Quo Vadis

As all narratives must, there is a beginning.  Quo vadis Joe?  I go to learn the lessons of a life lived.  February found us in the land of bars; but the chief bar maker had turned in her apron.  A life lived.  A story told.  As usual I found something to regret, having been pre-occupied during our last conversation.  I missed a last chance to speak with her. I am in the center of the front row, having realized that she found hope and fulfillment in a daily affirmation of herself and others.

glimpse of the past

This old shack sat directly across the road from our room at the Driftwood Motel.  It is surrounded by 'modern' buildings and resort properties. I assume it is either left to slowly deteriorate while providing local ambiance or that someone comes down from anchorage for a week or two each year to take up residence during a fishing season of choice. It is certainly crusty; but it persists.

Bishop's Beach, Homer, AK pencil drawing

View of Bishop's Beach in old town Homer, AK.We stayed at the Driftwood Inn.  The room was tiny, but parking was right at the room and I was able to sketch Katchemak bay with glaciers overlooking from in front of the room.

autumn bitches

Fall in Oklahoma - when it occurs - if it occurs - is a lovely season. Occurring slowly, outlasting the leaves with warm patience. Yellows top the greens in early morning golden glow. Faint soft blues and fluffy whites await in stillness the days' south wind; doors stand at parade rest, awaiting the north wind and my convenience.

. . . that was then. This is now. A hard freeze, brisk winds, a trip to the dentist, time clicking to the holiday countdown. Life can go either way.

Studio work will focus on ceramics for the next month, and a good thing since I'm boxed in on a dozen paintings. Good things happen. I just can't bring them to a finish.

So, slab work, sculpture, okie mugs, here we go.