#176, "Ebey's Landing", oil, 8"x 16"

I could just as easily name this one "Another Blissful Afternoon." 3 other painters and I went North to Ebey's Landing, an exceptionally beautiful area of Whidbey Island. The grasses and weeds were lovely shades of gold, lavender, green. The water was blue. The sky was pink and blue. The mountains and the mist in the background were magical. To top it all off it was not too hot, nor too cold. Every once in awhile it was a little windy. But hey! The day was perfect and the views in every direction magnificent. I was entranced. I don't often paint real landscapes. I have to say I enjoyed it immensely. What a great excuse to stand in a field and stare at beauty. The Ray for the Day is "Ebey's Landing."

#175 "A Blissful Afternoon", oil, 10"x7"

This Summer I have made a pledge to myself to be outside as much as I possibly can. I have discovered (or rediscovered) that painting outside is pure bliss. It is like sketching, only with oil paint. It's a real two-fer. This sweet scene is in the backyard of my friends Faye and Truman. They were painting somewhere else on the property while I was here. I am most productive when painting with or near other painters. I realized this a few years ago, and it is a major reason for sharing Studio 106 with Faye and Barb. It turns out I don't even have to be able to see them. Just knowing they were there and working felt like company. Creative telepathy?