I've never seen two words bring bigger smiles to people's faces in conversations about the great outdoors than the "BOUNDARY WATERS." If you've ever been, you know exactly what I'm talking about, that region of northern Minnesota where the loon calls, the mosquito bites, and the paddle is your guide.
I've always been my daddy's daughter...and that probably why these lakes are close to my heart. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts my dad shared with us kids was this place. My dad started coming up to the boundary waters when he was 16 years old. In fact I believe he had to complete a forestry project of planting numerous trees to earn his trip! Over the years he would find a way to annually escape to those lakes, bringing his wife, brother, nephews, co-workers, boy scouts, and children with him. We would all be schooled in the ways of paddling, bear proofing, fire building, and fishing! Four months before my dad lost his battle to cancer, us three kids made one final trip with him. I remember one night, fireside, dad saying, "Its a place like this that reminds you that God exists." I think he was right.
Earlier this month, we made our annual pilgrimage to the BWCA. And this painting is inspired by a sunset on lake #2. I'm hoping to get a few more waterscapes on canvas before the school year begins!
This one's for you, Dad.
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| Lake #2- 16x40 in |
And like a boat out on the ocean
I'm rocking you to sleep
The water's dark and deep
Inside this ancient heart
You'll always be a part of me
-Billy Joel
