Simple Joys

Spring Blessings~ my newest piece

It is hard to believe that it has been so long since my last post. Where does the time go? 

 I have been fast at work, doing quite a few projects. There are classes to teach, shows to apply to, writing, pen and ink...and the list goes on. I decided early this Winter, that I would make some changes to my online presence, back away from some of the negativity that we often see in Social Media...and simply do my work. The work that is my great joy. I have to tell you, that the changes and positive energy that I have made in my life are nothing short of wonderful. It is something that I have done in small steps. Many a night, I will post what my Simple Joys are on my Face Book. It is a chance for me to look at my day and voice the little things that made my day special...to not forget, in this age of technology, what makes my heart truly smile.

A chat with dear friends gave me inspiration to continue the path of my Mousels~ to push myself to do better and grow. Art is a study, it s a hunger to make better. I found this quote on a friend's profile and it sticks in my head. I believe that it is his words, and it resonates ~

"Always be happy in your work. Never be satisfied"

It speaks of my need to always push ahead, to study and perfect technique. To compete with myself. 

It is no secret that Beatrix Potter is my inspiration all of these years. I adore her soul of an Illustrator and Scientist. Her children's book,s that we know so well, hold a simple formula of realism and whimsy along with a dash of humanism.

This is the part of Beatrix that I hope to embrace in my own work. Above are pictures of my first two tries at a shrew~ Tilda.

I still enjoy this style of Mousie and I am playing with shape and form. This is Tinker.

My Deer Mouse version (Halloween never ends here)

And a last hurrah to Winter.

There are always muslin musings. Spring has arrived inside the Wee Cottage...if not quite outside.

Beloved Dutch bunnies are about~

Taking over, it seems~

but then, the sheep had to poke their nose in.....

and make their own statement.....

and inspire in different media.

And so after some sharing, it is time for me to get back to my work. I'm off today to work on a note card series; Hollyhock Hill.

Make a Mac and Cheese. Enjoy a family dinner....and post my Simple Joys that make this day special.

Pattern Mob #3

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Primitives.....you either love them or leave them. For me, it was love at first sight. When my youngest was born in '95, I was searching for anything with,"the look" and took a paint class that offered the techniques. By the time Jess was walking, I was sitting in the home of my dear friend and learning all about it...in fabric. I knew when I saw the dolls, that I belonged to it. I knew that day, but what I didn't know was just how much my life would change because of it.

As Primitive Artists and Pattern Makers were starting to really emerge in our area, I had worn through a couple of Holly Berry Hill catalogs. Magazines filled with eye candy and websites for primitives were popping up. One of those designers that stood out was Pat Kildare of "Off The Beam". Tonight on Facebook, Robin Seeber and I are posting a "Pattern Mobbing". A click on the picture will take you to Pat's Etsy shop if you would like to  purchase, or you can go to her Photostream, here. 

We hope to support a fellow Prim Artisan by purchasing a pattern (or more)! Some may already have this pattern and may want to purchase something different. Above all, we hope that many will drop a note to offer kind words and encouragement. It's nice to know how many people that you really do touch with your work! If you would like to join us on Face Book, look us up on "Pattern Mobbing" and give us a "like". If you are like me, you already know that you can't ever have enough Prim Patterns!

Using My Muse

I LOVE Jarrahdale pumpkins. They inspire. My friends also inspire me. Last Summer, friend Lori, from Notforgotten Farm, made a wonderful pin-keeps for Ghoultide. She changed the classic, Heart and Hand theme, to a heart and pumpkin one. She placed the pumpkins on the palm of a hand and I was smitten. I even wrote and told her. With her kind words to create what my muse tells me to, I knew where to take the inspire. In my own voice, I wanted something different, a wall hanging.  My muse ~

Edna Nettles. Her plumpish hands were a perfect inspire, her basket of Sweet Annie would fill a glove wonderfully. 

Lori~ I hope that I have done justice to your inspire. Thank your for your kind words to use the concept with my own voice.

Another view as it is intended to be seen~

And as the "Heart and Hand" theme.

As I was making this Dutchie for TDIPT, those hearts did inspire, and so, the usual carrot would not do. I love her.

Finally... those thoughts of Spring cleaning. I'm enjoying these mousies...you will see me bounce around a bit and I am trying different materials and mechanics...but there is reason behind it and you shall see in time.

It has been nice to give my hand a break from the heavy demands of shows. I will be taking it lighter with some ink works and a few other things that I am exploring. It's all a journey, one that I love. 

This Year of Mine~

There is something about January that makes me burst with joy...well, there are a few things actually. I'm always happier knowing that the days are getting longer. January holds excitement. It is the beginning of a new year and with it, a clean slate. The weather can be nasty and the cold make your bones ache, but as glum and gloomy as it can be; I make it mine. A burning candle can make it cozy where I work...a mug of hot chocolate a treat. They are simple joys indeed.

This year of mine....What shall I do with it? First of all, as a parent of two young ladies, it is my job to show and teach them still. My oldest is learning the ways of stepping out on her own. As she told me, "Mom, I need to make my own mistakes". She will...but she will also make her own success.You never stop worrying.

 My youngest will be graduating in June, She will start another journey also. I hope that they both tuck any fears away, to look at life as opportunities and adventures. Perhaps they will learn to be just as excited in January. Grab hold of the year and own it. Yes, there will be bumps along the path and they may be given things beyond their control to deal with. There are always lessons to learn, great sadness and great joy wrapped up in a year. It is all balance.

You can see where my head is wrapped, in the pictures above. I am inspired by my own work as well as that of others. I will try new things and revisit olde.  My work will balance with family and friends (I always hope for a better balance here, knowing what an Art driven life I lead). It's only the beginning and I have much to do in this year of mine. 

No Signs of Slowing Down

Many of my friends take a few weeks off in December and the first few days of January. There was a time that I could relax a little in the first week of December, as the busiest time for my work was finished.

That's just not the case for me right now. There are no complaints, it's been nice to be busy. It has been steady, since August and I have been creating up a storm. The local shows were so fun and I am looking forward to what 2013 has to offer. For right now, though, I will share my first of the month offerings. This piece is inspired by the March Sister's in Little Women. You can click on any of the pictures to take you to Olde Primitive Peddler and see more about them.

Wee Maggie is also available there also. If you notice, she has a new look to her body to lend a more realistic look. I am having such a wonderful time taking these Mousels to different levels. It's nice to have a lively Doll House once again. These mice never stay long, but I have more coming to life.

On Simply Primitives, I am back to my love of Tombstone Angels. Meliora is a Puritan name of Roman descent, meaning...Better. Ah yes, I am getting better! I love the simplicity and the colors.

When looking up Puritan names, I suppose that I shouldn't have been surprised for the names given this Angel, nor her twin. The Puritans were quite grim after all. This is Ashes....

And this...Dust.
A click on the pictures will take you to Simply Primitives.

One of my best things that I have done, has been with my friends on Face Book. Pattern Mobbing. It started with this guy here, a pattern that I was looking for. Long story short and an inspiration from my friend...and I was off. What if my friends and I could "mob" a unsuspecting designer with orders?  As a designer myself, I know how much the orders mean, especially at slow times of the year. Well, it is a success~ a click on the picture and you will go to where YOU can mob this fine designer. We have had such a blast with this pattern. Simplistic enough that you can put your style on him and really have fun creating.

This month's person to Mob is Christine, of Walnut Ridge Primitives. Click again on the picture and you will be in pattern heaven. I can't wait to make this for the Wee Cottage!

2012 was jam packed for me. It wasn't perfect and neither will this year be.  In the weeks ahead, I have orders to pack and send, contracts to look over and sign and shows to set up for....and that doesn't include the creating! I will be continuing the Pattern Mobbing and will share here. I have 24 more times to go. They are my 26 Random Acts in memory of those in Heaven from Sandy Hook.

Waiting For Snow

As with some of my fellow Artisans, it has been difficult to create with a heavy heart. My heart has been with the families of Newton. Although heartbroken, they are not giving in to shadows. 

Today and in the next day or so, we should see some spits and sputters of snow. I'm ready, as you can see. I've pushed myself forward once again. Sometimes, friends will give you inspiration and renew your creativity. I usually do these mice in what is called a "stump", style doll. A chat with some friends, changed my direction with the little Mousels, I was now determined to make them free standing. They are well on their way....
As I finished their wee bodies, I stumbled across a small sled, and well....these two had a little different mission. 

My next piece is also close to my heart. I dearly love Canadian geese. I do miss hearing so many of them back North in Granville. I love to see them overhead and their beauty can bring a tear to this girl's eye. I'm like that, but now you know more of my heart. My work reflects so much of what I truly love. With Abby, I also knew that she needed to be dressed in Regency inspired. Nothing could have prepared me to the beauty of her as she came to life. There is such a warmth to her that the camera can't pick up. and so... on Jane Austen's 237th Birthday, comes Abby. 

And finally... a new Raven, Poe. I've been playing with the concept for months. I love it....He has a Winter Pine sprig...but I can see a heart...a crescent moon. Here we go again....back to creating.

December Mist

Olde Kinderhook Santa

I look at this blank page and think...December? how did that happen so quickly? I blinked in August and it was October.. I blink again and it is December.

Kris

It is a dark and dreary New England day here. The trees are just silhouettes of sticks and the misty fog softens their usual stark appearance. It is damp and cold outside... a mix of smells, between the wet earth...the fallen leaves and wafting through out like a ribbon...wood smoke. Inside it smells of pine and spices as candle glow casts a warm light. The tree is set up and awaiting decorations, but it will be a few more days still. I have a few orders to get out  to the mail and then the reclaiming  of the Cottage begins. Creating has been such at such a fast and furious rate, that there has been no time for recovery. I need to do it within the next couple weeks. There are Holidays to celebrate and family to enjoy. A time for my work to truly take a backseat...at least until New Years.Then look out.

Olde Mantle Deer

I have notes and plans all laid. As much as I have the sketches and directions along with shows that I will fill the calendar with... it always changes. There is an email or a phone call and a door opens. I'm thankful for it all. It is a part of the journey. I'm excited... while some things I already know, there are the surprises along the way. Until next time... a few pictures of some of my favorite friends..

Olde Schenectady Santa

Franklin

Myron

Tessa

Timothy

Little Women Inspired

It's the middle of October already... where does the time go to? It is my youngest daughter's Senior year. This Fall also holds other family events, such as a new baby, Great Nephew for Tim and two weddings this month. Time is  slipping through my fingers faster than I would like.  We had our first hard frost the morning before last. The garden will now sleep until Spring. I love the crisp mornings and the smell of the fallen leaves. Oh if they could just bottle that smell!

Tonight is the opening of TDIPT Mercantile and I have two Wee Folk ready to be spoken for.  Above is Marmee, the wise Barn Owl, inspired by the beloved mother in the classic, Little Women. She is painted and dressed in sepia tones ( or as I call them, Memory Tones)...back to another time.

And then, there is Jeremy the rat. He has been enjoying his evenings here in the Wee Dollhouse and will always keep a home feeling cozy in candle light.  Both pieces are very near and dear to my heart....

None so dear, however than that of my own "Little Women". Bailey fussed over Jessie's hair and that of her friend and Jessie went off with her beau, to their last Homecoming.  Jessie is my "Little Jo" and Bailey, a more serious "Meg". Life gives you sweet memories as you make more.

Merrye October

October has arrived! My favorite time of year. Today has dawned with milky skies and a hint of fallen leaves with wood smoke wafting in the breeze. An apple cake will soon be in the oven, it's cinnamon scent wrapping around me as the oven takes the chill off of the house. A perfect, "Sleepy Hollow" day and yes...that will keep me company also as I work away.

October 1st marks the opening of Simply Primitives and also Olde Primitive Peddler. I am in my glory with it all. My work has been going at full tilt since July, and it doesn't show signs of slowing down any. I'd like to tell you that this is a 40 hour a week job, but any real artist will tell you that it doesn't go that way. Our brains are tuned in 24/7  and our hands just have to be busy. With shows and orders, I have to squeeze in other designs right now, I will work on them just for a few stolen minutes every day. My Catina Witch is a blend of a simplified, primitive witch and my take on a "sugar skull" look.  Eight years after a visit to Arizona, and the "Day of the Dead" skeletons in the local shops still inspire ...or perhaps... haunt me. 

Edna Nettles is also a new friend. She reminds me of a dear Aunt. A blend of a more gentle woman dressed with Early New England inspires.

In her gnarled and arthritic hands... one of my hand made baskets, full of preserved Sweet Annie.

Both of these are available on Olde Primitive Peddler.

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 On Simply Primitives, I have two new witches from my latest show.

They both have Puritan New England names...Above is Temperance.

And this is Silence. I made a few and I thought I would share with my online collectors. They are a little different construction for me, but they were both so fun. Each has a dried Clementine for a pumpkin in their hands. I'm sure they will inspire more ahead.

Ahh yes.. a Merrye October it tis indeed. A full moon will shine tonight and you can bet this witch lover will be wrapped in her love of all things Fall.

Song of September

Life can get crazy, can't it? Summer has been a busy one and spent among family. Now, it seems, September's pace will not be slowing down any. Tim has been harvesting the garden and making lots of tomato sauce....these sunny days are a treat, filled with the smell of the simmering tomatoes as I work. I feel wrapped in memories. Going back in time, all those years ago at my Grandmothers house, milling tomatoes and helping with canning for winter treats.

Our second show if the year was held at the Historic Mabee Farm. Finished items have been slow in this economy and I hadn't been there in two years. I wasn't prepared to sell over half of my inventory....so, as soon as I got home, I dove into the work of goode creating with my next show just three weeks ahead. I also wasn't prepared for shops and customers to start ordering again in a way they had not for over four years. A wonderful sign that the economy is on the mend! 

And then.... off we went to the Apple and Wine Festival in Altamont NY~ nestled near the Helderberg Mountains. I was feeling right at home among the smells of the apples and changing leaves...not to mention the wonderful smell of dear friend and booth neighbor, Mindy Hewitt of Penny Creek. Her wax tarts are the bomb!

It doesn't look like it is going to slow down anytime soon. I still have more than plenty to keep me busy with a couple more shop orders and some customer orders still to do. I also have another show in about five weeks and another to apply for. My sewing machine hums along and I am pulling drawings from my archives as well as sketching new ones. I'm also tossing in a few beloved Netty designs to fill in among my own. My head spins with inspiration and my hands are doing their best to keep up. I am very thankful to have such busy hands and love that I can just roll out of my bed and be to work. There is something goode to be said for that!