Great Fountain Pen for less than $25

If you want a great entry level fountain pen or just an all around good writer then order the Jinhao x450 and put a Goulet Pen Co. No. 6 nib (I prefer the extra fine) on it. This pen is going to remain in my everyday carry for a long time. 

The Jinhao pen I ordered on eBay for less than $5 (including shipping. Don't know how they can do that) It took a while for it to get here because it came from China. I then purchased a Goulet extra fine nib #6 from www.gouletpens.com for $15 plus shipping. What a bargain for a fantastic writer. 

Goulet Pen Company is one of my new favorite fountain pen and ink sites. Go check them out. 

  

Michael Shane Neal and Me

Skeet Sirmons with Michael Shane Neal in Shane's Studio

I had the great privilege and honor to spend Labor Day weekend in Nashville with Michael Shane Neal. I must tell you he is a true gentleman, honorable in every sense of the word and it was an incredible pleasure for me to spend time with him in his studio.

I, along with a dozen other artists, spent time learning about the business of art. There were so many takeaways from the weekend that had to prioritize them all once I made it home and reflected on the weekend. 

I may not have the honor of painting celebrities, congressman, judges or other dignitaries, as Shane has, but I do feel a little more prepared to do the painting I am called and blessed to do.

Thank you Shane for sharing your time and passing on your knowledge. it was a true blessing.