Time with the Sketch Book

It occurred to me the other day that I had no plan for my July show. That may seem like a long way off but not for a full art show. But as the panic began to rise I remembered my ski trip. Steve and I along with 6 friends had planned for months to head up to Denali State Park for some skiing and camping. Ahhhh, the perfect way to get some inspiration and some sketches in the book. We started the trip with a stop in Talkeetna for a DELICIOUS breakfast at the Talkeetna Roadhouse. The sun was bright, our skis were waxed and we were ready for adventure!

Our new 10 month old puppy Ginzee wasn't sure about the pack back. She initially carried the 5 pound pack like a sway back horse but once we hit the woods she knew this was going to be great. It was her first camping trip.

There is hardly a better view of Denali than Buyers Lake. The sun was so warm and the snow was fast. Our friend's dog, Kiley had enjoyed this experience before. Steve and I wore pack backs in while the others pulled sleds.

Sadly my camera did not pick up the stunning view of the Mountain behind Kelly and Heather. Heather, growing up in Texas, can not get enough heat. But even she was pulling off clothes due to the incredible heat from the winter sun as we skied across the lake.

We did find open water at the creek that feeds into the lake. The ice froze crystal clear at the lake's edge. It was like looking through a window at the underwater scene.

It was unanimous that our back country ski day was the favorite. We crashed, fell over buried in snow and laughed and laughed. Here, Noah attempted a downhill run. He was almost successful until he hit a deep patch of snow that stopped him instantly. Kiley rushed in like a EMT for a face lick.

Did I get a show idea? I did! Getting away from phones and 'to-do' list always clears the head to let ideas flow through. I come home with a fresh dose of vitamin D, an exhausted puppy and a sketch book that promises a good July show!