Bob and I went to Leavenworth Thurs Oct 6- Mon Oct 10th. The day we got there (lunchtime) the group already was painting up a storm by Icicle creek. Bob and I decided that by the time we set up, everyone would be leaving, so we headed down the road to explore. Ate lunch- explored the group camp area and painted a view of the mountains sitting on rocks by side of creek until it began to rain (still not finished). Headed into town to ck into  Alpine river Inn, then back out to meet group at campsite- raining good now- headed down road to nice deli where we all ate and talked. Next morning started a tad foggy and cool. Explored further up Icicle creek area- as far as Rock Island- took a ton of pictures- scenery was great. The further you go on the road the higher you are and the colder it got- would've loved to paint, but decided to go back to Ida Creek campground where some fall color and birches across the creek had caught my eye. Painted in a new technique I call "Brrr stippling", very tight and staccato, I believe I am a fair weather painter....

 Weather was iffy, but sounded like it would improve. We took a walk thru town and down by the river- salmon were spawning! We went as group to eat at Mexican restaurant in Leavenworth, Los Camperos, food and company was great!  Saturday am it was clear and cold- I had spotted good vista in the parking lot of Motel- and I was out there before breakfast- man, still doing the brr-stippling thing. (Ice on the cars next to me!) I did complete the painting- although it is not my usual style, and ate my lovely breakfast (they had a great breakfast buffet every am) before we headed to the winery in Peshastin. It was not far- nice high overlook in vineyards above river w/ view of mountains and orchards/valley. I got a nice piece- my how loose my painting can be with a little warmth! Did a quick sketch of turning grape leaves and grapes that may work into something. We then met back at Alpine River Inn to share wine and snacks and talk.

Everyone put their work up  Bob set up his laptop with slideshow of pictures he had taken the last 2 days, which was fun. Awards were given, I think I got longest day award, or maybe it was the hardcore award- I forgot!   We then explored down Hwy 2- took lots of photos of wonderful scenery. Ended up back in Leavenworth, wanted to paint the river with mountains behind- but not so close to town, found Enchantment Park (not positive about name) and had easy trek to the River to paint- fewer people than City Park/Blackbird Is. Lots of possible paintings in that area. Finally had a bunch of people w/ kids and dogs come to watch salmon, and as light had really started to change (and temperature drop), we left.  Had great dinner at Viscontis, walked more, thawed in hot tub...

Monday morning we decided to take Myrna's advice and go to Plain, etc. Had a nice excursion to Wenatchee Lake and back via Plain (cute town). Took lots more photos, then headed to Ellensburg.  Nice trip all in all- lots of "ammunition" for studio pieces this winter. Decided I had not packed enough warm clothes and need to invest in gloves I can paint in! I truly enjoyed meeting old friends and new.  I will try to take some pics of a  piece or 2 of my artwork this weekend and send.

Many thanks to Karen and any who planned- it was a great outing!

Anne  Knapp