Quality of work recently

[Holly Snyder]

Hi Jean,

I'm sorry to hear about your injury. Allan's suggestion sounds like a good one. Another possibility is to try doing some of the things with your left hand that you used to do with your right (assuming you're right handed and your injury is just affecting the one arm). I've had consistent problems with my right elbow after overdoing it in tennis several years ago, and do a lot with my left hand now. It takes time to teach your brain, and I have to admit I haven't tried actually painting with my left hand yet, but switching some tasks over has been worth it. Hey, and if the injury is affecting both of your arms, you could always learn to use your feet. I saw a tv show once on someone who had been born without arms and it was amazing what they could do for themselves with their feet!

Best wishes for quick healing,

Holly

[Jean Kelly]

Thanks for all the suggestions, they are under consideration. Allan, a pulley system attached to the ceiling would work if this were a simple problem of just keeping my arm up. But, because of nerve irritation, my arm and shoulder jerks and I end up putting lips on eyeballs!

Holly, I'm left handed and the side that is hurt (of course) is the left. I'm already using my right hand and trying to teach my brain the fine motor control needed. Since I already am somewhat ambidextrous I may be able to pull this off. I believe that the knowledge and skill is all in the brain anyway, this should be possible. I don't know about my feet though, that would take some doing! So, if I post a really messed up portrait be kind, I probably used my right hand, or my teeth.

Kim, hubby is doing an admirable job. Does all lifting, reaching, driving, helps with meals, massages almond oil in my back every night, and still loves me. And, animals aren't the problem, my stupid body is the problem. I could have done this hugging my husband instead of Zoe (my GSD).

Thank you everyone, it hurts to type, but I've really missed you all.

Jean

[Linda Brandon]

Hi Jean,

Gosh, I sure am sorry to read this post, which I just spotted. You are hurt worse than I thought, and I'm so sorry to hear that you're not painting. I hope you're taking lots of painkillers.

[Jean Kelly]

Hi Linda,

None of the good painkillers because they screw up my brain! And I don't drink either for the same reason. But I may end up with a nerve block if this doesn't resolve soon, the tear is near my spine.

Linda Nelson, I'm amazed at your progress! Absolutely beautiful work.

Valentino, your portrait is breathtaking.

I'm feeling jealous and frustrated at my lack of progress, but today was a better day, maybe I can paint tomorrow.

Jean

[Mary Sparrow]

Ouch Jean, that sounds totally painful and frustrating! I hope you get well soon!

[Janel Maples]

Jean,

Best wishes for a speedy and full recovery from your neighbor in Wisconsin.

: )

[Heidi Maiers]

Gosh Jean, I really feel for you. It's such a waste when pain prevents us from doing the things we love to do - life is short enough as it is. Maybe you can spend this recuperation time reading and absorbing every book on painting you can get your hands on (although you are probably doing that already). By the time you are ready to give it a whirl again, your fingers will be surprised at how much easier it will be for them to get clear and concise direction from your brain.