Getting out into the day

The best hat
acrylic on canvas
8 x 8 inches
Barbara Muir © 2009

I taught early this morning, then stayed to talk
to students. Back into the car, and running
errands I was keenly aware that days this
beautiful, and warm cannot last much longer.
My friend Suzanne accompanied me on a short
walk with the dog through our local park.
I was snapping photos for reference and
oohing and ahhing at every twig, and bird.

On our way out of the park, happy as can be
we saw this lady walking towards us wearing the
most beautiful hat. I asked if I could take her
picture, she agreed, and here is the result.
It isn't a faithful portrait, but it does her hat
justice. She said an artist made her hat 19
years ago, and that I liked it because I am
an artist. I think she's right! Wherever she
goes she will brighten the mostly muted,
subtle landscape with her lovely hat and her
great manner and smile. Thanks very much
for posing for me.

Have a blessed-by-the-kindness-of-former-strangers day.

*Note: I cannot imagine keeping such a delicate
hat in excellent condition for 19 years. A double
shout out to this great lady.