Equinox 2012-W38

Vignette of Astilbe

Back in June, an art friend held a plein air sketching party in honor of the summer solstice.  Tomorrow, the tradition continues as another hosts an equinox sketching party.
Then I think the tradition may pause over the winter solstice, considering the weather and the holiday bustle are each a powerful counter-force in their own right let alone as a tandem.

The summer event saw a productive burst from me—six sketches of which three are pretty tolerable.  One appeared in the Salon deWinchester blog (and now in My Gallery), and the other two will round out the September editions of Painterly Thoughts.  Fingers crossed, something presentable will flow off my brush or pen at the equinox event, for sharing in October.

Looking at today's sketch of a vividly colored Astilbe gave rise to a few thoughts.  A couple or three, as we might say here in the Midwest.  First, I did the sketch with watercolor crayons that I bought in England in 2002 and have barely used since.  (And I did nothing "wet" with them.)  But it was a good reminder of the benefits gained when we venture beyond our comfort zone and do something not so habitual.  Better late than never, right?

Second, it reminded me that I tried planting Astilbe in my own yard.  Under similar conditions and with proper care.  Yet, mine failed to establish and are long gone.  I have plenty of skills with plants in general so it gave me pause to reflect on another life lesson... we can't be all things to all people.  Or to all plants.  Maybe I will give them another try though.  I've learned, too, that you have to be willing to fail in order to succeed.

Third and finally, seeing the Astilbes during their annual reappearance reminded me of the simple joy of seeing old friends after a long spell.  Just like with some of my art friends at that party.  I don't think I can add more to that thought, so please re-enjoy the "painting"!