I have just returned from S. Tyrol where the apple trees are in full bloom, I am not talking about just one or two orchards but whole valleys and mountainsides covered with flowering trees. The Waalwege ( same as the levadas on Madeira) make for wonderful senior citizen walking. I took lots of photos with the intent of producing a really atmospheric painting ,but somehow I think it will prove too difficult for me in the end. I went to my class on Monday and did two pastel paintings - neither finished yet - I need time to think about them. Still haven't got my Leisure Painter! No doubt due to the ash cloud. BTW - I did win the public's vote and the winner chose one of my paintings as her 'prize' I was mightily chuffed about that! Now Bayern Munich is playing in the Championship League and time for me to leave my two men and go into my cellar ( I know my place!) to paint.