Only a STUMP: for Katie's book

Finally, I've realized my last entry for Katie's book.  This was inspired by my recent journey into the forest of the Central Cascade Mountains of Washington State. This composition came together from  photos I took on our hikes. It was also encouraged by a long interest in nurse logs. The transmutation in an old growth forest is profound. It holds metaphors relating to our human existence.  This is my last drawing for our wonderful moly_x_24 exchange.  Once I receive my sketchbook from Masha, for me, the circle will be complete. What a gift to share this experience with you Katie, Rosie and Masha.  Thank you, dear ones!!!!  

                                                      

 This is my page for Marcia's 'Unintentional Collections' sketchbook.

These are some of the eggs I seem to have collected over the years.

Left to right they are: blue and white ceramic, marble, hen's egg painted with inks, hen's egg painted with inks, ceramic egg.
Many years ago I used to decorate real eggs (after blowing out the contents and sealing the hole with wax). I then painted and scratched any design I fancied using drawing inks and then applying a spray varnish. My inspiration was batik decorated Ukrainian eggs but I developed my own method and each design was different. The fish and flower patterned eggs are the last two that remain. I also used to hardboil and dye eggs with onion skins for delicately patterned Easter Eggs.
People have added to my collection with ceramic, wooden and marble eggs over the years.

Last entry in Rosemary's sketchbook

This is the last drawing for your book Rosemary.

It is also my last drawing for this wonderful exchange of drawings and sharing of our lives over the past couple of years. It is a drawing of my new grandson Élan who was born Nov 20th 2013. I was there in the room when he was born, I am so grateful to my son and his lovely partner Sadie for allowing me to be there.

I have written the words "As one story comes to an end another begins" on my drawing. 

Thank you so much Marcia, Rosemary and Masha for sharing this wonderful experience with me. Does it really have to come to an end? This is such a unique way to get to know other people and I don't want to let go of the three of you. Can we do it again?

Katie