Gerry Conservation, Woodstock , Illinois

I deleted my entry, I will try and recapture of course would have been my best entry ever.
This painting was painted at Gerry Conservation area in Woodstock, Illinois . Spring 2012
My friends Nanette and Julie invited me along for a biweekly Plein Air event with the Illinois group.
Painting outdoors is a challenge for me which I welcome, it keeps me fresh and on my toes .
We set out to paint the stone railroad bridge in Woodstock . When we arrived in the morning we found that the light was not good. Nanette suggested we go to Gerry conservation area , yes, yes, yes we all agreed . After getting the cars parked and our gear out. We started walking down the path , just inside the conservation area we struck by the beauty of it all. Spring! The frogs , redwing black birds, and the cranes all making wonderful happy sounds. We stopped looked at each other not saying a word we all new we found a slice of heaven. To be a part of such an experience was overwhelming for me at times . I had trouble concentrating, listening and watching nature. I just wanted to take it all in. After about two hours my hands became very cold , even with my wool gloves on. I packed it in, I took a few pictures to use to finish my painting that by now had a solid structure, in my studio at The Starline building.
Armed with the pictures and experience of overwhelming excitement of nature coming to life. The new buds of lightly colored greens and almost pinkish, I was able to finish this painting . Which I believe is my best Plein Air to date.