Melk in Bavaria Germany, was one of the wonderful places we visited on our recent travels. The village itself lies beneath the Monastery which is situated high above on a rocky outcrop. Very picture post card stuff. But the best part was the people, they were so friendly.

 At on point Liz was wandering around retail gazing whilst I was doing the above ink/watercolour sketch. Two eight or nine year old girls, with their mum, they were local and joined me to watch me paint and chat. A lovely memorable twenty minuets or so.

Very busy, sorting out the painting, sketches and photos; really enjoying myself. This hot weather is super as outside water-colour work is so possible, with the quick drying times.

Oh well must go to a BBQ, see you all soon.

We are back home again and well into the routines of life. There is something good about going on holiday and in reality being satisfied and pleased to be back home again. New Wine contacted me asking me to exhibit; that's good news and all the framing, etc etc is done. So any body who is there can see my work in the Market place, I will also be around if you want to natter.

The trip from Budapest to Prague, via Vienna and many other amazing place stunned both Liz and myself.  Painting went into overdrive, so with Liz's help ninety one drawings and paintings were produced, plus photos; when put together it will be a worthwhile body of work. Vienna was stunning, the water-colour and ink sketch above, is of one of the roads leading off the main Basilica square. My only complaint was the time factor, we only had a few hours in Vienna and nine sketches in that time was a tad rushed. Still we managed to get a good feel of the place.

A few of you keep asking me about my wire sculptures, so here is another one of meadow flowers; the flowers represented are cranesbill, daisy, thistle and speedwell, These are not serious botanical representations, but rather decorative works showing the great beauty and diversity within God's creation. For various reasons these pieces are rather tricky to photograph or scan, so please excuse this slightly iffy image, as the real construction is much more colourful and bright

I am working on a much larger work showing a beech tree with all the varied flowers around it's base. The plan is for it to be ready for New Wine in July; however although the work is at an advanced stage, a great deal more needs doing as of yet. Have no fear my ink work is not being neglected..

Europe calls and travels with my camera and ink pot can't be put off any more; so no blog for the next few weeks. See you all soon.