November is just days away and the idea of having to retreat inside makes me anxious and just twitchy! But, in between raindrops I have managed to paint 3 days in a row! Donning coat and gloves, hat to stay warm, I would not give up this weekend. The rewards were very satisfying if not a little chilly! After about 2 hours working on this scene today I looked up and saw the clouds heavy with the promise of rain. Well, 2 hours was plenty to get this finished, so folding up my gear I dashed for the car. The rain held off for about an hour then let loose! My studio is warm and cozy.... 

The summer is drawing to a close and I always find it so difficult to give up painting outside. I generally succumb because the rain and cold are impossible to deal with but I get in as much painting as I can while the getting is good. This may be my last work for the season, it was a beautiful foggy morning with the sun shining across the valley, orange in the western sky, but this small rural bridge just seemed to call my name. It is done on masonite panel and is only 8x8. I love the reflection of the pillars and the sky in the water. 

Well I continue to find lovely trees to paint, and so this week instead of focusing on the Skagit River I decided this tree was much more interesting. The pinkish distant sky and the high clouds add to the drama of the morning light. Oil on canvas panel- 9x12