L plates are so passe

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A friend of mine recently invited me to her hen do.  I am thankful that she stipulated from the outset that she didn’t want any sparkly pink hairbands, wands or L plates.  Hen dos that involve prancing around town in tiaras, pink ‘hen-party’ t-shirts and tutus are cringe worthy. In fact, my friend’s plans to go clay pigeon shooting and learn archery are much more up my street!
Prior to the now renamed ‘stag’ party, each person has been asked what type of bird they would be and why? I’ve been tasked with drawing the responses – it’s a work in progress but here are some of the cartoons likely to make it onto a not-so-pink-and-fluffy hen do t-shirt!

Fits and starts

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I recently set myself a mission – to draw something at least once a day, even if it is just a quick 10 minute sketch.  I lectured myself; “If you want to improve your drawing skills, then staring at your sketchbook is less likely to bring results than actually picking up a pen and making marks on the paper”.  A friend tells me that writers are encouraged hone their skills with daily scribing exercises – if you force yourself into the habit of writing something every day, soon the words will just flow out of you without any effort.

The problem is, I’m not terribly good with missions, resolutions or practice.  I want to be good at playing the guitar, photography, drumming, drawing, writing etc., and I want it instantaneously!  Alas, to be good at these things takes time and effort,  two things that don’t sit well with a procrastinator.    I envy those people who are driven, focused and goal oriented – wouldn’t it be nice to know where your future lies and head for it without distraction.   My motivations peak and trough depending on the weather, the time of month, the day of the week, who I chat to or simply whether I’m caffeinated.

Two months ago, I was pressing ahead with my photography – practicing landscapes and devouring the tips in photography magazines. This month I’m determined to improve my drawing, looking for ideas in everything I do but not always finding them.  So what happens when you get artists’ block? Is it OK to save yourself for those moments of inspiration even if it means weeks can pass before it hits you?  Should I worry that my ‘mission’ isn’t quite on course, and my daily practice may slide into weekly?

Puffinised

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My partner and I are keen wildlife enthusiasts…ERM…correction, ‘I’ am a keen wildlife enthusiast. My other half is one by default and can often be seen skulking around in the background whilst I avidly take photos or try to stroke anything that has fur, feathers, scales, exoskeletons, shells etc.  You get the picture.

When we are on our travels, I’m always looking for exciting Wildlife Encounters and wasn’t disappointed on our recent trip to the Isle of Mull, where the eye watering scenery, wildlife, walks and opportunities to relax are in abundance.   On every journey we take travel notes and I attempt to sketch some of the highlights.   By far the biggest highlight of our holiday this year, was getting up close and personal with puffins on a day trip organised by Turus Mara!