Thursday, 28th February 2019 - Tissue and PVA

I took my rampage into the garden. It is looking a lot clearer.

It was an evening of mixed media at The Weald of Kent Art Society meeting and a good turnout from members. Catherine Farr managed the heckling audience with admirable patience. It was a thoroughly enjoyable demonstration but I don't think I will be applying her tissue paper and PVA glue techniques to any of my work any time soon.

I came home to find Tim watching a sci-fi film. We watched it to the bitter gooey end. Accompanied by a bowl of salad and a glass of wine I was sure for a disturbed night.

Tissue and PVA
Pen and Watercolour

Wednesday, 27th February 2019 - Swings

We took advantage of the last forecast day of sun until summer and went into Tenterden, got a packed tea from Mr Bean and headed into to the playground. It is always satisfying to return children to their parents with only minor damage.

Swings
Pen and Watercolour

Tuesday, 26th February 2019 - Tulip Trio

It has been a day of mental considerations. I have no conclusions to anything but I have many a thought to mull over. Some good, some bad and some damn bloody ugly.

Microwave popcorn is great.

Tulip Trio
Watercolour

Monday, 25th February 2019 - Demise of a Pied Leucistic Moorhen

It is not a good start to the day to find missed calls on your mobile phone. Mum had been taken into hospital with shortness of breath last night. As I type she is now back at the nursing home with antibiotics for a possible chest infection. She had been watching the ambulances coming at going at the home over the past few weeks. FOMO must have struck.

I have been in pain. I am not very pleased that my uterus has decided to have a last ditch attempt before retiring. There really is no point as my tubes are well and truly tied.

Harriet found a run over bird dying on her walk home from school. Unfortunately it is now deceased but has caused us interest as to its heritage. A genetic mutant according to Google.

The gurnard we bought from the fishing hut in Hastings has done us a second meal this evening. Such an ugly fish which has unfavourable reviews. We liked it very much.

Demise of a Pied Leucistic Moorhen
Charcoal and Watercolour

Sunday, 24th February 2019 - Beer and Crossword

The hollyhocks and poppies are free from their pots and hopefully will be spreading roots wide and deep in preparation for a floriferous summer show.

Well, what a glorious day of sunshine and frolics with Tony and Wendy. We walked to Cranbrook from Benenden. There was a bit of forethought involved as we left a car outside Larkins' Alehouse. It would have been rude not to have stopped for a drink. And were serving complimentary cheesy bar snacks

I haven't a clue who this man is but he made a charming model.

Beer and Crossword
Pen and Watercolour

Saturday, 23rd February 2019 - Pelican for Breakfast

The knowledge that we were going out for breakfast was a good incentive to get out of Vivien's bed this morning.

We strolled the sunny streets of Hastings and had breakfast sitting outside The Pelican. The AvoEggs on sourdough were yummy. We continued through the streets, in and out of shops and up to the West Hill where we needed to stop for coffee overlooking the see. What a view and great place to people watch. Thank you so much for our holiday.

Pelican for Breakfast
Pen and Watercolour

Friday, 22nd February 2019 - Vivien's Vista

Oh what a marvelous start to the day with a trip to the surgery with Mum. The wayward wheelchair is now a permanent fixture on our outings. There is a bit of a hiatus between the wheelchair and the car. She seemed to hover between the two. Good thing she only weighs six stone so I could aid her with a heave under the armpits. We were 50 minutes late for the GP. Some misunderstanding with phone communications. We did get to see the GP who Mum thought was the nurse because she didn't have her hearing aids in and couldn't hear what she said. I think I may have ended up shouting. Then the blood test with accusations that last week 'two of you' tried and failed. It was a different nurse with a tiny needle who used the arm without the collapsed vein which would have been useful knowledge for the attempt last week. She does like to keep these things to herself unless directly asked. Blimey. We got back to the home with her needing tea and myself needing gin.

This evening we went on holiday in Hastings taking a diversion via Asda, Toolstation and Aldi. We had a glorious evening with Steve and Vivien, Bertie and Barnaby. The food was nearly as delicious as the company. What a treat to stayover.

Vivien's Vista
Pen and Watercolour

Thursday, 21st February 2019 - Lesson in Electronics

It was wonderful if slow progress in my studio. So lucky to have the time to indulge my obsession. If you follow me on Instagram you will see what I got up to .... so far.

We took a walk into the village. I thought it was meant to be warm and sunny. It was a touch chilly. We checked up on the progress of the new primary school. There are some hefty metal beams going in. One has been signed by the children for prosperity.

Tim, Hetty and Bella worked on their electrician skills with breadboards, LED's, wires, batteries and resistors. I am not sure that blowing up the LED's was quite necessary and it did smell.

I wouldn't recommend the Jackfruit with hoisin sauce, even when reduced, from Waitrose. The advantage was that it made for a delightfully easy meal with a pile of vegetables.

Lesson in Electronics
Pen and Watercolour

Wednesday, 20th February 2019 - Tulips From Amsterdam

I got some good advice and went with a basket of spring bulbs to see Mum. Of course I would have done this anyway. She was so pleased to see me and had saved me an article from the Daily Mail about a duckling. I am now not sure how I feel. A little bit guilty. A little bit relieved. A quite a bit happier than yesterday.

My studio was a great place of refuge this afternoon. All the preparation has been done and I can start paining tomorrow. It took me a couple of hours to get ready. I learnt today you should not wear bright clothes when painting as they reflect on your work and give you false colours.

I have added two poppies and two more hollyhocks to add to my collection. Maybe I will plant them tomorrow.

Tulips From Amsterdam
Pen and Watercolour

Tuesday, 19th February 2019 - Slug Fodder

So sorry I didn't make a coffee date today. Next week my lovely Sarah when we are both fit and full of the joys of Spring and our sap is rising.

I had a delivery to make to Mum. I was hoping not to go, that she might forget but I got a phone call at 5pm. I was pleased to put reduced hot cross buns in my basket along with strawberry yogurt and chocolate bar for Mum. And I still got the BYBOHP offer. My joy was short lived as my visit to Mum ended in a bit of an altercation. I should have been more gentle but I wasn't. I could have been kinder with the way I spoke but I wasn't. I am really very sorry. I will muse and ponder and go back and forth over what I said probably in the dark sleep at night.

On a happier note Waitrose has some fine hollyhocks. I have two maroon and two red to plant in my front border.

Slug Fodder
Pen, Charcoal and Watercolour

Monday, 18th February 2019 - Adam's Pear

It is half term. I miss my art class. I have been studying a couple of artists. David Cheiftez and Trisha Adams. Bright, bold and bloody gorgeous painters.

Tim has been generous with his virus. I now have a minor version of it. I seem to have many mild illnesses recently maybe I need some sunshine.

Mum phoned. She is going to phone the nursing home in Blackheath. I was low on patience. Maybe I should had more to discourage her. She wasn't listening to me. I will try with more enthusiasm tomorrow. It does seem a long way to go to get a better menu choice.

Tim came home from work with a box of fruit and vegetables from Adam and Eve's Farm shop. Better than a bunch of flowers??? More practical. I am grateful really I am.

Adam's Pear
Watercolour

Sunday, 17th February 2019 - Towards Robin's Wood

Due to fog on the roads my babysitting duties took me past midnight. I was going to have a nap whilst waiting the return of the Cabaret going duo but ended up greatly enjoying the sorting out the photos for my still life compositions.

While my tea was brewing I was gazing out the window and was entertained by the standoff between our black chicken and a pheasant.

Today I have been tired and a little grumpy. The Archers omnibus made me cry. The best medicine is a visit to a grandchild or two or three. They make you realise that life is really a joyful experience.

The weather has been glorious and a long walk should have been good therapy. I needed to lie down when I got home.

MY LIST OF TO DO ITEMS IS GETTING LONGER!!!! I have entered four paintings into an exhibition and partaking in South East Open Studios in June. I am tempted to enter the Hole Park en plein air event too.

Towards Robin's Wood
Watercolour

Saturday, 16th February 2019 - Mixed Media

I am babysitting for Hetty, Bella and Herbie whilst the parents go out to play. In a short while I am going to have to lie on the sofa with my book. I am feeling wrung out emotionally by my mother, mentally after a day at an art workshop and physically because I am getting old and just don't have the stamina any longer.

The work from the workshop I attended is heading for the recycling. One would call it a learning process.

Tim needed some grapes. I was right next to Tescos and whilst wandering the aisles was thrilled to find sweetpea seeds. So I purchased the last two packets with 25% free!!!  I told you Sarah that the supermarkets sell seeds.

Mixed Media
Pen and Watercolour

Friday, 15th February 2019 - Last Year's Flower

My day started a full speed, slowed to a napping halt before picking up momentum again.

My still life projects are under full construction. Both my watercolour class and oil painting course demand them so it is a double whammy. I shut myself in my studio with my homemade shadow box and lots of 'things'. They are now photographed. I will wait until tomorrow to critic them.

Herbie took a delightful set of selfies on my phone. He was very pleased with his efforts. I cannot help but laugh with him.

We have had a recuperating quiet evening.

My new brushes are just perfect.

Last Year's Flower
Watercolour

Thursday, 14th February 2019 - Daler Rowney Versus Winsor & Newton

I got a Valentine's card from a secret admirer left on my computer. I told Tim he had competition for my affections. He didn't seem concerned. I blame it on his cold addleing his senses.

And I got another one in the post. I think I can guess who from as it was addressed to Mum. It was very much appreciated.

There is nothing quite like the thrill of a parcel full of art materials arriving on your doorstep. Even if you have ordered them yourself.

How glorious it was the have some warm sunshine. The dead and droopy ferns around the pond are now added to the bonfire heap.

Due to bugs in the area the most we managed to rustle up this evening was a glass of rose, fish cakes and Tarzan.

I am hoping I am immunised from Tim's cold by close proximity to the grandchildren and theirs over the last week or so. Unless it has mutated.

Happy Valentine's Day to all those who wish to celebrate. Happy Thursday to those who don't.

Daler Rowney Versus Winsor & Newton
Pen and Watercolour

Wednesday, 13th February 2019 - Charming Crocus and a Jug

Whilst ironing sheets, pillowcases, napkins and table cloths I watched my homework tutorials by Roisin O'Farrell. Yes, I am still doing my oil painting course. The progression is slow because it is damn difficult. We are working at setting up still life studies. I have to consider the story, negative space, placement, colour, pattern/texture, shadow, leading lines and perspective. My conclusion is that I have to work harder as I am sloppy in my preparation.

Bella and Hetty played in the garden after school. They picked me some croci (?sp) of course under strict allowance.

Charming Crocus and a Jug
Pen and Watercolour

Tuesday, 12th February 2019 - Flowery Gift

Following a trail of breakfasts I tackled cleaning up of the rooms. The dishwasher loaded, the washing machine laundering and the tumble drier - well.... tumble drying. I had a break with Herbie to feed the chickens with left over full English.

Harriet bought me a gorgeous bunch of gerberas. They are looking jolly on my kitchen table.

Bella and I had a marvelous time this afternoon. A stop by at Waitrose found her exuberance with the self check-out scanner meant we had to keep getting assistance to remove our multiple items. A visit to Great Grandma found her in a dilemma about her trip to see the cardiologist tomorrow. She doesn't want to go as she is wobbly on her legs. We use a wheelchair to refrain from toppling over. So she was worried about getting in and out of the car as she 'nearly' fell last time. She had an ECG a while back. She said they would have got in contact if there was anything of concern. There was no explaining that was the purpose of the trip tomorrow. She will phone me in the morning with her decision.

Blimey I enjoyed my glass of red wine whilst Endeavour engaged me.

Flowery Gift
Watercolour and Charcoal

Sunday, 10th February 2019 - Impeded by Rain

I have spent a lot of my day rearranging furniture in my studio yet again. I am trying to find a place for my splayed legged easel. It is not fitting in. Tim said he will make me a wall mounted one as he could feel my frustration.

The pizza dough was proving so we went for a walk. It chucked it down so we retreated. I moved some more furniture around while Tim kneaded the dough. We are on the second season of Timeless. I only watch it to give my full and intense support to the blue eyed actor.

Impeded by Rain
Watercolour and Ink

Saturday, 9th February 2019 - View from Parsonage Woods

I looked old in the mirror this morning. Hopefully they are night wrinkles and gravity will sort them out as the day progresses.

I have been sorting through my 2018 paintings ready for South East Open Studios in June. I have a couple of days missing and a few extra paintings they don't seem to belong anywhere.

Tim was sporting his new wellington boots on our walk with Tony and Wendy. The footpath disappeared at one point so we inverse limboed under barbed wire and vaulted over felled oak trees. We had to rehydrate at The Bull before heading home for black eyed, turtle, butter, haricot, lima, pinto, kidney, rose cocoa, mung and dubia bean stew. 

View from Parsonage Woods
Watercolour

Friday, 8th February 2019 - Wonky Blue Bowl

Today I must have had Erik behind me getting me from one place to another.

I do like it when a guest is out the door before the clock strikes nine - well ten past.

Sarah and I had coffee and a bacon roll in Cocolicious to fuel our shopping frenzy in Cranbrook. We got everything and more but my sweet pea seeds. Sarah 'poo pooed' the idea that Coop would sell them. I am sure I have seen stand of seeds in there previously. They do have a vast variety of sweets to ponder.

I got to my car with the wind whipping me and the rain lashing down to find the battery had gone flat in my key. The car wouldn't open. Luckily I found another very similar blue Nissan just along the row which unlocked.

Back home I was whisked off to Fairlight. Tim tried to help unblock Roger's drain with his rods. Unfortunately the blockage is probably a collapse and needs more serious attention. I had the better option of tea with Susan.

I broke a bowl that held memories for Tim. I was on the phone when it happened and now have two beautiful handmade replacements. They are much more precious. Thank you sooooo very much I love them.

We weathered the storm for beer and Baccus in Larkins' Ale House for a couple of hours with Alli and Nick. Blimey it is a foul evening.

Wonky Blue Bowl
Pen and Watercolour

Thursday, 7th February 2019 - Blemished Primroses

You know how it is when you are tired and that glorious feeling of getting into bed and under the duvet ready for a night of delicious deep sleep. Last night it just wasn't happening. From my left side, to my back, to my front with my toes out the duvet and onto my right side and a scrunched up pillow. Just not working. So I got up and shared a piece of cheese with the cat. Went back to bed to find a melange of aromas and sounds following a couple of beers in the pub interspersed with rain on the window. The wonders of married life.

Herbie has a new occupation. He likes to move monkey nuts from one container to another. Good coordination practice and by the expression on his face very very serious work. How I adore my grandson.

Mum phoned to check I was dropping off her tablets and bathroom items. She was sorry to hear I was still not feeling perfect and said I could just drop them off in the lobby. Nice. It was worth the trip as I swung by Waitrose and got reduced salmon, potatoes and sweet corn for dinner.

Blemished Primroses
Pen and Watercolour

Wednesday, 6th February 2019 - White Eggs, White Bowl

I need to get my arse in gear or I am going to buried under a pile of bed and breakfast laundry. I blame it on my lingering illness and not lazy malaise.

The latest on my mother is that she wants to move to Blackheath. Not the best of her ideas.

White Eggs, White Bowl
Watercolour

Tuesday, 5th February 2019 - Green Daffodils

A hot water bottle plus loads of sleep and my bug has gone.

Green Daffodils
Pen and Watercolour

Monday, 4th February 2019 - Time for a Book

All was well and good this morning. Then a got a bug that took me to bed for the rest of the day. I missed my art class.

Mum phoned. She is feeling uplifted since the GP has been to visit. This is before she has even started her next course of tablets.

Time for a Book
Pen and Watercolour

Saturday, 3rd February 2019 - Two Out of Three Guises

Tom went out at 4.40pm last night. He rolled home about lunchtime. You shouldn't worry your mother like that!

For the brief spell he was with us he was perusing the pages of a CPC magazine and commented that he does love an extension lead!!! His desires could be sooo much worse.

We went to see Hetty performing with her musical theatre group in Tenterden.  With her Topaz group we watched them Bollywood dance, act a version of Hansel and Gretal and sing from Finding Neverland plus a couple of ensemble songs. Well done Hett's we are incredibly proud of you. She was also a cat.

I got home shortly before my guest who I thought was arriving tomorrow turned up.

Two Out of Three Guises
Pen and Watercolour

Saturday, 2nd February 2019 - Snow Alien

Tom, Tim and I looked after Bella and Herbie for the morning. Herbie was full of smiles for Uncle Tom. I made him scrambled egg. He has an efficient rejection mechanism.

We took Bella for a walk across the fields before the snow disappeared. It was the perfect consistency for snow balls. The one down my neck from Tim was not welcomed enthusiastically. We happened upon Harriet and Hetty so needed to warm up in the pub with ice cream for the girls.

I should have gone to see Mum to sort out her medical issues but the day didn't go as planned so I didn't. Damn I feel guilty.

Snow Alien
Pen and Watercolour

Friday, 1st February 2019 - Leave Your Hat On .....

........but they didn't just their socks and shoes. Yes, I have been to see The Full Monty stage show. It was my Christmas present from Harriet and Tom. They came too. We had a marvelous evening. The drive home was unexpected due to the bouts of heavy snow. There were a few cars struggling to go up hill. Luckily we were going down and Tom was driving. Harriet and I sat in the back - we had inadvertently broken his passenger seat - trying our best not to be back seat drivers. Thank you so much for an excellent evening and wonderful company.

Leave Your Hat On.....
Pen and Watercolour