I write this as the First Day of Christmas winds down and all seems right with the world. It's just John and I this evening, Courtney and her friend having left a couple of hours ago. Dinner dishes are washed and dried, candles extinguished, gifts put away, and we're just about to settle in to an evening of watching Ingrid Bergman and Bing Crosby in "The Bells of St Mary's".
Like many of you, I've been preparing for weeks; making and wrapping gifts, addressing cards, baking cookies, tidying the house, shipping parcels far and wide - all the time wishing I had a few elves (many hands make light work, and all that). For all the preparation, the day sure speeds by, doesn't it?
It was a wonderful Christmas here, filled with family, friends, and a fabulous feast (how's that for alliteration, hehe?!) I'll post a few photos tomorrow, but in the meantime I'm putting my feet up, grabbing my knitting, and enjoying a quiet cup of tea.
I am truly blessed.
Wishing you and yours a holiday filled with magic and joy!
Until next time,
~ Carolee
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
A Happy and Blessed Midwinter's Eve!
Can you feel a little magic in the air tonight?
Yes, I know - the astronomical Solstice is actually in the wee hours tomorrow morning...But that still makes this Midwinter's Eve, and whatever our faith tradition, the perfect time to slow down and take time to honor our connection to the earth, to our ancestors, and to each other.
Although my own tradition has been more... well, I guess conventional would be as good a word as any to describe it, in recent years I've grown to appreciate the ancient festivals which celebrate the earth and her seasons. And while I'm sure there are those whose traditions are solidly one or the other who would disagree, I find there is more in these celebrations and observances that brings Christians and Pagans together than there is which divides us.
So after a bit of a kitchen disaster this morning (long story, and I'm over it, hehe) I decided to spend the day immersed in things which honored the day. The first order of business was to spend a bit of time outdoors, gathering holly and ivy for the table. After shaking off a touch of unseasonably warm winter rain, I placed a large bunch of it in a pottery crock our daughter made when she was in high school...
Sometimes the simplest things are the most beautiful, don't you think?
Next, I began a new painting - a midwinter painting of an arctic wolf and snowshoe rabbit, set against a background of evergreen trees, with the northern lights in the distance. I'll hold off on showing a photo until the painting progresses a bit further, but I'm so pleased with the concept, with its progress, and with the notion that it's infused with a little solstice energy. (Patience, patience - pics soon, I promise!)
But the sweetest task of the day (literally and figuratively) was making my Grandma Cline's Star Cookies. The recipe is actually published on page 141 of the Gooseberry Patch "Old Fashioned Country Cookies" cookbook, having been contributed by my Mom many years ago. The story is in there too, which goes like this: When we were very little, my Grandfather had my siblings and me convinced that he went out each night and hung the moon up in the sky, and that my Grandmother made the stars. These cookies are a remembrance of that, and of her. They taste like my childhood, and I can't let the season pass without making them.
They're wonderful cookies to make with children too - bowls of different colored icing, and assorted sugars and sprinkles covering the dining room table. They were a part of my childhood, my daughter's childhood, and I hope someday her children's as well.
As always, candles burned and music played as these tasks were accomplished, punctuated by phone calls from dear friends who always make me smile. Altogether a perfect Midwinter's Day - or Midwinter's Eve Day.
As I write this, there's only an hour or so to go until astronomical Midwinter, and I have much to accomplish tomorrow (including that painting)...So I'll say goodnight, but not before sharing a favorite tune to mark the day. Give it a listen, I think you'll like it...
Wishing you a Happy and Blessed Midwinter's Eve!
♥ Carolee
Yes, I know - the astronomical Solstice is actually in the wee hours tomorrow morning...But that still makes this Midwinter's Eve, and whatever our faith tradition, the perfect time to slow down and take time to honor our connection to the earth, to our ancestors, and to each other.
Although my own tradition has been more... well, I guess conventional would be as good a word as any to describe it, in recent years I've grown to appreciate the ancient festivals which celebrate the earth and her seasons. And while I'm sure there are those whose traditions are solidly one or the other who would disagree, I find there is more in these celebrations and observances that brings Christians and Pagans together than there is which divides us.
So after a bit of a kitchen disaster this morning (long story, and I'm over it, hehe) I decided to spend the day immersed in things which honored the day. The first order of business was to spend a bit of time outdoors, gathering holly and ivy for the table. After shaking off a touch of unseasonably warm winter rain, I placed a large bunch of it in a pottery crock our daughter made when she was in high school...
Sometimes the simplest things are the most beautiful, don't you think?Next, I began a new painting - a midwinter painting of an arctic wolf and snowshoe rabbit, set against a background of evergreen trees, with the northern lights in the distance. I'll hold off on showing a photo until the painting progresses a bit further, but I'm so pleased with the concept, with its progress, and with the notion that it's infused with a little solstice energy. (Patience, patience - pics soon, I promise!)
But the sweetest task of the day (literally and figuratively) was making my Grandma Cline's Star Cookies. The recipe is actually published on page 141 of the Gooseberry Patch "Old Fashioned Country Cookies" cookbook, having been contributed by my Mom many years ago. The story is in there too, which goes like this: When we were very little, my Grandfather had my siblings and me convinced that he went out each night and hung the moon up in the sky, and that my Grandmother made the stars. These cookies are a remembrance of that, and of her. They taste like my childhood, and I can't let the season pass without making them.
They're wonderful cookies to make with children too - bowls of different colored icing, and assorted sugars and sprinkles covering the dining room table. They were a part of my childhood, my daughter's childhood, and I hope someday her children's as well.As always, candles burned and music played as these tasks were accomplished, punctuated by phone calls from dear friends who always make me smile. Altogether a perfect Midwinter's Day - or Midwinter's Eve Day.
As I write this, there's only an hour or so to go until astronomical Midwinter, and I have much to accomplish tomorrow (including that painting)...So I'll say goodnight, but not before sharing a favorite tune to mark the day. Give it a listen, I think you'll like it...
Wishing you a Happy and Blessed Midwinter's Eve!
♥ Carolee
Monday, December 19, 2011
La Befana Revisited
Popping in quickly between batches of cookies, to share the latest piece - another homage to La Befana...
She's just so fun to paint, and I so love the legend, I had to revisit her. This one (a very close companion to the recently painted plate) is on a birch wood box, and I think would be perfect for either treats or treasures. The Christmas star shines inside too...
She's listed on Etsy now, up for grabs on a first-come basis.
Thanks for taking a peek, and I promise I'll be back soon with pics of new work - and possibly cookies too!
♥ Carolee
She's just so fun to paint, and I so love the legend, I had to revisit her. This one (a very close companion to the recently painted plate) is on a birch wood box, and I think would be perfect for either treats or treasures. The Christmas star shines inside too...
She's listed on Etsy now, up for grabs on a first-come basis.Thanks for taking a peek, and I promise I'll be back soon with pics of new work - and possibly cookies too!
♥ Carolee
Friday, December 9, 2011
La Befana
Legend has it that very long ago, the Three Wise Men, in search of the Christ child, lost their way. They came upon La Befana's house, and stopped to ask directions, inviting her to join them in their search. She invited them to stay, but declined to accompany them, being too busy with her housework.
The next day, after they departed, she had a change of heart, so she set out to look for the Wise Men and the Child. And to this day she wanders the earth, still searching, broom in hand, leaving presents and candy for all good children on the eve of Epiphany.
I love this old Italian tale (such vivid imagery) and of course, had to paint La Befana...
She's depicted here on a large wooden plate (14" in diameter), with a traditional Italian verse hand lettered around the edge...
La Befana vien di notte
Con le scarpe tutte rotte
Col vestito alla romana
Viva, Viva La Befana!
The English translation is
The Befana comes by night
With her shoes all tattered and torn
She comes dressed in the Roman way
Long life to the Befana!
Look for her in my Etsy shop later tonight! (There are also quite a few welcome signs in the shop too - great last minute, personalized gifts for hard-to-buy-for friends and family!)
Next up - arctic animals: "Bless All Creatures Great and Small"
Back very soon!
♥ Carolee
The next day, after they departed, she had a change of heart, so she set out to look for the Wise Men and the Child. And to this day she wanders the earth, still searching, broom in hand, leaving presents and candy for all good children on the eve of Epiphany.
I love this old Italian tale (such vivid imagery) and of course, had to paint La Befana...
She's depicted here on a large wooden plate (14" in diameter), with a traditional Italian verse hand lettered around the edge...
La Befana vien di notte
Con le scarpe tutte rotte
Col vestito alla romana
Viva, Viva La Befana!
The English translation is
The Befana comes by night
With her shoes all tattered and torn
She comes dressed in the Roman way
Long life to the Befana!
Look for her in my Etsy shop later tonight! (There are also quite a few welcome signs in the shop too - great last minute, personalized gifts for hard-to-buy-for friends and family!)
Next up - arctic animals: "Bless All Creatures Great and Small"
Back very soon!
♥ Carolee
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Harvest Santa
Every once in a while, an event comes along so strange and magical, it just cries out to be commemorated in some way...
Such was the pre-Halloween snowfall of 2011. An accumulation of four inches left us here on the east coast wondering was this Halloween or Christmas?
Like Santa here, I suppose it was a little of both...
As always, he's an original, one of a kind piece, handpainted in acrylics with a clear acrylic varnish. I had such fun painting all the little details; his rabbit and mouse friends, the garland of acorns around the base, the crow on the back...
He'll be up for grabs on the PFATT Marketplace in just a few hours (Nov 11th, 10AM Pacific or 1PM eastern) and as always, will go to the first person to email after the update.
I'm hoping to have more Santas to follow (different themes) so if you're a fan of the Jolly Old Elf, stay tuned...
Back very soon!
♥ Carolee
Such was the pre-Halloween snowfall of 2011. An accumulation of four inches left us here on the east coast wondering was this Halloween or Christmas?
Like Santa here, I suppose it was a little of both...
As always, he's an original, one of a kind piece, handpainted in acrylics with a clear acrylic varnish. I had such fun painting all the little details; his rabbit and mouse friends, the garland of acorns around the base, the crow on the back...
He'll be up for grabs on the PFATT Marketplace in just a few hours (Nov 11th, 10AM Pacific or 1PM eastern) and as always, will go to the first person to email after the update.I'm hoping to have more Santas to follow (different themes) so if you're a fan of the Jolly Old Elf, stay tuned...
Back very soon!
♥ Carolee
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
A New Practical Magic Piece and a Crafty Return
This is the time of year when inspiration comes at such a fast and furious pace, it's difficult to keep up with it all! Ideas are spinning and swirling around in my brain like a holiday cyclone, and I'm trying to capture as many of them as possible.
Before we get into upcoming holiday goodies, here's a peek at a very special project which has occupied much of my time lately. A wonderful, long time collector commissioned this child's chair, with a Practical Magic theme...
As is often the case with commissions, it took longer than anticipated, but I'm really happy with the result; the roses and toads on the base, the magickal accoutrements on the seat, and the witches jumping off the of that gorgeous clifftop house above. Here's a little detail...
On the back of the chair, it says "There's a little witch in every woman."
Fun, yes?! I swear, I have the best *job* in the world. ♥
With this one winging its way to the west coast this week, the focus shifts to holiday work - specifically a Harvest Santa, which I hope to offer on a first-come basis on this month's PFATT Marketplace (we'll see if I can get it finished under the wire!)...And of course, the Harvest Santa made me think of a Vineyard Santa too, so that may be coming soon as well...and a seaside Santa, and a...and a...
See what I mean? A cyclone, I tell you. ;)
And in the midst of all this creativity, I'm very briefly back to painting a few (ahem) crafty welcome signs. It's been years since I've painted these in quantity, and I much prefer to work on one piece at a time. But in this economy we do what we must, so John and I will be bringing about 150 of these (varying designs) to the annual Holiday Craft Show at the Fairfax High School, in Fairfax, Virginia on the weekend of November 19th and 20th. I'll be there all day, personalizing signs as people shop. So if you're in the area, do drop by and say hello!
Until then, our little house looks a bit like Santa's workshoop, hehe...
First snowmen, then mailbox/chickadee signs completed, so now it's onto Santa in the Moon...
There's also much to be done on the home front, including Thanksgiving shopping, and getting the house decorated for the holidays. Fortunately, the china cabinet is already decorated. Yep, I'm a little embarrassed to say all the Christmas teapots, plates, books and greenery have been sitting there since last Christmas. Oh well - at least the tree hasn't been up this whole time, hehe.
So stay tuned for lots of goodies coming up, and in the meantime, let's all remember to take the occasional breath to savor the season; a good winter read and cup of tea, snuggling on the sofa to watch an old holiday movie, Yuletide gatherings with friends and family, listening to beautiful music, and shopping locally, and handmade.
Until next time, wishing you all the blessings and *magic* of the upcoming season,
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
Before we get into upcoming holiday goodies, here's a peek at a very special project which has occupied much of my time lately. A wonderful, long time collector commissioned this child's chair, with a Practical Magic theme...
As is often the case with commissions, it took longer than anticipated, but I'm really happy with the result; the roses and toads on the base, the magickal accoutrements on the seat, and the witches jumping off the of that gorgeous clifftop house above. Here's a little detail...
On the back of the chair, it says "There's a little witch in every woman."
Fun, yes?! I swear, I have the best *job* in the world. ♥
With this one winging its way to the west coast this week, the focus shifts to holiday work - specifically a Harvest Santa, which I hope to offer on a first-come basis on this month's PFATT Marketplace (we'll see if I can get it finished under the wire!)...And of course, the Harvest Santa made me think of a Vineyard Santa too, so that may be coming soon as well...and a seaside Santa, and a...and a...
See what I mean? A cyclone, I tell you. ;)
And in the midst of all this creativity, I'm very briefly back to painting a few (ahem) crafty welcome signs. It's been years since I've painted these in quantity, and I much prefer to work on one piece at a time. But in this economy we do what we must, so John and I will be bringing about 150 of these (varying designs) to the annual Holiday Craft Show at the Fairfax High School, in Fairfax, Virginia on the weekend of November 19th and 20th. I'll be there all day, personalizing signs as people shop. So if you're in the area, do drop by and say hello!
Until then, our little house looks a bit like Santa's workshoop, hehe...
First snowmen, then mailbox/chickadee signs completed, so now it's onto Santa in the Moon...
There's also much to be done on the home front, including Thanksgiving shopping, and getting the house decorated for the holidays. Fortunately, the china cabinet is already decorated. Yep, I'm a little embarrassed to say all the Christmas teapots, plates, books and greenery have been sitting there since last Christmas. Oh well - at least the tree hasn't been up this whole time, hehe. So stay tuned for lots of goodies coming up, and in the meantime, let's all remember to take the occasional breath to savor the season; a good winter read and cup of tea, snuggling on the sofa to watch an old holiday movie, Yuletide gatherings with friends and family, listening to beautiful music, and shopping locally, and handmade.
Until next time, wishing you all the blessings and *magic* of the upcoming season,
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
Monday, October 24, 2011
Living in Season, but Painting Ahead...
I find there's something very close to sacred when we live "in season", making a mindful effort to remain in sync with Mother Nature, tuning not only our minds, but our bodies to the wheel of the year...
Once upon a time (before the age of the thermostat and the supermarket) our food and our activities reflected the changing seasons. Gardening in the summer, harvesting and preserving in autumn, resting in winter, and planting again in spring.
Summers were spent cooking outdoors, sipping lemonade on the front porch, running through lawn sprinklers, or swimming at the beach, or a nearby lake or creek. Winters were spent sledding, building snowmen, cooking hearty meals, telling stories, reading good books and snuggling in front of the wood stove or fireplace.
I count myself fortunate to live in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where the seasons are still very much a part of the culture, and try very hard to embrace each season for the blessings it has to offer. Today, for instance, will find me roasting batch of butternut squash (for soup later in the week) and planting yet another pot of mums in the front yard....
But it will also find me painting (gasp!) a Christmas piece, along with a couple of autumn commissions. ;)
Since people decorate their homes well before the actual arrival of the holiday or season, it means holiday artists must stay a step ahead. Winter pieces in autumn, spring pieces in winter, and so on. I suppose it would be easy to be thrown off-kilter by this, but I try to see it as a preview - a little inspiration and anticipation of what's to come.
To that end, I've just listed the first holiday box of the year on Etsy - Peppermint Polly, a little angel mouse...
A little early perhaps, but I'm hoping others will be anticipating the season right along with me, and she'll find a good home.
In the meantime, I'm off to work on the last of the Halloween commissions, as I wish you a happy and mindful autumn! May you enjoy all her blessings. :)
♥ Carolee
Once upon a time (before the age of the thermostat and the supermarket) our food and our activities reflected the changing seasons. Gardening in the summer, harvesting and preserving in autumn, resting in winter, and planting again in spring.Summers were spent cooking outdoors, sipping lemonade on the front porch, running through lawn sprinklers, or swimming at the beach, or a nearby lake or creek. Winters were spent sledding, building snowmen, cooking hearty meals, telling stories, reading good books and snuggling in front of the wood stove or fireplace.
I count myself fortunate to live in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where the seasons are still very much a part of the culture, and try very hard to embrace each season for the blessings it has to offer. Today, for instance, will find me roasting batch of butternut squash (for soup later in the week) and planting yet another pot of mums in the front yard....
But it will also find me painting (gasp!) a Christmas piece, along with a couple of autumn commissions. ;)
Since people decorate their homes well before the actual arrival of the holiday or season, it means holiday artists must stay a step ahead. Winter pieces in autumn, spring pieces in winter, and so on. I suppose it would be easy to be thrown off-kilter by this, but I try to see it as a preview - a little inspiration and anticipation of what's to come.
To that end, I've just listed the first holiday box of the year on Etsy - Peppermint Polly, a little angel mouse...
A little early perhaps, but I'm hoping others will be anticipating the season right along with me, and she'll find a good home. In the meantime, I'm off to work on the last of the Halloween commissions, as I wish you a happy and mindful autumn! May you enjoy all her blessings. :)
♥ Carolee
Monday, October 17, 2011
Winding Down, Anticipation, and the Wheel of the Year
One of the most meaningful things about being a "holiday" artist is the opportunity to focus deeply on each season as it approaches. In creating work for Halloween and Samhain, Christmas and Yule, Easter and Beltane, and so on, a connection is made to the natural cycle of the earth. There's harmony to be found in living and painting for each season, in letting Mother Nature take the lead, and celebrating each festival or holiday as it comes around.
For the last several months, Halloween has been the primary focus, and anticipation has been building. Now that it's almost here (just two weeks!) I'm anticipating a bit of a gear change. The days are already growing shorter, a reminder that soon the harvest season will be over, and winter will be upon us. A few Halloween pieces remain up for grabs as of this writing, and I do hope they find good homes before the season is out. To this end, I've added a little note to the higher priced piece allowing two payments (a little easier to manage in this economy).
The apothecary/spells and potions chest is available on Etsy, and there's also a trio of mending box pinkeeps on the PFATT Marketplace. This is the larger of the three...
Soon Yuletide work will be in full swing (but always with a magical twist). I'm very excited about a new Santa cutout, and am considering combining the best of both seasons by creating a "Harvest Santa". Stay tuned. ;)
Angels have been spinning around in my brain as well, but not the human variety. I'm thinking angel cats, angel mice, angel rabbits, and so on. I do believe our furry friends are angels in disguise, so I suppose it's a natural progression. :)
Commissions are winding down too, as I play catch-up over the next few weeks, and a new project focusing on the wheel of the year will begin in January. VERY excited about this one, and just know it will be a blessing to paint.
How about you? Are you anticipating the change of seasons, or doing anything special to mark the holidays or festivals? I just love hearing about other people's celebrations and observances.
That's about it for today. I have a very full week ahead, with a friend visiting, painting and errands to be done, and a few hospital tests for John (who facebook readers may remember was stuck at a Pittsburgh area hospital for a few days earlier this month).
But I'll be back soon to share the first few pieces of the new season! Until then, I wish you all the blessings of Autumn...
♥ Carolee
For the last several months, Halloween has been the primary focus, and anticipation has been building. Now that it's almost here (just two weeks!) I'm anticipating a bit of a gear change. The days are already growing shorter, a reminder that soon the harvest season will be over, and winter will be upon us. A few Halloween pieces remain up for grabs as of this writing, and I do hope they find good homes before the season is out. To this end, I've added a little note to the higher priced piece allowing two payments (a little easier to manage in this economy).
The apothecary/spells and potions chest is available on Etsy, and there's also a trio of mending box pinkeeps on the PFATT Marketplace. This is the larger of the three...
Soon Yuletide work will be in full swing (but always with a magical twist). I'm very excited about a new Santa cutout, and am considering combining the best of both seasons by creating a "Harvest Santa". Stay tuned. ;)Angels have been spinning around in my brain as well, but not the human variety. I'm thinking angel cats, angel mice, angel rabbits, and so on. I do believe our furry friends are angels in disguise, so I suppose it's a natural progression. :)
Commissions are winding down too, as I play catch-up over the next few weeks, and a new project focusing on the wheel of the year will begin in January. VERY excited about this one, and just know it will be a blessing to paint.
How about you? Are you anticipating the change of seasons, or doing anything special to mark the holidays or festivals? I just love hearing about other people's celebrations and observances.
That's about it for today. I have a very full week ahead, with a friend visiting, painting and errands to be done, and a few hospital tests for John (who facebook readers may remember was stuck at a Pittsburgh area hospital for a few days earlier this month).
But I'll be back soon to share the first few pieces of the new season! Until then, I wish you all the blessings of Autumn...
♥ Carolee
Friday, December 24, 2010
Christmas Blessings
This post will be shorter than I'd originally hoped, as it's Christmas Eve, and here I am once again, working until the last minute, and flying around the house in a cooking and cleaning frenzy (I know, I know - I'm not alone, hehe)...
I just wanted to pop in and show you our (John's and my) Christmas present to other.
With resources tight, and our hearts still heavy from the loss of our beloved Cheetah, we decided to open our hearts to another bundle of furry love, in need of a home this Christmas. So last week we visited our local Petco, where the wonderful Catworks organization was holding an adoption event.
Meet Lady Guinevere....
Isn't she beautiful??!
She's just 10 weeks old (best estimate) and is soooooooo soft and affectionate. She's also very bold, and we've decided she must be channeling a bit of Cheetah. ;)
Most friends have congratulated us, most family think we're either crazy or irresponsible (two dogs, three cats, lots of fur and and limited resources). But as one dear friend said "you can't put a price on therapy".
With John facing radiation treatments in the near future, and spending time at home recovering, I think this little girl is just what the Dr. ordered.
She needed a home.
We have one to give.
A Christmas blessing for all of us, simple as that.
I'll be back again very soon with more Christmas and solstice tales, and a photo of very special piece, now in progress.
Until then, wishing you and yours all the blessings of this most beautiful season!
Much love,
♥ Carolee
I just wanted to pop in and show you our (John's and my) Christmas present to other.
With resources tight, and our hearts still heavy from the loss of our beloved Cheetah, we decided to open our hearts to another bundle of furry love, in need of a home this Christmas. So last week we visited our local Petco, where the wonderful Catworks organization was holding an adoption event.
Meet Lady Guinevere....
Isn't she beautiful??!
She's just 10 weeks old (best estimate) and is soooooooo soft and affectionate. She's also very bold, and we've decided she must be channeling a bit of Cheetah. ;)
Most friends have congratulated us, most family think we're either crazy or irresponsible (two dogs, three cats, lots of fur and and limited resources). But as one dear friend said "you can't put a price on therapy".
With John facing radiation treatments in the near future, and spending time at home recovering, I think this little girl is just what the Dr. ordered.
She needed a home. We have one to give.
A Christmas blessing for all of us, simple as that.
I'll be back again very soon with more Christmas and solstice tales, and a photo of very special piece, now in progress.
Until then, wishing you and yours all the blessings of this most beautiful season!
Much love,
♥ Carolee
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Commissions, Commitments and General Craziness
Okay....(deep breath here).....Today is December 9th.
That gives me about ten days to finish three commissions and more than a few requests for trinket boxes and such.
Not to mention half a dozen batches of cookies, decorating the tree and whipping the house into some semblance of order.
Then there are gifts to be made, and cards to be sent.
And a day off next week for John's radiation oncology appointment.
I think if any household needed elves, it would be OURS. I'm just sayin'...
In the meantime, here are a few goodies I consider a start; five little holiday trinket boxes, perfect for gift giving. Two will be on eBay this evening at 9PM eastern, and three will be up for grabs on the PFATT Marketplace...
Next up is another La Befana piece. I'm so smitten with the notion of a Christmas Crone, I need to paint her one more time, and larger. So look for a "Buon Natale" sign very soon....
In the meantime, I hope your season is bright and sparkly, and you're accomplishing all you'd set out to do!!
And if you know of any elves who'll work for cookies, do send them this way! ;)
♥ Carolee
That gives me about ten days to finish three commissions and more than a few requests for trinket boxes and such.
Not to mention half a dozen batches of cookies, decorating the tree and whipping the house into some semblance of order.
Then there are gifts to be made, and cards to be sent.
And a day off next week for John's radiation oncology appointment.
I think if any household needed elves, it would be OURS. I'm just sayin'...
In the meantime, here are a few goodies I consider a start; five little holiday trinket boxes, perfect for gift giving. Two will be on eBay this evening at 9PM eastern, and three will be up for grabs on the PFATT Marketplace...
Next up is another La Befana piece. I'm so smitten with the notion of a Christmas Crone, I need to paint her one more time, and larger. So look for a "Buon Natale" sign very soon....
In the meantime, I hope your season is bright and sparkly, and you're accomplishing all you'd set out to do!!
And if you know of any elves who'll work for cookies, do send them this way! ;)
♥ Carolee
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
"Sew Many Blessings" Continued...
Flying in quickly to show you the final result of the previous post's work in progress, an original, one of a kind, Christmas sewing chest...
The interior features a shallow tray, perfect for scissors, needles, thread, bobbins, etc...
It lists on eBay this evening at 9PM eastern. :)
(Back to commissions now!!)
♥ Carolee
The interior features a shallow tray, perfect for scissors, needles, thread, bobbins, etc...
It lists on eBay this evening at 9PM eastern. :)
(Back to commissions now!!)
♥ Carolee
"Sew Many Blessings"
It's been awhile since I posted pics of a work in progress, and since I'm having sooooo much fun with this one, I thought I'd share. The piece is a wood sewing chest, which I'm hoping will find a home with someone who'll use it for organizing all those special and ♥heartfelt♥ Christmas projects. :)
After sanding any sharp corners, the background is completed first, with checkers and a touch of shading around the top, and swirly winter "clouds" below, avoiding the areas I've sketched in for trees and angels...
Next, a bit of detail on the angel scene is painted in...
This is as far as it's come - so far. :) Today, I'll work on painting further details, and on filling in all those tiny squares around the top with decoupaged papers, buttons, baubles, ribbon and maybe a few sparkly crystals. There's also a tray which sits inside, which will be decoupaged with vintage looking Christmas paper.
I'm generally pretty good about sending my creations out there into the world, but every once in a while one comes along I truly wish I could keep - and I already have a feeling about this one! (Unfortunately, my mortgage company would disagree, hehe) So sell it I must, and I'll take consolation in the hope it will become a treasured heirloom, perhaps even handed down from Mother to Daughter, and will be the keeper of someone's loving handiwork and the home of "sew many blessings". :)
(Pics of the finished piece coming soon!)
♥ Carolee
After sanding any sharp corners, the background is completed first, with checkers and a touch of shading around the top, and swirly winter "clouds" below, avoiding the areas I've sketched in for trees and angels...
Next, a bit of detail on the angel scene is painted in...
This is as far as it's come - so far. :) Today, I'll work on painting further details, and on filling in all those tiny squares around the top with decoupaged papers, buttons, baubles, ribbon and maybe a few sparkly crystals. There's also a tray which sits inside, which will be decoupaged with vintage looking Christmas paper.I'm generally pretty good about sending my creations out there into the world, but every once in a while one comes along I truly wish I could keep - and I already have a feeling about this one! (Unfortunately, my mortgage company would disagree, hehe) So sell it I must, and I'll take consolation in the hope it will become a treasured heirloom, perhaps even handed down from Mother to Daughter, and will be the keeper of someone's loving handiwork and the home of "sew many blessings". :)
(Pics of the finished piece coming soon!)
♥ Carolee
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Cat Carol
Okay, so there's this Christmas song that makes me cry every time I hear it.
It's just about the saddest song I've ever heard, but also one of the sweetest. The lyrics (along with the recent passing of our own sweet Cheetah cat) were the inspiration for this Christmas footstool, which I've titled "Catsseopeia"...
The images on the footstool make more sense when you've heard the song, or at least read the lyrics, which follow (you might want to grab a tissue at this point):
The Cat Carol
The cat wanted in to the warm warm house,
but no one would let the cat in
It was cold outside on Christmas Eve,
She meowed and meowed by the door.
The cat was not let in the warm warm house,
And her tiny cries were ignored.
'twas a blizzard now, the worst of the year,
There was no place for her to hide.
Just then a poor little mouse crept by,
He had lost his way in the snow.
He was on his last legs and was almost froze,
The cat lifted him with her paw.
She said "Poor mouse do not be afraid,
because this is Christmas Eve.
On this freezing night we both need a friend,
I won’t hurt you - stay by my side."
She dug a small hole in an icy drift,
This is where they would spent the night.
She curled herself 'round her helpless friend,
When Santa came by near the end of the night,
the reindeer started to cry.
They found the cat lying there in the snow,
and they could see that she had died.
They lifted her up from the frozen ground,
and placed her into the sleigh.
It was then they saw the little mouse wrapped up,
she had kept him warm in her fur.
"Oh thank you Santa for finding us!
Dear cat wake up we are saved!"
..."I’m sorry mouse but your friend has died,
there’s nothing more we can do."
"On Christmas Eve she gave you her life,
the greatest gift of them all."
Santa lifted her up into the night sky,
and laid her to rest among the stars.
"Dear mouse don’t cry you are not alone,
you will see your friend every year.
Each Christmas a Cat Constellation will shine,
to remind us that her love’s still here."
I warned you. ;)
Sooooo, yes - back to the footstool, I'm moving it from the PFATT Marketplace to eBay, and in doing so I've reduced the price (it's available on a buy it now) by a full 30%.
I do hope it finds a good home with someone who loves cats, mice and Christmas!
More goodies coming soon!
♥ Carolee
It's just about the saddest song I've ever heard, but also one of the sweetest. The lyrics (along with the recent passing of our own sweet Cheetah cat) were the inspiration for this Christmas footstool, which I've titled "Catsseopeia"...
The images on the footstool make more sense when you've heard the song, or at least read the lyrics, which follow (you might want to grab a tissue at this point):
The Cat Carol
The cat wanted in to the warm warm house,
but no one would let the cat in
It was cold outside on Christmas Eve,
She meowed and meowed by the door.
The cat was not let in the warm warm house,
And her tiny cries were ignored.
'twas a blizzard now, the worst of the year,
There was no place for her to hide.
Just then a poor little mouse crept by,
He had lost his way in the snow.
He was on his last legs and was almost froze,
The cat lifted him with her paw.
She said "Poor mouse do not be afraid,
because this is Christmas Eve.
On this freezing night we both need a friend,
I won’t hurt you - stay by my side."
She dug a small hole in an icy drift,
This is where they would spent the night.
She curled herself 'round her helpless friend,
When Santa came by near the end of the night,
the reindeer started to cry.
They found the cat lying there in the snow,
and they could see that she had died.
They lifted her up from the frozen ground,
and placed her into the sleigh.
It was then they saw the little mouse wrapped up,
she had kept him warm in her fur.
"Oh thank you Santa for finding us!
Dear cat wake up we are saved!"
..."I’m sorry mouse but your friend has died,
there’s nothing more we can do."
"On Christmas Eve she gave you her life,
the greatest gift of them all."
Santa lifted her up into the night sky,
and laid her to rest among the stars.
"Dear mouse don’t cry you are not alone,
you will see your friend every year.
Each Christmas a Cat Constellation will shine,
to remind us that her love’s still here."
I warned you. ;)
Sooooo, yes - back to the footstool, I'm moving it from the PFATT Marketplace to eBay, and in doing so I've reduced the price (it's available on a buy it now) by a full 30%.
I do hope it finds a good home with someone who loves cats, mice and Christmas!
More goodies coming soon!
♥ Carolee
Sunday, November 14, 2010
An *Enchanting* Home, Studio and Show!
(a.k.a. "The Post that Never Ends", hehe)...
This weekend found me taking off with my friend Hugh for Martinsburg, West Virginia, where artist Paul Gordon was hosting the third annual "Friends in Christmas" show. Not wanting to begin the journey in the wee hours of the morning, we decided to stay over, which put us in Martinsburg Friday evening, allowing attendance at a little pre-show gathering in Paul's beautiful home...
Paul is not only an extraordinarily talented artist, but an avid collector as well, and his home is a feast for the eyes...
I don't know how to describe his style, except to say it's his own - sort of bohemian-vintage meets Victorian-whimsy, and I ♥ it...
Have you ever seen so much collectible eye candy in one cabinet?
It was such a magical place, made even more so by a little music, more than a little wine, and some very interesting guests.
Oh, and almost forgot - there's even a vintage toy room upstairs!
How amazing is that?
And here's our host...
Thank you so much, Paul, for including us in such a wonderful evening, and thanks Hugh, for taking these pics (I'd forgotten my camera).
Saturday morning the doors to the studio opened, and we were treated to another enchanting setting, and even more *magical* work!...
Here are some of Paul's sculpts, shadowboxes and paintings...
We also took a tour of the working part of the studio, which is home to stacks upon stacks of vintage fabrics and quilts, as well as a vintage Santa Claus costume...
And all this ribbon!! (I think I managed not to drool, although I'm not sure, hehe)...
And I LOVE the old shoes and skates hanging from the rafters...
I came home with a few goodies, including two pieces by Laurie Messerol. For the moment, Santa is keeping the teapots company...
And how adorable is this print?
And this darling pincushion by Stacey Bear(the little door opens to reveal a thimble - such fun, and I couldn't resist!)
See, I told you this was the post that never ends! But I get so excited about these things, I just have to share them with you...
Anywhoooooo....for NOW, it's back to work! I have an enchanting bunny commission in progress and a fun new sewing chest to begin - something magical for all those holiday projects, tentatively titled "Sew Many Blessings". ;)
And next weekend, there's another show to check out in Virginia (thinking of doing one crafty type show next year to sell a few personalized welcome signs). My friend Pam does this one, and will be there with some primitive holiday enchantment. And if you are in the Ohio area, be sure to check out the Merry Makers show in Springfield, Ohio! So many shows, so little time (and money, haha).
I'll close here, wishing you all a *magical* and *sparkly* kick off to the holiday season, and leaving you with this tune - one of my favorites (but first you have to scroll down on the right and mute the purple playlist already playing)...
Until next time,
♥ Carolee
This weekend found me taking off with my friend Hugh for Martinsburg, West Virginia, where artist Paul Gordon was hosting the third annual "Friends in Christmas" show. Not wanting to begin the journey in the wee hours of the morning, we decided to stay over, which put us in Martinsburg Friday evening, allowing attendance at a little pre-show gathering in Paul's beautiful home...
Paul is not only an extraordinarily talented artist, but an avid collector as well, and his home is a feast for the eyes...
I don't know how to describe his style, except to say it's his own - sort of bohemian-vintage meets Victorian-whimsy, and I ♥ it...
Have you ever seen so much collectible eye candy in one cabinet?
It was such a magical place, made even more so by a little music, more than a little wine, and some very interesting guests. Oh, and almost forgot - there's even a vintage toy room upstairs!
How amazing is that?And here's our host...
Thank you so much, Paul, for including us in such a wonderful evening, and thanks Hugh, for taking these pics (I'd forgotten my camera).Saturday morning the doors to the studio opened, and we were treated to another enchanting setting, and even more *magical* work!...
Here are some of Paul's sculpts, shadowboxes and paintings...
We also took a tour of the working part of the studio, which is home to stacks upon stacks of vintage fabrics and quilts, as well as a vintage Santa Claus costume...
And all this ribbon!! (I think I managed not to drool, although I'm not sure, hehe)...
And I LOVE the old shoes and skates hanging from the rafters...
I came home with a few goodies, including two pieces by Laurie Messerol. For the moment, Santa is keeping the teapots company...
And how adorable is this print?
And this darling pincushion by Stacey Bear(the little door opens to reveal a thimble - such fun, and I couldn't resist!)
See, I told you this was the post that never ends! But I get so excited about these things, I just have to share them with you...Anywhoooooo....for NOW, it's back to work! I have an enchanting bunny commission in progress and a fun new sewing chest to begin - something magical for all those holiday projects, tentatively titled "Sew Many Blessings". ;)
And next weekend, there's another show to check out in Virginia (thinking of doing one crafty type show next year to sell a few personalized welcome signs). My friend Pam does this one, and will be there with some primitive holiday enchantment. And if you are in the Ohio area, be sure to check out the Merry Makers show in Springfield, Ohio! So many shows, so little time (and money, haha).
I'll close here, wishing you all a *magical* and *sparkly* kick off to the holiday season, and leaving you with this tune - one of my favorites (but first you have to scroll down on the right and mute the purple playlist already playing)...
Until next time,
♥ Carolee
Thursday, November 11, 2010
"Winter Angel"
Flying in quickly to share what I've been up to the last couple of days (along with commission work)...
While my own pets are cats and dogs, I've always had a special affinity for rabbits, and think no creature better epitomizes the word "Peace"; docile and loving, and like most creatures, we humans could learn a lot from them. ;)
This tea/serving tray is listing on eBay tonight at 9PM (Update - sold), and I hope it brings a smile and inspires a little winter magic.
Back very soon with new work, and pics of a Christmas show I'm attending this weekend!
♥ Carolee
While my own pets are cats and dogs, I've always had a special affinity for rabbits, and think no creature better epitomizes the word "Peace"; docile and loving, and like most creatures, we humans could learn a lot from them. ;)This tea/serving tray is listing on eBay tonight at 9PM (Update - sold), and I hope it brings a smile and inspires a little winter magic.
Back very soon with new work, and pics of a Christmas show I'm attending this weekend!
♥ Carolee
Sunday, December 27, 2009
The Third Day of Christmas
I'm one of those people who likes to celebrate the season in it's entirety, from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day through Twelfth Night - after which the tree comes down and the house returns to normal (or as normal as it gets around here, hehe).
So here's a quick recap of the festivities so far....
Christmas Eve was celebrated at my sister's house, where we met our daughter Courtney, dined on a wonderful array of appetizers, and exchanged gifts with my sister and my nephew. Before I go any further, I have to share a photo of her tree - it must be about 12 feet tall, and sparkles with sooooooo many lights and glass ornaments. Isn't it beautiful?
Christmas Day was spent here at home with Courtney, who very kindly cooked the traditional feast since my ankle has left me unable to stand for more than a few minutes. Here's our tree - a gift from Courtney this year, our old one being cumbersome and far too large for the room. I misplaced all the glass icicles, so it was a little simpler this year, but still pretty, I think....
Courtney doesn't like the topper. She says it looks like our tree is wearing a dunce cap. ;)
The second day of Christmas was spent braving the crowds at Pier One for post holiday bargains, and then on to Barnes and Noble to use the many gift cards. Everyone else is careful with theirs, making them last. Not me, haha. It took me about twenty minutes to burn through every single one of them. What can I say, I LOVE books....
Today being only the third day of Christmas, there's still much revelry ahead, and tonight it will be by way of scrabble playing and martini drinking at my friend Jen's house. Must hurry, as John just reminded me it's almost time to leave.
Before I go I'll share one of the last pieces of 2009, a "Witch's Kitchen" sign, painted on a cherry wood cabinet door.
It lists on eBay tonight at 9PM eastern. Trinket and treasure boxes are in the works too, and a large sewing or knitting box, so stay tuned. :)
That's it for now. I'm off to play scrabble and consume chocolate covered cherry martinis (yummmmmmm)....But I'll be back very soon with an update on new work and some surprises in store for 2010, including a new Year's GIVEAWAY. :)
Happy Holidays!
(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
So here's a quick recap of the festivities so far....
Christmas Eve was celebrated at my sister's house, where we met our daughter Courtney, dined on a wonderful array of appetizers, and exchanged gifts with my sister and my nephew. Before I go any further, I have to share a photo of her tree - it must be about 12 feet tall, and sparkles with sooooooo many lights and glass ornaments. Isn't it beautiful?
Christmas Day was spent here at home with Courtney, who very kindly cooked the traditional feast since my ankle has left me unable to stand for more than a few minutes. Here's our tree - a gift from Courtney this year, our old one being cumbersome and far too large for the room. I misplaced all the glass icicles, so it was a little simpler this year, but still pretty, I think....
Courtney doesn't like the topper. She says it looks like our tree is wearing a dunce cap. ;)The second day of Christmas was spent braving the crowds at Pier One for post holiday bargains, and then on to Barnes and Noble to use the many gift cards. Everyone else is careful with theirs, making them last. Not me, haha. It took me about twenty minutes to burn through every single one of them. What can I say, I LOVE books....
Today being only the third day of Christmas, there's still much revelry ahead, and tonight it will be by way of scrabble playing and martini drinking at my friend Jen's house. Must hurry, as John just reminded me it's almost time to leave.
Before I go I'll share one of the last pieces of 2009, a "Witch's Kitchen" sign, painted on a cherry wood cabinet door.
It lists on eBay tonight at 9PM eastern. Trinket and treasure boxes are in the works too, and a large sewing or knitting box, so stay tuned. :)That's it for now. I'm off to play scrabble and consume chocolate covered cherry martinis (yummmmmmm)....But I'll be back very soon with an update on new work and some surprises in store for 2010, including a new Year's GIVEAWAY. :)
Happy Holidays!
(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Happy Christmas!
“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love"... Hamilton Wright Mabie
Wishing you all the blessings of this most joyous season, not only as we celebrate today and tomorrow, but every day throughout the year!
We'll be driving to my sister's house up in Bucks County this afternoon, where we'll pick up our daughter Courtney, then to dear friends' house in the evening, and end the day (or begin Christmas) with midnight Mass, always my favorite part of the celebration.
Tomorrow will be fairly low-key, as John is still recovering from heart surgery, and I've sustained a rather nasty injury to my left ankle (more on this later -- for now I'm focused on enjoying the holiday!) Courtney will help me cook John's favorite meal, the traditional Dickensian Christmas feast of standing rib roast and yorkshire pudding, carrots and turnips, and possibly a Christmas pudding with custard sauce for dessert - store bought this year I'm afraid, but still tasty. After dinner we'll open crackers, wear silly hats, and listen to music. I may even persuade John to break out the guitar. :)
I'll be back very soon with lots of new work. The piece you see above is a gift, but I'm having great fun playing with glitter and baubles, so stay tuned...
In the meantime, however you spend the day, however you celebrate, I hope it's filled with magic and joy!
(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
Wishing you all the blessings of this most joyous season, not only as we celebrate today and tomorrow, but every day throughout the year!We'll be driving to my sister's house up in Bucks County this afternoon, where we'll pick up our daughter Courtney, then to dear friends' house in the evening, and end the day (or begin Christmas) with midnight Mass, always my favorite part of the celebration.
Tomorrow will be fairly low-key, as John is still recovering from heart surgery, and I've sustained a rather nasty injury to my left ankle (more on this later -- for now I'm focused on enjoying the holiday!) Courtney will help me cook John's favorite meal, the traditional Dickensian Christmas feast of standing rib roast and yorkshire pudding, carrots and turnips, and possibly a Christmas pudding with custard sauce for dessert - store bought this year I'm afraid, but still tasty. After dinner we'll open crackers, wear silly hats, and listen to music. I may even persuade John to break out the guitar. :)
I'll be back very soon with lots of new work. The piece you see above is a gift, but I'm having great fun playing with glitter and baubles, so stay tuned...
In the meantime, however you spend the day, however you celebrate, I hope it's filled with magic and joy!
(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Winter Magic
Since moving east some 17 years ago (having longed for ages to live where the cycle of the year was more apparent than it was in our California beach town) the change of seasons never fails to signal a change in my outlook. Spring is all about possibility and new beginnings. Summer is about abundance and productivity. Autumn is a time for harvest and reflection, home and hearth. And winter....well, winter is pure *magic*. :)
Since childhood, when my grandfather would sneak outside and ring sleighbells, and my parents would tell us tales of the elves at the North Pole making candy (this happened whenever there was a pink sunset)...when I would sit for hours reading the original Brother's Grimm and Andersen's Fairy Tales (a gift from my great aunt Marguerite) or see "the Nutcracker", I've always thought of this time of year as more magical than the other seasons.
The only detention I ever received was in high school, when the first snow of the year began falling heavily as I sat in Algebra. Now really, how are you supposed to sit in a classroom when there are angels to be made in a field of newly fallen snow? (Which is exactly what I did, along with a partner in crime who is still one of my dearest friends)...Magic like that cannot be ignored.When my own child came along, I wanted her to experience the magic too, so the season became one of story telling, cookie baking, paint and glitter, and of course, The Nutcracker - which she not only loved as much as I did, but eventually grew to dance. She tells me now that this is her favorite season, and I feel as if in some small way, I've succeeded. And one day, I know she'll pass that magic on to her own children.
But for now, with no children in the house, I find the magic making it's way into my work...
An auburn haired angel with crystal halo....
A snowy owl, bestowing Blessings of the Season....
And a whimsical cat, soaring high above the clouds, pouring warmth and goodness from his magical teapot....
As of this writing, the angel is still up for auction, and the owl and tea chest have a "buy it now" option, so as to allow earliest possible shipping. :)The magic continues tomorrow with painting of course, and hopefully a bit of cookie and bread baking. Our celebration is a bit more low-key this year, with John home recovering from heart surgery, and me hobbling around the house on an injured ankle (I've so far refused steroids, but am now re-thinking, haha).
Do you have a particular magical winter memory, or tradition? Please do share....
In the meantime, I'll say goodnight, and sweet dreams. And thank you from the bottom of my heart for dropping by, for taking the time to look at my work, and for your lovely comments. :)
Wishing you a season of peace, magic and joy,
(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯`• ~ Carolee
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