Tots of Surprises

sleeping sea otter for Linus

Last night Penelope grazed the corner of our counter top with her temple in a frantic game of chase  her brother.  She was fine after the requisite snuggling and icepack.  When I tucked her into bed she was reminded of her tender bruise and cried for her pooh blanket to snuggle with.  I fished it out of the fifteen blankets stacked on her bed like pancakes.  (It's so cold that we sleep like the pea in the Princess and the Pea story under a pile of mattresses).  The favorite pooh blanket was made lovingly by Pat's old boss who never even met Penelope.  Still there is a loving connection between child and handmade item.  As a child, I had attachments to certain ornaments, blankets, and toys that my Aunts and others made for me.  They're simply the best for reasons I haven't completely ascertained, but I suspect there has to be something to do with the intention and love infused into a gift.

This past week, I finished a pillow and blanket for a friend's baby who was born last October.  I really enjoy thinking about how these objects will be a part of shaping Linus' world growing up.  They are colors, textures, and images that will ultimately program his brain so that I will be able to control him and take over the world!!! Ha Ha Ha Ha!!!! (evil laugh)  And that is my plan, my friends . . .

More brain control happening at Elmhurst Art Museum in the Messy Business classes.  Below are some  examples of what me made yesterday.

Finally, a colored pencil card for my cousin Sue who is battling cancer for the second time.  More hearts to come next week as I begin my grand plan to swap snowflakes for hearts and in this way, warm the world with hugs!!!!!!

Linus' blanket made from flannel

gold fish in a bowl -- mixed media (including fruity pebbles)

kool-aid and glue

kool-aid sprinkled on wet watercolor paper

watercolor, salt and taped snowflakes to be revealed next week

hearts for Sue