A beautiful day for painting outside or Plein Air

Yesterday was just such a perfect day. I decided to paint under a grand old mahogany tree across from The Armory and right down from my studio. It was so nice watching the world go by on bicycle and car, hidden off the beaten path listening to Livingston Taylor on my headphones. I had seen and heard him the night before right there in The Armory. The painting is not quite done but maybe another hour in the studio and slap a frame on it and on to the next painting. So far its been a beautiful January and with the snow up north the tourists keep flooding down to visit us!

Cuban boaters

My son alerted me to this boat up on Big Coppitt key today. I had seen in the paper 20 cubans had made it to shore but thought nothing of it as it is a fairly everyday occurrence. I was startled to be so overwhelmed by the boat itself. All their clothes and things were left scattered in it, even a toothbrush. The boat itself was beautiful in its craftsmanship but apparently they had built a fire in the bow for warmth. It made realize just how lucky and comfortable I am to live where I do and so many people live a life they would love to leave. Happy New Year to all. Lets all make 2011 a wonderful year!

New Paintings

I am finally done getting all my Xmas orders out and finished up these two paintings. The top one sold before it was done but the lower is 11"x14" and is called "Star Gazer" $750.00. The color is a little off as it was shot in gallery light but the colors are almost identical to the top one. The holidays are almost over and I hope everyone has a wonderful time without too much stress. I plan on eating and drinking merrily with my family and friends!

Bike update!

My bike sold yesterday! It sold for $2,500.00 to some local folks. The money goes to www.tskw.org I am thrilled and proud!

My Bike is in the window of Fast Buck Freddies!

The bike I painted for TSKW is in the Christmas window of The Island department store Fast Bucks.
Santa is riding him and the pedals go round and round!
There signage with my name and picture. Its really quite nice!

Escarole soup

We got a nice cold front last evening and all I could think about was a nice pot of soup. This is the easiest soup to make and it is delicious. First saute some onions in some olive oil, add plenty of garlic and saute.
Wash and coarsely chop a nice head of escarole. Its in the produce by the full heads of romaine and leaf lettuce. Add it to the pot and stir and let it wilt.

Add a box of chicken stock and a can of cannelli beans, juice and all. Don't forget salt and pepper and red chili flakes, this just adds a touch of heat which is so nice. You can add pasta if you like but it is plenty hearty.

Let it simmer about 45 minutes, check for seasoning, Enjoy with crusty bread, piping hot.

New painting

"Red Sky" is 6"x8" $245.00 the boats says "Sailors Delight"