Wings

Roll on summer so we can see some of these . . . although this variety is quite rare in the UK. 
For the illustration friday theme of wings.
© 2013 nicky linzey

Tall

For Illustration Friday this week a drawing of Arundinaria oleosa - a bamboo that can grow up to 30 metres! I have layered one of my foliage photos on top to give depth.
© 2012 nicky linzey

Bliss

I've been busy with work recently so I haven't been very creative for myself and have definitely been very absent from this blog! I went through my photos from the past few weeks and found this picture which I've been meaning to post for ages. I like the contrast of colour and texture between this plant and the corrugated metal background.

It's so easy to fall into the habit of moaning about all the bad things that happen and I catch myself doing this more and more. Why is it easier to do this than noticing the good things? So I love the idea on Aimee's blog of a 'bliss list'.  Anyway my bliss list for the past few days is:

An impromptu lunch and a good laugh with friends
An unexpected cuddle with My Jack Russell (who is not normally very cuddly)
Making a marmalade cake from a new recipe and despite burning the outside, finding 10 minutes later that the inside was still runny, finishing it off in the microwave and icing it while still warm, it actually tasted ok!
Going to bed early to read because I've got a good book on the go
Listening to the radio - Alan Carr going out - he makes me laugh
A chat on the phone with my nephew
Working on a new project and having the ideas accepted straight away

PS - My moaning list would be longer but this one definitely makes me feel better!

Adapt

I suppose all plants, animals, birds and even humans have to adapt to their environment. Plants like these succulents adapt to arrid conditions by storing water in their leaves, they are called Xerophytes.

© 2009 nicky linzey for illustration friday

IF- Time

Every time I see a dandelion clock I have vivid memories of childhood and telling the time by blowing the seeds away. However many 'blows' it took - that was the time. Did you do this too?

© 2009 nicky linzey for Illustration Friday

Climbing

I would love to be able to commission Patrick Blanc to create a vertical garden on my house, then I would have plants climbing all over the walls.

© 2009 nicky linzey for Illustration Friday

olive and blue

I'm amazed that I've got olives on my tree this year. They're a bit wrinkly though so I don't know if I'll pick them.

Stop and stare 6

While walking, we came across these gunera plants - their leaves were massive - if you think the fence posts were over 3 feet in height - it was impossible not to stop and stare. Apparently they grow above the cess pit of the house! Say no more . . .