I am always longing to go outside with my loved ones, to witness the season's offerings. It takes time, gathering subject matter for my art, and contemplating possibilities.  The street I live on leads to the urban forest, eleven miles of wild beauty we know as Bidwell Park. A canyon with a creek running through it, wandering trails, delicious swimming holes.....and in the back of one’s mind, always the hope of spotting a turtle, bobcat, gray fox, or mountain lion!  Bird watching itself is a noble pursuit.  There you might find me, dreaming awake, lost in details of moss and wildflowers, moving water, and lofty trees. 

-Rachelle Montoya