I ADORE these masks created by Isabelle Thibeault! Her whimsical Photography found on her blog harks to anthropomorphic fairytales and stories of delight! It would be very very difficult for me to chose just one, but perhaps you can find your own alter ego amongst her creations...
At this time of year, my Husband, Daughter and I have an on-going argument about WHEN to start Christmas decorating. Being Danish, My preference has been to wait until the day before the 24th, (OK, a week before would be tolerable). My Husband's family is Swedish, but as transplants to Minnesota, the Tree went up in early December. My 14 year old Daughter wants Christmas to start the day after Thanksgiving! What to do? Compromise... Last week I had the idea of agreeing on getting a tree on December 13th, which also happens to be St Lucia Day, a fitting start to our holiday season. Truth be told, I love having a tree and green garlands in the house - its the rest of 'Christmas decor' that sets my teeth on edge.
With the big date set, discussions have already begun on HOW we will decorate, and with WHAT. A few of you may remember THIS POST about Halloween Decorating with my daughter, well let me tell you, Christmas is no different! She, bless her, has a very definite idea of what Christmas should look like. Lately her favorite line is having a 'Catalog Christmas'. What is a 'Catalog Christmas' to a 14 year old? When all of the ornaments and decorations are color coordinated, and look like they came out of pretty gift boxes from a favorite shop in the Mall. At times like these I truly wonder "Is this MY daughter?" Five huge boxes sit in the rafters of our garage - all labeled Christmas. Each is filled with Nostalgic Scandinavian Jul Decor, Little Red Tomte's, Hand-woven wheat ornaments, Flying geese, crystal icicles and plenty of hand-made delights. No Catalog Christmas in sight.
Today, tired of being sick and a little bored, I decided to jump the gun on Christmas decorating. Ok, the reality is I am also claiming a little bit of 'Christmas Territory' in our tiny house, before the big guns come in on the 13th. I have fantasized about a WHITE CHRISTMAS for years, with lovely white furniture, simple crystal candleholders, and a breath of French elegance. I'm afraid my tastes are too 'Worldly' and 'Eclectic' for this fantasy. Digging out some splendid spangled trees gifted to me earlier this year by Nancy made me smile. Who could sit under these eye-popping trees placed to either side of my mirrored Arts and Crafts sideboard? A Lovely Antique Chinese Embroidery from the equally lovely Nicol sets the stage beautifully. Ten sweet little paper-mache dolls from China, two ducks and a big blue 'Star' crafted by the Castles own John McRae, have created a Ulla Inspired Creche Scene like no other... I love how everything looks together here, the spangled trees framing the hand-sewn treasures. Like an exotic Asian Fairy-tale come to life... I Wonder what my daughter will think???
Where does the time go??? I've been overwhelmed with classes, events and projects, and seem to have neglected my blog. I'm so sorry! I promise to catch you all up as soon as I get some more rest. Yesterday and last night was the CASTLE'S Christmas Transformation . I was the first to arrive at 9:30 am, but not the last to leave! At 11:30 pm, 14 hours later for me, I had to head home, and leave the rest of the Castle Christmas Magic up to the remaining elves... Do come and visit soon!!!
Illustration above by Theodor Kittelsen of Norway.
BELOW: A peek at our 'Christmas' Window (using antique Chinese Theatre Puppets) created by the ever talented John McRae!
Last weekend 5 lovely women joined me in creating their own personal versions of MOTHER WINTER at the CASTLE! Not only was this my last class of the season for the Castle, but I think it was one of my absolute favorite classes! Using glass domes as a 'skirt' and wonderful papers, fabrics. glitters and natural materials - true fantasy versions of Ms. Winter appeared! Inspiration came from Pagan Myths, Marie Antoinette and even the Aura Borealis! My personal favorite part of this project was creating the miniature 'Winter Wonderland' scenes that fits under the glass domes. Teeny Tiny little trees and houses clinging to snow encrusted hillsides - one is truly transported!
Enjoy!!!
Every year of my life, on this morning I have been serenaded by song, and this morning was no exception! From near and far, phone calls, emails, letters and hugs have arrived - letting me know how truly Blessed I am! My Mother told me (again) this morning how happy she was that day 49 years ago, at 2:12 am when I arrived, and I told her how happy I am too, that I am here! Life is indeed good!
These amazing antique movable Silhouettes are a small part of a stunning gift given to me yesterday by The Queen of Ribboned Crowns who always makes me smile and laugh and helped me celebrate my day - a day early. Doesn't that look like me above, singing with Sadie? And surely tonight the golden candle will be lit when my dear husband opens the door!
A Putz is a miniature landscape that was popular in the 1800's in Moravian communities in Pennsylvania. Using clay, wool, and matchsticks, you will craft a delightful little lamb or two inspired by the vintage sheep that populated these charming scenes. Strap a harness on your wooly creations, and your lamb will pull a lovely cart created from one of the Castle's German papier-mache egg boxes and decorated with glass glitter. Perfect for your spring and Easter decor!
