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This was the first painting of the day at the Plein Aire Warriors paint out at Jackrabbit Lake in the James A Reed Wildlife Refuge. It was an amazing fall day, sunny, warm and perfect. Five of us met to share the day and paint together. It was a magical day!

A group of us painted together at James A Reed Wildlife Refuge in Lee's Summit, MO. This state park is such an urban treasure. Just outside the city, it lures hikers, bikers, and especially trout fishermen and even hunters in season. It consists of around 12 lakes surrounded by hiking trails, horse trails and biking trails. We will definitely be returning to this area when the trees start showing even more of their fall colors. I love painting in the fall.

This daily painting was created from a photo of our first dog, Wiggles. She was quite a hoot and so smart. She lived to the ripe old age of 19 years. This painting was from a photo that I took in our garden. She was a great poser. I have lots of photos of her in amongst flowers and landscape. I have always wanted to try this in pastel and decided today was the day. Hubby, my most favorite critic, loved it so I guess I recorded her successfully. It was delightful going down memory lane again with her.

This painting is the first of three that I did on the paint out to celebrate our dear friend, De Munden. I had never been to Bennet Springs State Park before even though my son fishes there for trout often.
I decided to try using my transparent oils underpainting that I use for my florals as the water was so crystal clear you could see the trout swimming . This day was a free day of fishing for women anglers and the stream was filled with fishermen and women enjoying the beautiful day. It was also filled with artist who had all come from many locations to paint together to honor and remember our friend and fellow artist, De Munden. She would have been thrilled to see so many out enjoying the beautiful weather and the great time every one had painting at one of her favorite plein aire locations.
In the current world of hatred and chaos, it was so calming to be in an environment of love, remembrance and peace. It was such a joy to share the peace and beauty of the day with these artists all brought together thru De.
I can see why she loved this area of Missouri so much. I will definetly be returning to this peaceful and tranquil spot to paint more of it's wondrous beauty. At every turn there was a new scene to paint. I think you could spend a lifetime in this place and not scratch the surface of all that it offers the artist. I'm so thankful to those who organized this paint out and all who shared the day together in peace and love. I'll be back , De, so look for me and I know I will feel your presence looking over my shoulder. Paint on!