Extremely hot weather and nature.

95-100 degree temperatures have been in 

our area for much of the week. Some days there is no breeze.

Only stillness and intense heat.

 One can only go outside for short intervals.

The Cup Plant demonstrates how perfectly

 nature is designed to sustain living things.

Its leaves are unique in that they encircle the stem like
 a cup to hold water. Some of the water it absorbs for itself,

but most of the water is held for pollinators to pollinate its flowers

Here, insects and small birds can drink.

Its flowers are only on the ends

of the stem.
Like a beacon showing the way for food and drink.

Here is the start of a new monochrome painting
 showing human, plant and animal together.

That we remember that we are part of each other is what I want to

say in this painting.

An offering of a small dish of water to help
during this very hot and dry time.

When a gift is left mindfully,

we all benefit.