#512 • Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park

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This past summer we took a fun day off from sailing and biked up into Acadia National Park.

 

Of course we were on eight-speed folding bikes with 20" wheels. Everyone else moved along on real  or electric versions. We were getting passed by EVERYONE, and I was tempted to scream at the electrics - that is not bicycling people! But I saved my breath because damn, I needed every ounce of it to get up hills that were climbs from hell. 

 

I think I'm jealous that I haven't reached the point where I need an electric bike, but also glad I haven't reached that point. Of course I don't want to try one because I'll probably find out I actually ready for one and don't know it.

 

We brought along our lunches this time and sat on the lawn under an apple tree in front of the Jordan Pond restaurant and visitors center. This was the view. It was simply beautiful The park is a gem. We are lucky to have it.

 

Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park • 19" x 10.5" • framed to 23" x  14.5" • $350

#511 • Carrabassett Valley Trailhead Path

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I was heading down valley when  noticed a riot of yellow to the left over the airport. So I stopped and snapped a few pics. That's the Longfellow Mountain Range in the background. I used to climb Bigelow Mountain every summer to see what kind of shape I was in. It was humbling. 

I haven't painted all summer, so I thought I'd begin with this. Can't climb it anymore, so I figured I'd paint it to maintain a sense of humility.

Carrabassett Valley Trailhead Path • 9.5" x 9.5" framed to 13.5" x 13.5 • $325

#510 • Tumbledown

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Last year at about this time, we took a ride over to Sunday River - hadn't been there for years. I have to say it sure had expanded. The ride up around the mountain and then back to our neck of the woods was beautiful. The views were stunning. And like all of the foothills and mountains in this state, it is always worth a Sunday drive.

We passed by this barn and field in Weld with Tumbledown in the distance. I hadn't hiked up there in decades, but was tempted after this trip. For those who are feeling the way I am now and again these days, this scene reminded me of how the soothing affect of just taking a ride upcountry into the hills and mountains can completely change ones attitude about everything, almost. Take a walk, a hike, a bike ride or whatever. It's way too beautiful out there right now to stay inside.

Tumbledown • 8" x 8" acrylic framed to 10"  10" • $300