June 2002 ~ I tore the ligament in my left index finger on June 10. It required surgery and confinement of the finger to a rehabilitative contraption for 4 weeks. It was a chance for me to slow down and put things into perspective. I have always taken the use of my hands for granted, never realizing how they are so much a part of everything single thing I do. It was a minor and temporary disability which made me realize the amazing courage and stamina that those with permanent or greater disabilities have to endure. I had to learn to do things with one hand and face relearning to use my finger after it heals. The simple handprint on this quilt reminds me of the little handprints my kids made in nursery school and the Paleolithic handprints on cave walls – basic primary art, simple mark-making. While I thought I would not be able to create art with one hand, I found that the spirit to create overcame the disability. This simple piece is very powerful to me.