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It was a wonderful surprise to wake up to a cool fresh six inches of snow on the ground.  This fresh white blanket arriving just after our calendar declared that spring had arrived.  It seems that the cool impulses of air moving in from the north cared nothing for this fact that the sun had moved into its turf, and put away from us, at least temporarily  that is, any thought of losing the boots and gloves and donning flip flops and applying sun tan lotion.  For the record, I had just purchased a new pair of boots on clearance, so the snow was not only welcomed but reassuring that my purchase would be afforded an immediate test trial for the next season’s weather.

Without consulting my calendar, for I’d not like to find that perhaps I had scheduled to be at a predetermined location,  instead I took this opportunity of to run to the studio, pack my gear and head out to paint.  With the heavy wet snow just piled high on every horizontal surface I thought that I would be able to get some interesting paintings that might communicate this springtime flocking.  After a series of odd and unplanned gaffs I managed to locate and paint two works that I was pleased with the results.  The first had me knee deep in snow, on a bridge over Chaska Creek.  The creek cut an opal green streak into the heavily wooded canopy now bedecked with snow piled high on every branch.  Branches that released their crystallized load with every gust that came.  Yes, it was a felt experience.

The second work had me in the heart of historic Carver.  I circled back to this spot thinking the odd yellow note of the home contrasted with the lavender tones which surrounded it.  Thankfully Mary, the owner was home and granted me permission to paint her lovely place.  I always try to ask permission to paint whenever I am staring at someone’s valued asset.  One can never be too sure and safe.  The painting took a tad longer than usual owing to the fact that the architectural elements required extra time and care, but it was worth the effort.and oh, the boots are a keeper.