I stopped in on one of my irregular visits to Maria’s studio – she really doesn’t like visitors while making her art –  and I saw she was drawing a beautiful bee. I know better than to ask an artist what they are working on and why.

They are more superstitious than most writers that I know. Maria was happy to show me this bee, and she didn’t mind my leaning over and taking a picture of it. I didn’t ask any questions, and I expect I’ll be seeing it soon enough in one form or another.

She said she got the idea from a bee who walked across her computer. Maria doesn’t swat or kill insects like that. She talks to them and, if necessary, gets a tissue and gently carries them outside to freedom.

I thought the bee sketch looked great, and I left the studio, followed by some dogs hoping for a ball throwing (too hot). I love going there and always seeing something new and engaging. It’s like having my art gallery in the backyard.

Maria and I greatly respect the privacy and space one needs to create. She will come in here and loudly bray that she is hungry at dinner or lunchtime. Once a week, I peek in to see what she’s doing and bring her some tea or kiss her.

She never minds being interrupted for some tea or a cookie.

I came out to take a photo of Bud in his little kingdom, and her door was open. I keep thinking of the bee.