I chose to work only in plein air which I knew would push me out of my comfort zone. It helped me gain confidence in my painting skills and put to use the knowledge that I have built over a twenty plus year career as a painter. It gave me greater focus where I found a renewed appreciation for my visual instincts. Nature has so much to offer if you are open to seeing what’s there. This very empowering experience also enabled me to shut off the critical-verbal side of my brain and tap into the non-verbal visual side on a more consistent basis. My residency was the “kick in the pants” that I needed.