Whitewater state park in southeast Minnesota was fantastic. I got to remember why I love the driftless region so much... not only was it among my very first “wilderness” experiences outside of cornfield hell, but it’s an undeniably beautiful region.

Got some really good strenuous hiking in, saw some killer views that were nigh impossible to capture with a phone camera, and did a little plein air watercolor. Also sitting beside the Whitewater River to paint gave me a nice sunburn. Minimal mosquitos though, so major plus. Plenty of birds and wildlife was regularly sighted or heard, so never a dull moment, either!

I am back from Itasca State Park: unfortunately, I did not get lost. Here's the first batch of photos. 

 Getting a little better at plein air painting? Which almost makes up for me not making it onto a couple of the trails I had been curious about! (Did finally take a canoe out onto the lake, so that's a Minnesota milestone accomplished. Bonus: I didn't fall into the lake, either!) 

That’s right, this year needed TWO vacations. (This from the person who never takes vacations...)

I’ll be leaving Wednesday morning for Itasca State Park, and should be returning sometime on Sunday (regrettably...) That said, I probably will not have internet access, so responses will be slow or non-existent. Besides, phone juice should always be saved for emergencies. Or photos.

I’m also hoping to have some decent on-location scribbles to share, though my plein air skills need a LOT of work. I’m bringing my Big Brush and some Tiny Paper. Maybe that’ll help. (Bugs love landing in watercolors, though.)