Dec 12, 09 Well I hope everyone is enjoying the cold! I myself hate winter and the cold, but as a Artist I love the long winter shadows and the anatomy of the trees. Living down by the mighty Mississippi it's beautiful year round and winter is no exception. Currently I am finishing up my last studio class with Joe Paquet. It has been a great learning experience plus the friendships I have developed with Joe and the other painters in the group has been exceptional. Well everyone have a safe and wonderful Xmas and New Years. John