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Stand on a peak in the North Cascades, and you probably can’t tell whether you’re in Northern Washington or southern British Columbia. Both sides of the Coastal Range offer prominent peaks, often highlighted by glacier and avalanche lilies in the spring, yellow arnica and crimson paintbrush at the height of summer, and an abundance of indigo-hued blueberries in the early …

Over the years, I have created thousands of paintings of historical and contemporary maritime, landscape and wildlife themes, representing the natural beauty of the Pacific Coast, inland waterways, islands, beaches, coastline, wetlands, rivers, lakes, mountains, wilderness, and wildlife. I have also created artwork for industrial and military clients, illustrating tugboats, oil tankers and refineries, commercial vessels of all types, aircraft …

Much of my work begins on-site with plein air paintings, capturing the essence of place with my first marks. Painting at Woodstock Farm, I felt the presence of the Mamosee, Samish, Lummi, and other Salish tribes woven into the land. Their echoes infused the landscape with a mythological quality—the salt air carried whispers of tradition, the madrona forests stood as …

For many outdoor enthusiasts, the idea of adventure is closely tied to disconnection. The Pacific Northwest, with its dense forests, alpine lakes, rugged coastlines, and volcanic peaks, offers countless opportunities to unplug from daily noise. Whether hiking in the Cascades, kayaking along the San Juan Islands, or road-tripping through Oregon’s high desert, getting away often means stepping outside of routine …

Winter has always been one of my favorite seasons. While some fly south to relax on warm sandy beaches, I love heading out into the cold, quiet stillness after a fresh fall of snow; experiencing the sting of snow in a winter storm is an invigorating experience. Discovering nature’s new creations, which often take the form of abstract art, is …

I had a dream that lasted 24 years, one that drifted in my subconscious like a satellite in orbit revolving patiently, waiting to be activated. Only now can I see how round and symmetrical the dream was, how it would inevitably return to its origin. I was nineteen when I first saw it. After four days of driving westward to …

Gregory® Alpaca Duffel 60L I loved my last duffel bag. It lasted close to 30 years. It had everything I wanted: lots of pockets, shoulder strap handles, water resistance, and just enough space for medium-sized camping trips and other excursions where a suitcase was not appropriate. It was hard to give up when it finally wore out.  But the Gregory® …

  Time for Serenity, Anyone?   I like to live in the sound of water in the feel of mountain air. A sharp reminder hits me: this world is still alive; it stretches out there shivering toward its own creation, and I’m part of it. Even my breathing enters into this elaborate give and take, this bowing to sun and …

  LowePro Nova 200 AW II Camera Shoulder Bag I have used a wide variety of camera bags over the years to haul my photography gear. When backpacking, a hipbelt bag worn on the front works well, but for day hiking, a shoulder bag is my conveyance of choice. The Lowepro® Nova 200 AW II is ideal for this purpose. …

Therm-a-Rest Vesper™ 20F/-6C Quilt Quilts have replaced sleeping bags for many weight-conscious hikers who are serious about shedding pounds in their backpacks. Thanks to its ingenious SynergyLink™ Connectors, the new Vesper 20-degree quilt ensures a comfortable night’s slumber without the weight of a zipper by connecting to—and utilizing the warmth— of your insulated mattress. Weighing only 19 ounces, the Vesper features 900-fill Nikwax …