My hiking excursion from Odzun to Kobayr was cancelled today, due to a forecast of rain. I was not too disappointed, because I know there are so many other things to do, and hopefully the trip will be re-schedules while I am still in Armenia.
Instead, I had some time to read until noon, and then made my way down to my miniature painting class at 1 pm. Painting two hours go by very quickly and enjoyably. (Ani jan, I owe you!) Some students have become very practised and are producing beautiful work. I will probably have the opportunity to attend a few more classes, and will then purchase the watercolours that are used for this type of painting. (They are very smooth and not at all granulated.)
Next, I walked down to the Vernissage to visit the woman from whom I had purchased some Janyak work last week. She gifted me with a how-to book, and told me where I can purchase the string (70 gauge (?) recommended). (Marina, stay tuned!)
Next, I decided to have a meal at Lavash Restaurant (highly recommended). They have TWO kinds of Ghapama: traditional Ghapama made with dried fruits and honey, as well as Erzurum Ghapama which is made with beef and eggplant. I suspected both would be excellent here, but I opted for the sweet version. (Again, Marina, a coup!) The Ghapama was beautifully presented, and the basmati rice, lavash, and dried fruit perfectly done, but I admit I would have enjoyed more of an accent on the aromatic spices.
Feeling very sated, I walked back to the residency, stopping in on the AHA Collective gallery (no one was there), and then at Lovers’ Park for a little sketch. The air is quite breezy, and I am crossing my fingers for good visibility on the Tatev Ropeway tomorrow. It hasn’t rained yet during my stay, and I hope the visibility will be good tomorrow!
Leave a Reply