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

Those Who Live in my garden.

Those Who Live!

This is my entry for Masha's book 'Those Who Live' and is drawn from life in my garden. I chose the quiet creatures who are so often around. There are still some of the striped garden spiders now. Snails are curious creatures and I tempted this one out with lettuce and cake crumbs. It preferred the cake!

I began this drawing in September and although it started well I have been unable to make it work to my satisfaction and feel it does not come together as a design!

Dreams Whispered from the Galaxy

This will be my final contribution to Rosie's sketchbook. There are only 3 sections left. It will be Katie's honor to make the final entry. Hopefully it will be waiting for you, Katie, upon your return from Mexico. After having this book sitting in my studio for too long, I finally found inspiration. I loved extending our collective exploration of the theme: Telling the Story.

Morning to night our story unfolds. Our cells are stepping stones. Our dreams are whispered from the galaxy. Our hands search. Our hearts yearn for a Common Tale.

I have watched my husband sleep in this position for over 35 years. We have always shared our dreams. Together, we have watched the sky, watched the night, and mused about the mystery of it All. And then I was so impressed that the last full moon was a blue moon. The shapes of chromosomes have always fascinated me.

What has happened to our blog page? The heading has disappeared as has my last post. I think I may have inadvertently done that when I was "cleaning up" my computer oops!!

I have done a drawing for your book Masha and am sending it to Rosie along with Marcia's book. I have been less than prompt with my obligation to complete my drawing for you wonderful women in your beautiful books. There is no excuse please accept my apologies again. I promise I will get these in the mail tomorrow!!!!

My drawing is of my dogs with whom I share my life. The male, Zander, is on the left and he is all muscle and energy. The female, Tattoo, is on the right she is determination personified. Zander could easily take the tug toy away from her but Tattoo will never give up and Zander has learned this and tugs for a while and then just gives it to her.

I feel good I am healthy and I am drawing!

Here is my addition to Marcia's book. I have collected thread and fabric and buttons. I have all kinds of zippers and lace and zig zag trim. Here is a drawing of embroidery thread in wire baskets.
I will get it off to you Rosie in the next couple of days.
I will also take the time to add my comments to the wonderful work you all have been doing while I was sick.

Happy day!!