My routine got a little rocked in the past few weeks after two big birthday celebrations, teaching, and getting ready for an upcoming portrait painting workshop. Paintings in the studio are moving along, and I completed a commission that will be on it’s way to it’s home in Texas soon.

I thought I would share with you some of the things that have been inspiring me lately.

Last weekend, Ulan and I took off for a few days to Troutdale, where we stayed at McMenamin’s Edgefield location. For those of you who don’t live in the Pacific North West, chances are you may have never heard of McMenamin’s before. They have an eclectic mix of pubs, bars, historic hotels, and music venues throughout Oregon and Washington. Edgefield is my favorite location because it is only an hour drive from Silverton and makes the perfect getaway where you can fill your cup with inspiration, and there are endless things to paint.