"Heartstring Memory"

I've been recovering from a serious gardening injury to my right hand and just yesterday was able to apply pressure without too much pain. Lesson learned - when a sharp tool falls, let it fall! Don't try and catch it. I learned my lesson well and will never take my right hand for granted again - that's for sure. I couldn't wait to start this piece as it will be a Mother's Day gift to my precious and wonderful Mom. Believe it or not she bought my China when I was 6 months old! Who does that?!? And to top it off the pattern is in black/white and look what I grew up to love.....charcoal and graphite. Now how did she know? I am thinking of doing an entire series using all the plates and bowls, gravy boat, tea pot, etc. and working little critters into each piece. This humming bird actually sat on the rim of the cup like this - they will drink from almost anything.....and then he guarded the cup all day long.

I did this on Bristol Smooth Vellum with charcoal, pencils and a pastel pencil for the red. I might go back in and neaten it up when my hand feels better.