It's not JUST a mechanical system to represent three-dimensional objects and space relationships on a two-dimensional surface

Perspective, of course. It also implies a larger, more comprehensive view, as in "Let's put this problem into perspective." Have you guessed I've been on the phone with the auto mechanic? The 10 year old car that went in for an oil change this morning . . . . will come back 3 days and $850.00 later, and that's only because I refused the additional $850.00 suggested repairs. As my husband says, "never underestimate a car's ability to kick you when you're down." Exactly.

However, we still have our health. And a roof over our heads. And we got a little desperately needed rain. And USA Swimming is just doing swimmingly in Beijing. We're just feeling a little p-i-n-c-h-e-d right now, with tuition payments starting again AND CARS WE NO LONGER EVEN WANT BUT CAN'T AFFORD TO GET RID OF ACTING UP. Enough said -- I'll stitch on a smile and stand up straight -- keeping the proper perspective provides a crucial foundation for inner peace and happiness. Just ask this gal:



Having counted my blessings, I now look much more like the lady on the right, and therefore my mind is free to pursue more creative endeavors. Yesterday I promised I'd have the new piece started, so here's the wool I chose:



In the interest of perspective, I will tell you that the center is about 5.5" x 6", so you get an idea of the size of the piece. And the outer fabric isn't quite as RED as the scanner made it look, but is actually a much more luscious pinky-red mottled affair that really makes my heart go pitty pat. A great piece of wool can still do that. As you see it is already basted and ready for the next step, which will be sewing down the green rectangle and then doing the background stitching. Looking at it here, it occurs to me that I could add some black french knots to the center and call it "inside out watermelon - squared" or something like that (a much more conceptual piece than what I initially promised . . . and I could have it done tonight!) but I guess I'll stick with the original plan. Pictures with birds and suns and stuff like that make me really really HAPPY. There's no need for auto mechanics (or girdles, actually, but that's another post) in Susan's Sunshiny Birdy World.