This is Charlie's Shed. Isn't it cute? All happy with it's view of the lake, enjoying the breeze. The wind made the garden a moving target as I painted that day. I just loved the flow and movement as the yellow flowers and grasses danced, breathing in each moment.

I love how this little cottage triumphs over its surroundings. It shows no fear. But, boldly shines in the light. My friends bought this cottage sadly in need of repair. Now, with much tender care it is a jewel with gardens and new life. They now live full time on the lake and when I stand at the edge of my dock I can see their home winking.

The stormy clouds beyond remind me of a day I spent with my family as a child. We were on the beach at Long Lake and a storm suddenly blew in. The dark clouds were beautiful and frightening as they marched toward us. Rain and hail fell violently. It was over as fast as it began. The sun came back out as the storm faded in the distance. During this painting as I stood near my friends garden I was reminded of the powerful contrast of how I felt that day years ago.

This is my morning view when I'm at our cabin. I never tire of this scene. I've painted it....many times in a variety of seasons. There's something comforting about shadows in the foreground with light beyond. I feel lifted up and cradled in love.

The paintings for this show were influenced by memories of childhood days spent with family boating, swimming and playing on lakes and rivers. I spent the days swimming, playing with the perch eyes wide open watching them watching me. Nights sleeping in the cabin of our boat. We often visited friends with cottages much the ones in my paintings.

Sand stuck to your feet. Gritty as you walk into the cottage kitchen. My Mother doesn't tell us to wipe our feet.

Snow filled driveways pull me in visually. Throw in some hot sun on a crispt day and I'm ready to stand in the snow and paint. On this 5 degree day I had a blast with shades of blue raking across the snow.