Don't Give Up Too Early

This is my summertime neighborhood.  We all have our crosses....

At the beginning of this painting I was convinced it was going to be a stinker.  But I've learned not to quit too early when the going gets tough.  What else do you have to do anyway? 

My friend Judi Wagner used to say, "Stay lighter longer."  That gives you plenty of time to decide where the darks should go.  And I am one of those painters who works the whole page at the same time.  That way you get a feel for the balance as well as a chance to link the darks. 

What a great summer day!