Yesterday we had a major downpour ~ between 4-6 inches of rain. The river is up around a foot, but everything really needed the moisture. It is so hard to believe that we are in the middle of August. I am still waiting for summer to arrive in Minnesota as it has been very cool compared to most summers. We get a few nice, warm days and now it is back to below normal temps. I sure hope that this is not a sign of what this winter is going to be like. Anyway, I really do not mind the rain as everything seems to come back to life after such a major storm.

Last week I just finished up a workshop with an artist who teaches in Stillwater, MN. Wouldn't you know it that we had the hottest days of the season that week along with the humidity. We were all troopers though and enjoy each and every minute of painting outdoors. First we spent a couple of days along the St. Croix River at the Boom Site. Thankfully, the river has a cooling effect and the temps were better there. The last day we headed to the O'Brien State Park - another beautiful area top paint.

Soon I will be heading to Grand Marais, MN for a paintout. What fun! I did this last year and the area is absolutely beautiful. I promise to take some photos and post them as well as all the paintings that I complete. There will be a plein aire competition at the Art Colony in Grand Marais. Lots of fun.

Check out my latest newsletter on my website. It has some really interesting information on seeing color! Here is the link: Spirit River Studio Blog. If you like the news, sign up for my newsletter. I send it out once or twice a month and there are a few extras that I save just for my subscribers.

Back to the easel to paint......MaryAnn