Endings and Beginnings

Photography by Meera Rao 

While considered by the ancient Aztecs to be symbols of purity,

 in today's language of flowers

 red, white or pink poinsettias, the December  flower, 

symbolize good cheer and success

and are said to bring wishes of mirth and celebration. 

So here's to endings and beginnings !

Umbrella Fun

Umbrella Fun sketch by Meera Rao 

As I was getting ready to post this sketch of my granddaughter in her brand new rain gear, I began wondering if the umbrella was first invented by whoever  to protect against the sun or the rain as I used the umbrella often this summer when I was in India to shield me from sun as well as rain.  

Of course, I googled the history of umbrellas. According to that article: "The origins of the umbrella are most probably China in 11th century B.C. although ancient sculptures have been found in Nineveh, Persepolis and Thebes (Egypt) depicting the use of umbrellas. There is also evidence of Umbrellas or Parasols being used at the same period in India. I don't think anyone really knows whether it was first used to hide from the heat or the rain, but I found lots of interesting information about them.  Do click on the colored links and enjoy the history :) 

sharp focus

Sketch of my thumb reflected on a shiny knife blade as I cut a mango

 by Meera Rao

The mind of the painter must resemble a mirror, which always takes the colour of the object it reflects and is completely occupied by the images of as many objects as are in front of it.

Leonardo da Vinci

Earlier in the year looking for ideas for daily sketching I came across many suggestions : draw your thumb, a reflection, sharp edges, a fruit etc.. Of course I could not make up my mind. As always, stalling the decision making I stepped into the kitchen.  Cutting a mango  for lunch suddenly I knew what to do :)