prayer for those who are addicted, no matter if it is drugs, alcohol, or impulses that cause regrets.
Sometimes it is an all night cry out to the Lord, praying for understanding in the sudden death of a friend's husband in an accident. Prayers for their family, prayers for their children who now must live without a dad.

 I pray or at the very least think about others constantly as I paint each brushstroke , each brushstroke becoming a part of a permanent painting.

Have you prayed today?
It doesn't have to be fancy, perfect, or scripted.
just talk with your father, he's waiting.

Swim free, Acrylic in canvas, 4x24
Day 50 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Swimmin ' with da fishes

Today has been long, but fruitful. We are settling into a routine now,  with a schedule being adhered to as much as possible. Problem is there are some generational and cultural differences that all need to get sorted out without hurt feelings getting in the way. Historically Parenting has always been interesting to say the least , with every one having an opinion about how things should get done. The parents here are doing a great job, gently bringing their family into the 21st century. It is a delight seeing Christina step into her parental shoes and run with them!

Me?

I'm painting and going out for lunch with my youngest while watching her become a very good parent. I am also seriously contemplating bedtime as it is 10:30 here.

Swimmin' with da fishes, Acrylic on canvas, 4x24 detail

Day 49 of the 100 dats~100 paintings Spring 2019

Great Blue Heron pair

I know I've said it before, but this was a fun little painting to create!

I am hoping this series is as enjoyable to look at. I just can't seem to find a flash on the fire. I will have to have brighter lighting or daylight perhaps. I started this early this morning about 9, quickly scrumbling the background. My intention was to just block in colors, then add details later in the day. I was working hard with the helpers watching me lay colors down in  rapid succession. Not long after, Christina joined me in the studio as she had gotten Neel off to the land of his for his morning nap. We both worked hard and the next thing I knew, this little painting was finished in a little more than a few hours. I tweaked it just a bit more to finish laying in highlights and signed it. I am really looking forward to seeing the series stretched and varnished!

Here is a detail shot of the birds.

Today was quiet enough to be a relaxing day. We were going to try and get to the fabric store, but the lack of one driver 

put a small hitch in our plans. Even though Christina has her license to drive, and now speaks some Hindi we were both hesitant to get in the car by ourselves with a possible screaming baby.

 Whew!

We did go out for a short coffee break instead of afternoon tea at Starbucks in one of the markets. Two tall drinks, and a large cookie were about $10. (775 rupies)

We came back and visited a while before Christina took the baby upstairs for a short nap.

 Here I sit, blogging away listening to the cacophony of street noises coming through the windows of the house. 

Motorcycles and cars beeping their horns before turning a corner. (The parking in their block is very tight, and when you consider 4 families living in one building with up to two cars per family. Parking is at a premium!)

Neighborhood dogs barking, distant horns blowing, people talking and just general street noise. The noise is so thick you can almost taste it!I

Great Blue Heron pair, Acrylic on canvas, 4x24inches

Day 48 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

All caught up!

Have you ever heard the expression, there's more than one way to........ While I don't want to do that here, I am having to find new ways to work this blog. That is why all of the pieces are on the left side of the page. Tomorrow is another day and perhaps I will find my way to the regular computer in the office, instead of struggling with my fire. Actually figuring out the photos and posting from the fire is an accomplishment for me. Those of you that have read the blog before know that I am much better with a brush than a computer!

Apparently also better with a computer than the fire too!
As you can see, the photo for the two other paintings are below instead of the side. I am annoyed and it has been a long day so I will not fight it, but roll with the punches.

Christina and I were both in the studio today. She is working on a couple of pieces for me to take back for a show she has in April. While she cannot come to the opening, I will be representing her. Actually I am framing ,matting, carrying, curating, and representing her. Hopefully it will be a success! I do know it will be lovely !

This morning started for me about 1 am. As per my usual l awakened with a nature call. Unfortunately that was also the time that the thunderstorms moved in with high winds, thunder, and lightning. No sleep for me again until 4am. I set my alarm for 7 and hoped for the best. After a few fitful minutes I managed to fall asleep only to have strange dreams. When awake for a few minutes, Tina came in and handed me the baby for her to catch some z's for 30 minutes. We went downstairs for breakfast and the sky turned dark as night! The next set of rain came in and drenched the area, but moved out quickly. We also had lunch at The Big Chill restaurant. There are several of them here in Delhi, with all of them having very tasty cuisine! Mine was amazing, Tuscan chicken with spinach and Sun dried tomatos in a sauce you could taste the heavy cream in! Yum!. Served with just right green beans and bell pepper strips.

That's all for today, I am tired and ready for the bed that calls my name. Have a wonderful day!

Cast net, Sand Island Light, Catch of the day, Middle bay light
Acrylic in canvas all 4 x 12
Days 44, 45, 46, &47 of the 100 days~100 Paintings Spring 2918

Sea Turtle Mania

I am praying I have figured out the problems here in India.

I have been here for several days, but unable to post because of issues with my phone and internet access.  Having arrived here in the wee hours Friday morning, I have had issues with my phone ever since. I have been painting, but frustrated with loading up from my phone. There is a strong Wi-Fi here and access to phone coverage, but nothing will load from the phone now. What's weird is I am able to What's ap,surf the net, and facebook, but the blog downloads are simply not functioning properly. Frustrated, I have turned in desperation to my fire that I brought with me. I am unfamiliar with this device, so now I must learn a new way of shooting and editing my photos. It's all giving me a headache from the tension and stress.

Figured out for now, I am just praying this post does not simply disappear!  Fumble fingers aside, here is the first 4 of seven photos needed to catch up on the blog. 

Sea Turtle Mania I,II, III, and IV, Acrylic on canvas, 12 x  12h

Days 40, 41, 42, &43 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Leatherback babies

These little guys were just fun to paint!

They are both from the book that Chris bought me about Sea Turtles from the library sale.

I could not be happier with how they turned out.

While mentioning turning out, I must say as parents we have given our all these past few days. We have both put forward our best help possible. Helping with moving and watching the grand while they were between homes. We are all tired. Some of us are injured too!

Our son in law bruised a tendon when a barbell landed on his arm. He had an x ray and nothing is broken. I managed to put a bruise on my back, coming up under the table saw while working in the shop on the grands furniture. Several fingernails lost in the midst of the melee as well, some false, some real. I think they are out of the apartment now,and starting the process of long days of straightening , unpacking, putting away, and wondering why did I pack that. I spent the day at the new house, scrubbing overspray off the new cabinets and lining the back with contact paper in a lovely marble pattern. I must say, the cabinets now are looking rather elegant!

The two baby leatherback turtles are for yesterday and today of course.

I was worn out from too much activity and forgot to post after painting.

I guess my age is catching up with me, The mind is willing but the body is weak!

They are in their tuxedo pattern, which helps to protect them from some of their predators. 

The leatherbacks are much more textured when they are babies, as opposed to when they are adults and have their much smoother skin and shell.

 Good luck little guys!

Leatherback babies I & II, Acrylic on canvas, 8x8 inches

Days 38 & 39 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Octopodes are friendly

The plural of Octopus is Octopodes. 

Who knew? I didn't!

The word Octopus comes from the Greek, and the Greek plural form is octopodes.

You can send a percentage of any money you win by betting on this to me!

Just kidding!

Today found us chasing around an active 5 year old while trying to accomplish something here at the house and in the studio. It is almost impossible to get anything done, by the way! I know our adult children are grateful to not have his delightful self underfoot while they are trying to move into their new house. They are traveling from the apartment to the new house and it would be a challenge to keep an eye on him as well as move furniture while not crushing him because he is trying to help. 

He helped us begin painting his furniture for his new room. I say helped, he played outside, dug in the dirt, and "built" things while we were painting the furniture. He did finally get to help handle a roller and was very careful with the red paint he picked out for the furniture. I am painting the handles black, the base cabinet red and the drawer fronts will be covered with contact paper dad bought with star wars blueprints on it. It should be really cool. We are also doing a raised bed with a dresser underneath and a desk on the end. The plan is to also use the headboard as a backboard for the desk, adding a magnetic chalkboard to the two panels. I am picking up the contact paper tomorrow to cover the drawer fronts. I may also try to cover the bed frame as well. 

At least that's the plan!

Speaking of plans, I have been accepted into the 

Gulf Breeze Celebrates the arts show March 23rd and 24th.

If I get into the Art in the Pass show, we will be going to shows 4 weekends in a row!

Both of us and the tents will be getting a workout!

I have also been invited to do a One Woman Show at the Audubon Center in Moss Point, MS Opening late May into the entire month of June and July 2020.

We JUST started 2019!

God's plan is perfect! 

I am also feeling the pressure of the trip to India next week.

 I am trying to get the items wanted and needed from the USA. 

I only hope I have room for some clothing!

 I am bringing two large suitcases and will begin the process of actually packing them on Monday. 

Baby clothes, a new exerciser for the baby, Christmas gifts for all!

Keep in mind I will be working while there, painting a piece a day and blogging as usual.

Paints, brushes, a palette, canvas and references!  

So I guess that means you dear reader, will be traveling too with me to India!

Pack your bags!

Hope you come along for the ride!

Octopodes are friendly, Acrylic on canvas, 16x16

Day 37 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Morning is his time

This series is a bit of an experiment on my part. 

I have several ideas bouncing around my studio, but I don't always act upon them.

I cannot become bored with my Artist life, there are too many things to paint!

I have a swipe file that is thick with things I want to paint. I add and subtract from it as the years go by, changing the tape on the front to reflect the current year.

This series is inspired by something I saw at the Naples show.

People have always been in love with the long skinny canvases, 

but I've only done them in a 4 x 12 size. They invariably get snapped up quickly. 

These guys are on custom canvases 4 x 24!

I will be finishing the series while in India. 

Meanwhile, a sneak peek ! 

Tell me what you think!

This weekend finds us helping our daughter, Jessica and her family move into their new home. We also delivered a massive entertainment center that is gorgeous in Sean's office. (And was a absolute steal at $60.00! I am going to be doing a lot of painting in the next few weeks over there, getting everything just so! We also have a set of furniture here to paint as well before delivering it to their new home. We are also building a loft bed frame for our grand to put in his room. 

Tomorrow we'll all be wearing messy clothes and wielding brushes and rollers in attempt to paint the bedroom set I purchased as well for another $50.00. Old 80's furniture, should be interesting to see how that project works out! I just pray the rain holds off so we can get some work done.

Things are hopping here at the Raccoon retreat studio.

I have a pile of items to take to India, but I have not even begun to pack!

Long days and nights ahead.....

Morning is his time, Acrylic on canvas, 4 x 24 inches

Day 36 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Octopus squared

My technical non-savvy continues.......

I cannot control my angst when I am having technical difficulties. I want to throw things, 

say bad things, and generally become mad at the world. When I turn on the computer, I simply want it to work.  I don't want to have to troubleshoot, unplug, count to ten, etc. etc. etc..... I am the same way about the internet and don't get me started about my phone! My phone reception is dicey at best as of late. The Water tower to the South of us was worked on a couple of years ago, and now, they are working on the one in the North. The cell phone towers have been removed to ground level and are now a nightmare as far as my reception is concerned. I used to be able to carry on conversations, text, and What's Ap all in my studio. My phone call got dropped so much the other night, I had to go outside and sit in my car to get a signal. Maybe I put off too much electricity for the devices around me. I miss the times when I would pick up a device, and it would work.

Rant over, I promise!

I helped our oldest begin moving into their new home today. I am looking forward to being able to take all the stuff from her studio that is in mine, over to hers. I know she will enjoy not having to live a disjointed life as well. Not knowing where they will live next, or how long. Hopefully this will be the last move for a long time, They have moved overseas, to home, to Birmingham, to Saraland in an apartment and now to a brand new home in Saraland. All in the past 4 years! 

It has been a walk down memory lane, going to her new home as it is just off Celeste Road. 

We have traveled Celeste many times, headed for Girl Scout Camp and many adventures.

I hope all had a great day, and a better night.

Until tomorrow I bid you Adieu!

Octopus squared, Acrylic on canvas, 24x24

Day 35 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019

Lionfish on the attack II

Another day of projects and more projects.

Chris and I went to the bank today, me to get cash for a bill and him to deposit a check. Our lives are pretty mundane the majority of the time with the usual every day things to do. We went to The Artists Gallery in Fairhope to change out artworks in my space that I share with Chris. We added several new pieces and the space looks fresh for the next month. I've also been lining up the canvases for the India trip, finding references and making copies for a new series inspired by the 

show in Naples, Florida. ( I have to take canvases, paints, and references for 25 paintings!)

The show in Naples made me feel like I had finally 'made it' as an artist. The show was gorgeous, and while there was some 'weird art', it was all very high quality art. I felt honored to be a part of this wonderful show. Hopefully, I will get juried in again next year, as we are keen to go back. 

Meanwhile I wait for the acceptance or rejection from several shows I have applied to for the spring season. One show I usually try to do is the St Francis show on Dauphin Island. Unfortunately, they have moved the date to the weekend I hope to be in Melbourne, Florida for the Festival there at Wickham Park. So, Scratch one off the list. Actually two, there is another one I will not be participating in because it has not been a break even show for me the past couple of years. The kids will be delighted I hope. Their mother being free for mother's day this year for a change will make them happy, I know I will be!

I have no less than 4 shows awaiting acceptance or rejection still on the table. 

Some are easy to get into, others not so much!

So many of my friends telling me they have been rejected from shows they've done for years. 

I feel fortunate to have been accepted into several shows that others find hard to get in.

Proverbs 16:33 says, We throw the dice, but God determines where they land. 

So I wait for the path God sets for me.

Although, I don't take chances about camping because of  reservations being at a premium. I already have reservations for both shows in Florida during late April and early May. One we made as we were leaving the park, the other made on the first day of availability at Fort Clinch on Amelia Island. 

I got one of the last two spots. 

I put in for that all the way back in June of last year!

I was super happy about that one.

 It means we will be within a bike ride to the show!

Now to just get into the show!

Still looking for Lionfish to eat locally!

I hope your New Year is going very well, and I wish you much joy , peace, and prosperity for the coming year!

Lionfish on the Attack II, Acrylic on Canvas, 12x12

Day 33 of the 100 days~100 paintings Spring 2019 

Lionfish on the attack

We got home last night, about 7 in the evening. The moment we stepped out of our car, we heard the cacophony of doggie voices from inside the house. Lots of sweet kisses, whimpering,  and yodeling greeted us when we came in the doorway. We greeted them all, me sitting on the floor letting them jump all over me in their joy. After a few minutes it was, oh you're home. Pet me, love me, sit by me and I did after a long hot shower. We both were able to stay up until a normal bedtime and slept hard all night.

Today was a loooong day.....
It began with me reading my bible and trying to concentrate on what the words were trying to convey to me today. Chris was back and forth, pacing because he was ready to start the day. We took the dogs for a walk, got a good breakfast and we started our day in earnest. First up, emptying the wagon of all our personal items, clothes and extra foodstuffs. Then we put back all the pots, pans, and stove into their proper places. I sorted laundry while Chris took the artwork upstairs to the studio. Laundry started, I went outside and helped unload the show equipment onto the shelving in the "barn". Started another load of laundry.
That accomplished, we took down Christmas decorations and put them away. Folded laundry. We then went to Habitat for humanity restore looking for cabinetry for our daughters craft room in the new house. Not satisfied with what we found, we went to lunch and then Home depot and Lowes. We bought lumber and staples for upcoming projects. While Chris ripped lumber,  I did more laundry and slogged through my 500+ emails. I also paid a booth fee for an upcoming show at Orange Beach in March. It was then time for our rottens to get their ride for the day.

Pizza for dinner?
Sure !

I then folded laundry and put last load on to dry. We then went upstairs and stretched two large canvases from India for the Gallery.

And here I  am blogging from my phone while Chris is on the computer.
I think I hear a buzzer.....
Last load of laundry done!

Lionfish , acrylic on canvas, 12x12
Day 32 if the 100 days 100 paintings Spring 2019

Manatee formal portrait

It really is beautiful here in Florida.  The temperature difference between Naples and Fairhope this morning was about 20 degrees. We will be colder when we get home for sure! This state is named correctly as well, they don't call it the sunshine state for nothing! I am coming home a little more tanned and I didn't even go to the beach. We are also making plans to go back!

This morning found us up early, putting away,  stowing, and packing for the trip home. Unfortunately we were the only blood available for the swarms of mosquitoes that invaded the camper. I'm sure some are still in there for the trip! We also had a rather large moth that found it's way in, buzzing the two of us like an angry hornet. Two adults, an 8 square foot space, and a scared moth are not a great combination. I'm sure it was comical to watch, although no one else was awake at that hour. Don't worry the moth was caught,and put outside . The mosquitos followed us outside to hitch up the wagon. Collier Seminole is probably not on our list of places to camp in Florida next year!

This is not the end of the manatees, as someone bought all 4 small ones for her home in Boston.

Manatee formal portrait,  acrylic on canvas, 12 x12
Day 32 of the 100 days 100 paintings Spring 2019

Manatee country III & IV

Our lives have been crazy fun the past couple of days. We have thoroughly enjoyed Naples Florida and are hoping to come back again. The show was a great success and I hope I can get in again next year. Lots of people building houses again after the hurricane struck this area. Lots of wonderful comments, lots of people asking for cards, lots of people saying will we see you again. We also met a lovely couple that have just moved here and admired a painting. Because of moving expenses,  she said they really could not afford it at this time. I made her cry when I handed her a card, and told her,  pay it when you can.

We ate dinner at Pinchers tonight located in Tin City. Thinking of my mother as I dug into Alaskan King Crab. Her fondness for the program Deadliest Catch was epic! She could also put down some crab, although they were snow crab most of the time. Fond memories of her using her fingernails to dig out every morsel.

We have enjoyed the trip and are looking forward to the end with a kind of bittersweet goodbye. Going home and trying to make it tomorrow night to our bed, shower, and dachshunds! Laundry, shopping , and then I can then pack for India! It will be a quick turn around for me for  sure as I leave on the 16th!

Manatees III& IV, days 30 & 31 of the 100 days 100 paintings Spring 2019

Manatee country

Needless to say we're having internet issues again! While Chris can sometimes get on the internet on his phone mine is not cooperating in the least. We are settling into a routine finally, shopping every day in order to have fresh meat and vegetables to make our meals. This means a trip every day towards the larger Walmart that we finally found off of Highway 41. Oddly enough, the Michaels is closer than the Wal mart!

Yesterday found us in Naples, scouting out parking for the show. We left a note for an individual offering to pay for parking at his house, but no answer as of yet. It looks like we will have to park at the government complex 2 miles away. Fortunately we have reconfigured the booth to add a storage area. Once we unload Saturday morning,  Chris will park the truck while I start set up. Speaking of set up, we think it starts at 4 am! This puts us getting up at 3am to wake up, make the drive, and wait until the streets are cleared before beginning the task at hand. We also had a lovely lunch at a cafe that will be next to our booth. Our booth faces South so sun shouldn't be a huge problem during the day. We also toured the Naples Art center. What a beautiful facility!

We also gave multiple tours of the wagon in the afternoon.  One of the tours turned into a you tube video coming soon!

Two of the local schools have manatees for a mascot, so I decided to paint some for the show.  We are giggling about their saying though, we are manatees hear us roar.

Camping, artist life in sunny Florida!

Manatees  I & II , acrylic on canvas,6x6
Days 28 &29 of the 100 days 100 paintings Spring 2019

The posts that almost didn't happen!

Today I am blogging from a magical place. Matthew's house has taken over an old car dealership and has turned it into a fundraising phenomenon . They have a cafe with Starbucks coffee, High end furniture, clothing set up in little boutique shops in the old offices, and so many other things! The little boutiques have racks that are labeled so you can find specific designers!

Ralph Lauren, Lily, Looloo, and too much to list. There are volunteers everywhere, hustling around putting out new items for purchase. Everything is donated for sale. Their mission is to help the homeless and they seem to be doing a great job. They also help with job training to help them find a skill. The back of the dealership looks like it might be used to repair items if needed.

A wonderful place indeed!

Our campsite is several miles from the show site and there is a lot of water around it. Unfortunately, there is no wifi, no cell phone signal, and no television reception either! The other odd thing about this campground is there is no sewer hook up. There are lovely bathrooms to use, albeit scarce in their number of stalls. Cooking outside is an adventure too, as there are lots of mosquitos, and 

no see ums and they all seem to be starving to death. Chris also managed to stand in an ant bed while helping someone park their camper. Lots of bug spray and sun tan lotion for us here in the lower portion of Florida.

We also took a spin to the show site the other day. Naples is a gorgeous city and there seems to be a lot of  expensive construction going on. The show is in the heart of the downtown shopping district on 5th avenue. I am looking forward to the show this weekend with great anticipation. 

Painting, finding our way around, reading, and some light shopping have all managed to fill our day.

The posts's that almost didn't happen! Octopus, acrylic on 12 x 24 shadowbox, 

Lionfish acrylic on 12x12 canvas

Days 26 & 27 of the 100 days~ 100 paintings Spring 2019