A Dip in the Pool

This is such a typical sight on hot summer days... 

     A cow standing in a pond, 

          just standin'... just relaxin'... just chillin'... 

     A cow standing under the shade of a tree... 

          just standin'... just chewin' cud... just hangin' out...

A couple of weeks ago we went on a day trip.  We made a long driving loop through rural Arkansas and Oklahoma. These cows were just too great to pass by.  We turned around so I could take (way too many) pictures of them.  As we drove on, we started noticing more cows in ponds.  It became a game to see who could spot them first.  It didn't count if the cow was beside the pond or thinking about getting in the pond or walking toward the pond. At least one cow had to be standing in the pond.  We ended up seeing cows in ponds a dozen times.

I did take some other pictures along the way.  We drove the length of the Talimena Scenic Byway through some of the best views of the Ouachita Mountains. These are the mountains where I grew up.

I also took (way too many) photos of butterflies.  At every scenic lookout I spent half the time taking in the view and half the time in disbelief over the number of the butterflies flitting around thistles.

I found everything about this day to be relaxing and beautiful and therapeutic... the butterflies... the Ouachita Mountains... and yes, all the cows in ponds.

Original Oil Painting on 10"x 20" Wrapped Canvas.

If you'd like to have this painting, click A Dip in the Pool.

Mitten the Cow

She wanted to have her picture taken!

My husband and I went on a cow-hunting drive on New Year's Day. That means we picked a direction and drove until we found some cows willing to be still and look at me while I took their pictures.  Half the time they run away, but the other half the time they are curious enough to stare for a while.

This little gal was determined.  I have to be honest... I tried to avoid her.  She had this big mitten splotch right in the middle of her face... so...
So... I aimed my camera at other cows. However, this sweet little gal was focused on me and curious no matter what I did.  She grew on me.

As I was looking through all the downloaded photos, she was the star again and again and again.  
And... I was wrong... She is lovely... Her face is perfect for the canvas.  
I love her big mitten splotch.

Original Oil Painting - 16"x 16"
[SOLD]