Supplies from the Butcher

I must say that I'm anxious for the end of virus season. We have been attacked by the stomach virus as if it's a villain in the night. It's pillaged and plundered our family without pause, taking even our youngest family members. I've had little time to do anything but clean up, make toast and pour ginger ale.

What this also required was that I keep things simple as far as art is concerned. I've had to put major projects and deadlines on hold (thank you Susan Heydt!) because I can't get to my machine. Instead, I've had to squeeze in little things here and there. While my youngest -- the latest victim -- colored for a bit, I quickly etched a doodle in the styrofoam plate from the bottom of the ground turkey. In two minutes I blotched on some paint and pressed a piece of muslin to it. The next day we looked at the results; it was actually pretty nice. I sorted through beads while we watched "Bugs Life" and I quickly stitched beads on today while my husband, home from a business trip (hurray!), diverted everyone.

I'd like to use this little doodle "press" again, but with different colors next time. I'll also try to take more time when I do this again since I think I rippled this piece a bit in my rush. All in all though, I like this piece. Maybe more beads next time.... or colors set in specific locations ... or embroidery ... I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, here's a picture; the metallic paint made it harder to photograph than I thought. It looks a bit washed out. Surprising.