Day 27 of 30

This was done from a field sketch I did last autumn in Deerfield, MA.

It was a magnificent afternoon, and the valley was at it's best.

Known for it's history, natural beauty and the Yankee Candle Factory (I've always smiled at the sign out front that proclaims they are The Scenter of the Universe), Deerfield will always hold a place in my heart.

The Deerfield River isn't bound by it's shores. Every now and then there are epic rains that bring it's waters far into the neighboring fields to unimaginable heights. My daughter Hally tells us it's some of the best farming land in this country. She's our Deerfield expert, having hiked those hills and rowed in those waters for four years. I remember when during a phone call home she casually mentioned to me how much she loved "living in this valley". Never before had she mentioned geography in such a personal, meaningful way. I was touched.

I don't know about it's relative fertility, but I do know that the organic farms and dairy barns that border the river are the best I've found. And I have a daughter who will tell you why that's so, if you have some time to listen.

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