What do you call 15 artists in wine country? Answer:  giddy.  Not because of the luscious wines flowing at the many wine-tastings throughout the valley, but because of the spectacular vistas to paint from.  And paint we did last Saturday at a beautiful Palisade vineyard. More than 15 artists dotted the lush green rows of grape vines, brilliant gardens and cottage-ey buildings on the grounds. What a hoot! 

As we happily depicted the multiple vistas surrounding us (such as brilliant sandstone cliffs piggybacking to create the luminous Bookcliffs and Mt. Garfield; the monumental Grand Mesa with its vast forests and nearly 200 crystal clear lakes, and, of course; the rows and rows of lush grapevines nursing the baby fruits that will soon bring much joy) visitors from around the globe peered over our shoulders, asked questions and shared stories. And the one thing I heard over and over again from our guests was, "You are so very fortunate to live here."  Yes we are. Sometimes it takes a reminder from an "outsider" to keep us from taking it all for granted.  Thank you.

Now here's the good news!  Those many paintings that were created at the "Paint Out" at the vineyard will be on display for the public starting June 20 (next Saturday) at The Blue Pig Gallery in Palisade.  Come see the multiple takes artists have on one single location. It's truly very interesting. (You know those crazy artists...!)

OK - now for music!  There certainly isn't a shortage! And I, for one, am thrilled to partake in the toe-tappin' fun.  Through tomorrow (Sunday, July 14) twelve blue-sy bands take the stage at The Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Music Festival at Riverbend Park.  The setting is paradise with gi-normous cottonwood trees providing shade and the rushing Colorado River meandering through the property. What could be better?

Then, this Wednesday, June 17, Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers grace the stage at Mesa Theatre & Club.  This band was touted as "the best live band in America" by the New Haven Register.  (Not sure what the New Haven Register is, but it sure sounds good!) And, if you're a fan of the TV show "King of the Hill", this band is the one responsible for its theme song. Okay, now I've got that song stuck in my head!  Stop it! 

I could write about 20 more paragraphs on all the many concerts (many are free!) coming to Grand Junction this summer, but I don't want to overwhelm you and besides, I've got to go get this song out of my head!   I'll be back in a couple of days with more great happenings so you can plan ahead.  Man... I love summer here.