
Whew...Early this morning we packed the car with the dog, fishing equipment, picnic, assorted odds and ends, and all my plein air painting gear! We look like a modern version of the Beverly Hillbillies even thought it is only for one night. Yes, we headed west to a warmer climate only about 4 hours away. Both my husband and I were having a severe attack of cabin fever and white vista overload. I had heard that the fruit trees in Palisade were coming into bloom and was jonesing for some bright color and green to feast my eyes on...and to paint. It was not to be. They are just starting and will probably come into full color in about 5 days...but any day spent outside painting is a boon! This Little Gem is just a small piece of the Grand Mesa that holds reign over the valley that includes Palisade and Clifton and the amazing fruit belt of Colorado. The area has also become a huge and successful wine area. I'm thinking I might need to make another trip later in the week to try to capture it again. Tomorrow will be another plein air adventure...we are heading into the Colorado National Monument area near Grand Junction. We've never been there but have heard that the Rim Rock Road is phenomenal. Stay tuned...