Every time I revisit this watercolor of a bohemian waxwing, I see the live bird in my mind. It was winter and I was skiing and landed about five feet from the perched, breathing waxwing and my reaction was to reach over and stroke its back. The feathers and colors were so stunningly smooth. Painting the bird in my studio was easy but then it wasn't the real thing! After revisiting this painting for fifteen years, I realize it is real! It is my experience and I can see that experience with this image. Don't forget to paint!