Some technique and and learning  to
appreciate a moment.

At this stage of the painting I like to sometimes just ponder

what is there and see which direction I'd like to take next.

I see a figure emerging over her shoulder next to the tree. 

Do you see this?

The crayons give an effect similar to pastels.

The water soluble crayons lay on top of the painting like pastels would, 

can be blended with water, and can also be lifted off/removed with

a brush and water.

I will continue the painting tomorrow. Today the sun is shining

and the air is warm.

We sit outside, I in my chair,

Misha and Mimi near by,

I see this tree from where I sit and can notice how

 quickly it has filled up with leaves. Soon it will be dense, providing 
shelter for birds and squirrels. Later in the season cicadas will take 
their places high in the canopy looking for mates. 
I hear a bumble bee's buzz turn to  a lazy drone as he flies by and 
searches for nourishment after a long winter in hibernation.
I'm aware of the sound of dog tags as Misha settles down for a nap,
 happy to be near me.

I close my eyes and feel the warmth of the sun
 and appreciate that at this moment

there is no where that I would rather be than right here.

As May once again unfolds her arms and  generously

gives us her gifts of beauty and wonder, and as we celebrate and receive her,

other events are making their mark during this time of the budding of the trees

 and I am moved to ponder something else..

Bloodshed is never a time for celebration but is a time of self examination

 and reflection.

I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. [unknown]. 

"Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that" -- MLK, Jr.

re blogged from Jade Page Press