AUBERGE DE TRESOIR was painted on the spot in Quebec City, in the heart of the old section. The red roofed Auberge is one of the oldest buildings in Quebec and certainly the oldest hotel there. I was enraptured by the colorful scene there, red roofs with little dormers, green and white striped awnings filled with diners and cafe drinkers, all lit by late afternoon sun.

It takes a lot of doing to just get set up with my oil paints and easel in the middle of the sidewalk. I had to carry that heavy box down the steep street from the inn where I was staying, to this square then back up again when finished, carrying  my wet painting. I was there with my brother Rand and my father. Half way through the painting, I was really struggling because I had used up all my paper townels and had almost used up the few napkins I had grabbed at the hotel. I was so grateful when Rand found me and handed me a roll of paper towels through the car window! Lesson 1: don't forget the towels!Lesson 2: Make sure you have a support team!