Sunday, July 14, 2013

Arizona Journal 2013

I have to say I have been quite busy this spring/summer. Getting ready for a trip we took was fun. The anticipation of a trip can be almost as much fun as going.
I made a sketch book to take along. Actually I didn't make this one. It is a Cranson book that I modified with coverings and book marks. 
Even though I didn't get my most wanted bird on the trip I did see plenty new birds and sights.
Sitting in the airport I began sketching. We had a couple of waiting times but not really much time in between flights.
We drove so much and was so busy I didn't sketch a whole lot while gone. I did take 1800 pictures so when life slows down I will have plenty of sketching inspiration.
Learning about Kachina dolls and the patterns on Indian Rugs was most interesting. I didn't know the significance to all the patterns on rugs and the positioning and clothing on the dolls. There was so much to learn about this area of the world.
It seems like there is always so much happening.
We drove so much. 
There is never enough time to finish. 
When I get home... 
I am always "going to" add color or more drawings. 
Yet it often doesn't happen.
While at the Grand Canyon it was just perfect weather. The Canyon met and exceeded my expectations. Not only was I fascinated with all the rock formations I was amazed at how when some of the trees die they stand in place, wind scouring them to make them look like driftwood. 
The scenery in Arizona is gorgeous. I hope to get there during winter sometime to better appreciate their hot dry atmosphere. Phoenix and Tuscon had record hot days while we were there. Luckily we went into the mountains to do some of our birding and it wasn't as bad. 
Have you been on a trip this summer or are you planning to?




2 comments:

Teri said...

LOVE LOVE LOVE your journal and hearing about the whole experience. You may never color them (but sounds like a great winter project) but even what you have is a wonderful remembrance.
Yes, please visit in the winter when we are there! It would be so fun to show you around.

Julie said...

What a great trip AND SKETCHES! It sounded so nice to bird in the mountains! Much cooler there, for sure!!! My daughter and I just visited a huge resort in mid-Florida for 2 days and just pampered ourselves. We really needed a get-away and it was just devine. Short, but extremely sweet!!!