The Perfect Birthday

I'm sitting here reminiscing about my birthday just a few weeks ago. Funny, how my dear hubby was discouraged that he'd not made any big plans (a trip, big dinner out, friends invited, etc) but, for me, this birthday couldn't have been any more perfect.

Roland asked me day-before, exactly what I did want to do and I responded, "Take one of our favorite hikes to Takelma Gorge, eat at either Thai Pepper or Bamboo (consistently fabulous food in Ashland/Medford) and complete the day with my favorite Marionberry Cobbler, from StandingStone Brewery (Ashland too).

The gorgeous day broke with sun, warm clear skies and a gentle mood. We leisurely grabbed our pack, hiking shoes and headed towards Woodruff Bridge on the Rogue River. You can see how lovely the trek was. Still, clean waters. And then when we reached to Gorge, there were two tiny people (well, tiny from across the river) perched overlooking the raging waters at the turn of the Gorge. We lunched on power bars and crisp apples, eventually meandering back to the car with, of course, the frequent pauses while Cody ran down to the river's edge, dunked in to cool off and get a drink, then rush back up to the trail. Fur, water and energy flying everywhere!

When we got home, the mail contained oodles of B-day cards - I was overwhelmed with beautiful friends. I know it's no small assignment getting an on-time card to someone who's birthday is on September 3rd. You have to look way ahead at the calendar to even remember and then, you have to get it off and into the mail, navigating Labor Day Holiday mailing schedules. So I'm WAY impressed. I really am blessed with amazing friendships. Many thanks all of you! And what seems now to have become an annual tradition for my birthday entry in my journal, I've created a collage of sorts, combining various cards. This year it was a trial deciding which to combine and what would fit ... but, this was the final fun result.


Our dinner plans took us to Ashland for - opps - a quick right turn on the way to Thai Pepper and - we ended up at an Indian restaurant. Pleasant - but surely, it can not top my beloved dessert: Marionberry Cobbler! It was sensational!


And that's what makes a perfect birthday for me.

Delicious Studio Day!

With all my show commitments ALL done, I now get to collapse into the space of my studio ~ and create! Yesterday was just one of those such days!

My journal has been calling me with lil unfinished sketches and stories. One was a sketch from when my friend, Lena, was visiting (remember she who arranged her own "Artist's Sabbatical"?). We wrestled with our schedules and finally found a space where we could do a plein air paintout. To make it more simple and do-able we decided to paint in my across-the-street neighbor's fantastic garden. Of all the days Lena was here, it broke with grey skies - but we kept with our plans anyway! I got a very quick sketch started and finished it yesterday. You can see the use of my wax crayons to capture quickly, the position of the flowers and some patterns on the rock pathway. When I got it home all I had to do was dance with my watercolor pigments and - wellah!

Later that same day, Lena treated my hubby and I to a delightful dinner at one of the nicest places in Jacksonville, the Nunan Carriage House Restaurant! You'll see their business card in the lower, right corner of my journal page. We were seated outside on the lovely patio with a 180 degree view down into the Rogue Valley. Lena gave us a sweet, handmade card thanking us for helping her with her dream of this "artist's retreat" - while we were just pleasured by her company and kindness. To be sincere, the company was more rich than the dinner :) Thank you again, Lena!

Also, on the opposite page was the space to document my start in the shared new studio space in Ashland's new "Art Center" (you can see more images and more of the story posted on this blog, dated 8/28/09). I was torn between the distant image of the studio with the new foursome in it - or a close up of the four of us smiling, closeup. To be honest, I'm kinda tired of portraits right now (you can see I've been doing quite a few), so I selected the far away rendition. Actually, I'm kind of fond of this perspective . . . it allows me to see how small us lil women look in that big space.

When I get the next photo , you'll see how easy it was to fill the area. I mean, now, we almost look crammed in there! There is also the interim challenge I'll tell you about in solving the "sun" problem. But that's another story . . . so til later, I'm heading back to the studio to play some more. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the cave of creating . . . here I come!

A Seattle Getaway

The most recent adventure . . . well, at least most recent out of our state of Oregon . . . was a trip to Seattle, Washington. It appears to have become a yearly trek up to see the Yankees (my hubby is an avid fan and I love Derek Jetter) play the Mariners and I get to visit my favorite museum there, The Bellevue Art Museum and undecided galleries. A nice balance.

The first day there, we nest into our lodging (The Coast Bellevue Hotel - don't stay there!!, I'll elaborate later) and go to, what may seem like a silly yearning for dining out in a big city with alot of variety, a restaurant that resembles "Fresh Choice". It's a Bay Area restaurant chain that serves up a cafeteria-style salad bar, with soup, breads and dessert varieties too. There's nothing like that here in our area for us "salad lovers", so it's a reeeeeeeeeeeeal treat for us to find "Zuppa". They even have a patio, so Cody can join us in the fresh evening air. A nice welcome to Seattle.

I found it peculiar that, in the parking lot of our hotel, there were signs posted every 20 feet saying, "Park at your own risk, we are not responsible for . . . blah, blah, blah" - you get the idea. When we woke the next morning and Roland took Cody out for an early walk, a vehicle just down from our window had had it's driver's side window smashed out! Yikes! Ok, don't focus on fear, focus on "safety and protection surrounding" . . . and that's what I do for the next two days. I have to tell you that even though every night another car was broken into for the duration of our stay, our's remained safe. Untouched. But I can guarantee you, that we will never stay there again :)

So, we are off for a few relaxed errands and our morning tea/coffee at the lovely Whole Foods Store we discovered just up our street. A beautiful day as we eventually head over towards Safeco Park to fulfill our plan. What we found last year was that we parked very near the attendant's booth and the gentleman working there was so kind as to keep an eye on our vehicle with Cody in it, for the time we were at the game. We found another equally (actually more so) kind gent and parked.

Our afternoon was walking, taking in the old architecture and outdoor sculpture of Seattle. As you can see, Roland has to play the "card" in front of this one. When a thunderstorm danced through the city, we took refuge under the covered walkway of the Quest Field, then, safely tucked Cody in with water & a treat, and headed off to the game. My thrill was that Derek played that evening (what a beautiful role model for other players AND children!) - for Roland, that the Yankees won.

Next day was "Art Day" and we drive first to downtown Bellevue. The Bellevue Art Museum (http://www.bellevuearts.org/) is located there and, as always, they have the most exquisite work showing. The large shows are Judy Hill (http://www.bellevuearts.org/exhibitions/current/judy_hill.htm), doing figurative sculptures delving in psychological studies, and Michael Peterson's amazing wood creations (http://www.bellevuearts.org/exhibitions/current/michael_peterson.htm). But I have to say my favorite, hands down was Kate Clark's work (http://www.kateclark.com/index.html). These stuffed animals were so striking with their human-like heads, I couldn't take my eyes off them. To keep them from being so completely human she has patterned the faces with stylized patterns. Her mission was to have us feel how even though we fear the wild animals there is within us an essence of just exactly that. I found them beautiful and startling, especially with how much I cherish the deer who wander through our backyard home. I felt I was being drawn into an inner rapport of some unknown kind. Very mesmerizing!

We returned to downtown Seattle for our cruise of various galleries. Some just amazing creativity going on, the most inspirational was found at the "artXchange Gallery" featuring Deborah Kapoor (http://www.deborahkapoor.com/index.html). My secret yearning is to do encaustics and this woman's pieces in the show, "breathing in, breathing out" took this medium to a totally new level for me. Not only had she mastered the 2-D painting aspect, but she traveled successfully to sculpture too! She created free floating thin wax cylinders which she transformed into wall pieces and another suspended the same cylinders between small, open frames with text carved into the wax (how can one do that, with a hot needle?!?!). Anyway, I came away fascinated, motivated and happy with the art experience in Seattle.

We had discovered a Bellevue park that was like a deep, relaxing breath in the midst of a busy city. It had lush trees circling a waterway, which held hands with its' accompanying walkway. This all encircled a huge breadth of green grass and it was where we'd ended our evenings, walking in the city.

So, I'll close with that deep, restful breath filling me with gratitude for being alive with all the vivid parts of living we are offered. But . . . only if we take part.

A Busy, Busy Journal Entry

A flurry of life has been fluttering in around me . . . yes, blessings all, but, none-the-less chewing off big hunks of my time. So, although my blog and you, my dear followers, may appear forgotten, you are not. Nearly, daily, I think of things I want to share. But the process of doing, painting, photo-ing, getting to the computer (hurrah, I'm now adept at using the laptop, and no longer have to wait for my hubby to be off the computer!!) loading and fixing images and sitting down to talk with you all. WELL, I'm here, yippieeeeeeeeeee, and I've got a bursting-full-Journal page to share with you.

Way back from August 8th, I'd started and slowly finished the sketch, begun while I participated in the Shady Cove Riverwalk Art Show. It was a lovely weekend with lots of people. My site was just across from the soothing Rogue River. Although I had a fellow artist between me and the river, I "erased" his curtains and filled in the river reflections for you to enjoy. That's the image in the upper left of the journal page.

Next, I wanted to fill the window I'd saved for Shakira. When one of my other "Women's Mexico Retreat" participants arrived in the area for her month long "Artist's Sabbatical", she brought her beautiful dog, Shakira. This dog has the most gorgeous eyes, almost like she'd heavily applied maskara and eyeshadow, as well as eye liner. She was just the most sweet, pleasant animal to have around and even Cody, our fickel Golden Retreiver, found Shakira to his liking too. In fact, Roland spent several days enjoying two pups company while Lena and I played (thank you, Dear Roland!) I had to paint her portrait. She began like this . . . and with more hours, she completed like this . . .

The final image I wanted to remember and capture was actually a triple portrait. Yes, a big assignment, but I'm jumping into challanges seems these days! So here I go - - feet first. Bonnie, the other of the Mexico Retreat participants AND now, my studio-mate too, was having a gallery grand-opening. So Lena, the "mother of Shakira" and I planned to surprise Bonnie at her gallery event. Lena slid in smoothly, only to totally surprise Bonnie and a sweet reunion ensued.

The trio here is Bonnie, Lena (center) and me. I could nit-pick, "shadows in Lena's face need softening, the left side of my jaw needs softened and brought in" and on and on but, it's done! You understand :)

So for now, I'm anticipating being more available for the blog updates . . . and I'll aim at more frequent posts. I'm just loving your feedback and, believe me, not matter if you have a comment full of opinions and suggestions - or - if you just want to zip me off a note to say "hi" and let me know you are reading my posts, I treasure every comment.

Now, go off and revel in the amazement of our lives and - oh -be sure to be grateful for our blessings. That way, they are guarantee to multiply. Til later . . .

Exciting NEW Studio Space ~ "Studio 8"

It all started with a friendly call from one of the local ladies who'd attended my "Women's Mexico Retreat" for Journaling and Watercolor Sketching. We'd kept in touch after we both got home from Mexico and had had coffee and I'd attended her gallery's "Grand Opening". Bonnie was calling to tell me she is gathering, hopefully, four women artists to share a 255 square foot working studio space.

This space is on the second floor of the newly acquired Provost Building, by the Ashland Art Center (http://store.ashlandartisangallery.com/prostores/servlet/StoreFront) for a fantastic art hub for Southern Oregon. I've been first onboard Denise Baxter's (now the Executive Director) trail when she invited me to show in her gallery around two years ago. Shortly after Denise began representing me, she launched off into her dream of starting up non-profit that benefited artists, community and patrons alike. Over many months of hard work, finding an appropriate building, raising funds (in this economy!!), this dream moved into this old furniture building, Spring of 2009, and began refurbishing. October is the Grand Opening but, it's up and functioning n-o-o-o-o-w!!! Part of the income guaranteed to the Art Center will come from the entire second floor where somewhere around 13 different fantastic artists have rented the working, open-to-the-public studios. That, my friends, is where Bonnie comes back in!

I'm initially tentative with Bonnie's invite to hop aboard creating this foursome but . . . Cody (our sweet golden retreiver) & I take a drive (about 25 minutes worth) into Ashland to take a look at the space. The energy is quiet, warm and positive. I'm pleased to see how Cody responds to the place (see photo) by spreading out like a "puppy rug", completely relaxed and at peace. Next, the full foursome planned to meet, to talk over space division. I felt comfy with two of the three ladies, those two I'd met and had warm, mutual relationships with before. One I'd not met before.

The signing of our lease was hurried up, when Denise told us others were looking at the very same space. So, all of us, Bonnie, Thalia (http://www.thaliakeple.com/), Lindsey and I, gathered last Sunday, August 23rd, and we signed in agreement. Here we are gloating new owners of "Studio 8". I have to admit, this is the first time, in any photo, where I've been the tallest in the group. Well, just another new experience coming my way. I'm really excited and the more "neighboring" artists I meet, the happier I am with my decision. These are all devoted, talented and warm people aiming at making this space physically, creatively and financially a success.

At this stage, we are furnishing and deciding necessary working, storage, display and teaching space, lighting and furniture. Lindsey and Thalia are amazing jewelry artists and will work hand in hand, sharing tools, storage and display space. Bonnie has a plethora of extra furniture for our half (the painter side of "Studio 8") and I was struggling with finding a work table. But the Universe has a delicious way of answering needs when you take that "leap" (haven't I talked about that "leap" somewhere here before?). So, just last Thursday, when I was at my monthly Critique Group, one of our members, who has lately experienced some big health challanges, announces he's going to be getting rid of furniture and books in his studio. Everyone, first-come, first-serve, is welcome to come check it out. Long story short, I got my beautiful work table: a 36 x 55 inch drafting table!

So, I can't wait to see what else the Universe has in stock for me. I'm envisioning swarms of sales, full and delighted classes and a new dedication to committed, longer, more focused hours of creativity. Join me in turning around the verbage and outlook for artists in this economy. I'm ready - - how about you? Think about what "leap" you can take, knowing you are deserving and guided. It's an amazing ride . . .

Escaping the Heat

We have been having a run on "hot" weather, like five consecutive days over 100 degrees and the two previous days were 99. So, we began to seek out the cool coastline of Oregon, now in the 60s or low 70s, for refuge.


My hubby had researched some camping sites and we hooked up the camper and were off. When we got to the city of Brookings, the temperatures were f-a-a-a-a-r-r-r-r-r more comfortable. Unfortunately, many other people, either in retreat from heat or on vacation, were occupying the camping sites we'd hoped to fill. So farther up the coast we meander. Once thru Gold Beach, we turn right just before the bridge spanning the Rogue River and head upstream. Of the several campgrounds available, none were what we were wanting and we made a U-turn back towards Gold Beach.

I prodded Roland to turn into the odd little campground named "Secret Camp" and it turned out to be a charming, privately owned place! Well kept, nicely landscaped, personalized (yes, nature posters framed in the bathroom) and some privacy for each site. We jumped at site #16. We were backed up to a fern forest, delighted with sprinkles of sunshine most of the day and humored by the "No Parking, Except for Donna" sign by the registration office. For a treat, we took to the "city" and happened upon a delicious dinner (recommend by Donna, the camp owner) at "Spinners". And enjoyed the next episode of "Big Love" on the laptop before we curled into crisp, refreshing night air for slumber. Even Cody, our sweet Golden Retriever, got chilly enough to join us up on the bed before morning.
We woke to hazy fog and delicious temperatures - exactly what we'd desired. After breakfast, we'd planned to go swimming in the river, so headed upstream a bit more for sunshine. Well, we got excited and launched into this mission to go see the much talked about town of "Agnes". This took us upstream, past lovely river curves, tee-pees along the bank and, I know you'll laugh, back into temperatures of 100 as we reached "Agnes"!!! We relished a fruit smoothie, caught the mist from "mister" on the porch of the local store (the ONLY building in town besides the post office!) and beat feet back towards cooler surroundings. About half way back to the coast we spied a pebbly beach and dawned out swim suits. For probably and hour we lavished in the cool water, watching the grey heron across the river from us, waving at the "tour boats" that travel up the river and savoring our quiet, pleasant spot. Along the winding road next to the river we glimpsed many Osprey nests high in the dead trees, as well as their young inhabitants.


Once back to the coast, we headed to the coast hiking trail, part of the Pacific Coast Trail, which can be accessed many places along the drive around Brookings. We turned at the first one, since it was getting early evening, and caught views like this on our short trek. Our evening nourishment was sandwiches and reading aloud of a sweet lil book (one of my honey's favorite, shhhhhhh, don't tell him I told you) entitled, "I Heard the Owl Call My Name". And we drifted off to dreams of living among the native peoples and nature.


Ok, our escape from the heat had come to an end . . . we needed to head back inland . . . but postponed it as long as we possibly could. We stopped up Highway 199 at the "Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park" where Roland swam, Cody snoozed in the shade and I did the above sketch in the afternoon sun. It was a calming preface to the oppressive heat (we saw 111 degrees on a bank sign) of the Illinois Valley and Grants Pass. Pleasantly, we rolled into our dear J-ville, where temps were only 99 and heading into evening cooling.

A Missed Appointment = Artist's Playtime

My how time flies ... I have been busy AND painting too. Here's just a quick entry from my journal for July 23rd.

I'd had plans to meet one of the fun ladies who'd participated in my Women's Mexico Retreat (see: womensmexicoretreat2009@blogspot.com) just to catch up and talk artist talk. Those of you artists out there know what I mean :) ! We've been having such hot days (five consecutive with over 100 degrees and the two previous days were 99 degrees) that we wanted to meet early. So I arrived around 9:20 and got my Chai Tea, nestled into a comfy table with a charming view . . . and waited . . . and waited . . . and waited. About 9:45 I decided to pull out my trusty journal and start a sketch while I waited.

I'd picked a enchanting view of ole' feeling and cozy, stuffed furniture, skirted by the oval table. I got along in the sketch well . . . in the interim, I'd called my second appointment to see if we could meet early . . . and when she called back, I had to conclud my sketch. I'd just started some watercolor washes, so let them dry, finished up my tea. And trotted on my merry way.

I did finish up my sketch later at home (luckily I had my swell digital camera along with me and had shot a couple of images) and, yes, my artist friend and I DID finally get to meet a week later and had a delicious time rambling and cajoling for over two hours. "What do those women talk about", the guys ponder! :) They will never know!

Just a plug here for A-L-W-A-Y-S having your journal (or some creative potential) tucked along with you when you go anywhere. My dear journal made this missed appointment turn into a lovely memory and a chance to work on my still life sketching skills.

Happy trails are you delightful, life-enhancing creatives!

Three Day Camping Escape - Finally!

I can't even count how many times my very patient husband had asked, "When can we go camping?" Nor how many times I had something on my "plate" that just wouldn't give me a three day break and still have me give full measure to commitment. But finally, I knew I just had to skip a planned 'plein air' paintout with PASSO, http://www.pas-so.com/, "Plein Air Society of Southern Oregon", in addition to a memorial service for a dear artist friend. Besides, I knew my friend would have preferred me out living life more fully by being out in nature, than staying inside telling her how much I respect and love her. She knows that already. Ok, we're going camping!!!


My husband had been researching this divine area up just past Diamond Lake heading towards Roseburg along the North Umpqua. With many lakes, numerous waterfalls, plentiful hiking trails and countless camp grounds, it beckoned with all we love. He'd settled in on Lake Lemolo where our campsite was right on the lake. Arriving on Wednesday gave us the pick of sites and a quiet seldom present during weekends.


Our full day's stay had a mile and a half hike planned, with the reward of the spectacular 72 foot Lemolo Waterfall at the end. The hike in was a shade sprinkled decline and about three quarters of the way down, we could hear the roar of the waterfall. When we turned to corner, we began to get glimpses of it thru the trees. I immediately "knew" what I was going to sketch. There was only one prefect "sitting" rock and I landed, pulling out my journal. Roland got a sweet shot of me painting. The 'boys' went off to go play down under the waterfall in the full rush of the mist. After about a hour and a half I'd finished my sketch. I'm pretty pleased - for a quick sketch! I joined 'my boys' down at the foot of the intense waterfall, chilly mists and taiko-like drums pounded at the base. It was breathtaking! The hike back to the truck was more difficult but went quickly. Along the trail I picked up a fallen Azalea. Yes, wild Azalea's I'd been flabbergasted to see along these rugged trails, and brought her home to be honored in my journal.

Our afternoon was more touring of the area: the Lemolo Store and several campgrounds around the lake. We took a left turn after going over the Lake's dam, checking out the other 'higher' trail going to the Lemolo Falls but found a warning sign that it was flooded, waist deep, farther down. Never mind. We leisured at our campsite and dinnered on a fruit salad and a good book we enjoy reading to one another. During the night we were awoken a couple of times by dancing rain drops on our roof. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh, nature!

It was hard to leave this perfect scene - but our plans for our return home day were to sample 4 or 5 more waterfalls and peruse other potential campgrounds en route to Roseburg. The first we stopped at proved to be our VERY FAVORITE - Clearwater Falls! It's a wide water tumble over green rocks and fallen trees - that is beautiful in itself - BUT - above it were extensive shallow, clear pools (much like beaver dams form, but this was a result of the ridge of the waterfall), with a lovely diverse 'painting' in each. We wandered for quite awhile ... then on to all the other waterfalls and many, many campgrounds. My husband has voted for his favorite - the one with hot showers and he has offered to stay for a week. Now you and I are witnesses!!! So if he backs out, I'm calling you, k?

We had a strange deli dinner in Roseburg and an ice cream treat just before we hopped back on Highway 5 to head south back to our Jacksonville. When I got home, I proceeded to finish up my journal page entry, with this view of the Clearwater Falls. Here's the full double page spread, with a zippy sketch I did the first night of camping at Lemolo Lake off to the top left. Love having a full, wide spread of an event or scene, it encompasses me again, much like being back at the site. Hope you get the feel too and enjoy even half as much as I did.

Don't we live in paradise?

Birthday Portrait

I'm especially pleased with this small entry into my journal. For my husband's birthday, it's always a challenge to invent or surprise him - he's just TOO aware. So, this year I'd plotted dinner reservations at a nearby, yes, only about 7 blocks from our doorway. Now I knew he knew I knew, (whew!) that he badly wanted to eat there. So how in the world can I make this a surprise him?

Days before, he was talking to his sister and was bragging about the one time I'd blindfolded him to drive him over 2 hours over mountains, to a surprise weekend at lodging on the California Coast. Ah-HAH!!! The ole blindfold trick! So that is exactly what I did and blindfolded, I drove him in a huge circuitous route, finally ending at the Carriage House at the Nunan Estate. They have exquisite food, by the way, here in Jacksonville, Oregon!!

Anyway, to remember that fun evening I did a small sketch in my journal and - poof - one of those "muse" magical moments - it turned out exact, quick and charming! Here's the beginning watercolor sketch and the finished project. Also, I'll share the full spread where this lil' fits onto the page.

Love to hear your feedback - as always. See, sometimes that lil' quick piece turns out to channel the perfect energy! Again and again, I understand why I love journaling.

Mt. Shasta Lavender Farm

We started early in the morn, to get all the way down to the Mt. Shasta area by 9-ish. The recent class I taught (an 8 day time period, with 3 meeting times) had opted to go paint out at the blooming lavender fields rather than meet in the classroom. When we left Ashland, Oregon it was a grey, cool day, but as soon as we passed into California, the sun was brilliant. The perfect day for outdoor painting.

We arrived just after the Lavender Farms opened and toured the area, snapping photos and envisioning where we'd what to start our plein air sketches. In the charming French style shop, we were greeted with the smell of lavender filling the room and a cup of lavender-lemonade, with a lavender swirl stick!

On the walls they have showing various renditions of other artists images of the purple fields. One was a photo which may have used filters for it's effects, but I devoured the deep orange earth color and the late evening shadows - they were so strong and vibrant. And although the day was bright, light and breezy, you can see the sketch I ended up with mimicked those colors AND time of day.

We settled about center of the lavender rows and savored the bees humming and birds flitting from spot to spot. The magnificent Mt. Shasta pontificated over the entire scene and each of the class participants got varied renditions filled with self-expression and use of varied media.

And although we'd planned on leaving around 1pm, it was after 3pm when we'd finished our second cup of the lavender-lemonade and eaten our treat, a shared bag of shortbread cookies.

The day ended with weary artists but, many terriffic images, both mental and digital, to proceed with other paintings. I'm chewing on returning to the Lavender Farm to catch the lavender more full in bloom and to see it late in the day. I mean, how many times can one visit a goregous place? My answer ... endless times!!!

Siskiyou Field Institute Area

With many other commitments completed, I'm playing in my journal. This catch up is especially delicious ... just hanging in my studio on these hot (yes, in the 100 degree arena) days re-living joyous trips and events of the past couple of months.

This one is from a trip we took up towards Cave Junction to camp. Our campgrounds were adjacent to Lake Selmac. Initially, the lake appeared lovely but with time, we found the mosquitoes and the dead fish (in the lake and on shore) didn't created a scenic walk. But that didn't spoil our trip. We had seen an article in the Medford Tribune just the previous day, mentioning a "Siskiyou Field Institute" and the wonderful things they were doing near Selmac, Oregon. So, shoot, where is this place - and - we finally find it. Just up the road a bit from our camping site, we are introduced to this fabulous facility. Currently they are hosting a small conference but, they accommodate other local activities and nature oriented classes. Not to mention the amazing valley that spreads wide it's arms, encompassing this warm, modern facility with dormitory-like, yurt and tent camping offerings. I just had to pull up a chair and paint the huge meadow and gaping blue skies. What a refreshing afternoon.

I gathered the names and contacts for future use, just in case I get the opportunity to teach one of my "Journaling Classes" there. It does pay to think ahead.

Later in the day we took a drive, in the direction of cooler temperatures, more near the coast, to Cave Junction where we checked out the Oregon Caves National Monument (http://www.oregoncaves.com/). The thirty mile drive up to the caves is cool and green as you climb upward. A curving, shaded drive, where we dropped into several other camp sites (for future possibilities) gave us glimpses of the Illinois River. The Lodge there is fascinating - a real glimpse into history and charm. And it's still in use, with a clear, tempting pond just next to it.

If you get the chance - check out the caves. Although we didn't take the tour (dogs aren't allowed and Cody was with us), we did get the feel of the cool cave just standing at the exit from the cave. On a hot day - nothing could be better. Happy trails!

A Day at the Vineyard

I'm in two plein air painting groups, one of which, named PASSO (Plein Air Society of Southern Oregon) had planned a paint-out, show and sale at the local Eden Vale Winery for the 7th of June. We arrived early to thinly veiled sun, got set up and by the time we started painting, the day was gorgeous. You can see here, my peer artist, Linda Evans, an amazing pastel artist, painting in the foreground, just in front of my lil' green booth that I'd set up.

We'd visited there weeks before and for the paint-out I had a plan - to try out this NEW idea I had that bounced up from doing my small 5x5x1.5 inch watercolor paper wrapped stretcher bar pieces. I'd purchased a similar sized 5x5 stretcher bar format, only it was 3 inches deep. I'd envisioned wrapping the entire "box" in watercolor paper, having the image go all around the piece with it sitting on a table. More of an "art object" than a hanging wall piece.

With that in mind, I laid out the format before arriving, plotting where I need paint my visuals, and where would be folded around the corners. Here's the piece I completed that day, with which I was pretty happy. But I needed to create the back side of the "box" and later designed this sketch, another view at the Eden Vale Winery, to fit perfectly on the back space.

So, ok, I have all the images complete and materials ready to wrap the watercolor paper around my box. It's stressful doing this first time thing, especially because I had to wet thoroughly the back of these two paintings in order to stretch the paper over the box. When the paper dried, it would contract, making a nice firm fit over the stretcher bars. I work meticulously and as fast as I can . . . and here's my resulting piece.

Overall, this turned out satisfactory. I learned alot about wrapping this shape, placing the 'feet' and forming a continuous image around a piece. I'm hoping to do more, especially for specific venues. I think perhaps these are charming momentos for travelers as well as quality art work.

What's your opinion/feedback? You know I'd love to hear . . .

Next New Lil' Painting

The continued work on small pieces has given birth to this strong piece. I thought perhaps this painting would be good to use as an example of how effective liquid frisket is and how it is softened and finished.

Here, on the left, I've already applied the liquid frisket ("Pebo" is my favorite brand). In fact, applying the frisket is what I do right after finishing the tracing or sketching of my image. I've already painted, glazed and completed a good level of detail at this point and am ready to pull off the frisket. You can see evidence of a few places I've just begun to remove the frisket (it's a mid-value gray color) in the top right quadrant.

In the finished piece you can see where the frisket has been removed. The hard edge whites that are revealed have been softened with a mildly damp brush edge and many whites in dark areas have been glazed in Aureolin Yellow to create glows.

The final stage involves darkening shadow areas and balancing colors. In greens I've put sparks of red (the compliment to green) and along the closed poppy pedals, I've used green shadows to bring the pedal tips forward as well as bring some green into the dense orange areas. This helps unite and balance the piece.

This dynamic image was inspired by my neighbor, Pat's, parade of orange blossoms that dance in front of her home all the month of May. There may be another parade of paintings coming because I really enjoyed the simplicity with such striking results. Hope you enjoy her too.

As usual, would love your feedback - AND - again, I'd love ideas for a title. So far, all I've come up with is "Pat's Poppies". Too many "p" sounds for me. Let's keep thinking, ok?

Latest Lil' Painting

I have been back to work. I smile as I say that, "work" sounds so heavy and daunting. My work is a joy and a privilege - so let's re-define that word, ok?!? I began this lil painting on site, "plein air" with my group, PAS-SO, Plein Air Society of Southern Oregon, (http://www.pas-so.com/). We went to the lovely Eden Valley Orchards & Winery (http://www.edenvalleyorchards.com/) where the beautiful Voorhies Mansion is located. This painting is from the vantage point offered by standing on the mansion front porch in the morning sun. It was gorgeous!! And, of course, I've exaggerated color and value! That's the speciality of being the artist :)


I'm painting for a local show in Ashland, "Art in the Garden, Art in the Home" coming up June 12- 14th. I visited the venue last year and was charmed by the two home sites, perched atop one of Ashland's mountain hillsides and offering magnificent vista views. The show moves between the two houses with artwork in both interior and garden portions. I'll be inside, looking out windows that peer out upon the entire valley.


Right now, I'm focusing on smaller pieces. I just yesterday finished this watercolor/wax crayon piece on watercolor paper stretched over 2" deep stretcher bars with 5 x 5 inch dimensions. I love these small pieces, especially the way the image wraps around the sides and top. Painting the pieces is rather delicious too! It's like holding a tiny world on your fingers (because I hold the piece up to rotate by inserting four fingers of my left hand into the small square box formed on the back by the thick stretcher bars) and maneuvering the piece as I paint on the different planes. Not to mention the bleeding of the pigment around to the back - you won't believe how much paint I get upon myself :)


Anyway, here's the lil gem. I'm toying with titles, so if you have a suggestion - just sent it to me. AND - by all means, give yourself the gift of getting out into this gorgeous Spring!!!

Beloved Friend's Passing

Some things aren't my favorite to talk about, and although this is one I'd prefer left out of daily chatterings, I want to converse about this one . . . a friend's passing. One of the most painful times on our lives is at the death of a dear one. At best, it occurs when our friend is not well and we can console both ourselves and the memory of our loved one, that, at least they no longer are uncomfortable/in pain.

So if I can begin this on an upbeat, it would have to come from that angle. My dear friend of over nearly forty years (yikes, I did meet her when I was maybe nineteen!?!), had suffered with MS for the past twenty years. She was a brave, spirited soul with, this is her husband's word, a streak of "hardheaded". But in the end, Ovarian Cancer, far advanced when it was discovered (she probably thought it just another symptom of her condition) and she went quickly.

I was saddened not to get down to see her physically before she left, but, I drove down for the funeral ceremony. I'd not seen her nor her husband or family for several years. Moving away does that. But I was SO glad I went.

I felt awkward at first, coming at a time of such intimate feelings, yet having not seen the family in years. But friendship and love soon took over and dining with friends and my friends' sister brought me very much present. It was like being with wonderful ole friends - with a bitter sweetness in the air.

Her sister and I collaborated to finish up a photo collage of Debra's life. It really did rush in a flood of memories - even some so full of love I tear up thinking about them. Some of their honeymoon in Paris, I'd never even seen - she looked so very happy. The collage turned out perfect (although the tablecloth will never be the same), ready for the gathering the next day after the funeral. But the being there, being able to share in those delicate moments putting the photos together, going thru her l-a-a-a-a-r-g-e collection of shoes to give away or the quiet, emotional conversation over the next morning's coffee and helping with rides, touched my heart.
For friends and for the love shared in a friendship, the essence of being there, being present, being together furnishes some kind of healing salve. In no matter how painful the situation, the presence of love calms, cushions. I was so blessed to have been there, and I'm surprised to say, I wouldn't have missed it.

The next few days after I arrived home were difficult. I kept repeating and reliving the sad moments during my visit, even though my heart felt a quiet calm around the transition of my friendship. My personal memoriam came with the entry into my journal, painting my favorite image of them in Paris. A couple weeks later I received a sweetly settling "thank you" note from my friend's husband. I'd painted a commissioned watercolor for Debra, of a rose, her favorite flower, many years ago. And in that "thank you" note, the revelation that he would keep the painting, as well as keep it hanging in their bedroom, let me know again, how much he loved my friend. And there again was that magical "love" word. Amazing the power of that energy given the name "love".

In the end ... that word, rather, that energy, that feeling was all that mattered. And that's all.

The Trip Created During a Lifetime

This adventure has been a year in the planning. Birthed from a dream I've gestated for nearly 10 years, I am NOW making my dreams come true (hint,hint: you can do it too!). I'd mentioned to a friend, who I'd watched grow thru the pain in her life to graduating with a professional degree in counseling, that I'd like to do a tandem workshop. Finally, all these years later, with both of us having much more experience in our fields, we undertook fulfilling that dream I'd seen in my heart's eye 10 years previous.


April 10, I left to instruct my first international "Women's Mexico Retreat" in Manzanillo, Mexico. The aforementioned friend, Damaris, and I converged the next day and detailed the presentation, placement and logistics of our co-instructed class. I'd focus in the journaling, watercolor technique and design aspects, Damaris would present Mandala exercises and introspective perspective generated from the mandalas and Buddhist meditation. It was going to be a delicious intermingling of creativity & self-exploration.

The week plus retreat began with a "Welcome Dinner" on Sunday evening and continued thru the week, ending on Friday. We included painting techniques, creating stamps, adding WC pages to your journal, abstract emotion painting, and a sampling of mandala creations. Three of our days were spent away from the classroom at: a local Mexican beach, local bus ride to downtown "Centro" and a chauffeured trek north to a smaller town for market day and beach sketching. Our evening shared a variety of dining experiences and coffee/dessert back at the condo was when we took our "talking stick" time to share our own individual stories. All these activities wove a beautiful connection among all of us women. In fact, on my "Retreat Critique" sheet, one participant commented what she liked best about the retreat was that she "connected with everyone and didn't want it to end".

My aim was exactly that, to weave an intimacy, coupled with experiencing "real Mexican" life and dedicated creative/learning self-expression. Although I felt a ripple of resistance to walking a--l--l the way down the beach to a day among Mexican families celebrating Easter Weekend on the beach or taking a bus ride (when a taxi could have been so much more comfortable) to "Centro", I did hear one participant say she was pleased to have "gotten" the feeling of the different culture to which she'd been exposed.

Don't get me wrong, I got my share of lessons too. One was around a situation I could have never predicted and - just had to let go of any expectations (you know those things we get into trouble with if we haven't made everything we'd like people to understand, understood beforehand). Next class/retreat I know to make agreements and confront any mixed messages ahead of time. The other big lesson is around setting boundaries and sticking to them when they are healthy. And that one is hard for this "people pleaser" but, I am learning and growing. AND - I never what to stop doing that. I also had some problems with art materials that I couldn't have predicted and was reminded to allow more time for mingling and conversation that always seems to occur (thank goodness) with women.

All in all, my adventure of watching, visualizing and affirming has paid off. Not to mention a year of planning advertising, contracts, art material and class preparation, of course. But I can't tell you the rewards ... I'm still discovering them. I feel more powerful, have a direction I'm loving and have some measure of the work and dedication with which I must muster up.

I can only encourage you, to take chances, follow YOUR dream and leap into a new world that's been waiting for you all along. AND - if you'd like a day-by-by walk thru the actual "Women's Mexico Retreat" go to: http://womensmexicoretreat2009.blogspot.com/