Find a comfortable shady spot to sit with a view you want to paint.

Study the reflection in the river. Note the water surface. Is it smooth, choppy, or wavy? Then make paintbrushstokes on the water that describe the movement in the water. Paint the water a in duller colors then the objects on the shore.

Sketch, erase, sketch, erase, sketch, paint. Don’t give up, don’t expect a perfect painting. You are slowing down, being mindful of your surroundings and creating a memory for yourself. Quit painting before you muck up your picture with too many details. Pack up your art supplies making sure you don’t leave something behind. Head to the tea shop or hotel bar and meet your friends.