Fascination With Rocks

My grandson, Haeden, came to visit me the other day, and he was fascinated with the pile of river rocks boarding the deck.



What is it about rocks that is so fascinating?

The colors and shapes attract me. When I was in Greece not only did I take photographs of rocks, but also brought some home from various locations, especially beaches. I have these small piles on a counter and not sure what to do with them.

Rekindling my love of rocks with Haeden, I began a watercolor painting from photographs of one of the beaches on the island of Antiparos in Greece.

This is just the first day painting:


A close up:




To be continued.......

Good News About Rain

Yes, rain is good for all living things, and that is why Washington is so green and beautiful. But some of us in the Pacific Northwest have challenges with the number of rainy days, myself included.

Today, I took advantage of wanting to stay indoors and created a watercolor painting. So, that's the positive side of rain.

This painting is from one of my photographs I took when I was on the island of Antiparos in Greece. I love the white and gray patterned walkways and the abundance of the bright bougainvillea.



While painting I thought of the warm days and sunshine as well as the fun I had.

Miscellaneous Photos Of Greece

My trip to Greece, abridged version, filled 16 blogs beginning October 4th. There is so much more to tell, yet words and photos cannot capture the amazing experience that unfolded each day.

Included in this final blog - although I will probably mention Greece again at some point in time - are a few photos of note which I would like to share.

Cats are plentiful and seem to have a good life in Greece. Some of the fishermen share their catch of the day which this kitty took to a quiet spot to consume.


Finding a little shade from the intense sun.


Keeping an eye on me while I eat.


Posing for the perfect photograph.


Rocks are one of my fetishes. Here are just a few.......

Paradise Beach, Santorini





Morning light on Plakias Beach, Crete


Despotiko Island near Antiparos



Favorite flower photos

Prickly pear cactus growing on Thirasia Island, Santorini


Mystery plant growing at the monastery of Meteora


Wild Onion found on the islands of Crete, Naxos, Paros, and Antiparos. Most likely grows all over Greece.


Wild sand orchid which I found on both Santorini and Crete.


The lovely, colorful bougainvillea found everywhere in Greece.



Some classic photos

Santorini



Santuary of Apollo on Naxos


Meteora



And the typical tourist photos

Another Day on Antiparos

After two fabulous days in Antiparos, I was not ready to leave.

There was a boat cruise around the island that boasted about visiting the best beaches, bays and small caves of the island. It included a BBQ on Despotiko beach which is a small neighboring island that is not developed.

How could I pass this up?

The view leaving Antiparos


Traveling around the island


A few of our swimming spots





Despotiko Beach where we ate lunch.
I tried seared octopus with a shot of ouzo.



Favorite rocks



Another gorgeous beach


I met a group of Brits that kept me laughing all day.

More About Antiparos

I was drawn to Antiparos and Paros because of windsurfing.

The evening of my first day on Antiparos, I took the ferry to Pounta, Paros where people sailed on boards or kites. Kites seemed to be the favorite of the two sports and the guys running the business knew nothing about the sport of windsurfing but had gear available for rent.


I had to silence the voice in my head that was loudly wondering if I could still windsurf since the last time was TEN years ago in Aruba. I must admit, the voice was very strong and I nearly changed my mind the next morning for a boat adventure around the island of Antiparos.

BUT I DID NOT GIVE IN!

I went sailing and it was exhilarating!

Later that afternoon, content after eating a Greek salad at an Antiparos taverna, I painted this street scene.


Greek salads are FABULOUS! Sweet, juicy tomatoes with cucumbers, red onions, olives, and sometimes green peppers topped with a slab of feta cheese which is marinated in olive oil and herbs....YUM! I became addicted to these.

The Island of Antiparos

After spending time in Kastraki and visiting the clifftop monasteries of Meteora I decided to save Delphi for my next visit to Greece and head out to the islands.

I was intrigued by the mention in the Lonely Planet Greek Islands book of the great place to windsurf between the islands of Paros and Antiparos. I thought I had best check this out.

Traveling from Kastraki to Paros was a FULL DAY trip and did not reach the port of Parikia until nearly mid-night. When you get off the ferry people are gathered at the end of the docks with signs for rooms to rent. Running the gauntlet, I picked a woman and we negotiated terms. I was happy to have a place to rest!

The next morning on my way to the bus stop, I stopped at a bakery and bought a "spinach pie" which was still warm.......oh my gosh, was that delicious! Then, I found a gentleman at the dock who was selling fresh fruit; I bought some local grapes. While waiting for my bus, I was approached by a young man about a place to stay in Antiparos......word spreads quickly amongst the locals!

A bus ride and a short ferry between Paros and Antiparos, I left my backpack at this cute little place in Antiparos, and headed to the beach.

After swimming in the crystal clear turquoise blue waters, I pulled out the paints and sketchbook. What I learn was in the hot climate of Greece it is impossible to do a watercolor wash as the paint dries instantly! I painted quickly and then back into the water to cool off. What a life!


And you ask, did I go windsurfing? To be continued......