This is no ordinary mouse.  This is a studio mouse; a mouse that turns down peanut butter and cheese.  This mouse likes to eat $30 a sheet 300 pound watercolor paper.  That is how I know that it’s a studio mouse.  If it starts to drink glazes as well, he could bankrupt me (I presume it’s a he, because there’s only one …).

Are you wondering how I discovered said mouse?  One of my students, Michelle Donnelly, owns this fabulous food place (Rosemary and Thyme) and she brought me a gift of a few butter tarts.  I accidentally left them on my desk in the studio (I know, you can’t even imagine that!) and when I came down in the morning they had been generously nibbled.  So, I set my live traps (bwah, ha, ha) with peanut butter and cheese.  Said mouse ignored them, and when I was clearing and setting up this weekend’s Studio Open House I discovered that he actually prefers Curry’s 100% Cotton watercolor paper!  Or, he’s using it for nesting (hope not, because then it might be a she!).  The hunt will be on — but not until after the Open House … I’ve moved my paper stash, and finished setting up for tomorrow.

Showroom 1

Showroom 2

Showroom 3

Showroom 5

Showroom 6

As you can see, I’ve been busy.  Here’s hoping it stays neat and tidy for tomorrow — if not that mouse is in deep trouble!

Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow.  Terry has already set up in the dining room and Charles is coming to set up first thing in the morning, so there will be lots to see.  I’ve got cinnamon buns raising as I write this, and I’ll pop them into the oven in the morning.  We’ll see how long they last!  And I did find some crumpets, so you die hards can have some crumpets and jam.  The Frankford Santa Claus Parade is on tomorrow too.  I think it starts at 2:00 (in case you want to see Santa while you are here).  It’s worth the trip to Frankford, eh?

Hope you’re having a great day too!

Susan McD