Hanging out with the Memphis Urban Sketchers has made me aware that various artists manage never to be caught without a sketchbook in purse or pocket. I've been bad about that for much of my artistic life, but I'm doing better lately, thanks to the inspiration.

I'm also grateful for the patient dining companions in my life. I spent several dinners on our family vacation last year painting at my end of the table while I also ate and chatted. I did this small sketch at a dinner also, though it was quicker than my holiday watercolor ones. Sometimes there's an almost irresistible compulsion to draw. Usually when that happens (at least for me) trees are involved, as in the sketch at left.

I appreciate everyone who has lived or traveled with me (one very patient college roommate comes to mind) who has supported my art by not minding sudden sketching binges or copious amounts of time spent in art museums.