Coquille River Lighthouse

Most of the watercolor paintings I do are from a photo that someone else took. I don't get the opportunity to paint en plein air (outdoors) very much. On our recent Southern Oregon coast trip, I found this lighthouse to really grab my attention. It appears abandoned, and isn't shaped like one you would typically find as it's quite small. Sometimes you can tour the Oregon lighthouses, but this one we could not the day we visited. Below is the photo I took of it.

A friend of mine uploaded the photo to print and increased the size for me to use as a template for my painting. This was helpful in analyzing the details. I still have some growing to do with watercolor, but the finished result is now framed 11 x 11 in my dining room.

Hawai'i-a long overdue honeymoon

This month, my husband and I had the opportunity to take a vacation alone to Hawai'i. We never had a real honeymoon when we married in 2004, so finally 14 years later we were able to make it happen. This year has been active with hurricanes, so I was concerned we would not be able to go. Luckily, we timed it just right and missed Hurricane Olivia. The late summer air was incredibly sweet, flowers and rainbows are everywhere! We ate a ton of pineapple, drank the best coffee, and came back sun kissed and happy. I will be back!

Hiking Diamond Head, it was very hot and crowded but worth it!

Waimea Falls, this garden was paradise but full of moquitoes!

Our final day in Waikiki, one of the happiest days too. Notice my new Tahitian Pearl purchased in Honolulu!

My husband enjoying a Mai Tai, and it was good to see him smile.

Hanauma Bay where we snorkled. Beautiful place, but I learned I am not a fan of snorkeling!

Waikiki Beach, very pleasant to swim in compared to the frigid waters of the Oregon coast.

I smiled so much this first day of coming to Honolulu!

Nuuanu Pali Lookout overlooks the windward coast of O'ahu. Bring a jacket, it's very windy up here.

My absolute most favorite place on Earth-Kailua Beach Park. Turquoise surrounds you.

Buddha in gouache

I have a few Buddha statues in my home, and painted one of those in gouache and flourescent acrylic paint. This is a small 5 x 5 on canvas board. Enhanced with the black and white outline method.