Cat in the Kitchen

Here is the painting whose composition was mentioned two posts ago. It's the first time I've tried to paint Tabby. I've got several good photos of her which will make for good future paintings.

We've been very lucky to have cats with such excellent temperament and presence as Tabby and her predecessor Tiger. Tiger was the epitome of self-possession, comfortable in crowds and known to chase dogs big and small. Tabby, on the other hand, is the reincarnation of B. Kliban's Cat--wide-eyed and goofy, given to kittenlike antics and strange upsidedown poses. She is actually more sociable and affectionate than any dog either of us has ever had. Go figure.

This is More Like It

Not only was I not finished with The Green Sweater, I reworked it almost to death. But I felt the composition was worth saving, and redid it yet again. The end result is much more what I had in mind.

Have had a rough time with arthritis for the past few weeks, had to stay off my feet as much as possible. On the bright side, it made for a lot more painting time.

It's Memorial Day, and I was hoping for some inspiring local scenes--but there were absolutely none. Nothing is open downtown, and it's quieter than a Sunday around here. The next painting is simmering in the back of my head at the moment.

Got a modest assortment of red geraniums and dark purple petunias in pots, as well as a big pot with chives, rosemary, and Italian parsley. Divided and planted clumps of Carpathian Harebells which were from my old garden. Steve and I talked about planting areas around the new birch trees, and will act on the ideas next week. There are some really neat gardens in the neighborhood, overflowing with a crazy assortment of perennials, so I can still see flowers up close and personal.

Approaching the Six-Month Mark

Each week brings more of a sense of settling in, more and more quietude. It's been a lovely spring, as far as being able to get out and walk everywhere. The farmer's market on the courthouse square has begun for the season, the ice cream places are open, most of the restaurants have al fresco dining on the sidewalks, the trees have fully leafed out, and everyone's gardens are coming alive. This is a great neighborhood for gardens.

We broke our vow and succombed to buying three small birch trees, which Steve planted for me. My parents gave us a major housewarming present of a new garage door and opener, and it certainly is easier to use. The somewhat shabby and plain side of the house now looks as good as the front. There is nothing that makes me feel at home as much as planting a tree. It's like staking a claim.

Not entirely sure I am finished with The Green Sweater, the painting mentioned in the previous post, but I've put it up here. Currently working on a small piece featuring Tabby, my kitchen utensil jar, and my red dutch oven. She's a dark gray cat and a challenge for me to paint after years of painting my old ginger cat Tiger. Now that the local gardens are coming alive, I will be taking frequent "research" walks to observe and photograph the flora. So far there appear to be daylilies and irises coming up in my own yard, and peonies and black eyed susans along the back fence. Am also itching to paint some of the al fresco dining scenes; it will be an interesting challenge compositionally.

Tonight we will meet Nick and Amy at Maria Elena's for a pleasant dinner out. We've recently enjoyed brunches at Jimmy's Cafe, coffees at Espress Yourself, and the first ice cream cone of the season at Valpo Velvet. It's a bit like living in the middle of a smorgasboard.