Hill Country Poppies

Click Here to Bid

A while back, Elaine Leedy and I visited a sculpture ranch in the Hill Country of Texas owned by a lovely Italian man. We marveled at the place, as well as the journey getting there. This is one of the scenes we encountered en route and we were two snap-happy girls. When we remarked at how amazed we were that he had traveled so far to decide upon this location in Texas, he quickly responded, "No, no, no, this is a little bit of California surrounded by Texas." If California is the ideal, aren't these people blessed to be away from the crowds and the crazy cost of living?!

How About Them Apples?

Click Here to Bid

It's that yummy red and green thing again and no matter how you slice it, it's a winning combination. Besides that, who doesn't like a crisp, juicy apple to contemplate? "Painting by Committee" is the term I often use when I ask people for feedback as I'm working on certain pieces that have me stumped. Carol Marine, Elaine Leedy and Gail Johnson all put in their 2 cents, oops and my husband too. They looked like pomegranates for a while and one of the leaves looked like it belonged to a fig tree..............you know, stuff that needed FIXING. Thanks everyone for your help and thank you everyone else (you know who you are!) for all the fabulous feedback. This has been the most amazing few weeks of my life and I feel blessed beyond measure. 

Fabulous February

Click Here to Bid

With the sun low in the sky and the mustard filling in the gaps between the vines, February is one of the most glorious months of the year. This is a scene from nearby Cloverdale which is in northern Sonoma County and is a spot that I see on a regular basis. It is glorious in any season and especially because these are the old vines with no supports or guide wires. The mountains, the oaks and the old barns set off the vineyards in a down to earth and rustic fashion, creating wonder and delight for me the painter. Spring is on its way, but let's not hurry it up too much by missing the billowy, beautiful, yellow blossoms!!

Over the River and Through the Dale

Click Here to Bid

Besides living on one of the most beautiful coastlines on earth, I get to make my way home through the equally fabulous Anderson Valley. It is often sunny when the coast is foggy (see that gray billowy stuff in the background?), so it is great fun to escape to the heat for fun and frolicking. This property is the backside of Standish Winery and is definitely a favorite spot. The tasting room is upstairs in the apple dryer and they serve up one of the most distinctive pinots on the planet. I hope you have a chance to visit me one day and also take the time to stop and sip along the way. 

Decked out in Red

Click Here to Bid

I live north west of California's glorious wine country and have no lack of inspiration as I go to and fro throughout Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties. It's anyone's guess why I leave the country to look for more things to paint since there is ample beauty right under my nose, but I guess I inherited wanderlust from my Dad! This particular property is north of Geyserville and is the home ranch for Seghesio wines. I drive by it often and never tire of the way the gracious Victorian is 'dressed' for each season. Today she is decked out in red which is perfect for the week of Valentine's day eh?