The persistent waves become my friend. They do not take a break.
They roar
gently
A constant reminder of their presence so that you don’t feel alone.
The crash
Releases mist and salt, rusting all metal inside the seaside home
beautifully.
At the crack of dawn
Brown pelicans fly low, just above the waves
smooth
Compression gliding.
I’m far, far, far away from Chicago. This New Year’s Eve it’s me and the sea. I cannot do a seaside sunrise justice in watercolors. This flatland Illinoian is out of her element. But it matters not for when I look at that sketch… years from now I’ll smell the salt of the sea.
As an artist, the palette of house colors along the coast brings me joy.
When I arrived it was sunset. The power of the Atlantic vibrated through my skin as I stood on the cold wet sand. I immediately started praising the Lord. His works are glorious.
He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them – He remains faithful forever.
Psalm 146:6
May God bless you and your family in 2022.
Christine
Let's Paint Nature! 
Thank you for your good wishes for 2022 as well as John 16:33, I wish we could spread this to all the naysayers!
Amen 😊 His word is alive and can work on many hearts!
Good new years eve morning! I have followed your blog and emails off and on for years and you always make me smile. I am on the west coast of Canada on Vancouver Island. I admire how you consistently go out and paint your surroundings. I need this in my life but I just seem to let life get in the way….what do you take out with you on your hikes to make it possible to sketch and paint? Sending you blessings and wishing you a healthy happy New Year. Jean
Hi Jean! Thanks for the kind comments and well wishes for the new year! I try to bring as little as possible when going out to sketch. Essentials: watercolor sketchbook, pencil, watercolor field kit (dried pan colors that you can use over and over), a couple watercolor brushes, a cup, and water, and paper towel or cloth. Sometimes if you don’t have time to get out and hike, sketching from your car works too. I’ve done that plenty of times when I was short on time. Just find a beautiful place like a park or even trees in the cemetery are great subjects. You can always take pictures of beautiful places and sketch from the comfort of home. Have fun above all else!! Happy New Year!! Christine
I’m in South Carolina, Kiawah Island to be exact! If you are close by I would love to paint together!
Sandy Youngstrom From Naperville, IL
Sent from my iPhone
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So sorry today we start for home. Would have been a good opportunity with all this mild weather!
I recently found your blog and find it so refreshing. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and art as you are also praising God and delighting in His creation.
Hi Jenn! I’m so happy that you’re enjoying the site. It’s nice to hear from a fellow believer. His works are so amazing!! I love to share that excitement. Blessings, Christine
I love the collection of your art, G-d’s art… All of it together… Watercolors are my favorite
Thank you so much for your kind comment! 😊