Old Soldier

Just had my regular eye checkup. While waiting in the exam chair, waiting for the doctor and for the eye drops to do their magic, I noticed this plain-Jane instrument to the side. It won't be required for my visit but it piques my interest. Doc is a very thorough doctor who keeps up to date on the medicinal art and equipment used in the care of the eyes. He keeps updating his equipment and it's not rare to see a new piece show up between visits. This simple black instrument looks to have quite a few years on it. The style of the knobs, the color and aesthetic, etc.  So, this old soldier must do something better than it's newer counterparts.

So I ask, and, sure enough, this old soldier does a better job measuring the curvature of the anterior surface of the cornea. It's a manual keratometer. He feels it does this job better than the newer automatic versions. 

I can't help but see this as a metaphor that growing old may show some out-of-date visual style, yet when it comes down to function, we may still be superior in some ways.

To Remember

 A somber day for me. Three years ago, today, Wilma died. I've been in a funk today and can't focus on anything constructive. So, since I'm thinking of her, I thought I'd sketch something with that theme.

I am holding on to the key fob she used since we were dating 47 years ago. She never was without it. She showed it to me back then and said we had to question authority. That meant we should question what the government says, what the cops say, any authority figure. I tended to be more traditional and not so rebellious but I  loved her for that independent spirit and critical thinking.

She was the best partner and mother to our kids. I'll never forget her.

A Comfortable Place

 The first sketch of 2025! I had a couple things to get in Lawrence. I also have to prepare for a presentation I need to give next week to some land surveyors. Hoping to also have time for a sketch. The Nostalgia Room was recently recommended to me by a friend and she was right. This place has a nice neighborhood vibe and eclectic furnishings. The music is laid back. Two other patrons with others that come and go. 

I settle in and do my studying. Then I have enough time to sketch. Decided to keep it as pen and ink (no color). Some drawings just have that feel. It was a good day. I'll be back.

Drawing with a fude nib fountain pen and Noodlers Lexington Gray ink, text with marker.