December Scratchings

Another year is coming to an end soon

Oh my goodness me

The rusty pups and I were treated to a

a dancing cloud of birds swirling around us

on our Monday morning walk.

To our surprise

on Tuesday we disturbed a heron

what is he doing still here in the wintry north?

Later that morning I went off to

Tai Chi.

This week I am preparing the studio for a new year.

Every scrap and every thread

is being checked.

If it doesn't fit into my plans for a new series in 2015

it is being packed up and stored.

I want to focus and reduce my chances of distractions.

Even as I handle each piece of cloth

I am sorely tempted to stop sorting and start working.

For us tactile people

it should be no surprise that a simple scrap of cotton or silk or wool

can get our creative juices flowing.

As I pick up bits and piece of cloth I remember how certain pieces

have actually influenced my development as an artist.

It is not easy to pack those away.

Still sorting out the studio

but wrapping Christmas parcels took precedence on Saturday.

Still sorting

but after the RP's and I walked the slushy, icy mountain.

The textures in this week's scratchings are wonderful.

Three layers of heavily stitched scraps from the studio cleanup

are a pleasure to touch.

I am excited at the clearing of the studio.

Just holding onto what I plan to work with next year.

As I clean

ideas and plans for new work

are becoming clearer.