French Farmer

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Back a few years, Leslie and I made a trip to Provence on our own and had a most delightful time. We tend to hit that country in the middle of summer because we like to be there while the lavender and sunflowers are blooming. On this particular day though, we had to get up EXTRA early to beat the heat and we ended up encountering the farmer responsible for our inspiration. He was tending his sunflower field and we had to scoot out of his way in order to share the roadway with him and his tractor. I took this photo as he was approaching and have always wanted to paint him, so now I'm offering a figure within the landscape and hope you like him and his red rig.

Fresh Light of Morn

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The palette knife strikes again and this time it's back to France, the land of lovely light, textures, fragrances and old stonework. Waking up on this particular morning, this group of neighbors are greeted by the cool morning sunlight across the faces of their homes as well as the lavish field of sunflowers outside their windows. Who wouldn't want to live right here and wake up to such a scene on a daily basis? This is what I would call a beautiful day in the neighborhood, so have fun wandering around.

Backstep Hideaway

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On a French roll this week. Hmm, that sounds like I'm some kind of sandwich or something.................really I just mean that I am re-visiting lovely places in France to paint and re-paint in this instance. Here you see Leslie and me painting in the back garden of a 12th century chateau. No swimming pool in sight, but we were so hot that we put on our suits and took an occasional shower beneath the giant watering can! Chateau de Avejan is Mary's amazing place, just northwest of Avignon and I've been there twice now. Just found out that the online radio show slated for Tuesday the 21st at 9am PST at www.blogtalkradio.com/search/erin-dertner-life-lessons/ will also be available after the fact as well. Hurray! Schedule, schmedule, just listen in when you have time and we'll connect on that daydream wavelength, hoping for a real visit to Avejan in the not-too-distant future.

Lavender Lane

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Yet another idyllic jaunt down a country lane in Provence, all dressed up for summer. The lavender is big and billowy, fragrant and fabulous and you feel like pinching yourself to make sure it isn't a dream. Yet here I am with my bestest buddy Leslie with pinch marks all over my face! And guess what?? I get to talk about my travels in the south of France this coming Tuesday, February 21st at 9am PST during an online radio show. I'd love for you to tune in and see what I have to say about the many idyllic hours I've whiled away in that lovely spot on earth. Here is the link: 

www.blogtalkradio.com/search/erin-dertner-life-lessons/

I hope I don't get tongue tied, but have all my wits about me and can "take you away" with me on an audio vacation that will inspire you to join me for a real holiday there one day soon. 

Sycamore Serenade

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The way these regal and graceful sycamores shroud the roadways of France just gets to me. I love the symmetry and the tunnel like feeling. Then I love the way the sunlight hits those on the sunny side and the way the reflected light outlines the others in the shade. Peeking through one of the openings and across the field is a welcoming and rustic maison, perfect to retreat to at the end of a hot summer day. Now this my friend, is a visual vacation and the next best thing to being there.