Another drop dead gorgeous day on our lake lured me to abandon my easel and paint inside the studio. Sunshine and no wind, perfect! This time I walked on the lake following the perimeter and discovered some wonderful places. Heavily drifted snow along the south west shores is growing mushy in the plus 40 degree midday sun. Walking is difficult, I staggered and punched through the crust then cautiously navigated slick polished ice. Returning along the north east shore hiking is easier, the surface smooth like sand. My light weight polar fleece jacket is too warm and I am glad for sunglasses and a visor. Today my carbide ice cleats are on running shoes. It is fun to see undisturbed tracks in the snow and imagine who traveled this way before; a skate skier, snow machine, dog prints and two sets of miniature snow shoes. I wondered if the dog was with one of them or wandered alone. It is silent and beautiful. Reluctantly I returned to the studio knowing the temperature will drop as the sun goes down made it a bit easier. And, thankful for no ash from the volcano today.
Gail Niebrugge, Landscape painter
