It has been a joy going back to journaling. For years I journaled every trip recording places, birds and wildflowers. I often drew them to remember. Once I started drawing as art, I neglected my journals. My husband and I are spending November in Utah canyonlands. What a perfect place to practice. The juniper titmouse has been flitting around our campsite all week at Dead Horse Point State Park.
What a delightful experience. Feeders were busy since they're used to us being near. About 10 minutes into the observation, a feeding flock of juncos and white-throated sparrows approached through the middle layer of viburnums. They spent a few minutes on the ground scratching through maple leaves. It's good to see our juncos back for the winter.
We all have too many art books, but the one that always stays on my table is The Laws Guide to Drawing Birds. It's an amazing reference for learning everything from posture to feather groups. It will also help focus field sketches.