Illustration: Sketch by Black Elephant Blog author using “bent nib” Sailor Fude calligraphy pen
Traveling can be tiring but recent experience suggests it’s worth it if the destination is Vermont. From the hectic tension of airport travel, the scene at Isle La Motte, for instance, up by the Canadian border, and the site of the French explorer, Samuel de Champlain’s, landing in 1609, could not be more different, nor more relaxing.
This is a spectacular setting with energizing breezes, bright sunlight–no humidity!–waterfront and beaches all around, and small white caps and sailing ships in the distance. On the grounds of the Shrine of St. Anne–which faces the water and has only outdoor seating for its congregation–a beautifully landscaped lawn features grottos and a golden statue of Our Lady of Lourdes also facing the lake.
Illustration: On-site sketch with watercolor added later by Black Elephant Blog author
From there along the shores of Lake Champlain to the waterfront of Burlington, the views are wonderful. In town, of course, it becomes quickly evident that Burlington is a place that takes its beers, bistros, and B&B’s very seriously!
Illustration: On-site watercolor sketch (with waterproof black Platinum Carbon ink) by Black Elephant Blog author
Not far away are more beautiful sights, including the Otter Creek Falls in Middlebury, Vermont. There’s a lot more to see (and sketch) but there’s never enough time to do everything. Hopefully there will be another occasion to take in the views along Lake Champlain.
Illustration:On-site sketch with watercolor (and Faber-Castel Jelly Roll white pen lines) added later by Black Elephant Blog author
