We took a drive around the town and stopped at what used to be called the “red bridge” before it was replaced with a bridge that isn’t falling apart. While there we spotted a few ducks across the river in some brush. I climbed out on a fallen tree to get this shot and it’s one of my favorite from the trip.

Clark’s Grebe.  This species nests on large inland lakes in western North America and migrates to the Pacific coast in winter.  It maintains local populations year-round in  California, Nevada, Arizona, and central Mexico.  It feeds by diving for carp, herring, mollusks, crabs and salamanders.

Related Posts:

• What’s with the birds?
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call: Shake off the sleep… (8/13/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call. It’s time to FLY! (8/6/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call…Let’s Go! (7/30/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call…Shower Time! (7/23/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call… (7/16/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call. Get up and at it! (7/9/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call… (7/2/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call – Breakfast! (6/25/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-up Call…(6/18/12)

Related Posts:

• What’s with the birds?
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call. It’s time to FLY! (8/6/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call…Let’s Go! (7/30/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call…Shower Time! (7/23/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call… (7/16/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call. Get up and at it! (7/9/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call… (7/2/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-Up Call – Breakfast! (6/25/12)
• Monday Morning Wake-up Call…(6/18/12)

Wes and I by our miniature paintings, and those of other artists,  on display at the show.

We left early this past Thursday morning, as we headed for southern Indiana, where Wes’ parents live. We arrived that afternoon, and enjoyed visiting and eating supper together that evening. Friday after an early lunch, we drove a short distance to a nearby park. Once there we enjoyed walking around the path lined by grassy fields where Canada Geese gathered while chatting and eating. Before long we came to the official feeding area, which was my personal favorite destination, where we brought out some bread for the eagerly awaiting ducks and geese, floating there in the water. As soon as the bread was spotted, here they came hoping for a chance at some of the free handouts! The best part was of course, feeding the friendly group that walked right up to us, by hand. They were very anxious for their part, making it somewhat difficult for me to make sure that everyone got their fair share! Running out of bread and offering our pardons, we left the group of ducks and geese, and continued along the path. The trees were decked out in their splendorous fall color, casting tints of yellows and reds on the leaf covered ground below.

Feeding our very happy and friendly feathered friends!

In my element!!

By the time we came to the end of the path, in was time to drive the couple of hours to Brownsburg, IN, where we arrived early enough to enjoy eating supper with our very dear friends, fellow wildlife artist Luke Buck, and his wife Coleen. Having not seen each other in a few years, we had a great time of catching up with lots of conversation and laughter over dinner. It was then time for the opening reception of the 5th Annual Miniature Fine Art Show to begin that evening, at the lovely Artistic Designs Gallery. We were thrilled to learn later that evening that I had won overall Best of Show on my painting titled, “Early Summer Evening”, and that Wes had won Best of Show in Watermedia on his miniature “Standing Room Only”, making the evening even more exciting for the two of us! Wes’ lecture on miniature art was well received and enjoyed by those in attendance. Throughout the evening, there was an array of tasty foods to enjoy, with my personal favorite being a small bit of the flour-less chocolate cake, freshly made by a local bakery! Before we knew it, several hours had passed and the evening of fun came to a close.

Me laughing with our very dear friends, Luke and Coleen Buck

Wes giving his presentation, “Why So Tiny”, on the history of miniature art

The next morning started bright and early as Wes and I made our way back to the gallery to begin our morning painting demonstration. The attending students seemed to enjoy it very much, while asking questions and taking notes, as we both painted, with Wes giving tips on techniques etc. We broke for lunch and enjoyed eating with a few of those in the class. We then reconvened for the afternoon, where everyone enjoyed painting, while Wes shared more info and answered all questions. The students enjoyed painting on a few different, small pieces of surfaces, while making decisions about which ones they liked better. The afternoon came to an end and it was time to pack up and say our goodbyes to everyone, and thank the gallery owners, Laura and Lee, for their most wonderful hospitality! After grabbing a Subway sandwich for supper, we enjoyed the couple-hour drive back to Jeffersonville, to Wes’ parent’s home, to spend a bit of time once again. Most of the drive took place in the late daylight hours, so we enjoyed seeing the beautiful fall color and a gorgeous sunset as we headed south.

Wes and I demonstrating, as some of the students watch closely

Sunday morning, we returned once again to the nearby park, and this time with a lot of bread for our feathered friends. They were happy to see us once again, especially the extra treats, and as we fed our last piece to them, we left and let the father and daughter that were also there feeding, finish filling their tummies! After walking through the golden and red colored woods surrounding the path in areas, we enjoyed a nice lunch with Wes’ mom and dad before we started out journey home. We had been driving about an hour when Wes spotted a beautiful pasture setting with a good sized herd of Belted Galloway’s, or “Oreo Cows” as I affectionately call them, as they are my favorite breed! Oh it was a delightful surprise and simply made my day! Further on, the color became intense with the splendid reds, yellows and oranges that adorned the trees making up the forests alongside the road. On the way home, we stopped by to pick up our newsletters, which we had dropped off to have printed on the way up, that will be sent off this next week to our collectors. So we arrived home safely last night, and have spent today catching up once again, so we can get back to painting.

Three Onlookers

A handsome little guy!

A quick family shot before we left!

Upcoming Events and Exhibitions of Our Paintings This Week:

~ 5th Annual Miniature Fine Art Show at the Artistic Designs Gallery, in Brownsburg, IN. The miniature show will be displayed through November 19, 2011, so if you’re in the area, be sure to go see this wonderful show, in which Wes and I have eight paintings.

~ Art of the Dive: Portraits of the Deep: Runs through November 30, 2011 at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, FL. Wes and I have six paintings in the exhibition curated by  David J. Wagner, Ph.D., Curator/Tour Director.

~ We also excitedly learned this past week, that we each won a first place in the Miniature Painters, Scupltors and Gravers Show that will open in DC next month!

For other shows where you can see our miniature paintings this week, please visit our exhibit schedule on the website.

Currently on the Easels: I’m continuing to paint on a portrait commission of one of our collector’s grandchildren, as well as a miniature of a gorgeous Charlet, that we photographed nearby. Wes is currently painting on a miniature painting commission of a beautiful Secretary Bird, as well as a landscape of a lovely scene from Yellowstone.

My portrait commission in progress

Until next time   ~    Rachelle 

It is earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.”

~Henry David Thoreau

We returned late Friday afternoon, from a wonderful few days spent in North Carolina visiting friends. We left early last Monday morning and started our lovely drive through the Smoky Mountain National Park as we headed over to Cashiers, NC to meet dear friends, Tommy and Peggy, for lunch at one of our favorite restaurants, Cornucopia. The weather was perfect as we wound our way along the curvy, forest-lined road, and enjoyed the spectacular vistas we passed along the way, while stopping at a couple to take photos. It was a chilly 58 degrees in the upper elevations, and felt wonderful after our past few weeks of very warm weather. After drinking in the lovely views and enjoying the cool weather, it wasn’t long until we reached our lunchtime destination in Cashiers. Keeping with tradition, Wes and I both enjoyed their delicious Magic Mushroom sandwich, which is a yummy, marinated and grilled portabella. After eating, talking and relaxing a bit, we continued on our journey arriving at our dear friend, Don’s home later that afternoon. We weren’t there too long before one of his beautiful resident White Squirrels came for a short visit and some peanut handouts.

Wes and I along with Don, Barb and Fred, with Connestee Falls out of view to the right.

The next morning we all headed for Connestee Falls, and I got to go there in style, while riding with Don in his beautiful Porsche. I must say that at times it certainly was a most thrilling ride, though I won’t divulge the actual speed making it thus! The falls were absolutely gorgeous with great amounts of water rushing over the edge dropping to the bottom far below, creating a most powerful roar that filled the air! Leaving the falls, we visited a small art gallery before we enjoyed walking around the downtown area of Brevard, taking time to enjoy a tasty pizza for lunch. We returned to Don’s later that afternoon, when shortly thereafter, Wes and I took a leisurely walk along a lovely trail that follows alongside a stream scattered with small waterfalls and cascades throughout. The soft needle covered path was lined by lush Rhododendrons and piles of soft green moss, making it a most peacefully quiet and delightful place to walk.

Don and I in his Porsche, before heading to the falls.

That evening, the five of us enjoyed a tradition of eating at one of our favorite restaurants, Jordan Street Café, there in Brevard. Our dinners were delicious and, as usual, we enjoyed lots of conversation and laughter as we celebrated Don’s upcoming birthday. Returning back to Don’s house, it was time for a piece of his dark chocolate fudge cake that I made for his birthday, and we were all so happy that he shared! The next morning after we enjoyed a delicious breakfast of Wes’ pumpkin pancakes, it was time to say goodbye and continue along our journey to our next destination, beautiful Lake Glenville in Cashiers, NC. We arrived at Tommy and Peggy’s beautiful place on Lake Glenville in time for lunch. Within minutes afterwards, I was down the many stairs leading to the lake where I called my duck friends, and began my wonderful two-day regimen of feeding them. Before long there was an entire flock there happily accepting the bread Barb and I were tossing out.

Barb and I feeding my feathered friends, while Tommy looks on.

With gorgeous, sunny skies above, and a vast lake filled with emerald green water, Wes and I headed out on a short kayaking adventure. We paddled along the smooth surfaced water, following the tree-lined edge with rocks scattered about, until we came to the base of one of the many beautiful waterfalls that feed the lake with their gushing, cold water. We remained there for a few minutes just enjoying the scenery and the sounds, before turning around and heading back.

Beginning our little journey

Us heading out with the ducks all watching.

By the time we returned I had warmed up quite a bit and thought I would go swimming. Now those of you that know me know that I’m a wimp when it comes to cold water, and this year was no exception, since they have had cooler weather there, thus making the water much colder than last year. So after bravely trying to get submerged, I finally admitted defeat and jumped on a large float. This actually turned out to be absolutely wonderful, as the ducks suddenly thought of me as one of the flock, and started gathering around. This I found totally thrilling and happily laid there a bit enjoying seeing them from a duck’s perspective and being part of the group. Then the great idea of feeding them came, and after being tossed down a couple of pieces of bread, I began feeding them while carelessly floating there. Within seconds the two precious babies were there eating from my hand, and I couldn’t have been happier! It was amazing watching them from that perspective as they excitedly took the small pieces of bread from my hand.

Me totally in heaven, while feeding a few of my feathered friends.

I floated there with the ducks until dinner time which consisted of delicious homemade lasagna and salad! Later that evening, after I had made a couple more trips back down to feed my friends and tell them goodnight, we all played a fun game a Mexican Train dominoes, taking a short break to enjoy a piece of scrumptiously  creamy Biltmore Cheesecake. We all woke the next morning to another beautiful day on the lake! After breakfast, I quickly flew down the stairs with bread in hand to say good morning to and feed my sweet ducks. They were all there at lakes’ edge waiting for me, and it wasn’t long until I was feeding the entire flock. That afternoon all of us went for a delightful pontoon boat ride around all of Lake Glenville. The weather was perfect, as we went along the smooth, emerald green surface of the water ,  viewing the surrounding tree covered mountains, while ducking into almost every little nook and cranny at the ends of the many fingers of the lake. There is almost nothing as relaxing as a peaceful boat ride on a beautiful lake to me!

“Nessie” of Lake Glenville comes up to say hi! 

I always pretend that this is where she lives, in the deepest part of the lake

An unforgettable memory was made and we returned in time for me to jump back on my large float and spend time once again with my ducks, while feeding and just hanging out with them. I remained in this blissful state, until the rolling claps of thunder got too close, thus driving me out of the beautiful lake, and up onto the deck, overlooking this most amazing view. After finishing dinner, the rain had subsided, so we all went for a lovely little walk along a gravel road leading through a nearby wooded area. The evening air was cool, as we walked along stopping to look at different flowers blooming and moss covered areas, until we reached the top of the waterfall that we had kayaked to the previous day. It was so beautiful surrounded by the shiny moss covered rocks, still wet from the earlier rain shower. That was the turnaround point, so we began the relaxing walk through the dripping forest, back to the house, stopping to eat a few wild blackberries Wes found along the way.

Wes and I along with Barb, Peggy and Tommy in front of the beautiful falls.

Time had passed too quickly, we had awakened, it was already Friday morning and time to head back home. I quickly packed our things, being sure to leave as much time as possible to spend with my duck friends before having to leave them. So after finishing breakfast I headed down to the lake, where I fed the ducks that were there eagerly waiting for me. After feeding the group that was there, I had one piece of bread that I was saving in hopes that my three precious babies would come for one last encounter. While waiting, I sat on my favorite rock at the lakeside and did so quietly, while gazing out at and soaking in the amazing view, as being completely immersed in God’s gorgeous creation is a most happy place for me! As I sat there, I looked out at all of the trees, and began thinking of not just how many there were, but the vast variety that was represented there. Then I began watching the billowy cloud formations above, and I realized that there never has, and never will be, two of the same cloud formations or shapes. Then I took notice of the breathtaking emerald green water of the lake, and thought of the numerous fish species and water bugs and such that call this lake their home. As I quietly sat and pondered all of this, I heard the chattering call of the Kingfisher as he flew by to his favorite perch on a fallen tree that graced the water’s edge, the call of the Towhee, and the gentle quacking of the ducks floating there in front of me. And I felt blessed, very blessed indeed to have this opportunity to enjoy such a beautiful place! Knowing it would be soon time to leave, I began my ascent up the stairs, but just before doing so, two of my baby ducks came swimming up and looked up at me as if to say “Where’s our breakfast?” Oh . . .  my heart broke, as I had given up shortly before and fed the last piece to the other ducks, thinking the babies weren’t coming. So I quickly went up the stairs and presented my case in a heart wrenching way, and returned with several pieces of bread to feed my little friends by hand once more before saying a sad goodbye. I said my last goodbye to the ducks, and then to Tommy and Peggy, thanking them for a most delightful time!

Feeding my babies!

Me sitting on my thinking rock down below.

My beautiful feathered friends

Fresh off the easel:I’m continuing to alternate between my commission of Sweet Sampson and my miniature “Admiring The Connoisseur”, and still having great fun with both! Wes finished his miniature painting of a beautiful and peaceful landscape from nearby us in the Smoky Mountain National Park. I also finished a drawing of one of Don’s precious White Squirrels named Twofer, as he always takes two peanuts when he comes. This was Don’s birthday gift from Wes and I.

"The Bridge at Tremont" by Wes is 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches.

My drawing of sweet little "Twofer".

Thanks so very much again to Don, Tommy and Peggy for such a delightful vacation!

Until next time ~ Rachelle

We left early last Thursday, on our 21st Wedding anniversary, for Salisbury, MD, to participate in the Gallery of Artists show at the beautiful Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art. Usually our anniversary is spent going on a wonderful hike for the day and then eating supper at Pizza Hut, so this year was, well shall we say, a bit different. After a very long day on the road, we arrived at our artist friends, Paul and Carolyn’s weekend home, where we were graciously invited to stay,along with a couple of other artist friends, during the show. Friday morning found us awaking early, so we took a nice drive through a lovely marsh area and ended up at Elliot Island, not too far from where we were staying. We saw a variety of bird species as we drove along and enjoyed seeing some lovely older homes once on the island itself. A stately, beautiful old Methodist Church was one of my favorites, and the strong architecture stood out quite nicely with the sun just beginning to peak out above, through the various cloud formations gathered in the early morning sky.

Leaving there, we enjoyed driving the winding road leading through the marsh, stopping a couple of times for me to take photographs of different birds and landscapes. A favorite place was where about forty ducks were together for the morning social gathering, and they didn’t mind at all my quiet approach to watch and photograph them. Driving along a bit further, Wes noticed something move in the grass alongside the road, with closer inspection we realized it was a beautiful little Red Fox, and he was wondrous to watch, as he stayed hunched down in the grass while also curiously observing us.

An early morning social gathering.

The precious little Red Fox hiding among the grass.

We then went to the Ward Museum and set up our display of miniature paintings, twenty-seven of them, being displayed  along with the other eight GOA artists’ works. After grabbing a Subway sandwich, we drove to nearby Assateague Island National Seashore, to spend the afternoon. It was a pretty day, although quite warm as we began driving and exploring the Island. It was only minutes before we saw the first wild horses, and I was in my element! Most of the small horses are Paints which are one of my favorite breeds, and it was most interesting to watch them walking by the salt water and eating the tall, reed-like grass. They weren’t shy at all, making for a nice photo-op!

Arriving at the end of the road, we decided to walk the sand dune trail to see if we could spot more of the horses. No horses were there, and no wonder!! Trudging along in the deep sandy path, each step felt like ten steps, and after hearing Wes fuss at the mosquitoes, I looked down and realized that my legs were also covered with them! So I started smacking them all over my legs, and tried, without much success, to walk faster. Needless to say, by the time we got back to the trailhead, it felt as if it were about 120 degrees or more!! However, I did get a nice photo of a lovely little singing sparrow along the way, which certainly helped make the experience worth it. When the ocean is close by, I can never resist at least wading in it. As I walked down, I wondered why most people were on the shore instead of in the water. Unsuspectingly, I stepped in, and quickly stepped out, while letting out a “shew” quietly to myself! It was very cold, causing me to understand why most of the visitors weren’t enjoying the refreshing ocean water as the waves crested and slid on shore. It was then that I laughed at myself for bringing our swimsuits to enjoy a swim, if we had the chance!  No chance of that happening . . . not in that cold water anyway!

Me about to step into the very cold water!

That evening was the opening reception of our exhibit at the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, and it began with a lovely, ribbon cutting ceremony. It was well attended and everyone enjoyed seeing the beautiful art displayed for sale and eating the delicious appetizers that were beautifully arranged. Afterwards, all of the attending artists and their spouses enjoyed a late dinner at a local Mexican restaurant. The show began the next morning and lectures and demonstrations by the artists were given throughout the day, as well as during the next. Saturday evening Wes and I, along with artist friend Melanie Fain, were invited to enjoy dinner with four of our dear collector friends. We drove to nearby Berlin, where we met them at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, which is located on the grounds of the beautiful GlenRiddle Golf Club. The building that houses the restaurant was formerly the main stable building of the famous Riddle Farm which produced such race horses as Man O’ War, War Admiral and Seabiscuit. The stable building is once again beautiful after the renovation, and we greatly enjoyed looking at the museum hall that houses photos and newspaper articles concerning the various famous horses, and before and after photos of the buildings. The atmosphere was wonderful and the food delicious, as the seven of us enjoyed hours of great conversation and many hearty laughs while sharing a variety of funny stories among other tall tales!

Wes and I in front of our wall of miniatures at the Ward Museum.

Perry, Mel, Joe, Greg, Liz, myself and Wes enjoying dinner at GlenRiddle.

Sunday, I enjoyed taking a walk down the path following alongside a lovely, small lake on the museum grounds. A nice group of Canada Geese call it home, and I enjoyed watching them as they swam back and forth in front of me while I was sitting on a small dock. Most were younger ones in the group with a few adults taking care of the flock. They were also usually joined by several very pretty Mallards, and occasionally by precious baby bunnies, when out walking about in the grass.

Me photographing some of the resident Geese.

Wes walking along the lovely path by the small lake.

We left for home that evening, and drove almost two hours to Steven’s Point, where we were to stay the night with dear collector friends Sharon and Stuart. They have a beautiful home on the Bay, with a very nice view of the Bay Bridge. They are currently commissioning me to paint miniature portrait of their adorable little Miniature Pincher, named Sampson. So needless to say, I greatly enjoyed playing tug of war and spending time with Sampson to get to know him, while mainly Wes, and I sometimes, took photos of him. We also enjoyed playing with their beautiful English Lab, Wendy. Sharon made delicious lump crab cakes for dinner, and we enjoyed lots of wonderful conversation and laughter, as the four of us sat in their lovely dining room overlooking a gorgeous view of the Bay!! Later that evening, Wes, Sharon and I enjoyed sitting out on their patio area, surrounded by a variety of flower gardens, while enjoying a bit of dessert.

The beautiful sunset from Sharon and Stuart’s patio area.

Afterward, Sharon let me choose from several beautiful bedrooms for the night, and I choose the Canvasback Room, with its stately, high, four poster bed and lovely view of the water in the Bay below. We slept like babies and awoke the next morning where Wes and I enjoyed a delicious breakfast of crab cakes with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce over a crispy wheat English muffin half, along with fresh, sweet Maryland cantaloupe, on their beautiful porch. What a delightful treat it all was, and Sharon spoiled us royally, sending home with us,  some coffee, peppermint infused water (that I dearly loved) and a small bag of one of my favorites, Lindt dark chocolates!! What a great ending to a nice weekend in Maryland!  We felt so very blessed!

Me enjoying our delicious breakfast on the lovely patio.

Me photographing Sampson, in the midst of also playing with them both.

It was a fairly pleasant day driving home Monday, and toward the end, we decided to take a more scenic route home instead of the usual drive through Pigeon Forge. It was a lovely drive which wound its way through wooded areas and pretty countryside, passing by several beautiful old barns, farm houses and silos. Also passed were many lovely cow pastures filled with a variety of cows, and in one area a beautiful small pond, where the cows were all in the water cooling off at one end. We wound our way around a couple more curves and then I said “stop” when I noticed movement on the side of the very narrow road. It was wild Turkeys, and after the last one had finally made their way across the road, I figured there were two moms and eighteen young ones! What a treat to be able to see! Before long we were happily home. Today was spent trying to catch up with everything and then meeting our dear friends, Gary and Ellen, at our local Pizza Hut, to have supper with them and their family while they were here on vacation.

Until next time ~ Rachelle