I work at three jobs – Nature Artist and Workshop Instructor as my business and Coordinator for Spring Island’s Nature & Arts events.  For the most part I work out of my home but when I have to go into ‘the office’ it’s located at Spring Island’s Nature Center. 

I pinch myself every time I cross the causeway to Spring Island. It’s a 3,000 acre nature preserve with a residential community that’s been carefully woven into the natural landscape.  I’m continually inspired by the beauty there.

When I enter the back door of the Nature Center I walk past tanks occupied by various snakes and at the end of this room is a large tank containing two baby American Alligators, a constantly hungry Terrapin and a couple of Chicken Turtles.

On this day I witnessed a special treat…. A baby gator lounging atop of two chicken turtles.  I walked slowly toward the tank but didn’t dare get too close. My co-workers are getting used to me taking an art break 🙂 And, being conscious of ‘the clock’ I sketch really fast…. great practice 🙂 I added color today. Below is the original sketch.