July 7

July 7th was a perfect day for my 

30 Day Hatcher Pass Challenge.

My good friend Laurie and her sweet friend Lacy joined me.

They hiked the hills while I painted them.

The locals all know the meaning of  "Is the road open yet?".

There is a dirt road that takes you from Independence Mine area of Hatcher's and 

comes out on the Parks Hwy in Willow.  

It's a long and gorgeous dirt road and we know that when it opens, it truly is summer.

I believe it was July 3rd this year.

A couple of miles in, there is a fresh, cold, and reflective lake.  Meandering off this lake is a bubbling stream that makes it's way down forming a song of travel.  

Today, July 7th, this was my spot.

It is truly a sweet spot.

Although I haven't been thrilled with every piece I've painted this month, 

I have been quite content with my starts.

And you know what they say, "practice makes perfect" 

and that is exactly what this 30 day challenge is about.  

Practice.

I just really love the loosely drawn lines and hints of darkness

paired with the distant subtle colors of the atmosphere.

(for those who care, note the BAPA shirt and Handipants :)

Days like this just continue to get better and better.

Is there such thing as a plein air bomber?  I think so!

Where there is snow, there are snowballs... as it should be.

And the photo bomber shows his face.

And not a bad face at that New Jersey man :)

Just as the wind brought chill and the clouds brought rain, 

it was time to pack up July 7th.

I've decided there's still a little softening and simplifying to do, but will be done soon.

Until tomorrow.....