Mountain View

Early the first morning in Colorado Springs, Mike and I went down for breakfast, sitting out on the balcony and waiting for the kids to join us.  With journal in hand, I drew the mountain scene as we talked, sitting in soft, cushy chairs with a cup of hot tea.  The air was cool and brisk, not at all like the hot muggy air we left in Missouri.  This is the first painting in this journal, which I am hoping to fill wth Colorado paintings.  It feels a little funny using the Pitt pen after so many drawings with the fountain pen.  It is just proof I need to keep my hand in it, just to maintain my confidence with these tools.  The watercolor lays down easily, but I think I should have brought another pan set with cooler colors.  Who knew the hues would change so much in the mountains?  Painting number 1616 in 1616 days.  My, how time is flying by!

Pike's Peak

What a beautiful morning for painting in the mountains.  Up early to do some ink and watercolor, I then had a chance to set up my easel and get out my oils.  I wish I had reloaded my palette, and am hoping I can get through the week in what I have. The wildflowers are popping along this ridge, and the colors are so different from Missouri. The greens are cool and dry, in fact all hues are cooler. The light is also different, less humidity to thicken up the atmosphere. It is so fun to explore the differences in paint. It may take me a week to get used to it!  Painting number 1611 in 1611 days.