On a recent business trip to Germany, I had a spare evening in Old Town (Dusseldorf).  Having visited twice before, I knew the spot to paint.

A canal right next to a little bistro where George could sample `some of the "alt" beer Dusseldorf is famous for.

The sun was setting across the town casting lovely shadows on the canal.

I turned around when I felt someone staring at me.  It was a small Japanese child, about 5 or 6.  She was patiently watching me with a shy smile playing across her little face.  I returned the smile and went back to my easel.

A moment later I felt another gaze.  A Japanese woman was standing behind he little child, who explained that her daughter loved art.

I congratulated her on the little girl's patience and manners, and went back to my easel.

Still another gaze joined the crowd, and this time I wish I had used my camera.  Standing behind the little girl and her mother, was the Japanese grandmother.  Her hair was wound up in a traditional Japanese style, secured with the sticks they use.  She had a full kimono in glorious aquamarine, and a face like a stone. Completely without emotion, she watched my every stroke on the paper.

Slightly unnerved I carried on... and soon the little troop melted away behind me.

I'm planning to finish this piece in my studio - such good memories!