From the cottage at Crows Chase

 A warm welcome to you from Crows Chase Cottage. Another week is upon us, as mid August draws near. Our nightly temps have gotten cooler recently, which brought on a delightful autumnal vibe. It seemed fitting, as yesterday, I completed my painting. After applying what seemed to be 10 layers of grasses and autumn wildflowers, I called it done. Just in time, as tomorrow, it goes on display at The Grinning Possum.  Close up of gate and fence 'October Sunrise' As I prepare to part with it, the realization of how sentimental this painting is to me comes to the forefront. Memories of childhood rambles along this ridge remain fresh in my mind. With those crisp October days being the best for exploring nature in all its brilliance.  Another accomplishment for me this week, while satisfying to have finally completed, was not as enjoyable performing. After buying the domain www.crowschase.com I finally took a few deep breaths, shook out all of the negative vibes and set about desi...

  A warm welcome to you from Crows Chase Cottage. It has been an eventful week, filled with long drives, studio work, and getting to know other artists within our community. Needless to say, I definitely felt overwhelmed with the 'newness' of it all. Several of my mornings now consist of a lovely 45 minute drive along narrow back roads that lead to state route 127. Despite my dislike of driving on mountainous roads, the magnificent scenery is always a reward. It only takes a few minutes after driving down the mountain that the breadth of Sequatchie Valley comes into view. With cloud banks obscuring the upper edges of the valley wall and low hanging rain clouds swooping away to the left, nature's beauty has been on full display this week.    After making my way onto main street, everything moves at a slower pace. I park nearby and make my way to the specialty bakery/cafe next to The Grinning Possum. Their iced coffee is perfect for keeping cool during these humid post rain...