Yesterday as I let the goats out of their enclosure, I found a gorgeous red leaf — something that is rare here in southeast Texas. I saved it, picking up a few others to sketch with it. After seeing to the goats, donkeys and outside cat, I put the leaves on my art desk for later while I fed the indoor cats and enjoyed a cup of tea Bill had brewed for me.
When I returned to the pile of leaves, I found them scattered on the floor — and the one red leaf missing. Our black Scottish Fold, Scottie Dubh, apparently thought they were his new toys . . . and he ate the red one. His guilt was proven when he later threw up.
Later I found out it was “national black cat day” so I guess that was his private celebration.
The quote caught my eye after planning our Thanksgiving get-together, COVID-19 style. Our family has wide-ranging thoughts on precautions, from “silly and not needed” to “sanitize everything and everyone”. As parents stuck in the middle, we are trying to find a way for everyone to feel comfortable. It is not about COVID-19; it’s about giving grace to anyone who believes differently than we do — accepting them with love regardless of whether we agree or not. I hope all families are able to find solutions that allow everyone to feel safe.
I just received my order of Rosemary & Co’s eradicator travel brush, seen in the photo next to their pointed round brush. Great for lifting the leaf veins! I used a bit too much water for the veins in the rounded-edged leaf so it’s a learning experience — I can see this being very useful for anywhere I want to lift some watercolor.
Love both the story and the brush recommendation. We have plenty of red leaves here in Connecticut, but pouring rain today and snow tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteWe had loads of red, orange, and even purple-red maple leaves when we lived in Kansas. I dearly love Texas but miss autumn color.
DeleteThat seems to be the predicament now days - finding a way to be together and at the same time blending a mix of extreme opposite comfort zones. It can be tricky. And I can relate to wishing I had more energy and motivation to sketch. Especially as I know it is the one thing that keeps me centered and calm. I love the leaf sketches, even with the red one missing. 😁
ReplyDeleteIt can be VERY tricky! One of our kids are choosing not to come, not from fear of the virus but because he refuses to “play by the rules” so others will feel safe. We’re basically planning our gathering to be outside only (easy with our weather and a huge patio) and separate tables for each family.
DeleteI’m trying to push myself to keep doing pages in my sketchbook but few of them are feeling inspired. Both of us are exhausted from Bill’s recent spine surgery, therapy appointments, a few things still needing finished on our new barn-house, etc. But we need to give ourselves that respite even if it’s only a few minutes. 🖋🖌🎨📕