As a surprise for Mark’s birthday on July 10th I booked a four hour canoe “adventure” on the day and a horse ride on the 11th. The time on the estuary and Gualala River was – cringe-inducing word warning – magical! Sorry, it was! Mark had the patience to allow me to paint – though I gave him the picture of where we stopped for a picnic lunch as payback.

I didn’t go near a horse but sat on a very misty beach and painted some of my favorite pictures of the trip thus far. Sunshine isn’t everything!



I did however take a moment to capture him on “High-roller”, a huge, gentle Clydesdale – even tempered despite being given that terrible, highly inappropriate name.

Looks divine!!! Peaceful, restful, and invigorating all at the same time. Fabulous images!!!
Happy Birthday Mark!!! Xoxo, Maryan and Chuck from our own paradise in the Adirondacks
Many thanks from MP!
Beautiful images of gorgeous places! Looks like an amazing birthday celebration—enjoy!!!
Thank you Yassana.
You are certainly building some lovely memories to share. That must be the first time Mark has ridden a horse for a considerable time, I can remember his very vigorous riding on ‘Kable’, his sister’s first horse, when his age had just about reached double figures!!
Thanks Michael. Mark thinks it is over thirty years. He and “High-roller” were as one!
Looks like a heavenly vacation and a truly special birthday celebration! Mark looks fabulous on High Roller:)
Thanks Medill.