A Morning on Campus at Millsaps

Our oil painting class met outside today, so that we could paint something "with distance." I looked everywhere, but did not find any spot that looked more appealing and had a place for me to sit and paint, even though I walked so far that I blew out my sandals. I rigged a temporary portable easel out of my fold-away luggage carrier, which I use to haul my junk to and from class. If you have no idea what these handy-dandy little things are, check out your local Office Depot or click here. I just left the handle up and flipped the locking bar around to hold my canvas while I painted.



I had a little longer than usual to paint, because we were outside. No clock, no formal class, and no rushing off at noon. I got this to a point where I was happy with it and headed to the gym. As usual, I managed to smudge and smear it during transport. At least I did not get oil paint all over my car this time!

Swimming today was not the usual pleasant experience. There were tons of kids all over the pool and the noise was unbelievable inside that dome, even with the doors open. Even with my ear plugs in, I was constantly distracted. There were only two other adults there, one of whom I bumped into in the locker room. She was a very nice lady. She told me I was "lovely swimmer." I thought that was very sweet. I have trouble taking compliments, I usually demure, but not this time!

When I finally got home, my copy of Danny Gregory's The Creative License, David Rankin's Fast Sketching Techniques, and Keeping a Nature Journal had arrived! I plan to settle in and read tonight. Tomorrow I am going to try drawing lips. Then maybe I will tackle more realistic noses. I am trying to build up my courage to try an actual portrait. I am growing more comfortable with shading and I think I am ready.

I also got an email from a long lost friend and former high school boyfriend. He is living in Berlin, which was not quite as surprising as you might think, because his folks were from Germany. It was nice to hear that he is alive and well.