Hello all,

This painting is of Shannon Lake in West Kelowna – only a few minutes away from where our family lives. We would retreat there many evenings to fish, walk, and just enjoy the sunset.

So it seems that kids in school + autumn = painting productivity. Those of you who have checked in with this blog over time have noticed that it sometimes takes me a donkey’s age to produce a new painting. This one was finished off for the most part in one week (with another week used to fuss over it unnecessarily/detrimentally). I am happy to report that I am developing a bit of a “shorthand” where the organization and brushstrokes are concerned. I have taken advice to use a bigger brush for the earlier stages and it helps move things along, keep it “fresher” (ie. less fussy) and think more about movement and mood of the subject instead of the tiny niggling details. Progress!

This being finished also allows me to focus a bit more mental attention on the change of season, which for me means HIKING. Boots and camera are ready, plans are being made. Now just a bit of cooperating weather and I should have some beautiful pictures and resulting paintings to share. For me, its the best time of the year and I feel incredibly happy and lucky to spend it in this place I love with the people I love. And to share it with friends afar, of course! Keep posted…

Wishing you a happy Sunday…

HD