Tuesday, 31st July 2012 - Unwanted Vegetable

Great, I have a night off tonight

While doing a changeover this morning I had the television on to keep me company. The show jumping was on. Is it the only sport with men and women competing together? And the oldest? Not quite as many medals for Team GB as expected. I think I heard this yesterday. Possibly tomorrow too.

I took Mum into see Dad. I could tell some tales of Dad's time in hospital but think they are best kept for close family and friends. He is doing well which is quite enough information for anybody.

On the way home I visited the wind turbines with my paints. I was interrupted by a Dutch family who I think wanted me to continue painting while they watched. I don't think so. They politely admired my sky but during the pause caused my paint to cauliflower.

Very pleasing end to the evening as I managed to do an online food shop with Tesco for tomorrow at gone 10pm while drinking a hot chocolate with coconut.

Unwanted Vegetable
Watercolour
Saunders Waterford 140lb not

Monday, 30th July 2012 - Hetty's Choice

My plans did not go as anticipated for the day.

I planned to see Dad but Mum had arranged a lift with Rose.

I planned to do some gardening.

Harriet was beseeched with tiredness. After going to the butchers and asking them to put something in Julie's sausages to prevent her continuing with bed and breakfast and taking all my guests (maybe I should not admit to this publicly). Followed by cooking a chicken encrusted in smokey back bacon for The Evans family accompanied by demi chipolatas, hot spanish and chilli sausages. I nipped over to Canterbury to help out at Riverbend Cottages. I had a splendid afternoon playing very silly games with my gorgeous grandaughter. Hetty chose some flowers for her pale faced Mummy. I cooked them dinner. Then came home to cook our dinner. But no need to. Tim had already rustled me up something by Patrick and very yummy it was too.

Hetty's Choice
Watercolour
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Sunday, 29th July 2012 - En Plein Air

Hello

A charming day we have had.

A little bit of a grump this morning. Just so Tim does not think I had been body snatched. He had arranged for us to go to lunch with his Mum. Mr Holford would not approve of sandwiches. Grump over as I found a feta and bean recipe in my Bible. We had a lovely lunch and I came home with a TV guide to the Olympics so I can now plan my ironing.

We went to Rye Harbour (Little London) and after a wander about in the wind and sun looking for a spot to sit and paint. Tim had a newspaper to keep him entertained. Difficult painting outside. I greatly admire anyone who does. The wind turns your page back and forth, shuts your paintbox, rolls your brush down the slope and blows hair in your eyes so you can't see. Then the sun dries the paint before it gets from one side of the page to the other and casts an ever changing shadow across the page, which is still merrily flipping back and forth in the breeze. I got numb body parts from sitting on the ground. I had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to the next time.

Three bags of ironing done while watching the Olympics. Just off the do the other four with a Limited Edition hot chocolate.

En Pein Air
Watercolour
Saunders Waterford 140lb not

Saturday, 28th July 2012 - Three Types of Pole

I was not in a very good mood upon waking this morning. Far too late to bed last night. But many cups of tea later things seem to get better.

Tim and I went for an amazing walk with Tony and Wendy. Through hop fields, vineyards, wheat (or possibly barley) fields and a scattering of sheep along the way. I found a house I would like to buy but it is not quite for sale. Tony is keeping an eye on it for us. We had lunch at The Swan in Sandhurst. It was what you would expect for £6.95. Then walked backed which seemed much more tiring, uphill and made us very thirsty with the sun beating down on our backs through the clouds.

Back home and guests and Tescos arrived.

I cooked another delightful dinner by Mr Holford accompanied by Wendy's courgettes.

Three Types of Pole
Watercolour
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Friday 27th July 2012 - University Certificate for Hetty

Taking coronation chicken for Harriet and tuna sandwiches for Hetty I went to Canterbury.

Hetty was doing a study for a student at Canterbury University. Hetty got a certificate, a bag, a balloon and chose a duck for her time and effort.

We took our picnic and sat by the river. There were a group of possibly Spanish students doing cartwheels. Hetty watched and tried cartwheel arms. They were quite noisy and Hetty did a good interpretation of the noises they were making. I have not laughed so much in ages.

This evening we went to Mike and Pippa's and watched the opening of the Olympic games with Sarah, Nigel and Caroline. Rowan Atkinson as Mr Bean was excellent with his accompaniment to Chariots of Fire. Good thing we had fine food to fill in the rather long parade. None of us one the sweepstake as to who was going to light the cauldron. That was cheating a bit really.

University Certificate for Hetty
Watercolour and Pen
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Thursday, 26th July 2012 - First Attempt

And another day of sun for us in Benenden.

Even better than that is I have a couple of nights off from bnb guests.

Tim and I went to see the nurse where she poked us in each arm to ward away hepatitis A and B and typhoid. She was right when she told us our arms would feel like we had been punched but better than the alternative.

I slipped my tablet into my handbag. While we were waiting I had a go sketching an unsuspecting suspect. This is the result. I am so impressed that I am splashing out and spending £1.27 on the full version.

I have done some work today too.

First Attempt

Cyclone Astro+

Auto Desk Sketchbook Mobile

I wanted to have a go with colour. Needs a bit of getting used to possibly.

This is my present for today.

Pink Rose

Cyclone Astro+

Auto Desk Sketchbook Mobile

Wednesday, 25th July 2012 - Tablet from Tim

I had my eyes tested today. I was sure that I needed new glasses but they have not changed enough so I have to keep my old ones. Damn. I think I will go to Boots and see what they say.

I met Sarah for a coffee at Fabio's. Sarah ate my cake.

Yesterday Tim got me some lovely pink Cloggies so that I have something to slip on my feet when I go in the garden. I love the smell of them. Probably wont after I have worn them for a while.

Today I have a  Cyclone Astro with apps. This I am very very pleased with. Good thing I have a couple of days off from bnb to get used to how it works. How exciting.

I wonder what present I will get tomorrow?

Tablet from Tim

Watercolour

Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Tuesday, 24th July 2012 - Too Much Stimulant

Happy birthday toooooo Brett.

Wow, what a corker of a day weather wise. Hot, hot, hot. I love it.

Tim and I met Mike and Pippa for a coffee at The Woolpack in Tenterden. Looking rather lovely in there. Then we went to Tesco to recycle and I needed an emergency bottle of water as I was feeling most peculiar after the very strong coffee.

Home for ironing which was no fun with the sun shining outside.

I took Mum into The Conquest to see Dad. He seems to be slowly improving and has put on 2lb in 7 days. Well done Dad. Lindsey and Rob joined us on their way back from Devon. Dad is off for an Eco Cardio Gram tomorrow and no this is not the same as an ECG. A nurse explained it to me in laymans terms so I understood. Eco cardio gram is like an ultrasound to test how ones heart is beating and ECG is an electric cardio gram which checks the electric pulses. She is going to test me tomorrow.

I have sad news. My Wisteria has died. We think its bottom rotted. Nasty.

Too Much Stimulant
Watercolour
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Monday, 23rd July 2012 - Recharging

Happy Birthday to Hetty. I hope you had a lovely first birthday my little one.

Oh no. The Volvo has gone for an MOT. We may never see it again. It does need a bit of work. I parked at Sarah's and went in for a coffee. When I came out the car had moved itself closer to the apple bins. I could have been in big trouble with Nigel.

Today after changing over three rooms I sat down with my book.

Recharging
Pencil
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Sunday 22nd July 2012 - Spotty Pants

What a fantastic day we have had.

The weather has been sunny....... and hot.

We had a birthday party for Hetty. About 30 friends and family came. What a great way to spend a Sunday.

Harriet made A Very Hungry Caterpillar birthday cake. It was wonderful.

Hetty and her friend Florence had not planned to wear the same spotty pants today. They looked very pretty in them. Sarah, maybe we should try this look sometime!!!

Spotty Pants

Watercolour

Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Saturday, 21st July 2012 - Going Under Ground

First thing this morning Tim was using his pot holing skills to check on how things are under the house. He had company as the cat decided she would like to go too.

I have had a lovely day making Coronation Chicken, Banoffee Pies and jelly in preparation for Hetty's first birthday party tomorrow. Tim has done a great job of clearing up the trail of devastation I left behind me.

We have had a couple of outings today. Little devils that we are. A trip into Tenterden to buy strawberries. Our local supplier had run out so we ventured all the way to Appledore after following the advice given to us at The Tower House.

Back home to play with Duplo. We met Alan and Mary for a couple of drinks. Then a couple more with Marion and Arian our guests who have been with us from the beginning of our bed and breakfast venture. Thank you for helping with the birthday banner.

Going Under Ground
Indian Ink and Bamboo
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Friday, 20th July 2012 - Grandad and Grandson

Nearly some sun in Benenden today.

I have cooked three glazed hams for Sunday. Are we expecting an enormous crowd. No, they are very small hams.

Dad and I went to The Conquest to see my dad. He seems to be getting good treatment but they are still negotiating treatment as there seem to be many things all entwined. I suppose they start with the most severe and work down from there.

Tom called while we were there. Dad had a chat with him which cheered him up - for a while. It is really not much enjoyment about being in hospital. Poor old Dad.

My toaster set the smoke alarm off this morning as it refuses to turn off. I am now the proud owner of a new one from Sainsburys at under £10. I am very much looking forward to breakfast tomorrow in anticipation of a new gadget to trial.

Well I did not know that pastels could be used like this. I had great fun experimenting with Dad.

Grandad and Grandson
Pastel Pencils
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Thursday, 19th July 2012 - Early Gifts

My guests left and Tim and I headed off to Canterbury to help Harriet with looking after Hetty and her friend Flossie whose mum has gone back to work. We had a lovely day and had coffee, tea and hot chocolate in a new cafe that has opened. Possibly called The Chocolate Cafe.

We gave Hetty a couple of books as part of her birthday present. At Christmas she liked the wrapping paper more than what was inside. She has now learnt that what is inside is much more interesting. How she has changed (sigh).

The Olympic Torch was in Canterbury this afternoon. A historic event. Tim and I saw the signs and lots of people waving flags at the road sides as we drove home. Next time!

Early Gifts
Watercolour
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Wednesday, 18th July 2012 - Rain Dance

Not a delightful start to my day. The rain is back along with the cold. 

My day improved as it went on. 

Steve Adams came for supper. Very good to see him and catch up on family news.

This evening we went to The Halfway House with The Morris. After a fine performance in the drizzle we retired inside with good company and some songs.

A rather rushed picture this evening as it is very late and I should be asleep.

Rain Dance

Quink Ink with stick

Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Tuesday, 17th July 2012 - Another Sweetpea for The Evans'

I was surprised by the warmth of the sun today. Maybe I really didn't need a coat and scarf to go to Tenterden in.

I took some photos which I am hoping I will be able to turn into magnificent paintings for the WoK Art Exhibition. Have I told you about this???

Look Sarah. A new technique. Drips instead of splatters.

Another Sweetpea for The Evans'
Watercolour with salt
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Monday, 16th July 2012 - Return to The Conquest

Dad was taken into hospital after a fall at home. Lindsey, Mum and I visited him today. He was very confused but was better by the time we left and Darren, an amazing Care Advisor, had fed him his supper. They have diagnosed atrial fibrillation which is probably a side effect of him having pneumonia and needing feeding up. He is having good care and antibiotics. He should make a goodish recovery poor old bugger.

Return to The Conquest
Caran D'Ache Watercolour Pencils
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Sunday, 15th July 2012 - Little Bo Peep

After a busy busy busy morning we went to meet Harriet, Brett and little Hetty at Si and Lesley's. Harriet did some amazing drawings of the herds which when finished and framed will be up for sale in the Alban Barn holiday lets.

Little Bo Peep
Watercolour
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Saturday, 14th July 2012 - Over Three Hundred Years

What a beautiful morning that turned to rain, rain and more rain.

We had an evening out at Benenden Village Hall - do not mock.

We went to see The Ron Russell Jazz band featuring Digby Fairweather on trumpet. They were quite an elderly bunch apart from the clarinet player. Si, Lesley and Pippa (Mike was in bed with a chest infection) joined us to make it a splendid evening.

Over Three Hundred Years

Pen and Watercolour
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Friday, 13th July 2012 - Unlucky for Some

Another day another trip to a supermarket. We got lots of bargain strawberries that I have now made into jam - just waiting to see if it sets.

The threatened rain did not arrive in Benenden today which meant the garden got a good seeing to.

A couple of days ago I planted a beautiful courgette plant that my son-in-law gave me.

Unlucky for Some
Pen and Ink with Watercolour Wash
Gerstaecker Paper 140lb not

Thursday, 12th July 2012 - Consideration

I have had a lovely day of slight relaxation. After cooking guests breakfasts and cleaning their rooms.

I went to see the potter Katie Brinsley in her studio this afternoon. Sarah, you really should have come too. I may have some of her pots to sell to guests to take back and give to the neighbour who has looked after the goldfish. I love the jugs with the bird handles.

I was a bit surprised by the rain this afternoon!!!

Consideration
Watercolour
Paper 140lb not

Wednesday, 11th July 2012 - Spotty Shadows

Have been a little distracted doing my painting this evening. I was watching Embarrassing Bodies. They have been returning to some of the most severe cases. It is enthralling.

Apart from that I had yet another change over to do today so much time has been spent on housework while it rained outside.

I have heard that I have a place to exhibit at The Weald of Kent Art Group summer show. I am very excited and can show up to three painings. Now I have to decide what to do. I just hope that I can make work that I am brave enough to show. I have about six weeks. Any ideas of what would sell would be much appreciated.

Spotty Shadows
Watercolour
Paper 140lb not

Tuesday, 10th July 2012 - Pink Roses

I had a very early start to the day but have got through it without an afternoon nap. Is Mr Holford doing a good job. I hope so.

This rose is rambling through the hedge. Apparently (I was informed by a guest) that Vita disliked it so much she would not allow it at Sissinghurst. More fool her, it is beautiful.

Pink Roses
Charcoal
Paper 140lb not

Monday, 9th July 2012 - The Lights Are On

Tim and I found a brief sunny spell and walked to The King William for an evening drink. It has been shut for weeks but as we drove past earlier in the day the lights were on and there were cars in the carpark. The door was locked. No ready for business yet then. So we went to The Bull.

The Lights Are On
Watercolour
Paper 140lb not

Sunday, 8th July 2012 - Tortuous Delight

I spent the afternoon franticly ironing while watching the Murray/Federer match.

What a fantastic match. It was pain and joy at the same time. Maybe next time Murray.

Tortuous Delight
Watercolour
Saunders Waterford 140lb not

Saturday, 7th July 2012 - Patiently Waiting

The Weald of Kent Morris danced not once but twice at a very poorly attended, rather damp, Benenden Hospital Fete. Ravensbourne Morris Men came too which meant many Morris dancers.

Patiently Waiting
Watercolour
Saunders Waterford 140lb not

Friday, 6th July 2012 - Out Came the Sunshine....

.... along with the leather gardening gloves, the hedge trimmer, the ladders, the loppers, the strimmer and the shredder.

I had my secateurs.

Out Came the Sunshine.....
Watercolour
Saunders Waterford 140lb not

Thursday, 5th July 2012 - Last meal at The Tower House - Possibly

A day spent gardening in the sun.

Pippa hosted our Book Group. It must be the cheapest meal we have had at £4 each from the Fish and Chip Shop - well two of us had chicken. We discussed The Baby Laundry along with many other subjects.


I have given up alcohol for health reasons which I feel is not as weird as giving up tea as Sarah has. Each to their own but we never meet again.

Last meal at The Tower House - Possibly
Watercolour
Saunders Waterford 140lb not

Wednesday, 4th July 2012 - Down Rosemary Lane

The forecast was for heavy rain.

My art tutor thought not. We went to Bewl Water and enjoyed a lovely afternoon in the (much to my delight) hot sunshine painting. It was a last lesson and a good one to finish on.

I nervously took my Pochade box and oil paints. The black spots are insects that have got stuck in the paint. I will remove them once it is a little drier and less likely to smudge.

Down Rosemary Lane
Oil 
Hahnemuhle Oil Paper

Tuesday, 3rd July 2012 - Five become Two

Harriet and Hetty have gone home.

Tom has gone back to Bradford.

Tim and I are the only ones left.

Five Become Two
Watercolour
Paper 140lb

Monday, 2nd July 2012 - Tomorrow's Dinner

I was feeling unwell and did not cook the dinner I had planned.

Tomorrow's Dinner
Watercolour
Paper 140lb not

Sunday, 1st July 2012 - One Club and Four Pubs Later

Guests left.

The Weald of Kent Morris had a birthday tour of five drinking venues for Alan's 70th birthday.

Happy Birthday Alan.

The Guiness cake made by Harriet was amazing.

Lunch at The Castle Inn was lovely.

Hetty loved being waved at by the Morris Men dancing with hankies.

One Club and Four Pubs Later
Watecolour
Paper 140lb