batik state of mind

Can you see the trouble that's developed behind my New Dawn rose?

No?  Look closely - do you see a greedy bright eye?

This guy was caught between the window and the thorny reaches of the climbing rose.  He had no business being there other than greed.  I always scatter a handful of hulled sunflower hearts behind the rose where the large jays and pigeons and doves will not go.  My tiny birds are able to feast in peace there, safe from the clutches of the red tailed hawk and such.  This squirrel was hogging the goods when someone startled him and he ran up the canes.  He found out, the hard way, that squirrels and roses do not mix.  The acrobatic jumps that these animals are so famous for came in handy -  it was jump or risk impalement!  I felt sorry for him because I have felt the sting of these thorns myself.

I'm working on a batik quilt.  And I'm not alone - as I surf around my favorite blogs I find that at least two other quilters are doing the batik shuffle!  

The pre-dawn lighting does nothing to enhance these images!  Sorry about that.  Don't look at the christmas tree piece - pretend that it isn't there!  I really will finish it this year - before Valentine's Day!  (maybe)