Who's "It"?

SOLD to a California Collector
6 X 8 Oil on gessoed masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance

This cold weather we have had lately makes the horses playful - especially while they are waiting for me to come feed them.
Georgia, the border-collie-wanna-be, has a morning routine that is fairly predictable. I get up first around 6:00 and go straight to the studio, Georgia on my heels. I immediately let her out, make coffee, start a fire, turn on the computer, and let the dog back in. Same routine, every morning (unless it's too warm for fire and I skip that step.) It's still dark out, so Georgia comes back in quickly and settles down in an arm chair in the studio and waits for Mike to get up. I then make breakfast for us and feed the dog. About 9:00 Georgia needs to go make her rounds and check on the horses. If I'm smart, I'll go out then, too and take my camera in anticipation of frisky animals. Of course my favorite subjects are Georgia and Dandy - they have their game of tag all worked out. Dandy knows that the teeth are only for show and Georgia knows how to avoid a well placed hoof (she's good at staying close to a fence line where she can duck under if the horse gets too close!)
I have heard of single horses becoming attached to dogs - they are both herd (or pack) animals and need the comfort that comes from associating with their own kind. I have heard of race horses that had goats for stable mates, too. Comfort comes in many forms, doesn't it?
Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Impatient Dandy

nodp
I've gotten into the habit of taking my camera with me when I feed the horses in the morning. Not only is the light good, but I never know what I might get to shoot.
Feeding is a training opportunity. I get to re-access my dominance over the horses - a necessary role when the next training stage begins. Here I was sitting on the bucket of feed and not letting anyone near. Dandy was confused. PJ, off in the distance, understands that she eats when I say she eats. Most of the time.
In a horse herd, it is necessary for me to be a leader - not a equal friend - a leader. Horses are not like dogs, seeking companionship. Horses are not predator animals; they are the prey and are always on the alert and seeking a leader to protect them. Many people make this mistake when they acquire a horse and think they are getting a big dog. I did it, too, with the first horses I owned.
Being the boss doesn't mean you negate a good relationship - in fact with horses, it improves it, because most of the time, that's what they want. Someone who knows what is best, will look out for them and be on the alert for them. Kinda like my relationship with God. Looking out for me.
Today was "town" day and Mike and I had 11 stops to make. Tomorrow I help a neighbor palpate cows - more on this (and possibly some really icky photos) later!
Colossians 4: Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.

The Gate's Always Open

9 X 12 Oil on stretched canvas
Contact me for availability

Boy, this painting just screamed symbolism all day to me as I worked on it.
I have used this background several times (or one like it). The actual image is from a neighbor's gate down the road from me. I say "neighbor" even though they are at least 3 miles from me, but here in the country, anyone within 15 miles of my gate is considered a neighbor, and in all honesty, I'll bet I can name 25% of the people within 10 miles of me. No one in the city can do that. Heck, many can't even name their next-door-neighbors. I know mine quite well. We depend upon one another. Ron and Phyllis (neighbors to the north) left for Decatur the other day and when a few miles from home, Ron remembered he hadn't turned off the water to his cows. He called us (thank goodness for cell phones) and Mike obligingly drove over to his house and cut off the water. When bad weather hits, I check on Pat (to the South) - she's alone and not visible from the road. We both share our despise for the gas companies that are currently disrupting our peace and quiet.
I digressed, didn't I? Back to the gate. This neighbor's gate is always open, partly due to the fact that it is off its hinges and there are no longer any cattle on the property. And partly because that is the way this neighbor is. Welcoming.
We have a big iron gate at the end of our drive and it is rarely closed. In fact the only time I close it is when an animal gets loose and I'm afraid of it getting out on the road before I can catch it (usually a cow). Or I deliberately let the horses loose to graze around the house - a rare event since they are non-discriminate eaters and the vegetable garden isn't fenced off from the yard.
Our gate is always open. Welcoming symbolism.
Isaiah 26:2
Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith.

World's Greatest Medicine

9 X 9 oil on Canvas Board $125
Includes Shipping and Insurance

I really need to improve my still life set up. The lighting is terrible and I have no backdrop. I enjoy doing still lifes, and I would do more if I had a better set up. For some reason I needed to do this one.
I found this pretty ironstone pitcher in Cuchara, Colorado 2 summers ago and bought it specifically to paint. The little bottle is an empty vanilla bottle, but it looks like an old medicine bottle. The cross is the special part of this set up. There's a man in our church named Wesley, and he is probably the most unpretious, uncomplicated and direct man I have ever known. Wesley is over 70 and still lives in the same small, neat farm house that he and Barbara have lived in for over 50 years. He is a man of many talents, his most recent being woodworking. He also knows a lot about farming and ranching and still builds and repairs fence, although Barbara gets on him for doing it in the 110 degree Texas summer heat - especially since his bypass surgery.
Wesley makes all kinds of wooden things, but my most favorite are his crosses, and he always has a supply of them in his truck to pass out to first time visitors to our church. They are made of native mesquite and if you offered to pay him for one, you would greatly offend him. He gave me mine nearly 10 years ago when I first attended the Morgan Mill United Methodist Church and I have treasured it ever since. My cross has a story, too. Soon after I received it, I noticed an odd little ticking noise coming from it periodically. It was almost as if the cross was speaking to me! I came to discover that my cross had a wood worm in it, and it eventually ate its way out. Hopefully he is not now in my piano or another beloved piece of furniture! The hole in its side makes MY cross special and easily identified!
God Bless ya'll on this Christmas Eve. I'll be back soon, I hope.
Isaiah 51:8
For the moth will eat them up like a garment; the worm will devour them like wool. But my righteousness will last forever, my salvation through all generations."

Free to Run

SOLD

8 X 10 Oil on canvas board $115

Includes shipping and insurance to U.S.

The next few paintings are going to be experiments in color. My palette holds only 3 for this painting: Phthalo blue, Cad orange med and Burnt Umber (and white). Phthalo is a brilliant, turquisey blue and I was reminded of it by a fellow painter, Rick Nilson (go check out his website HERE - I think he's gone nuts and is giving away paintings!!!!) Anyway, phthalo is a great blue for ocean water, but I'm going to use it for a while in Texas!
We are journeying to son, Ben's house for Christmas. Ben is a bachelor and is a man of simple needs and pleasures. His home in Euless is centrally (kinda) located to family in Denton, Morgan Mill, Dallas and Weatherford, so he got elected to host this year. Ben doesn't cook, so my Mom and I will be doing kitchen duties. And since Ben has minimum kitchen stuff, we will be bringing everything. My mom frets over the menu, but I am just happy to be with whoever shows up, and whatever we eat is secondary.
I do wish all you readers out there have a blessed Christmas - hug your loved ones and let them know how much they mean to you. And if you get the opportunity to lift up someone who may need help, don't hesitate. You'll make the Father smile, and who knows, you might even be entertaining an angel!
Hebrews 13:2
Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
(Angels are mentioned in the Bible nearly 300 times!!!)

Last Auction - thank goodness

All paintings that remain unsold have been re-posted this evening at half price. The listings will last 3 days (through the end of the day Christmas Eve). After the holidays are over, I will be posting some paintings to sell through my blog, the Daily Painter's Website and my own Website and some paintings through galleries only (those will be noted).
I have my doubts as to whether or not I will post on eBay again any time soon, so this may be your last chance to get a real bargain! I will combine multiple purchases to reduce shipping (usually you can add $1 for each additional painting).

Opportunists 2

11 X 14 Oil on Canvas Board
Check with me for availability

I enlarged my original little painting of these two to include more background. I still need to add a few tiny details AND take a better, daylight picture. But it's basically the same as the first - two Indian brothers wearing different military uniforms - one from the North and one from the South. The title "Opportunists" infers a number of meanings, the least of which is wearing a jacket for its warmth - regardless of its color. They also have rifles - much better for hunting than bows and arrows. What better opportunities did THAT afford them? Another thought: Native Americans did not enjoy the benefit of horses until after the Spanish explored North America. What opportunities were derived from THAT tool?
I have always been intrigued by the imagery of "Opportunity Knocks". So many times we don't answer (or aren't prepared to) and in many cases we don't even recognize him! And sometimes, maybe we shouldn't answer. Prayer sometimes solves this dilemma.
A note to two new friends: Two new collectors came to visit me today. Jan, who lives in Weatherford and Sally who lives in Mineral Wells, both were convinced to come see me to pick up their purchases today. Oddly we are all 3 the same age and are art and animal lovers, too. I loved meeting ya'll and hope you stay in contact. It's nice to be able to put a face to those who compliment me so richly!
1 Samuel 18:20-22 (in Context) 1 Samuel 18 (Whole Chapter) Jeremiah 46:17
There they will exclaim, 'Pharaoh king of Egypt is only a loud noise; he has missed his opportunity.'

My Turn

5 X 7 Oil on Gessoed Masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance in U.S.

I told ya'll that I attended a sorting this past weekend, and a variety of riders participated. When I first saw this cowboy, I thought I recognized his horse. Typically I recognize the animals before I recognize the people with them. I did the same at the business we owned for 11 years - an oil change shop. I knew people by the cars they drove; "Oh, you're the 2001 Diesel Ford Expedition with the chrome grill guard, dent on the driver's side from the deer". You get it.
Anyway, I thought I knew this horse, but I was wrong. So I then focused on the guy riding him and saw that he was doing a pretty good job exposing his mount to the cows and getting him to sort them. They need more work, but I do think they had fun. The rider was generous to his partners and the horse was cooperative. What more could you ask for?
Proverbs 11:25
A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
There are 5 comments in Proverbs about generosity. hmmmmm

Playing Tag

5 X 7 Oil on Canvas Board $115
SOLD to a Pennsylvania collector

The horses are in the front "big" pasture now, where I can see them through the picture window in my studio. Yesterday afternoon I saw them flash by - all three - running like the devil was on their tails. I grabbed my camera (which is USUALLY always ready to go at a moment's notice) and I flew out the door with Georgia on my heels. An army helicopter was passing low overhead (there's a number of Army and Guard bases in Texas and we see their air support vehicles overhead regularly). They were using it as an excuse to act silly. I have seen them hardly raise their heads when helicopters fly overhead, but today they decided it was a scary monster and acted accordingly.
I got pictures. Lots and lots of pictures. Like I really need more! And Georgia got to start a game of tag with Easy. Boy oh boy, a dog's life is great! And my horses' are even better!
Today, dear readers, please say a little prayer for Thomas, my goofy brother-in-law. He's having a diagnostic medical procedure today to find a blood clot. Please keep Thomas in your prayers - he has to stay healthy to watch over my mother and father-in-law!!! :-)
Isaiah 27:1
[ Deliverance of Israel ] In that day, the LORD will punish with his sword, his fierce, great and powerful sword, Leviathan the gliding serpent, Leviathan the coiling serpent; he will slay the monster of the sea.

Cattle Sorting

nodp
I spent Sunday afternoon at a sorting. For those of you not literate in horse lingo, that's a cattle working competition that is probably one of the best ways to have fun on a horse. I didn't go to participate, though. I went for photographs. And I got a bunch, including the one above that will probably become a painting.
I used to compete in sortings on PJ's dam before her seizures became too frequent and made her unsafe to ride. PJ can work cattle, when she wants to, but no where near as good as her momma, so for now I remain content just watching. But I have to admit that my legs were itching to climb on a horse....
The rules of sorting are as follows: Ten numbered calves, plus one un-numbered dummy calf are wandering around a small round pen which is connected to another round pen via a small opening. Two riders must "sort" the cattle in numerical order from one pen to another - in order and without letting any calves "leak" back. And do it in a prescribed amount of time - usually 30 to 90 seconds. If a calf goes through out of order or one comes back to join its herdmates, the run is over and does not count. The team with the most calves moved with no penalties in the time allotted wins. Every team pays to compete, and part of the money goes to the cattle supplier and part goes out in winnings. And a good time is had by all!
All skill level of horsemanship can have fun doing this - young and old alike. All you need is a horse that reins fairly well and isn't afraid of cows.
Don't forget to check on my paintings up for grabs on eBay! I am really cleaning house!
2 Timothy 2:5
Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules.

Winter Coat

SOLD to a California Collector
5 X 7 Oil on Canvas Board $115
Shipping and Insurance included within U.S.

While I was painting on a large canvas today, Georgia hopped up into a chair to look out the picture window into the front pasture. We have moved the horses to the "North Pasture" for the winter. It's easier to feed them there, and they have the barn for shelter. Ron has moved his cows off, so now I watch horses instead of Longhorns out the studio window. And so does Georgia. And if one comes close to the house or barn, she thinks it's necessary to go out and check on them. Georgia saw PJ coming up to drink and wanted out to go check on her.
I obliged and let her out, and she immediately proceeded to try and start a game of tag with her. Dandy was behind her mom half way to the barn and immediately started running, thinking it was feeding time, I guess. I grabbed my camera and snapped a quick action shot. She is very fuzzy and shows no highlights when the sun shines on her. All her dense velvety fur absorbs sunlight (and heat, too, I guess) and reflects very little light. She must be very warm on sunny winter days. Her winter coat is nature's furnace....
Earlier today friends Pat and Ken stopped by to announce a milestone in their Financial Peace University class - they paid off their truck EARLY and are snowballing their horse trailer now. They are following the class instructions as well, if not better, than everyone, and I am so proud of them! Keep it up, Gazelles! They will be debt free in no time...
DON'T FORGET: Go HERE to bid on current paintings on eBay!
Psalm 12:6
And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times

Like Mother Not Like Daughter?

9 X 13 Oil on flat canvas $125
Check with me for availability

Little Dandy started out life the same color as her momma - bright sorrel. But as Spring and Summer passed, she morphed into the color of her grand-dam, Miss Jack, who was registered as brown, but turned a gorgeous black in winter. Children do that too - start out like one parent or another and suddenly they become like a grandparent, too. My mom has a creative, mathematical mind, and we share many traits. My daddy had a goofy sense of humor and a salesman's gift of gab. But my artistic genes come from my mom's mother, my grandmother who I called "Itee". It was Itee that first put a paintbrush in my hand and taught me how to draw and compose and manipulate oil paint. She was a teacher with an artist's soul who didn't actually start painting until she was middle aged. She's been gone for more than 20 years now, but I still have some of her old art supplies - including her student easels and her paint box. I like to think she watches me as I paint and smiles. Thanks, Itee, for the genes!
Proverbs 19:8
He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers.

Opportunists

SOLD to a collector in Montana
8 X 6 Oil on gessoed Masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance in U.S.

The titles to my paintings come at various stages during their construction. My normal painting routine is to have a specific image in my head and then I search to find the proper background, rearranging the focus, changing the position of the sun, etc. if needed. Often while I am searching my archives of photos and sketches, a title comes to mind. Most often it comes to me while in the middle of the painting. This one did not occur to me until I was cropping the photo and making it ready for the blog. I rarely fret over a title - they always come. Like my Bible verses at the end - I know God will provide a verse, like He provides me with everything else I need. This one was almost tricky, though.
"Opportunists". Do you see what the young men are wearing? Civil War coats from different sides. They don't care what the color is or what they represent. They are simply warm and protective without attached labels of beliefs. The opportunity that afforded their acquiring them is not known, but we may presume that they receive greater benefit from them than the soldiers who originally wore them....maybe.

Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV) "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is."

Almost Missed Her

SOLD to an Alabama Collector
8 X 8 Oil on flat canvas $115
Includes shipping and insurance in U.S.

I have spent many hours of my life searching for animals; dogs that have run off following their noses, first time momma cows overdue to calve, cats that didn't show up for dinner and horses not following their predictable regular routines. I would include my kids in this list, but technically, they may resent being called animals! I HAVE searched for them, however, and so far always found them.
I cannot imagine managing the animals on thousands of acres of land. We crossed huge ranches this past summer on our trip up the Rockies, and the logistics of keeping track of the animals in such expanses boggled my mind. Especially before the invention of motorized vehicles (and flying machines).
This cowboy almost missed finding the mare he was searching for. If the sun hadn't just illuminated her, her would have rode on by...a comment on life, huh?
Jeremiah 46:17
There they will exclaim, 'Pharaoh king of Egypt is only a loud noise; he has missed his opportunity.'

Definition of Success

30 X 40 Oil on 1 1/2 inch gallery wrapped canvas, ready-to-hang
Contact Artist for Availability

While finishing up this panting I have been listening to a wonderful radio station - KAAM. They are playing all Christmas music today; I guess to get all the shoppers in the mood. I refuse to go shopping on this day, though. I don't like huge crowds, anyway, but standing in line and walking 2 miles through a parking lot and worrying about thieves is simply more than I care to endure this time of year - or any time, for that matter. But I digress.
While listening to this station, I heard a quote that made me think of this bison climbing a hill. "Success is whatever gets YOU closer to what YOU believe is important." Whether it be a better golf swing; lighter, fluffier biscuits; to the top of the hill; or getting closer to being the person God wants us to be, all are successes based upon our own initiatives and desires. And all should be measured personally and not by our peers. Just as my happiness should not be dependent on the actions of others, neither should my success - a comforting thought, I think.
Back to the painting. With rich colors and a great deal more texture than I usually do, this painting fairly glows and really lights up my studio. The deep sides are painted, so no frame is necessary, and it should be dry in time to get it somewhere by Christmas. I'll even wrap it up pretty if you want it shipped direct.
And if you want a better look at it, I will have it listed on my website which allows you to really zoom in close. Click on "largest paintings".
Our Thanksgiving at Merideth's was perfect. My daughter was unneccessarily worried about her ability to serve 14 people - the biggest crowd she has had in her home so far. She asked for my help, but she didn't need it. The turkey was perfect, the house looked beautiful and we were all happily stuffed in time to watch the Cowboys win! We all have so much to be thankful for! Now my son, Ben, gets to "do" Christmas!
Matthew 25:21
"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"

His Word is All You Need

8 X 10 Oil on flat canvas - matted - $115
Includes shipping and insurance in U.S. only

Between church and FPU I painted. After FPU I painted. For some reason I really needed to get most of this cowboy completed. This was one of our cowboy models at the Shootout last week. I still need to add a few more details, but here he is. When I complete it and have better light, I'll post it above this one and you see if you can find the differences.
Portraits are not really my thing, but one of my favorite teachers, James Spurlock, is a pastel portrait painter and he is amazing. He teaches a drawing system for getting faces correct that works every time. He teaches and paints in Granbury, Texas, if you are interested. He has helped set me on the road to using colors correctly. I still stray a lot, but at least I know when I do, now!
Off the subject of painting, there's a fun game going around between bloggers, and I have been "tagged". This is how the game works:
1. Put a link in your posting to the person who tagged you.
2. List 7 unusual things about yourself.
3. Tag 7 other bloggers at the end of your post and comment on their blogs to let them know.
K Joann Russell is a Seattle artist and a follower of my blog and she did this to me!
OK - here's my seven:

1. I first painted with oils at the age of 5 with my grandmother who was an artist.
2. I used to supplement my income by artificially inseminating cattle.
3. I can identify dozens of “wild” edible foods – including 2 mushrooms – and I have eaten them all.
4. I have been married 35 years and I still like him – most of the time!
5. I am fascinated with bones and skeletons and other things biological – and I have passed this interest on to my daughter who is a science teacher.
6. I really like snakes and other reptiles.
7. I swam with a wild manatee last June in Florida. Actually, it swam with ME

1 Corinthians 9:25
Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.

Weiner Dog

7 X 7 Oil on flat canvas - free drawing
you pay shipping and insurance only

I don't usually "do" dogs other than my own Georgia. I never could paint Kibble very well, either, although I tried several times while she was alive. But this little Dachshund was too cute to ignore. He was at the Shootout, following an artist friend of mine everywhere he went. I asked if it was his dog, and James said "no", but he was following him because his (James') watchface would occasionally reflect a bright spot of light on the ground and the dog would chase it! That dog continued to follow James and sit at his feet, expectantly waiting for the spot of light to appear so he could pounce.
GIVE AWAY: Frequently I wipe off paintings if I'm just playing, but this little dog is too cute. So I thought I'd give it away to one of my faithful readers - a raffle, you'd call it.
If you want it, e-mail me at debbiegraysonlincoln@yahoo.com and I will put all the names in a basket and let a friend draw one out. You'll have to pay for shipping and insurance.
Psalm 33:4
For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.
("FAITH" is mentioned in Psalms alone over 40 times!)

Itchy Spring Foal

SOLD to a collector in Ohio
8 X 6 Oil on masonite $115
includes shipping and insurance in U.S. Overseas extra.

I have started several larger paintings this week and I'm waiting on the undercoats to dry a bit. I used to use acrylic paint to undercoat my paintings (years ago), but I had issues with "stickability". You are SUPPOSED to be able to paint oil on acrylic, but not the reverse. I have learned not to trust it either way.
At the end of my undercoating work, I always have extra paint left over and my little paintings are the result of me using up what's on my palette. This particular image is Dandy, of course, when she was about 2 months old and just beginning to lose her baby coat. It must have been pretty itchy, because I witnessed her contorting herself like this many times. Or maybe she was going after a fly. You may be beginning to recognize her from the goofy blaze on her face that I think looks like a can opener. And her long stockings.
SPECIAL NOTE to MERIDETH: Happy birthday to my adorable, talented, creative, smart and beautiful daughter. Thanks to you, I spent Thanksgiving 1983 in the hospital!!!!! It's been a wonderful 25 years watching you become better than I ever hoped to be. You make my heart proud. I love you.
Matthew 12:33
"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.

Catch Me If You Can

SOLD to a Texas Collector
9 X 12 Oil on Canvas Board $115
Includes shipping and insurance U.S. only

I am working on a large painting and when I reach a stopping point I like to paint these smaller daily paintings to use up the paint I have left over on my palette. Sometimes they work- sometimes they don't.
I have a wealth of inspiration from the farms surrounding me. Within a very few miles, I can find Quarter Horses, Arabs, Paso Finos, Mules and Morgans. And those are just the people I know!
This Arab belongs to the Moores, my neighbors to the north. I never run out of inspiration from those beauties! When they move, it is with a grace and elegance that is indescribable. Not that my own Quarter Horses aren't graceful - they are. But they are certainly more conservative in their movement which makes them immensely more attractive to me in my later years!
This fellow was hanging around the farrier as he trimmed the feet of another horse in the pasture under a tree (yes, another photo op). When "shooed" away, he'd stick his tail in the air and boing, boing, boing to 100 feet away and then slowly creep back until his head was hanging over the farrier's back. "Can I help?" The only good movement photos I got were during his forced retreat!
Psalm 74:21
Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace; may the poor and needy praise your name

Not His First Rodeo

16 X 20 Oil on stretched canvas
with painted sides ready to hang or frame $150
Includes shipping and insurance in U.S. Only

At the photo shoot last week one cowboy's horse suddenly decided that she didn't want to cooperate and gave all us photographers quite a show. According to his owner, she has never bucked like this, but a couple cowboys knowingly shook their heads and commented "Never trust a piebald, moon eyed horse." Now I painted this horse red (artistic license) but she is actually a true piebald paint - black with blue eyes - and stunning in appearance and probably the best looking animal at the shoot.
The cowboy never got back on his horse for the rest of the day - she was too skittish and refused to settle down. But I got a good dozen photos, and even though it wasn't a "planned" set, I paid the cowboy for his "modeling". I was especially relieved that he wasn't hurt and rode the buck for more than the required 8 seconds before dismounting!
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

Dandy Update

NDP
Dandy is growing like a weed and has a winter coat that looks and feels like sheared beaver - velvety soft and glistening. Her mane and tail are also getting luxuriously long. I feed her separate from the big horses and she has learned to come quickly when I call her - nothing like food to get affection from a horse!
I have worked her on a lunge line a couple more times - walk, trot, lope - she willing does them all and halts on command. I have not yet loaded her into a trailer, but I don't expect a problem. When she is a little bigger, I will probably introduce her to a light saddle and let her move under it a bit. I will be sure to get that experience recorded!
Friend Trista (Gizmo's "mom") will be out next weekend to trim feet. Unfortunately Giz put a leg somewhere he shouldn't and now has a cast on it. He should be OK, but may have a scar to remember the incident.
I have owned horses for nearly 30 years and I know from experience that you cannot completely keep them safe. Even in a padded cell, they'd find a way to hurt themselves. When PJ was a yearling, we burned a large pile of brush in her pasture. At the time, we had several horses and a couple yearlings. All gave the burning brush pile a wide berth - except PJ. She jumped and frisked and ran around it. Suddenly she ran right at it and misjudged her stopping distance and fell into the fire. She didn't get hurt bad, but now she has a "brand" on her left hip to remind us all of her silliness.
Psalm 27:5
For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock

Running Brave

8 X 6 Oil on gessoed masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance in US only
shipping outside US extra

I have several large paintings in mind using this running brave image. This model was SO cooperative in loping his horse past me! The third "take" he nearly lost his seat, but gamely continued with the shooting.
I have nothing but admiration for the models at the photo shoot - they were professional and very good natured to put up with all us artists! When I went home at the end of the 2nd day, I already had a number of set-ups in mind for the next year's "Shoot-Out." If there are other artists out there interested in attending, please contact me. I promise you won't be disappointed.
Luke 6:38
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

End of the Day Cowboy

5 X 7 Oil on gessoed masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance in US
Overseas shipping extra

Here's another one of my favorite models from the "Shoot Out" at Doug Prine's ranch.
This cowboy was a favorite of all of us, in fact. He has a wonderfully photogenic horse, he was agreeable to do anything we asked, and always kept a willing, servant's attitude. I stayed till the end of the day Saturday to catch the afternoon light on him, and it was well worth it.
We began Saturday early with the cowboys working cattle for us, and I got some GREAT cow punching photos. We continued to a local creek where we could photograph Indians and cowboys and 19th century bathing beauties. It ended back at Doug's ranch, and this cowboy worked with us all day. He had to be some worn out, but I suspect he still kept working on into the evening for other photographers who wanted some interior, candlelit and gaslight scenes. I was out of money so I left at sundown (we were required to pay each model $5 in each scene set-up). I had spent $300 on models during the course of 2 days, and that was my budgeted limit. If I go back next year, I will probably wait until later in the day to start and then stay for the interior evening and campfire scenes. I can only do so much at a time! Besides, I'm just learning to paint daylight - evening scenes will have to wait.
Matthew 26:41
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

Lookout Cowgirl

6 X 8 Oil on gessoed Masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance in US only
Overseas shipping extra

There were a few cowgirl models at the shootout and this was one. Before we began the cattle working part of the photo shoot, the riders assembled on the dam of a tank (that's a pond for you non-Texans). Great back lighting and silhouette photos. This girl was actually on a palomino horse, but I darkened him for effect. She held her own with the guys, but you could tell the horse hadn't been around cattle much - at least it appeared that way. She was a good subject, though.
Ephesians 4:18
They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.

River Tracker

SOLD to a Texas Collector
6 X 8 Color Study on gessoed masonite $115
Includes shipping and insurance in US.
Overseas shipping extra

Mike and I spent most of Friday and all day Saturday at an staging for artists and photographers. A local artist, Doug Prine, has built an old timey western town near Nemo, Texas, and once a year he invites artists and photographers and assorted models with props and livestock to get together and "stage" photos. Most of the models are in authentically accurate period clothing from the 19th century. In addition to the old town background and models, he has available ponds, a creek with fall colored trees, a stagecoach, old vehicles, cattle and horses.
I took a total of 8.5 GIG of photos. After spending all afternoon yesterday cataloging them, I came up with at least 10 good painting ideas and 10 times as many images like the one above that can be used in various scenes or settings all unique to me and my camera's angles.
This particular model and his horse was one of my favorite. Both were very cooperative and natural in their movements and attitudes. You'll be seeing them in severl more compositions in the future. I like to quickly paint the small parts of a painting first before I construct the larger one in greater detail. The little paintings I will continue to offer here and on the Daily Painters website. The large ones, however, will probably go to galleries. I will try to show them to you first, though.
Psalm 37:38
But all sinners will be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be cut off

Creede Colorado Clouds

8 X 10 Oil on Stretched canvas $115
Includes shipping and insurance

I saw these spectacular clouds on the way to Creede, Colorado this past summer. The Rockies were still getting regular rain so we were treated to impressive cloud formations and lush green forests nearly all summer.
Aren't we all glad this election is finally over? I received a wonderful quote by Corrie Ten Boom in my e-mail this morning: "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." I think that will be my mantra for the next several years. I am not afraid of the leaders we have elected - I am more fearful of the people who elected them, expecting THEM to solve all their problems. It seems as if those politicians that promise the most are the ones who get elected. And yet we all know deep down that the only way to happiness is looking through our own soul to the Father.
The politicians and churches continue to change according to the whims of the people, and they preach and promise what they think we want to hear - doing what it takes to get elected or to get us to attend.
Morality doesn't change with the times and neither does integrity and the things we need for a happy life.
I continue to pray for this country and those who think they know how to fix it.
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

HALF PRICE SALE CONTINUES - RULES FOLLOW

Waterhole Buddies

24 X 20 Oil on Canvas $960
Includes shipping and insurance

There is something appealing about horses in water and I hope to get more images like these this weekend. I am attending a photo shoot designed for western artists. There will be horses and cattle and people in period costumes and native Americans and tepees and wagons and.... It's a 3 day event and you can tell I am excited. PLUS the weather is supposed to be cooperative - which is good because this will happen rain or shine, dawn till dusk.
This painting is not actually finished - there are a few more tiny details to add, and I will post the completed painting on my website. If you go there, you can sign up and be notified when I post new paintings. If you are tired of being inundated with messages from this blog, you may prefer the website because I usually post several paintings at a time and only the better ones. You won't get as many e-mails (but you also may miss some of the little paintings, so think before you change!).
Dandy update: Dandy has a big old belly - like babies get when they eat and eat and eat! Her best friend is my friend/trainer Trista's Gizmo, and it looks as if he will spend his winter here (yea!). They eat together and sleep together and play together. Both are getting really thick, fuzzy coats. Dandy has Giz beat in the mane growing department (but she's 6 weeks older, too), but Giz is still a little taller. He knows more, too, thanks to Trista's early training. But yesterday I taught Dandy to lunge on a lead line in about 5 minutes. Stop, turn, come to me, no problem. I even got her to trot and lope a little bit. I can't wait to ride this horse!
For those who are interested, Gizmo is a registered American Sport Horse. He is 1/2 Quarterhorse and 1/2 Oldenburg. He has passed his exam with flying colors and been approved for registry and I suspect he will make a superior eventing horse. These two are so alike in temperament, it's uncanny. When Trista and I selected the studs for our mares, we both considered temperament first and then went for conformation, color, etc. And both sires are famous for easy-going, willing natures whose foals practically train themselves who also sire foals with outstanding eye appeal. If I breed PJ again, I will go back to Banjo, Dandy's sire, for sure.
John 19:30
When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Half Price Sale Continues

"Getting the Buckskin Mare Home"
30 X 40 Oil on Canvas
NFS

This is the large painting I have been working on since JUNE! I donated it to our local school carnival as a raffle item, and I am happy to announce that a teacher won it. I offered the option of a smaller painting to the winner (not everyone has a spot for something this large) but she wanted this big one!
This is one of the few paintings I have completed that is not drawn from my own photographs. The images are from an artist/teacher I admire - Doug Prine. He shared them with me and has invited me to a photo shoot this weekend (Deep in the Art of Texas) at his ranch near Cleburne to acquire more. He has built a western town, much like something out of "Gunsmoke", and every year he invites artists to come with their cameras. He has readied horses and wagons and longhorns and cowboys and native Americans - all in period dress - and all ready for us, the artists, to stage them and photograph them. This opportunity combined with all the photos I acquired on our trip to the Wyoming Rendevous should keep me happy for years!
Don't forget - the half price sale continues through this week only. Rules follow.
Job 36:22
"God is exalted in his power. Who is a teacher like him?

BIG HALF PRICE SALE

8 X 10 Oil on Canvas $100

This is one of my teen horse back riding friends. She saved up her own money to purchase this horse and now she's teaching him to carry a flag so she can ride him in the Grand Entry at local rodeos. Most rodeos have a tradition of beginning every competition with a Grand Entry - all the riders that are participating in that day's events ride in a two long winding lines each led by a rider carrying a flag - a US flag and a Texas flag. The lines weave around the arena and sometimes even cross one another - it can get quite elaborate. The lead rider has to have a competent horse that will allow his rider to carry the huge, flapping, flag and well as tolerate a bunch of riders following directly behind. This horse still isn't sure of what's being asked of him (see his ears?), but he trusts his rider and I believe will be just fine.

Matthew 16:23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."

BIG HALF PRICE SALE!!!

6 X 8 Oil on Masonite $150

This is one of several nice paintings that can be purchased at half price during the BIG SALE!
I saw this fellow at Blanco's (Texas) sesquicentennial celebration last Spring. We caught the end of a parade featuring wagons pulled by both horses and mules and some cowboys on mules. This painting is one particularly handsome fellow (the mule!) My friend Janet Vance raises mules and donkeys and still is promising to get me on one...stayed tuned!
Isaiah 3:9
The look on their faces testifies against them; they parade their sin like Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to them! They have brought disaster upon themselves.

Where Did Your Head Go To?

5.5 X 7.5 Oil on Flat Canvas $100
Shipping and insurance included

Easy was itching from a bothersome fly. I watched him for a good 5 minutes go after it, and at one point, it looked as if his head disappeared. Except for his ear.
When I ask him for this maneuver under saddle he is quite willing to flex like this. It was from early observation of such gyrations that I thought he would be a good riding horse. Or at least flexible. Sometimes those traits don't always go hand in hand...
Today's Bible verse rather reminds me of politicians. hmmmmm

2 Timothy 4:3
For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.

Big Bear Market

24 X 30 Oil on 3/4" gallery wrap canvas
Check with Artist for Availability

I have been obsessed with bears and bison lately, it seems. Say, that sounds like a good title for a painting - perhaps I do need to combine the 2 obsessions into one painting and be done with it!
This painting fairly glows on the canvas and looks 500% better in person. I think it will need to be hung in a gallery to be seen in its true light.
We just returned from camping at Ink's Lake in the Hill Country of Texas - near Marble Falls. Beautiful lake, spacey campsites and perfect weather. The fishing wasn't too good, but I did manage to snag a couple catfish, a bunch of perch and 2 nice striped bass. The 3 black bass I caught were under legal size, but were still a lot of fun to land.
These are our camping buddies from out latest trip - and I understand there are possibly 4 more couples who may want to join us on our next venture. Looks like we may be starting a "club"!
As soon as I finish up some paintings I have already started, I will be doing some lake images. It's hard to make myself complete a project before I start another - my father was the some way. I cannot count the number of "projects" in our garage that looked like great ideas at the time, but never were completed. I take after him in this regard, but I try to be aware of it better.

Isaiah 59:11
We all growl like bears; we moan mournfully like doves. We look for justice, but find none; for deliverance, but it is far away.

Easy Twist

5.5 X 7.5 Oil on flat canvas $110
Includes shipping and insurance in U.S only

Are ya'll getting tired of images of Easy yet? I guess I'm painting him so much because there may be a chance of him leaving.
Don't worry I'm about done, and I'm about to get started on a series of Dandy. She is turning almost black with light splotches of white fur here and there. In the horse world, it's called "roaning", but to me it looks like premature grey. Must be a trait of paints.
The week of October 20 we will be camping and when I get back, I have several large paintings to finish up, so it may be a while before you see new paintings. You're probably ready to take a break, too!
Numbers 30:2
When a man makes a vow to the LORD or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.

All in the Family

7.5 X 12 Canvas on 3/4 inch board $125
Includes shipping and insurance within US
SOLD to a collector in California

I thought you might enjoy seeing how I put a particular painting together: four separate pictures of my animal family into one painting. This is also an experiment in mounting canvas on board. The board is a leftover piece of pre-fab shelving; very heavy and 3/4 inch thick. I like the heft of it and the fact that it shouldn't warp at all. I am going to try the same technique on masonite for comparison. I probably could buy the same product for very little more, but I like the fact that I am not restricted to a certain size - or have to cut something to fit the size I need - or wait for an order to arrive. Some paintings demand to be a certain dimension and no ready-mades will do.
A little more information on the upcoming BIG SALE. All little paintings that have not sold (or are not in galleries) as of November 1 will be available for half price for TWO WEEKS. Some of the ones I have painted recently will be going to a gallery next week, if they haven't sold for the original price here first. I will mark them "unavailable" on both the Daily Painter website and and here on my blog. PLEASE e-mail me first before you PayPal me, to be SURE the painting you want is still available. The yellow rose that was posted a couple days ago has sold - and it WAS going to a gallery, so that collector was smart to jump on it quickly!
Matthew 23:4
They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. (Was he speaking of politicians??!! dl)

Lake McDonald West Glacier

8 X 7 Oil on flat canvas $125
Includes shipping and insurance

Here's my 2nd attempt to get this landscape right. I widened the view, added more trees, and hopefully made that distant peninsula look farther away. Also, since it's done on canvas, the edges are softer, which I prefer. I think that once I am through all my little gessoed Masonite panels I will cease to use them. They impart a different texture than canvas, and are great for really detailed work (if they are sanded smooth enough), but since I use them strictly for daily quickies, that's not important to me.
I am really liking just cutting a piece of canvas to suit the size I need. So often a painting needs to be an odd size and not the standard 4 to 5, 5 to 6, or 3 to 4 ratio. Like this one. And the advantage of flat canvas is that they can be mounted and framed in a variety of ways, including under glass with a mat. I am also experimenting with canvas mounted (glued) on board. I have a wonderful glue that is water based, archival and non-warping. I had a piece of pre-fabricated shelving left over from a project and glued a square of canvas onto it and it looks very good. I may paint on it today.
Back to this landscape - I don't think I told you where I saw it. It's on the Going to the Sun Road that winds around Lake McDonald at West Glacier, Montana. If you have been on that road, you have seen this vista. And that road, by the way, is one incredible journey. It winds 50 miles through Glacier Park's wild interior with the pinnacle being Logan's Pass at the Continental Divide. The road was 75 years old this year and is really an engineering marvel. But I suggest you don't drive it yourself and instead take one of the Park buses like we did. If you drive it, you won't be able to enjoy the incredible views - you'll be too busy trying NOT to fall off a mountain!
I am going to paint this scene one more time - on a big canvas. I think I may get it right then.
Don't forget the big sale starting November 1!
Matthew 10:10
take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.
(This same parable, by the way, is in three books of the New Testament...worth looking up.)

Easy's Afternoon Walk

About 4 1/2 X 7 1/2 Oil on loose canvas $110
Includes shipping and insurance

I have decided to concentrate on little ones for a while. I am still waiting for the large horses-in-water underpainting to dry. I was out of Liquin, which I usually use, so the lighter areas are not quite dry. Patience, Debbie.
When frustrated I fall back on painting what I know, and painting Easy is like painting my own hand. I know him so well. This one is a REAL quick study. I may do several today, since we will be gone most of next week camping, and I have been lax about posting.
Don't forget to get ready for the BIG SALE starting November 1!

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Yellow Rose of Texas

7.5 X 7.5 Oil on unstretched canvas $110
Shipping and Insurance included
SOLD to a collector in South Australia

I have never been able to grow roses - every other kind of flower I can grow, but roses have always given me grief. Both my mother and mother-in-law have GORGEOUS roses in their yard, so I am trying one more time. This time I have paid attention to drainage, compost, sunlight and disease, and as a result, this year I HAVE ROSES! I even planted a pink one in the church flower bed and it is thriving, too.
Don't ask me what kind this one is - it's a prickly, yellow one! And I have found out that it's the old fashioned roses that are fragrant - this one is not, so I'm sure it's a hybrid. I may plant another one that smells good next spring, if this one survives the winter. Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
Don't forget to get ready for the BIG SALE starting November 1!
Ephesians 5:2
and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

West Glacier

5 X 7 Oil on Board $110
Includes shipping and insurance

This is a very rough small preliminary for a planned large painting. I definitely don't have the colors worked out yet - not enough distance to the back landscape. But I do think I have the overall composition worked out. But I just noticed the reflection of the distant trees is not accurate and too regular (I do that a lot). I am considering adding a canoeist in a yellow boat in the cove as a focal point. And the tree in the foreground does not stand out enough, even though it's in shadow. And the light on the ground is not LIGHT enough. Oh, maybe I should just forget it....!!!
No, I think I will redo it and just concentrate on color and value only, and not on shapes. I will share that with you next. Promise.
Don't forget to get ready for the BIG SALE starting November 1!
Luke 18:13
"But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'