Mini residency at Fair Oaks- December 7, 2014

Natalie, Jennifer, Myself and Joanne watched the guys pick oranges.

Our host holds the ladder for Jack.

Picking fun

Winter Trees

8x10 inches

oil on canvas panel

 

Notes From My Residency Journal

 

Yesterday was one of those chilly winter days, overcast but beautiful because it made all of the late fall color stand out against the smoky background colors. I love winter in Florida. I painted the above scene down near the pond. I could hear hawks hunting and see ducks, ibis and herons in the pond while I painted. It was a wonderful way to spend the day.

 

Today we had guests for lunch so it was served down at the pavilion on the little pond. We had grilled hamburgers, slaw, potato salad and delicious baked beans, all made and served by the Fair Oaks staff. I always feel like royalty at Fair Oaks. I am treated as an honored guest even after having been there for 8+ years. We always dine with real plates, and cloth napkins, no plastic or paper there.  We enjoyed cherry pie and Bluebell ice cream for dessert. Yummy!

 

After lunch the men picked fruit and I took off to explore back on the prairie. As I drove up to the woods between fields, I was treated to an awe inspiring site of Hickory tree leaves, turned to gold. It was splendid! I look forward to that every year. The site of those gold leaves against a backdrop of the mauve, deep green, and gray of winter is stunning!

 

Life is wonderful any time I can be at Fair Oaks. I'm so grateful to be there.