May 17: Fine Doodles

My wife introduced me to this new art concept called Fine Doodles. I'd never heard of it before, but apparently you send this company - some artist in Washington - a sample of your child's artwork and she reproduces it as an acrylic painting. The website touts the product as a "unique gift for parents, grandparents, and young artists". My wife thought this was just the coolest thing in the world. Me? Well, I guess I don't see the value in it. First of all, if my child draws me a picture, I'm hanging the original, whether it's on the fridge or on a wall; not some replica fancied up by a professional artist. Isn't the whole sentiment of the pictures children make for their parents the fact that the kids made the picture all by themselves? Secondly, when you see what this artist lady wants to charge for painting over your kid's drawing, you'll likely leap out of your shoes! Five sizes to choose from ranging from $30-$125, and that's NOT including shipping and handling or a frame. Nope, you then have to run out to the nearest Michael's and get the darn thing framed. I just hope you have one of their 50% off framing coupons when you go, otherwise little Billy's stick figure masterpiece of the family is going to wind up costing you two bills or more. Whatever happened to crayons, construction paper and some Elmer's Glue? Jeez!