Hiking & Painting in Nature – Chicago
A Red-breasted nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) came by to say, "Hello." In return I fed him suet. I quietly sat contemplating his woes. They are many, for while he ate his breakfast it was a mere 8°F. He ate alone and used the pine tree in my backyard for cover several times: grabbing suet, flying to … Continue reading A Red-breasted Nuthatch Said Hello
Yesterday I went on a birding adventure at Red Oaks Nature Center with the DuPage Birding Club. Red Oaks is located adjacent to the Fox River and has an observatory deck right over the river, perfect for viewing waterfowl and migrating birds. When birding, it is helpful to go with a group of knowledgeable people … Continue reading Male and Female Common Goldeneye Watercolor
If you're lucky enough to live in an area where you have both downy and hairy woodpeckers, you may be hiking in the woods and see one of them. They look identical except for the fact that one is small and one is large. But how can you quickly tell who is who if they … Continue reading Quick! Downy or Hairy?
In the Midwest where chill reigns for a quarter of the year, you will find a solemn hearth if you're lucky in the midst of the woods. Not every preserve has one, but when you happen to spot one, it's like a treasure. This one is located at Knoch Knolls Park in Naperville, IL. On … Continue reading Hearth in the Woods – Watercolor Sketch
Goldfinch feathers molt into a drab olive green/brown color for winter. Many people upon seeing them assume they are looking at sparrows. Not a few believe goldfinches migrate for the winter because they no longer see that bright, brilliant yellow signature color. Not so! They're here in their inconspicuous attire still seeking thistle. In case … Continue reading Goldfinches in their Winter Wear Watercolor – Free Download
It is time once again. I felt it stir within, an urgency to go back. A time to retreat. As I grow, I am more in tune with my body and emotions. With the weight of work and family obligations I needed a time out. Silence is what I crave, giving me the ability to … Continue reading Return to Retreat CITW
45°F cold rain I am wearing my rain gear with layers of clothing bundled underneath as I walk on a grassy trail laced with mud. I don't mind the mud nor do I mind the cold drizzle on my face. In a lifetime of Monday thru Friday, 9-5 numbness, the cold drizzle is a welcome. … Continue reading Fern Moss and Shelf Mushroom Watercolor
Amazing work, that's done by hand less wonders. So graceful the bed which to incubate life. I'm in awe. This nest was built on my friend's gutter right by her front door. She has a mirror that looks like a dentist's tool, which she used to see what was in the nest when mom and … Continue reading Robin’s Miracle Watercolor Sketch
He waits on bended bough. Tilts his head and scans the ground. I am ever so thankful for moments like these. An unexpected surprise in nature, catching me off guard, instantly uplifting my spirits. And this spirit I have is the very thing that connects to the Spirit in nature. When you're open to it, … Continue reading Hawk Waits in the Midst of a Foggy Morning – watercolor sketch
Red-wing blackbird parks above my head...That watchful eye focused on me while repeating mild warning calls. check, check, check His shoulder badge bears witness to his duty as forerunner, he's obligated I suppose. But to the dragonflies, they pay no mind...darting, chasing, they zip within inches of me. And to the fish, they pay no … Continue reading Churchill Woods Watercolor Sketch
