Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow, nor heat, nor mosquitoes..scratch that.

Went for a motorcycle ride today. It was hot. Ran into some redneck bikers at breakfast. Super assholes.  Wondered how much longer I could last here. Tried to imagine living in a civilized environment. Wondered if I would like New York. Remembered I owned a 71-pound dog with no manners.

Came home, went out into the studio. I was done in by something like 8-10 mosquito bites within as many seconds. I don't know what happened. It was a blur. I was at the easel painting. Had just finished applying roughly spraying 6 golden rings on a canvas when I thought my legs were being eaten alive. Couldn't see anything. Started scratching. Didn't think about the oil paint that had gotten on my fingers. Ran inside. Doused my legs in alcohol and witch hazel. Would have thrown acid on them if there was any around. Washed my legs with soap and water. Sat down with the a/c on and ate cherries. Cursed insects. Made fresh-brewed iced tea. Wondered if I would like New York. Remembered I owned a 71-pound dog with no manners.