Daily Painting Practice- Painting an Omaha Park

I am sorry for not posting the past few days. I have been down and out with the flu and not painting. I did this painting just before dropping out of the studio and into bed.
I started the painting with the masses and began the sky before I realized I hadn't stopped to take any progress photos. So, this shot is at the stage where I am laying in the sky value and some color. Again, I find the pre-toned panel really helps speed up the painting process and holds the painting together while I search for the correct value with my brush.
I keep talking to myself while I paint "Stay loose, not too thick, remember how the sun felt, keep the shadows warm and transparent..." Sometimes I even listen to myself and do the right thing.
Zorinsky park in Omaha has a great paved biking and walking path around the lake (which is actually a reservoir). This is the view near where I parked the truck on the northwest side of the lake. The photo I am using for reference was taken near the spot I did (this pleine air painting) last fall.

click on the picture to enlarge the image
Summer Day at Zorinsky Lake
9"x12"
oil on masonite

I remember the sky color that day it really invited you to look up. I stopped for this view because I like the small break in the tree line that allowed the view of the bridge. This just proves you don't need to travel to find beautiful landscapes. I have to tell that to myself because when I see people who live and paint in other parts of the world I always wish I was there. Seeing beautiful things where ever you are is one of the best lessons you can get from daily painting practice. Enjoy!