And now...for something completely different...

I have never been a big still life person, but I have always liked looking at them. I have painted from photo's so much (as an animal artist, it is necessary) that I forgot what unexpected results can happen from painting from life. These are just a few of what I hope will be many to come studies from life...

Lemon #1 6x6 Oil

Habenero #1 6x6 Oil on Hardboard

Arizona!

We just got back from a visit with our dear friends, Leonard and Melinda. We laughed and ate and ate and ate! Did I mention eating? Anyway, one of the fun things we did was ride in Len's mother's cart with her Haflinger, Carmel. We also got the chance to visit a local alpaca ranch, IG Alpacas. John and I have long dreamed of giving up the fast pace life and retire to a ranch and raise these adorable animals. How can you look into this face and not love them??

Melinda gets a kiss...

John gets a ride with Nina and Carmel in her dressage cart.

We had a wonderful time and enjoyed the warmth. When we got home it was in the negative temps, so it was quite a shock to the system. Now it is back to the grind as I have deadlines looming...

If you get a chance, take a look at the www.barIGalpacas.com. John has many wonderful animals and amazing textiles. He does things with his weavings that are just beautiful. Now it is back to the drawing board.

Another successful Turkey Day!!!

This year, John and I spent the Thanksgiving weekend at home. After spending so much time on the road, we decided it would be best to spend it at home with the pets and each other.


Here is our magnificent feast in the raw...at the grocery store on the conveyor belt.
Here, my heroic husband, pulls all the fixins' out of the oven. (With my back out, he did all the cooking, AND all the cleaning. Could anyone ask for a better man???)


The final result...an amazing feast!


Here is the mighty hunter in search of the perfect tree at Goldenman's Tree Farm...
He has bagged his Frasier Fir!!!! All in all, it was a great holiday and we had a wonderful time. I hope yours was filled with as much food, tradition, and laughter as ours was!!!
Now...on to Christmas!!!!

Waterfowl Festival

Well, another year, another show. This year's Waterfowl Festival in Easton, MD was another great show. Despite the weather, thank you Ida, the turnout was very good. I have to thank Barbara Noyes for giving me such a wonderful place to stay during the festival. I had a wonderful room and even some "fur" therapy. Benji (the pooch) and Frannie (the cat) gave me the attention I always miss from my own fur babies when I am on the road.

The beautiful ride into the festival I had every morning...

Barbara's beautiful home in Easton.

"Boo" and Benji, my wonderful hosts.

Thank you so much for your hospitality!

The Rookies

The last painting to be finished before I leave for Easton...whew...all done and one day to spare.