We all have ways and places to keep memories.  And nowadays, it's never been easier to preserve a moment by taking a photo or recording a video with our smartphones.  I have a folder on my computer's desktop that's titled "Memories" and I put all of my digital media in there.  It's a visual catalogue of trip and events and everything is labeled by year and location.
  However, with all of the convenience, I have always felt a certain distortion and falseness in these digital images.  The sense of space, color and light never seems quite as I remembered.  The pictures never seem to do justice to my memory.
  Now, when I want to really relive a moment I look at my archive of paintings, drawings and sketchbooks.  Looking through this material, I can instantly remember where I was and what I was doing.  And more importantly, I can remember how it felt.
   I would say painting and drawing allows us to create a more in-depth and well-rounded memory because we are observing more carefully.  It's less objective and more subjective.

  For these reasons, I encourage everyone to carry around a small sketchbook/journal.  Sketching with a pencil and paper is a great way to get started.  Don't worry about your drawing skills and just enjoy the moments as you live and travel.  As you grow, you may want to try using watercolors or a set of pastels.  It's also helpful to jot down some notes as you sketch.
  As you progress, you can work on larger paintings or travel specifically to paint.  You can try out different media and styles.​  Remember that it can be whatever you want it to be!

   We at Eric En Plein Air are very grateful for the support and generosity of Raymar.  I love their products and to receive a surprise box from them is very exciting!  Watch this video to see what's inside!

  If you like irises as much as I do, then you'll need to visit Presby Memorial Iris Gardens in Montclair, NJ.  The annual spring bloom season is typically mid-May through the first week of June.
  And if you're interested in painting there, it is allowed, but please be careful not to step on or disturb the flowers.

  I wanted to pass along this information for The Garden Conservancy, an organization for anyone interested in the history and preservation of America's gardens.  I am not affiliated with this organization, but I support their mission and efforts.
  The Garden Conservancy also lists "open days" - days you can visit these beautiful properties, many of which are located around NY, NJ, CT and MA.