I tried to sketch my greyhound and she didn't stay still long enough for me to finish the sketch.  Then I thought I'd try to sketch her in her new position, which soon became a third.  I inked and painted the picture afterward and had to go from memory.  I kept the paint simple.  She is a brindle, which doesn't show in the painting.  I have been illustrating the idea of change, and changing positions is another form of change.  Life is full of change-- things/people change as they age, our positions change, our opinions also change on politics, beliefs, and standards. And we also change in our relationships.  I hope to accept change in others and myself.  I guess I hope change is for the better, but sometimes it is just different than it was before..

Here is a painting of the growing palm plant.  I pruned it between now and the 10-years-ago painting entitled "singles bar" (posted 4/16/2016 "waiting").  I forgot about that.  One limb was growing out sideways and getting in the way of walking traffic, so I cut it off.  The plant seems to be thriving.  I got it 29 years ago and have repotted it a couple of times.  To paint it this week, I moved it to a new location.  I think I will keep it there for now.  If it wants more light, I suppose I will know soon enough.  It is changing and growing and has endured some cuts--sounds like life to me.

I painted my neice and grand neice together on a front step.  Were they distracted from doing something else?  Or was this a good focus for that moment?  I often have trouble knowing when I am distracted and when I am on task.  Sometimes I am pulled away from what I am trying to do.  Sometimes I get lost in indecision and frustration.  I want to be conscientious of my time and energy.  If I do the art, that is good.  If I do moments of conversation and meaningful interaction, that is also good.  I pray for good balance.