Silence Before the Storm

This was the scene one day as storm clouds were gathering across the lake. Perhaps you have experienced this stillness before a storm moves in.   The wooden boat was slightly adrift.  The painting is significant to me because of the scripture Luke 5:3. It reminds us to stay anchored and keep Jesus in the boat with us as we navigate our daily "waters".

Grassroots

Grassroots is a bucolic scene on the grounds of the Girls Ranch in rural Tallapoosa County, Alabama.  The ranch is a peaceful home for girls from troubled families.

Kowaliga

Meet Kowaliga, our  Lake Martin Indian of lore.  I won first place in the 2011 annual art competition for Lake Martin Living magazine. I am honored to have my painting on the cover of their October issue.

Goldfish

These goldfish bookends or door stoppers are among the many creations that will be auctioned at the Tornado Trash 2 Treasure Art Gala and Celebration Concert, a fundraiser for victims of the deadly torandos last spring in the Dadeville/Lake Martin area.  The event will be held on Thursday Oct. 13 from 6:00-9:00 at the Event Center Downtown in Opelika. It is sponsored by the Chizik Family You Turn Foundation.  Please join in for this fun evening, visit www.allinforyouturn,com/trash2treasure for tickets.

The Island

This island is near the Kowaliga bridge at Childrens Harbor on Lake Martin.  It barely escaped the devastating path of the tornados last April.  After tireless efforts on the part of agencies and volunteers, the debris removal on nearby land is nearing completion.  While landscaping efforts are underway, the property will not return to its previous lush forest canopy for many many years.  The campground will always be a special place for terminally ill children and families, church goers, concerts lovers, brides and grooms.

I am returning home today from the Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony at Childrens Harbor.  It is a very special week where artists from across the Southeast gather and learn each year. We are well taken care of, so that our sole focus is painting (and socializing)... no interruptions from the things that  consume our time and energy in real life! Colley Whisson was our instructor.  He's a wonderful Australian artist, full of energy and talent!

Rudi

                                 Rudi is a Standard Schnauzer.  I call him "Precious"!

Stillwaters

This little boat is enjoying a quiet sunny day on the lake.

Ben

Ben is the newest addition to our extended dog family.  He is a lovable Australian Shepherd who herds his canine friends into places only he can choose.

Just the Two of Us

  One of our favorite spots for contemplation and coffee.......early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

The Real Thing

I spotted this charming building on the way to Callaway Gardens recently.  At first, I thought it was a renovated country store.  Later I found out that it is a residence.  There is a TV satelitte dish in the backyard...a blend of old and new.

Red Sails in the Sunset

We spotted this sailboat when we were enjoying a late afternoon cruise this spring.  I loved the reflection of the red sails in the water.

Kowaliga

Kowaliga is Lake Martin's legendary Indian chief.  Hank Williams wrote this song about him:

" Poor ol Kaw-liga, he never got a kiss.  Poor ol Kaw-liga, he don't know what he missed.  Is it any wonder that his face is red? Kaw-liga, that poor ol wooden head." 

My husband built this cedar "canvas" for him.  Kowaliga keeps watch on a covered porch
overlooking  the water.

Steppin' Out

This rooster seems to be on a nightime stroll of the barnyard.

Vivian

This is my first portrait of grandaughter, Vivian, done when she was two and a half.  She is four now and has a little brother plus three little boy cousins to keep straight.  I think she is up for the challenge!

Repose

Relaxing in the sunshine....