Saturday, August 25, 2012

Able assistants, helpmeets and muses

We of the cottage industries have specific requirements for amiable assistants.  Since they and we are here, together,  throughout the livelong day, possibly squeezed up tight in conditions un-roomy, mutual regard and compatible tendencies are essential.

Denise Litchfield has shared photos and some background on her helpers, especially the ones recruited during a recent European stay.  Her current blog banner features two of them.  Others may be found in the newest post or at her Facebook page.
Photo from grrl + dog, Denise Litfchfield.

The rat awaits your instruction.



Taking an even more active role in the day-to-day of a small business is Ratty, sales manager for Penelope Todd's Rosa Mira Books. Yesterday they made a "reckless" offer to which I could only say an enthusiastic yes. I hope you decide to do the same. How would you like to find The Rat perched on your letter box? Drinking from your favourite mug or hunkering down in your armchair? Flying a copy of your book cover, or a friend's? Reading your grand/child's favourite bedtime book, or disguised as an unopened magnolia blossom in your garden? For the rest of August, anyone buying an ebook from Rosa Mira Books is entitled to a free copy by email of Ratty holding, wearing or doing something pertinent to the buyer. August buyers will be contacted by email within 24 hours of purchase, to discuss rodent manoeuvres.Check out a few of Ratty's previous antics here. Rosa Mira ebooks can be read on any kind of reading device, including a Kindle. Or they can be downloaded as PDFs for comfortable reading on a computer screen.

My own muses come in all dimensions.  The flat, yellow Button Bunny is press agent, stunt double and licensed to practice law in California.  Here are the most elderly, but by no means the least enthusiastic.  Where would any of us be without someone to play Amelia Pond to our Dr. Who?

6 comments:

Anonymous said...



arghhhh!

I LOVE your studio assistants - the one with his mouth open reminds me so much of my dear departed ghost dog - when we got him at 5 months all he did was have his mouth open for ages (trauma) and the little monkey.... so happy you also have a team behind you.

Marylinn Kelly said...

Denise - Oh, I'm glad you've met them. It was the open mouth that sealed the deal. He reminded my son and me of our rescued, sandwich-stealing mostly Airedale. She also ate screen doors. You can see why I shrieked when you showed the donkey photo. They are a fine team. (And there are others.) xo

beth coyote said...

I once had two imaginary poodles, Gina and JP. Now I have an actual poodle named Felix. He is way too distracting to be a decent muse. Or assistant. Or docent.

But he has a great sense of humor so I guess I'll just have to deal.

XX Beth

Marylinn Kelly said...

Beth - Based on living creatures with whom we've shared our home, those who are not self-propelled are less distracting. Elderly mohair friends with too many bald patches to count are about what I can deal with. Your Felix - I think of his many baths - would be beyond my capabilities. I am glad to you found each other. xo

Penelope said...

Thanks and blessings, Marylinn, to you and your love-able helpmeets and muses. xx P

Marylinn Kelly said...

Penelope - My great pleasure and thank you. Their best to you, Ratty, Lily and all the rattadillos. xo