Firstly ,other than saying I won’t do it , I don’t have another option.

And I would like to do it.

I’ve “pixeled it up” and I’ve straightened it up.

Today I spent some time measuring everything and then measuring it again to double check. Quite often my measuring was off.

I’ve watched videos on painting portraits from photos. All of which say use better photos.

There doesn’t seem to be a video on how to use a photo which has few shadows and is now straight up instead of leaning to one side.

However what I haven’t taken into account is that I’ve been painting portraits from photos ( a lot of them rubbishy) for more than 20 years. I can do this……it’s just that my standards have risen and I particularly want to make a good job of this one.

So finally I went shopping and now I can devote all of tomorrow to painting this…..with confidence. ( I hope I’m listening. )

This morning I went to the market which was a bit sparse , probably due to a forecast of rain all day. ( which didn’t happen) I found a perfect longish black shirt to take on holiday.

I’m spending an inordinate amount of time thinking about what to wear. When I go to Scotland I wear something good for travelling and pack my tablet . Everything else is in Katy’s house waiting for me. ( even make up.)

I remembered to take some photos before I went to buy wine.

I’ve just finished decanting 5 litres of wine into 5 bottles.

I feel very rich in wine.

Now for a good evening and night’s sleep so I can paint a very competent portrait tomorrow.

Cheers 🍷🍷