Just Ducky

This morning I was making my bed and a little hummingbird was visiting right outside of my window. I have a hanging basket with white Verbena and purple Lobelia and he was going blossom to blossom feeding on the nectar. I stood and watched him for the longest time before he darted off and I thought what a wonderful way to start the day, a day that I have already dubbed the 'waiting day' because I am waiting for the glass company to come and replace Kristin's window and later I will be waiting in line at DMV. It is the simple things that make my day and I am usually easily fascinated by the smallest of details. Yesterday I played in the paints. I was inspired by Phyllis Franklin and her wonderful 'paint lesson' blog. Years ago I dabbled in sketching and painting but I was never able to strike that vein of creativity. Every now and then I drag out a sketch pad and tinker with ideas but there is always some degree of expression that I just cannot capture...and so that's why I write. At some point we all have to face the conclusion that we are good at some things and not so good at others, but of course it is still always fun to try and by the look on my son's face yesterday when I was painting, it was quite enjoyable to him as well. He walked in the door from work and I was painting the reflection of my ducks and he said "Mom this isn't something I expected to see..." and my reply was "Well then, just know your mother is full of surprises". He smiled (or was that a smirk?) and continued to stare at my beautiful masterpiece. When my daughter came home she asked "Did I paint that? Because I remember painting some ducks one time". Of course in my mind I think she is implying kindergarten and I assured her that no, I indeed did paint it today. She smiled and then went on to inform me of the boy /girl ratio in her new EMT class. So, Phyllis if you are reading this just know that it sure was fun painting and someday when I have the proper materials I would like to retry with a little more patience and closer attention to instruction. My painting as it is now promotes smiling, laughter and encouragement (to not quit my day job). What more could I ask for? It kind of reminded me of laying in the floor and coloring with the kids. It was relaxing and mind absorbing without having the necessity of achievement behind its completion. I love to try new things but I think to take painting seriously I would have to take some classes. Hmmm, that may be an idea for next summer. This summer's pottery class was sure fun and I actually learned quite a bit. Ok, so now I'm off to find a worthy recipe to post and one that I will want to bake today. Did I mention that my oven door is now fixed properly? I am so excited. This will be the first Thanksgiving in about three years that I will be able to slide that turkey out without getting burnt! The door actually opens all the way so that I don't have to maneuver things to avoid the hot surfaces.