The garden is boasting of abundance and the art muses are dashing generosity here and there. The weather is a delight, including the bellowing thunder earlier, today. I have been able to get into my painting studio and do what I love most—dabble with oil paints. It requires a fan and open doors so I don’t become delirious with toxic fumes. Even so, I am grateful to try my hand at the possibility of creativity.

Yesterday, I was able to dash off the above drawing. There is an old stonewall not far from my home. I have always admired it and have loved to imagine my ancestors placing stones in a row and one on top of another. The oxen standing at attention, submitting the most demanding adjustments of the largest stones—all for me to admire and enjoy centuries later.