I am so excited that in a week I will be heading north to Sea Ranch with a dear friend to paint our hearts out. This is not a workshop just two pastelists having a week to do nothing but enjoy and be creative. But as with any vacation it is time to start the LISTS, in hopes that we don't forget anything. One list is for the personal things that might be needed when away from home, but the more important list is for all the art supplies I will need while on my painting adventure. 

I start the list with the basics: pastel box, paper, easel, and tri-pod. Then the list continues as I try and think of anything that I might need away from the studio. We are hoping to paint on the lovely patio at the house and then do some serious plein air painting. It will be fun to have someone else there to egg me on and keep me on track. 

When setting up for this holiday we decided that we wanted to go somewhere we could get to in a day by car. Some place relaxing and a place that would have many special spots to paint. Sea Ranch is near both Medocino, the Lost Coast, and Fort Bragg. Nearby is the Mendocino Coastal Botanical Gardens, dog-friendly, because of course Piper will be heading out with us. The gardens are beautiful and diverse and we are hoping to spend part of a day there sketching and painting. I will try and take pictures and post what is happening while we are away. Who knows there may be a special artistic show as a result of what we create. 

But most of all it is time to relax and reflect. I am very fortunate that my husband Jeff will spend the week in the gallery while I am gone. He does this each year to give me both time away from the gallery and time just to paint.