In the world of computers, “update” is a euphemism for “complication”. (Never mind what “upgrade” means – it is a word made up in the 21st century to confound all sensible people.)

In my world, “update” means recent information on unfinished or unreported business.

1. The Wildflowers of Mineral King: Common Names will not be published by Christmas. There is no need for such a book in December; there is a need for such a book in July. My publishing date goal is May of 2019
2. Did you remember that I have another blog called The Cabins of Wilsonia? This is about putting together and publishing the book of that name, and although it has been out since December of 2014, I still have thoughts about it. The book is available here.
3. Sometimes I look at a painting in my studio and think of a way to make it better. Here is White Chief III, before and after:
4. A friend sent me a photo of this sketch I did in 1985.  Thank you, Pam!
5. Another friend sent me this illustration that really explains things well. Thank you, Deanne!
6. If you want to commission me to draw or paint something in time for Christmas, I can do it if it is small and if you provide good photos (or choose something I have good photos and good solid information about).
7. I thought a painting of a Sequoia was finished and then decided the base of the tree looked like a puffball mushroom. Here is before and after:

   

   

8. #5 might apply to an email exchange I had with someone about some folks (unknown to me) who wanted the Christmas cards I drew and had printed in 1993. They changed their minds because it was too expensive (and I didn’t even charge them for the use of the design nor did they have to pay for the original drawing). This is the design – isn’t it quaint?

And that’s all for today, folks! Consider yourself updated, hopefully in an uncomplicated and entertaining manner.

P.S. Today’s oil painting at Anne Lang’s Emporium