A Fanciful Twist

Twinkly Wishes for a Magical New Year! (+ collecting your wishes)

New Years are the bestest, most wonderful, don'tcha think?  I was thinking today, how fun a New Year is.  It makes everything seem fresh and new.  Invigorates natural adrenaline, bringing us slices of warm fresh baked optimism...  Yummy yumm...  Like a perfect round felt ball, born at the stroke of midnight on December 31st...

          

I for one, believe that fresh starts can happen any time.  A renewed (& positive) perception is the key to the door of your cozy home in your very own sugar plum forest...

   

I love simple blissful little days, spent inside a perfect sugar plum house fading from pink to canary yellow...  Now if I could only, err, argh, eekkk, squuueeze myself in there...  Ouch...  hee hee ;)

      

And so, at the foot of the Sugar Plum Forest, through the Fairytale Forest, past the Magical Cypress Grove and down a pink hidden path in the woods, is where I find myself this New Year's Eve...

   

A place where you are invited to join in celebrating the New Year with Elfin creatures, faun, birdlings,  fairies, and me ;)

We mingle and enjoy some shroom-nog and bliss pie that Miss Dunce-ling Birdie made for us...

   

Grab a slice and a sip, don't be shy ;)

  

Mmmm, frothy shroom-nog...  

    

Everyone is so delighted you stopped in!!!

    

Oh, we nibble and munch galore!!  Did you get enough to eat??  I sure hope so, because now it is time for dancing as we wait for the midnight hour...

Someone seems to be acting kind of shy...

        

Oh someone else looks shy too...  Hiding behind a Magical Cypress Tree, eh?

        

Come on guys, let's loose our inhibitions and dance...  Off you go...

   

And before you know it, everyone is on the dance floor...  Even the extra shy one is dancing in the middle of the circle and leading a wacky dance, hee hee...

   

A perfect time of the year to break out of your shell and be free...  I love to get crazy and dance alone in my house.  It makes me feel so fantastic and is really good for the soul!!

         

    

Even little babies like a little mambo every now and then ;)

    

And as the new year comes closer, the creatures have some messages for you!!

         

Elves are so sweet, aren't they?  Those little guys bring such joy...  As their Mammie always says...  There is nothing like the love of an elf...   

        

And for a little bunny love look below...

    

Oh, you lovely friends, it has been a marvelous year hasn't it???  I have been blessed with your friendship and art dreams this year.   I feel like we are a little fanciful family, don't you?  I see your names pop up in comments, and I feel like I know almost all of you.  Little bits and pieces you share make me really adore you ooooodles!!!

Thank you for being so nice to me.  For stopping in, and for being patient with my slowness in visits while I am here in behind the scenes madness attempting to support myself via my art...  I never take you for granted, and know that without you egging me on, I wouldn't be writing this blog...

So, before you think I forgot...  Remember all the wishes I collected here last year, and let go?? 

      

See here if you forgot ;) 

So, I say, let's send our wishes out again this year...  Leave your wishes here in comments (encrypted or not) and I will find a real fanciful way to transport them to the "make wishes come true" elves...

You can trust me to get them there safely.  You see, I think that if we pile our wishes together, they will have extra strength... I will protect them!  I will even wear my Super Bake Girl Cape ;)

So come on, let's hold hands and make a wish...

   

Into the rabbit hole, we swirl and twirl, and believe that wishes come true (that is key here)...

 

It has been a magical year said the girl, as she glanced your way, gently nodding her head in thanks.  Then she peered out the window, to all that laid ahead in wonderland, and her heart soared.  She turned and beckoned you to join her...

She held on to her perfeclty packaged bundle of memories, held on as tight as could be, and lept into the future, with unhindered possibilites dangling from her hair...

 

♥  ♥ ♥ ♥  Don't forget to leave your wishes ;)

      

Merrily Down the Holiday Road, I find my way back...

Where to begin?  I am an exhausted noodle head, and missing home already.  Isn't it funny when you spend days away from your life, how you feel sort of discombobulated when you return?  I miss my Mammie ;)

      

But, I will shake it off and fill you in a little on my adventures...  Well, the good news is, I had a snowey powdered sugar kind of Christmas in the hills at home with my parents and siblings and more...  It was a run in the snow and cold and squeal kind of a holiday for me indeed!!

 

I exited the vehicle down twirly roads, oodles of times to frolick in the super cold weather...

    

But before I tell you about that, and my discovery of why witches hats are shaped the way they are, I will take you on a little road trip with me...

I left Catalina and drove an hour to the airport, collected my kookie friend, drove to Tubac, Arizona, shopped and ate gooey delicious cheesy melty mexican food and drank margaritas.  Where we got hit on by weird guys...  Eeeek!  We escaped that one quickly though.  And insisted (both being tough chicks) that we did not want any strange men paying for our margaritas, no Sireeeeee! 

         

We arrived home to twinkly lights and giant wreaths...

    

    

A warm goldie glowey house was a magical delight to fall into...

         

We unpacked, tucked in, and waited for the whole gang to arrive.  A house full, and laughs and bickering and more double over until you can't breathe laughs, and more bickering ;)  I am sure we all made my parents insane. 

We attempted to go to sleep...  Giggle, snort, whining about turning off the lights, chatting in the dark... 

We could hear Mombie baking until 3 a.m.  We awoke to bliss...

 

Sis makes these below, every year... 

 

And then, I baked everyone's request.  Which I bake every year as well.  My own version of... 

        

We prepared for Christmas Eve dinner, to be served after mass...

         

While we waited for guests to arrive, I went outside and took some photos of the beautiful lights my Mom and Dad and elfin helper put up...

      

 

While I was outside taking photos, I took the funniest one facing the house.  It was Mr. Lovee in the bar (eating nuts I bet) and Alden (my friend) in the kitchen.  Both have their backs turned.. And I wonder to myself, what are they doing?  It is so funny to me...  Are they nibbling before dinner? ;)

    

As for dinner - It was beautiful, thanks to my parents hard work putting it all together.  We enjoyed it to the core, then sat around and chatted for hours...

To view these mosaic photos, simply click, let them load up, then click again to view large version...

         

Now, here is one of my fave parts...  After dinner and chatting, I talked about going to the North Pole - in terms of Santa's village...  And my Dad said, he might be able to take us there...

 

So, my friend, Mr. Lovee and Mammie and Dad jumped in the car.  Noone else was game ;)  And we arrived to a magical land for sure.  I jumped out of the car and skipped around and bounced and danced.  There was pure holiday music streaming through the street (literally from the people's gadgets on their roofs).  I was singing like crazy...  SO much fun!

I am from a very small town, tiny in fact, so everyone knows everyone, and my mom filled us in on all the light wars between these two houses...  I think they both win, in my book!

   

  

Isn't it wonderful?  I don't think it is cheesy at all, I think it is quite fun.  In the past I may have rolled my eyes, but call it the aging process ;)  I just enjoyed it tons...

We then drove through town, and I took a picture of the center of our town, where the beautiful Catholic church sits...

       

I took this one below for you too... I took it from the top of the hill where Granny's house is...  

Ever wonder what separates you from Mexico?  A HUGE wall, lit constantly, in a little border town... That's what ;)  

 

So, after our Make Believe North Pole excursion, we went home and chatted until the very late hours of the night...  Forcing ourselves to sleep...  Which is a reason Santa was running very very late the next day, hee hee ;)

      

Christmas day was filled to the brim!  Coffee and treats and gifts oh my!!

       

          

  

          

Giggling and ripping paper, and trying on goodies and thanking one another, but enjoying eachother's company more than anything... 

        

I made my Mammie her very own Sugar Plum Fairy and oodles of jewelry ;)

        

Then slowly, everyone started disappearing playing with new toys...  I was enamoured with Mammie's yearly delight, "The Fairy Tree."  There are more fairies in that house than anywhere, I am sure of it...  Except a store or fairy factory.  They are on the mantle, in my sister's room, and better than anything, in the magical Fairy Tree...

   

        

         

         

           

       

Oh and the cutest thing, Santa left a brand new bicycle for Mammie ;)  She jumped right on it...

         

When Mammie came in from riding, she said "the only one watching me ride my new bike was Mr. Lovee."  He was such a cutie, helping her, making sure she didn't break her neck...  And they were both freezing because it was truly coat and scarf weather - and the snow was looming...

        

Not that you care ;)  but from where Mammie is standing, all you see for miles and miles surrounding the house is this...  And I have long crazy tales about exploring that land myself as a wee kid...

    

Anyhow, I have completely lost track of why I am talking your ear off (or eyeballs in this case), or what I am talking about... 

Oh yes, Christmas...  Sooooo, after gifts and such, we piled in the car, and went to my Grandma and Grandpa's house (Mom's parents).  My friend Alden, had such a wonderful time with my incredible Grandparents, who lavished her with more hugs and kisses she could have ever hoped for.  So much so that she was moved to tears.  When asked if she was okay, she said she longed to have her own family as such, with grandparents to love...  It was very touching and made me want to hang on to everyone for dear life myself...

It was starting to get cloudy and snow weather was rolling in, so these photos at Nana's are very weird in color...

        

Granny's house is the best...  Alden questioned my Grandmother oodles on tortilla making, and was as in love with that wood burning stove as all of us are...  She asked my grandfather so many questions about his fireplace and such, I think he was in seventh heaven ;)

      

By the way - the thing that astounds me is that my grandfather is 80 and doesn't have a white hair on his head...  Floors me every time...

        

Granny puts up a huge beautiful manger...

  

Kids opened gifts.  My brother Adam, gave a beautiful pop up Alice in Wonderland book to Carolina...

    

Surrounding her were 15 loud people all opening gifts...  But I didn't get clearance to slap their faces on my blog, so you can imagine it all ;)  

After Granny's, we drove home, and spied the Ferromex Train...

   

4 deer were waiting for us on the other side of the gate to our driveway...

    

And just in time for winter - all the leaves fell off of my favorite tree, in one afternoon...

    

Are you bored at my super long post yet?  How do they get sooooo long?  Goodness me...

Well, the next part of my story is the last part for now ;)  And it has to do with witches hats...  You see, I have made a discovery.  Witches not only made those great hats for stylish effect - they serve a huge weather purpose.

 

They should be sold for the winter, not just Halloween!!  They need to make a winter wear debut in a major way...  Maybe I am on to something?  And better yet, they keep your camera safe from rain or snow, and your eye make-up too!!

You see on the 26th, when snow was falling everywhere, I urged a few to pack into the car, and let Mammie and Daddy take us for a drive in our Winter Wonderland...  I got dressed first.  And realizing I only had a witches hat - I found brilliant use for it...

 

I put on 3 layers.  I felt like a snowman.  Here is the only chance you may get in life of seeing me in that get-up...  In the pantry door ;)  I wore that hat all over snow filled lands...

I am holding a huge bag, so that is what you see on my shoulder...

      

And, I have to confess.  My sister was mortified at my outfit.  Pistachio green pants, three tops, a thick winter Indian quilted coat (with lots of colors), and a witches hat.  Truth be told, I wasn't embarrassed of my outfit in the least bit.  Nope, not at all...  Told you, I am nutty sometimes...  She hollered "Are you really going out like that???"  Umm, Yep!  ;)

It was soooo theraputic to be out in the wildnerness, in the silence of snow falling...  I forgot to change out of my high heeled boots, so I wore them, to walk all around the wildnerness...  I walked down roads that had less snow, as we exited the mountains, where it was dangerously snowing a bit to much to be on those roads...

   

    

    

  

     

As we drove into town, the snow subsided... 

 

         

And we drove by a little house literally in the woods, in the middle of nowhere...

   

 Alas, I have to confess, that little couple inches of snow, was all I think I might want in life.  The cold is a tad too cold for us Arizona people.  And I don't think I can live in Wisconsin.  Mr. Lovee's family has been sending a ton of hate mail to us, because of the snow shoveling Mr. Lovee is making fun of them for...  ;)  Isn't he a meanie?  ;)

We needed warm drinks after all that...  So we headed to Patagonia, where on the outskirts, sits a shrine that I have been to over a hundred times in my life...

Curious?  Come with me.. I'll give you a sneak peek...

        

Up the super narrow stairs, still in these bad boys...

         

    

    

Inside, you slowly open the little gate to fill it with your candles or prayers, etc...

         

        

Then off to Patagonia, Arizona - not far from our house, to get warm at the cafe...  I think Patagonia must have a popluation of about 700-800 people max...  It is teeny tiny, and quaint and charming, and again, teeny tiny.   

   

         

    

I stayed a couple more days, and then had to deal with packing...  My least fave part.  But, the fact that I was packing treasures was fun...  My car was so full!  I had all sorts of stuff, including big furniture.  Which I loaded into my car myself.  I am proud of the huge tasks I accomplish (moving furniture and such), and I feel so gratified.  I found ways to do a lot of it without hurting myself...  Mr. Lovee says I am crazy strong ;)  Tee heee  ;)  Not too tall at all, but strong like Popeye ;)  Okay, not quite...  Maybe a little strength mixed with a whole lot of determination ;)

 

Sooooo, believe it or not, I think that is all I have to say for now...  Later (next post) I will share all my paper cutting I did on my trip, and show you how I kept everyone totally entertained...

Here are a few...

   

    

I couldn't cut paper fast enough... Everyone wanted one...  You know, people are easily amused when there is nothing else to do but eat and chat and play...  ;)

I must be off, I have really overdone it this time, with this super long post!!  Must make sense of my unpacking and rest up...  We might go out of town for New Year's...  My Grandma's birthday is January 1st...

All I know is I am one tired girl...  How about a vacation from my vacation?  ;)  Any ideas?

Can't wait to catch up with you though!!!  How are you guys???  Did you have a Holly Jolly Christmas???

More sooooooon!!  xoxo, V  

ps:  I forgot to take photos of Mammie's village (which she asked me to take, oops), but you can see last year's here...

Warm Holiday Wishes, Happy Snowflake Papercuts & Merry Sugar Plum Bliss...

In the thick of holiday madness, and not even aware.  Was it her forgetfulness, or simply her ability to get lost in the mesmerizing effect of certain things...

      

Textures and colors, sights and sounds, drew her in, and she often lost her way on the blissful voyage of soaking them in...

        

She wondered sometimes, how she could zone out into another world so easily.  She wondered if it was a strange brain thing, the way she could listen to the same tune on repeat for days and weeks at a time.  Finding a new note every time... Never tiring of it.  How she could lose herself, in a felt ball...  Stringing one by one...

 

How she could put her life on hold, to cut out paper snowflakes...

       

Her friend, Mister Ireland, rang her.  "Wow, you never answer the phone,"  He stated in his calm Irish way.  She was getting way too used to people stating this fact.  He then said "I missed your birthday, but I have something for you - and I need to pick up another piece of your jewelry for my mother, can I come up?"    

    

She stayed silent.  Then  in her elfin voice said,  "Welll, I am really not sure I can see anyone today.  I am cutting out snowflakes..." 

Funny enough her friends who were not part of the arty crafty creative world, never seemed to think anything she was up to was out of the ordinary.  He, in his thick Irish accent said, "Oh that sounds lovely, but don't you want to get a bite to eat?"

I can't eat, she stated.  I am cutting out paper snowflakes.

        

"I am leaving the country for a few weeks" he said.  She sighed.  She knew he would be gone to see his family in Ireland for a long while, and she believed in seeing friends before they made long voyages. 

"Wellllll, okay.  But, I don't want to go anywhere.  I'll make some tea and I'll even make you some snowflakes...  I just baked some thumb print cookies, would that be food enough?" she asked.

He chuckled.  "I'll order us some take away."  (The Irish version of take-out)

She was happy, she would have 3 hours to be in her snowflake world until her visitor arrived...

   

As she sat and cut out what she thought were beautiful snowflakes, she let the spirit of Christmas fill her soul.  The true meaning of this beloved celebration.  She remembered being in that huge old cathedral as a girl.  She had painted the back drop for the manger (still used today) when she was a teenager... 

A warm sense of love filled her being...

        

The more she cut, the more she wanted to cut...

         

Each one a gift in itself, waiting to be slowly gently opened.  She gasped and swooned.

She took a glue stick and without any hesitation, glued them to the barn doors on her wardrobe...

    

She was content. 

This was the beginning of her Christmas decorating she thought (even though she had already done a little bit of it).  The spirit of Christmas was swirling around her.

She blew great big bubbles with cherry bubble gum, and took tiny peppermint nibbles...

        

She admired her Christmas branch...  The colors so peaceful and happy.

       

       

          

Oh yes!!  She recalled the angels she safely tucked away year after year, and went on the hunt for them.  They were just what the Christmas branch needed to finish it up...

        

She had 3 nooklings of Holiday adventures in her private little boudoir at the country house (bedroom).  One, a sugarplum colorful adventure.  

The second, A Santa Bell Jar Forest..

        

       

         

        

And the third nook, reminded her of a magically tradtional "Little Women" sort of Christmas...

   

The greenery was trimmed from one of her and Mr. Lovee's tiny christmas trees that they purchased to decorate,  then planted 6 years ago, and was now a healthy huge guy out in the garden... 

   

Happy nooks indeed...

  

A perfect place to sit and - you got it ;) -  cut out snow flakes...  

         

I must hang my ice-skating stocking... 

      

I will be taking my beautiful hand knit stocking from lovely Britt-Arnhild home for the holidays ;)  I will take photos of it once there ;)  I just love it!! 

Speaking of stockings.  Take a peek at the stockings Miss Valerie and Miss Jamie (check out her december 11th post) made with my lil' stockin' template...  I LOVE them girls!!  You make my heart fly around and dance!!  What great blogs these gals have!!

Oops, lost track of my little story...

Soooo, everything was yummy in the Sugar Plum Forest, all happy and festive.  Perfect for those unexpected visitors ;)

         

When all of a sudden, the phone rang.  It was her best wacky funny friend from college.  Her voice said, "Vanessssaaaa, I am coming to see you, ask your Mom if it is okay."  And of course, Mombie said, "Awesome, how fun, the more the merrier!!!" 

And just like that, she snapped out of ther snowflake hypnotism, and her brain scurried around.  Oh my goodness, so much to do, so much to do!!!  Why, it is December 21st already!!  And we are leaving to go home for the holidays on Tuesday, and and and... Must get Alden at the airport and pack and bake and clean - And just like that, holiday madness ensued...

However, as it usually goes in her life...  Her friend stopped by.  The Irish chap.  And as the Irish do, he had tea.  Which is quite lovely you see.  Because with friends who drink tea as a regular part of life, fancy tea cups, tiny exquisite milk pitchers and biscuits, aren't just part of a tea party, they are part of many moments in a day.  And a buff Irish man, drinking tea from a fragile tea cup, is quite a charming sight.

So, she sat for tea, and calmed down.  And found a new gifted obsession to be mesmerized by.  Staring into the most beautiful roses she had ever seen...

         

After all, her undercover post office operations were complete.  Every parcel was shipped with care and running out of the house in her Secret Agent Garb, was over for this holiday season...

What on earth is Secret Agent Garb you ask?  Well, it is one of Mr.  Lovee's favorite looks you see.  It is a make-upless girl, in a scarf, huge dark vintage Christian Dior glasses (that she had lenses put into when her friend's mom, who had them since the sixties, gifted them to her), a Victorian coat that is worn all winter - and a long braid with a black satin ribbon.

      

This is the girl who carfeully delivers your safely packaged parcels to the post...

        

The same girl, that used to be a camera lover, and now turns her face at the the slightest chance of having her photo taken without consent.  She is very serious about this.

         

She is also the same girl, who is in this terrible old polaroid at granny's on Christmas 1994, wearing football player shoulder pad's (so is her aunt it seems).  The photo is a mess in person, with water spots making everyone look quite strange (like dad's blurry face, who by the way looks extra tanned)...  Look at those hair things and outfits.  1994 was wild.

         

Anyhow, she is the same girl, who loves telling stories and having you for visits here at A Fanciful Twist!! 

The same girl, who can't wait to hear your stories and share photos and wacky tales (like too much shroom nog), after the Holidays ;)  after the Christmas party at the Yellow Dollhouse.

And, The same girl who sends you extra wishes of sparkly magic...

        

Warm Holiday Wishes to you and yours!!  See you super soooon!! xoxo

♥♥♥, Vanessa ;)

ps:  I had to change things down here, because, I got in a ton of trouble with the little creatures in my holiday diorama.  I could hear tiny voices calling me as I was packing...  And I forgot, a huge holiday waiting for Santa party was goin' on right here...  Silly me.  These are my little children after-all, and I almost forgot to share their happy holiday spirit with you!!  Click on Image, then once it opens click on it again, and you can see it super large ;)

         

They send their warm greetings and hope you jump in for some fun ;) 

pss:  OH!!  And, don't forget, One World One Heart, is right around the corner after the holidays.  It was HUGE last year!  I have a new section midway down in my right hand side bar called Blogosphere events.  And these are current events that I am taking part in...  This was my participation in OWOH last year...  Go to the OWOH website for details...

psss:  I have to confess, I have been watching this Snow Dream video way too much!  And I normally don't do pop music at all...  But, it is silly and makes me giggle & I think I can make out some English words, and I can't get enough of those fab complexions, and extra fab hair color and cuts.  Oh and their winter wear.  Like Sarah said, is this a Gap Commercial?  haha...

I think I am making Mister Lovee crazy singing "I need a SNOW DREAM under the sky, sha-nananana..." over and over.  The only words I can make out ;) I especially love 2:54 - 3:08 cos I like the guy in the bear hat ;)

Now I promise this time I am leaving ;) 

Off I go!  Have a wonderful holiday!!!!  I'll be checking in while away  ;)

Flurries and Twirlies & Little Snowflake Wishes...

I had a glorious day yesterday, to attempt some laundry and clean and dust (oh goodness, the dust of it all) & to begin my Christmas decorating.  Just the kind of day I needed...

   

I made a garland, and organized my shelves.  I made a new little nook in my room, which I will share once I whip everything together, so my room doesn't look like a tornado side swiped us...

        

I also started on the Christmas Branch.  Which really is up all year, but with different decor...   I love my branch.  Since I spend Christmas at our family home, I don't put up a full scale tree here... 

      

I watched Portrait of a Lady (with Nicole Kidman) and Northfork while I worked along...  Soon I want to tell you about  a very dramatic encounter I had with a movie, that I have typed and kept to share in the future.  Although I might forget about it if I am not carfeul...

I have been on snow watch all week.  I am waiting with bated breath for this teaser of a snow storm to hit, so that I can make use of my Grandpa's wonderful birthday gift.  He is such a cool grandpa.  He loves to collect "junk" like me.  Or treasures, as we prefer to refer to our findings...

        

Once I completely tired of waiting for the snow, I decided to take the snow watch matter to a different level.  More like the snow hunt, if you will...  My partner in crime and I planned our mission & headed into the brisk air...

We would take some necessary items with us, to visit the snow covered hills.  I would need my magical red and white striped curtain (details on how I made the easiest curtain ever using Sealah tape at the end of this post).   Some wood...  What else, hmmmm?

A pot for cooking - and of course some daisies...

 

Oh, some lemons too... 

     

Fire wood, oh yes!  Can't forget that - And a bunch of other odds and ends...   Did I fail to mention, how we would be traveling into the wilderness?

      

    

By super three wheel bike, of course ;)  Can you see the snow in the mountains that hover above our wee love shack?   

   

That is where me and my little blondie are headed.  We have our tea set packed, and some warm blankets...  I really can't think of what else we might need? 

        

         

Oh and we have treats too!!  Must not forget the treats!!

    

And of course, things to play with and give us good luck...

Like thee wonderful sparklies and keys, and fun things to play with from Miss Krista!!

   

    

    

 Amongst the trinkets from Miss Krista...

        

I found a serpent ring with little hearts dangling, for good luck ;)

     

Thank you Miss Krista!!  What treasures!! 

I am also bringing with me a boxling that would blow your mind, from Michelle Cummings...  Just take a look...

   

Ready for this...  1, 2, BOING!!

    

If that is not fun stuff all tucked inside the best pop open box on the planet - then I don't knw what is ;)   Too fun Miss Michelle!! 

And while I am at it - I brought some tiny candy canes and beautiful tags from delightful Chris!! (a totally unexpected surprise package!).  Candy for elves, if we see them in the forest, and tags to write for gifts I have not yet made, eeeeks!!  Thank you Miss Chrisssss!!  The tags are so beautiful and awesome colors and paper!!

      

So, I think I am all set.  I am wearing my warm tattered scarf.  Which I have worn out over the last 3 or 4 years for sure...  But I love it.  And it houses a brooch that I found in that stash from that darling lil' Krista too!!

         

Okay, let's be off....

         

We don't go very far before someone wants her tea...  Oy...  Okay okay...

    

Are you sure you need tea now I ask?  "Aha aha aha, she nods...."  And how can I say no to that face?

        

(Note to sister - "I am wearing the lil' warm boots you gave me!!!" )

So we have our tea and I collect some moss.  Which mind you, wasn't easy, because my little muffin dog, ain't so little.  And she wants to be on my head if I am eye level with her.  So, collecting moss, not so easy.  She knocked me over, wanted to sniff my ponytail...  Goodness me... 

        

    

Now to save this so I can put it in my terrarium... And finally head out - making our way through our arbor and onto the road...  In search of that great white snow...

   

Will we make it?  Will we find snow?  Will we come back with a wonderful tale to tell?

    

Who knows?  But we will sure have fun trying ;)  Or even pretending ;)

       

Before I go, I want to touch on a subject that I find very important.  I want you to truly know how much I enjoy our visits here at "A Fanciful Twist."  I try to make visits to many of you, and love those e-mail exchanges with many of you who e-mail me.  

I want to say, if you ever feel snubbed  or ignored by me, I never ever ever intend that.  On the contrary - I actually think about you, and find myself, often before bed, going, "oh me oh my, I forgot to stop by to get my award from lil' Miss.  Or, oh goodness, did she have her baby?  Is her hubby okay?  What is going on over there..."  Often I pop in to peek on many of you!!   

I do the best that I can juggling all the things on my plate.  But honestly, sometimes, I am not that good at it.  And the last thing I ever want to do is make you feel like you are not important to me.  Your little worlds are fantastic, and you guys are up to so much goodness!!!  Just know I admire and appreciate the little worlds we get to share.  And you are very important!!  From the bottom of my heart - truly...

♥ ♥ ♥, see you sooon!! Vanessa

PS:  If you want to make some super easy, no sew curtains (or anything no sew for that matter), you will need Sealah Tape.  An extraordinary invention by Kay Ellen's parents.  There is a link on her blog to Sealah tape, or send her an e-mail and she can help you for sure ;)

Once I put these curtains up correctly, I will show you how awesome they look.  But not having to finish the edges on a machine made the curtain making process so super easy!!  ;)

         

Look at that happy finished edge!  Wooo hooooooo!! 

pss:  I have been finding lots of fun links for printable tags and holiday projects.  I thought I would share them with you...  Some of my items are on these sites, but there are tons of fantastic printable tags and handmade ideas.  I am doing of a few of them myself!!

Next post I will share some of the lovely stockings people have made with my free stocking template ;)  I am so tickled it was enjoyed!!

ohdeedoh

Bella Dia

Free Printable Fun

One Pretty Thing

Tip Nut

Tip Junkie

Free Printable Holiday Gift Tags, Treats & all Over the Place Fun!

Phewey!  Talk about celebrating my birthday way too much!  It was great fun, and I brought you a piece of the most unreal outrageous cake (from Mom & Dad) I have ever tasted in my entire life.  It was not too sweet, which I think made it extra amazing!

White chocolate curls...

 

Mascarpone Cheese, Real Raspberries -Moist cake.  The most unreal (even for a salty savory girl) treat I have ever tasted, ever.  Did I say that already?  ;)

 

I also brought you something more tangible.  2 sets of printable gift tags.  One includes my current obsession of pink and red & frilly & mushroomy love.

Print them on cardstock if you have it, punch a hole in a corner, add a ribbon, and voila...  Or just slap them on your gift with tape ;)  Whichever way you fancy will work out just fine  ;)

Click Here for printable PDF  (give them 30+ seconds to open)

      

       

And a second set, for any occassion really, where the gift is handmade.  I was so inspired after listening to "Reconsidering Crafts"  on NPR today.  It really made me proud to be an artist and crafter and handmaker of fun, happy, and pretty things...  I so dig Handmade Nation!! 

Anyhow, here are those free "handmade inspired" gift tags I whipped up this afternoon... 

Click here for printable PDF.

        

I am working on cutting mine out.  I find this part of gift wrapping to be so much fun.  

  

Print as many as you'd like of which ever ones you'd like, they are free!!  Also, they will be uploaded, into the Free Treats section in my right hand side bar.  Where every free printable item I have ever shared can be found... 

Next on the list are the names drawn from the Birthday Christmas giveaway.  I have to tell you a little secret first.  You see,  I have this really serious idea about these giveaways.  I believe that the name drawn is drawn because that is entirely who the item is meant to go to.  Kind of like magic.  Whoevers name is drawn is meant to have that giveaway item...  I know it is a tad silly.  But I do feel passionate about this sort of thing...

 

So, when Mr.  Lovee drew names, I had to chuckle, and, my idea of giveaway magic was reinforced...

 

The first name drawn, for the dollhouse, was Miss Sarah Paperfoxling.  It took every bone in my body not to tell her via e-mail before posting this!!!

Miss Sarah is a super sweet girl.  I have never met her in person, but we have been blogging buddies for a very long time.  And through getting to know her and reading her blog, I actually teared up when the Mister drew her name.  Miss Sarah has had a bit of a tough year.  She and her husband are trying to have a baby, without the success Sarah has longed for...  She is loving and caring and sweet and crafty and artsy and would be an amazing Mama. 

I took this quote from her blog...

"And then... well, I guess we'll see. It's really hard for me to think about all this.  Having a baby is just something that I'm supposed to be able to do.  I feel broken.  Or like a failure or something...  I look around me, at all these people who have children they pay little attention to, or treat poorly and I wonder why they get to have kids and I don't.  I'd be a good mom, if someone would just let me have the chance."

So, you see, I think this little house, which I know will make her smile from ear to ear, was truly meant to bring some holiday cheer to sweet Miss Sarah...  Yipppeee Yay Lil' Sarah!!!

The second Name drawn was Miss Geri.  Who is a lovely lady!  Her daughter and grandson have just moved in with her, and her grandson is tickling her no end!!  She is loving and caring, and is a Christmas baby too!! 

       

I think, Miss Crumpet Dilly Spoonface knew all along that she wanted to be best friends with Miss Geri, and keep her company while she plays with yarns and fabrics.  And I bet they will even have some wild tea parties ;) ;)  Yay Miss Geri!!!  We want details ;)

The next name drawn for the ring was Miss Kristin Guillory. 

 

Miss Kristin is a charming girl, who loves stories (about romance too)!  She is busy studying for finals, and could use some ring magic me thinks!!  Maybe the ring will help her ace her finals?  Sadly, she just found out she lost a friend from highschool.  Miss K, I am so sorry for the loss of your friend Collin.  I am so glad the magic ring will make its way to your finger...

After I drew three names, I just couldn't help myself.  I drew 2 more names, who I will send some fun prints and treats from my shop to.

So the fourth name drawn was Sweet Miss Erin Glee!!  Yipppeee Miss Erin, a late birthday gift and you don't have to share it with you brother, hee hee ;) ;) 

And the fifth name drawn was Miss Gina V!!  And hey, maybe I will drop out of your ceiling?  hahaha!!  Such a fun gal!!

So, there you have it!!  I will have more drawings as long as I keep finding treasures on my thriftventures ;)  And if I find another dollhouse, I will share it in a giveaway ;)

Now, if you 5 girls could e-mail your mailing addresses, I will get your treats to you ASAP!!

THANK YOU all for sharing your kindness in my birthday week!!!  I wish I had a giveaway for each and every one of you!!  Maybe if I win the lottery? 

(leaving my birthday party with lots of balloons and a full moon)

 

I have been to so many holiday parties in the last 2 weeks I can't even tell you.  Getting dressed up for party events 3 times a week, is something I have not done since my discoteque days ;)  Funny enough, at last night's event, I could not muster up the courage to boogie on the dance floor.  I just couldn't do it...

I feel like I am always busy.  So, I am still waiting for a sloth ladden day off to veg and relax.  Just one day.  Maybe I will get one this week ;)  I also have not decorated for Christmas as I would have liked (yet).  And look, it is like, what?  A week and a half away????  How did this happen?  Where did the time go? (although I like staying busy, it keeps me out of trouble ;)

Below are some birthday photos including, balloons and dinner, and dancing (not me), my beauteous brunette sister (at the bottom), some madness I have been conjuring up in following critters around the yard with my new INCREDIBLE zoom lense and my bored dog.  Oh and lots of lemons gifted to us by our teeny tiny lemon tree.  Love that!!

I even caught a mouse on camera!!  The critters will never be safe from my lense...

          

So, I am going to bundle up at this late hour, and walk down the street to look at Christmas lights.  I could be a lone caroler ;)  

See you in a couple of days!!   

♥ V ♥

PS:  Goodness me, I keep forgetting that many of you asked for this!!  The Cranberry Trifle Recipe from Thanksgiving!!  Here is a photo of my Mammie's it was unreal! 

   

    

And here is the link...  I had not realized that it was a Martha Stewart recipe...  Although my Mom made candied orange peels instead of just zest.  That added such delicious freshness!

Birthday Magic and Surprises (for you)!!

What a magical birthday week I am having!!!  And it really is all because of you!!  Thank you from the bottom of my heart, for taking the time to stop and leave me kind words.  I wish I had an automatic gift that dropped out of the ceiling and into your lap in thanks.  Now wouldn't that be somethin' ;)

         

I awoke this BirthDay at 6 a.m. to the most glorious pink sky.  I jumped on the bed in my lil' private boudoir and exclaimed.  Maybe swooned actually...  Then ran upstairs to see if the Mister was awake, and let him know all was pink and glorious!!

 

He jumped up and exclaimed, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!  Want your gift??"  I decided to wait a bit.  I could not imagine what I might receive.  I hadn't asked for anything at all.  Earlier in the week I said "you can give me a cotton ball, just make sure you wrap it pretty."  I have received 9 years of heart shaped rocks painted in pinks and reds with poems on them...  I love those simple heart felt gifts. 

There was a giant parcel with chocolate meringues waiting for me by the coffee pot from the Mister.  And, I heard a strange noise.  It was the blowing up of Balloons ;)

The rest of the morning was Birthday bliss.  I had made some wee cakes last night ;)

         

And I had gifts waiting for me that came in the mail!!  I didn't open them early.  I am good that way.  I really dislike spoiled surprises ;)

    

         

         

          

Mr. Lovee was so tickled that I told him he could have any or all of the cupcakes he wanted.  He looked at them, as if not able to choose ;) 

I love having a Queen for the day Event...

         

And snow cakes a plenty...

        

I also made a quiche, because, truth be told, I prefer salt & savory.  I enjoy a little cake and sweets if in the mood and with a cup of strong black coffee.  Otherwise, it is savory for this girl.  But cakes, sure do make the world happier ;)  I almost enjoy looking at them and admiring them more than I enjoy eating them ;)

So, I hopped into my bed with treats and tools, to open gifts... 

      

Atop Mr.  Lovee's gift was a charming little doll.  And of course, she is perfectly imperfect.  Notice the missing arm ;)

         

And how she is holding an image I drew of him on last year's Christmas gift tags, haha!!  He is so funny!  And no gift from this man would be complete without...

   

I had no idea what would be in the box, but I was floored!!  Mister Lovee always sees me trying to catch birds and bunnies with my camera and it's dinky zoom lense...  Alas, that will no longer be an issue...

    

Ooo lalal!!  I am surprised for certain.  I am also told, there will be something else at my birthday party.  But let me stress, he knows, the gift of our fun life is enough for me.  His kindness and charm is a gift in itself...

I won't show you every gift I received, cos that would just be silly and annoying.  However, I did get a package in the mail, that not only made me cry with its detail and genuine magic.  But it made the Mister cry too.  It is from my sweet very beautiful & pregnant friend, amazing Laura. 

 

You know how there are just people out there, that you meet, and they just knock you down, with how they get you.  I mean, she gets me in the most perfect crazy wonderful way... 

 

Vintage perfume holder necklace... Oh me, oh my!! 

  

This made us cry!!  Especially because Faun Boy Nathaniel is currently on his way to France!  But his little brother is still with us ;)

    

I don't know anyone else, who would send me magic berries, and understand how that would tickle me to no end.  These berries were found beside a special tree in Texas.  The very tree in the forest that Miss Laura happened to find red balloons hovering in, after I set mine free here in Arizona last January...  Of course, not the same balloons, but still eerily magical all the same ;)

         

So isn't that a great intro to a wonderful day?

But here is where it gets tricky...  And you become involved...

You see, I was having my morning coffee with Miss Crumpet Dilly Spoonface...

 

And she suggested that, she needed to go on a voyage.  She was feeling like living here was drowning her passion for adventure.  She wanted to move... 

       

So, she suggested I find her a home.  So, you see, she is going to have to be a giveaway ;)  

          

As we chatted, I told her, I needed to consult my magic ring.  My magic vintage ring, filled with magic powers.  It would guide me...

   

         

But my magic ring told me yes, Miss Crumpet should be allowed to voyage, and that on top of that, the ring was not to be mine.  It was to bring magic powers to someone else.  But first, it had a message that I should go to the fairytale forest and find the key to some mysterious secret... 

So, I bundled up and headed out to the forest...

When I arrived I found noone in this little village.  It was snowing (not really), and I needed to get warm.  I saw a little house in the distance.  As I walked on, I came across a Gnome.  I wanted to ask him a few questions...

        

But, he had no time for me.  He was on his way to paint, and scurried along.  I begged him, "Please kind sir, I am in this forest in search of a secret I must bring back to my friends, and I am cold.  Do you know if that house in the distance is inhabited by creatures who might be able to help me?"

"No no" the Gnome stammered..  "That house is empty.  But, I do know, that there is a secret for you inside, the great owl told me..."

So, I walked through the snow and cold...  And arrived at the most charming little home...

 

I went to the door and peered inside... And true enough, I saw noone, no furniture, nothing...

   

And then, I found a little note inside, that stated that, this house, was for one of you...  YES, ONE OF YOU!! 

A Dollhouse Giveaway!!!

      

This house is the most unique and wonderful little thriftventure find I could have come across.  It is about 18" tall and 23" wide, and waiting to be made into perfection by a new owner ;) 

   

I love it to bits!!  And, am tickled that I get to gift it to one of you via a drawing!!  Your kindness is more than I know how to thank you for.  

So, even though my parents never ever combined my birthday with Christmas, and threw me outrageous parties so I wouldn't feel slighted because Christmas was so close... 

I am being a bit naughty and bundling my birthday giveaway with a bit of a Christmas giveaway ;)  That way it will get there in time, as well...

This is a very sturdy well made house.  But, Mr. Lovee has been in his shop all day doing a few little minor repairs to this house for the new owner.  He is just smitten with it, and so excited that it is a giveaway!!

    

So, yes indeed, if you leave me a heloooo, you can either win this little red roof house, that quite reminds me of these treats.  Or Miss Crumpet Dilly Spoonface or a magic vintage ring...  By the way, that link to Waldrof toys has some furniture that would look awesome in this house!!

First name drawn is for the house, second Miss Crumpet, and third, the magic ring...  I love these giveaways, and that house has so much potential to be pure magic.  I hope you like them too, and take them as a huge thanks for playing along with me at "A Fanciful Twist."   It means the world to me!!!

Before I go to get ready for my birthday party this evening, I want to tell you a touching story...

On Monday I started my birthday week in the most amazing way.  You see I received an e-mail from a teacher at a private girls school in Wales, who used my Free Stocking Template to make these with the lovely students!!

      

The note blew me away, and made me feel so wonderful!!  But better yet, they sent photos!!  Can you believe it??  So, Thank you to their teacher and to the girls!!!  You made my birthday extra special!!  Thank you for making my stocking!!  It means more than I can express!!

I am waving back! ;) ;)  Helooo sweet girls!!

   

So you see, it is a very good week.  And I count my blessings every day.  I believe that magic finds you if you believe.  And if you are a good person and are positive and kind and honest, good things will find you...  But, you also have to be able to see them when they do happen...  They could be as simple as a flower in the snow ;)

And those smiling faces, oh me oh my!  They make me a happy girl ;) 

Well, I must be off!!  I hope you say hello so I can enter your name in the drawing.  And the house, doll and ring owners will be announced in a few days on my next blog post.  ;) 

As for the cross,  The name drawn is Miss ClichyRose!!  Please send me your address and your link ;)

Off I go!!  Thank you again, for being so much fun!!!

♥♥♥♥♥, V

A little note to say...

I am peeking my head in to say hello to my lovely friends!!  You are so fun in fact, that I want to share in my Birthday fun tomorrow.  So, I will be back with treats for you and you and you!! (I will be back Thursday late morning AZ time)

I awoke this morning to the feeling of delicious Christmas magic, dripping over warm hot cakes of looming birthday bliss!

    

I love that first peek of early morning, where glitter makes magic lights on the wall, and the sun bounces off of sparklies, casting a glowey dreamy haze...  What a lovely morning to awake to...

I jumped out of bed and grabbed a tiara.  Just to remind myself that it is my birthday week, and that I am my own best friend.  It is very easy to say, Nah, I don't need to bake myself a cake, or treat myself to something nice.  I think it is actually too easy, to pass one's self off...

 

But, I try to treat myself with love, especially during birthday week.  My Dad always says, you have to be your own best friend, your own cheering committee has to live within yourself...  So, I always remind myself about that.

I sometimes order a treat and have it gift wrapped & shipped to myself (usually shoes and victorian nightdresses).  That always tickles me because I forget, and then I get a package from myself.  The photo in my avatar shows me wearing some shoes that were procured  in that very way 4 years ago.  And, I had forgotten that in that beautiful Anthropologie gift wrapped box, I had written myself a note...  I made myself cry ;)  A little silly, but lovely too...  (and it doesn't have to be your birthday - you could have an "I love myself day," just becasue you should!)

So, I awoke this morning, put my tiara on, and then I noticed something...  Seems some little creatures have something super secret planned ;)

        

They even had some extra special candles brought in by sled ;)

    

I don't think the creatures realized what a big mouth Mister Birdling has ;)  He wanted to tweet all the details...

    

But I still can't wait to see what is in store for tomorrow!  I hope I get to sleep in an have some lovely treats.  Then I will be here to play!!

I am having my first partial day off today in quite a long while.  And, hope to have all of tomorrow off to play and visit, and prepare for an evening birthday party.  I take my art job very seriously, and sometimes, even set my alarm clock to get up in the morning and paint & create.  However, after a trip to the post office, I am having a partial day off today!  Yipppeeeeeeeee!!

   

Now, I have something funny to tell you.  I have some photographs in my possession that may very well get me into H-U-G-E trouble for posting them...

After I took my morning photos, I was going to head to my computer.  Now, to exit my room, I have a glass door which separates my little private boudoir from my studio.  And, as I went to enter the studio, I noticed this goblin boy poking around my studio in his robe and morning hair ;)

You will see a bit of a glare from my glass door...  But you can make him out for sure...

      

         

    

Isn't he such a curious chap?  Literally!  He loves to poke around and see what I am up to.  He is my little elfin cheerleader.  What a funny guy!  You know, I know I seem like the bratty spoiled one.  But, dare I tell you.  He gets to be spoiled and treated like a mouse king quite often ;)  We have a wacky healthy balance ;)

Do you think I'll be in big trouble for posting those?  Eeeeek!!  Hee heee  ;)  Oh my goodness, is he an elfin thief??? 

Anyhow, I veer.  I want to have a tiny bit more morning magic and then head out to close the deal on your birthday giveaway gifts for tomorrow ;)

   

Yesterday I had my hair done and had a bit of a massage to go with it...  This is a place where my beloved mirror (which I quite miss) and my jewelry case filled with jewels I make, resides...

         

The flowers inside are by Y-Petals.  Which happens to be, Mombie herself!  Yes, my Mammie makes stunning hair pretties!!  I did some marketing stuff for her...  She is the hair pretty queen in her town ;)

   

     

    

So, that is the news for today ;)  I will combine today's visits and the last posts visits to draw a name for the cross tomorrow ;)  If you say hello again, I will put your name in twice ;)

Off for now, toodling along,  ♥ ♥ Your Pal, V

When running on elfin shroom-nog fumes...

When running on elfin shroom-nog fumes, be very careful, because you just might end up on a rollercoaster ride like no other!!  (sometimes, when being served the stuff at elfin parties,  I wonder if shroom-nog really isn't just cream of mushroom soup - sure tastes like it ;)

I found myself in this glowing magical madness last night.

 

At this moment, I have dripping wet hair and am on my way to be blown dry by my more adult self, who is allowed to handle a blow dryer and electrical plug in items and such...  So, should I be here?  Probably not!!

But, I had to-had to, tell you something.  I went to a beauuuuuutiful place last night, I did I did.  And I have two Holiday soiree's tonight, back to back!!  I have been so busy making elves and dolls and tiny theaters, that I lost track of that fact that it is indeed the full swing of the Holiday Season.

And, on top of that, my extra special same-double-digit-birthday-year-week, starts at midnight!  So be prepared for a week of fun fun fun!!!  33, here I come!!  Woo hoooo!

But, before I get carried away, let me focus on what I came to tell you.  When I awoke from my shroom-nog haze, I was amongst (literally) half a million lights and luminaria...

Tunnels of twinkling beautiful lights...  People gasping, everyone happy.  Yes, a place other than Disneyland, where everyone is happy.

   

Don't feel sad for me, that we don't have snow (okay, maybe a little sad).  But, I only needed a double shawl to keep me warm, & no gloves or hats were necessary.  And, sure, we don't get to have snow men, but we do have Tumble Weed Men!!  And, guess what?  They think they are cooler than Snow Men.  Sheesh, so competitive!!  Then again, they have thorns, so they probably win on the toughness front (and last longer).

         

As you strolled there were carnival glass makers, painted gourd houses, and hot cider and treats....  There were also, more than enchanting and beautiful songs being sung...  And a group of people playing the most blissful music on gentle bells...  It took about 20 of them with different parts to make one song come together.  Incredible I say!!

    

But the lights, oh the lights, were so magical!  If only I could have brought you the moment...  I am not sure who these people are, but they seemed entranced too.  Well, maybe all except the teenager who was more worried about her hair. 

 

Oh, you know, this is funny.  When my parents grounded me once when I was a young teen, a teeny bopper of sorts ;)  They took away something very very dear to me.  Can you guess that it was?  HAIRSPRAY!!  Isn't that so sad?  It was a good thing too.  I mean, did I really need 5 inch tall bangs? 

We then went to a dinner party...  Where I had a prickly pear margarita, again!  And probably too much butter (on my bread), but I don't really remember because I was yapping too much, and probably making Tom's head (My friend's hubby) spin...

        

         

          

Sooo, that is that.  And I get to party s'more in an hour, for hours...  Hello Holiday Season!  I opened the door and fell right into it...

  

And while I painted my nails I glittered snowflakes and got my ornaments out... 

      

I know, insanity.  You can ask my friends, I often, really do go a mile a minute in every direction at once.  Or, my polar opposite side comes out, and I hide in closets and avoid faces.  I never know which one of my personalities is going to be available for the day...

And then I wonder why any greeting card or holiday card from my brother begins with "Dear Sybil..." 

Oh, and on another note (yes today is a Sybil kind of day) - I conjured up another cross!!  So, leave a Helooooo, and in the hat (or random number generator machine) your name shall go ;) ;)

        

Tomorrow I will package all day, and then be back with all sorts of fun during the week. 

I was born on Thursday December 11th, 1975, at 2 a.m.   And, this year, my birthday falls on a Thursday.  I hope this is as fun and blessed and as wonderfully lovely a year as the others have been.

Thank you guys for being a fun filled and magically kindred perpetual party!

♥♥♥, V

ps:  No time to spell check, so please forgive any jibberish that may exist within this blog post ;)

Surprise Shop Update + Print Sale (updates in this blog post)

Updates:  Lil' note here to say, all elfin creatures in the Dec. 6th shop update can be found in my elfin album. 

          

Back to the story-

So, there I was minding my own business, simply searching for a little shroom-nog in the fairy tale forest...  When all of a sudden I saw a little path, that was candy pink, with swirls.  And I thought, hmm, I wonder where that leads...

        

You know, how there are streets in your town, you have never been down, ever.  Even though you have lived in the town for years and years.  Well, this is kind of like what happened to me...

So, I ventured down this candy pink forest path.  I went through the Fairytale Forest, past the Enchanted Cypress Grove, and guess where I found myself? 

In a Sugar Plum Fairy Village!!

         

There was singing and dancing and such kind little Elfin, and Sugar Plum Fairy, and Fairytale Forest Girl faces!!  I was sort of tip-toeing around, and found myself eavesdropping on a conversation between Bird girl and Snail Girl...

      

         

Miss Bird Girl, who happens to be one of the dolls in the cover story of my art dolls in Art Doll Quarterly Fall 2008, said that her and some of the other girls in the cover story, were going to be voyaging to new homes.  That is, if someone wanted to give them a home via the upcoming shop update...

        

  

      

    

    

Some of the girls, were actually, in dual personality form, because they had a little costume they fashioned up for the Halloween Extravaganza. 

       

Isn't that exciting???

So back to my visit to this wee village...  There I was, in a Sugar Plum Fairy Village, with all the faces smiling at me!!  Here are just a few of the little creatures I met...

There was a faun boy and elfin and oh, did I tell you about their beyond precious houses??  They look real tiny, but once you enter, they magically become the perfect size ;)

          

But wait, it gets even heart meltier!!!  I saw something I had never expected to see!!!  Then again, all elfin were once ELFIN BABIES!!!

         

And, oh so well behaved and precious!!

         

Just when I thought I had already met a bevy of cuties.  They melt my heart even more!!

         

But those babes in Sugar Plum Village land... Oh those Babes...

          

I came upon a Sugar Plum Fairy, who took me into a Sugar Plum home.  Which both elves and Fairies live in...  I can't even begin to describe what it was like inside ;)  

        

          

Oh wait, did I tell you about the Elfin Bear I met???  They are so sweet and cuddly.  Oh, those bears...  They give out Candy miniature Elfin Cypress Trees, for free!!  They make them out of the honey they collect...

          

Soooo, now you know why I was missing in action for a few days...  I have been quite busy...  Now, this is just a sneak peek.  Their names and other friends, are being finished up... 

Along with a few Little Theaters and Miniature Enchanted Cypress Groves...

They will all be in the shop on....

         

I may add a few pictures here.  So, feel free to check back for updates...  So, an impromptu shop update in 2 days.  Saturday December 6th,  Arizona time - 10:00 AM.  With the Art Dolls from Art Doll Quarterly Fall 2008 and all the little guys above plus a few more...

Now, in other random Vanessa Silly News.  I made a list of things I wanted to share.  But now, they seem kind of ultra silly. 

Things you do when you've lost your marbles after making elves for 72 hours.

1)  Decided you are not having dinner whilst painting elfin faces.  Then all of a sudden, you awake from a daydream like sleepwalk.  You are standing in front of the jam with a giant pretzel rod dunked in, you are chewing, and there is jam on your blouse.  But, you have no recollection of how you got there.  Absolutely no memory of grabbing a pretzel or even opening the jam... 

This is serious!   ;)

        

Bon Maman Jam, yummmmy!

2)  If you are ever around me, and I am in creative mad scientist gear in brains mode (which is probably always), protect your coffee, tea, or anything really, that you don't want me to get a hold of.  I was walking past Mr. Lovee's coffee, and I had a lil' ribbon in my hand, which looked like it could use some coffee staining.  So I plunked it in his fancy daily ground coffee (not mine of course) and walked on...  I can be so selfish ;)

   

I figured, he'd fish it out eventually.  He didn't notice it right away, tee heeee.  Wish I had been there to witness the look on his face as he sipped a ribbon.  Sadly, he didn't seem at all phased about it.  He walked over to me, my ribbon on a fork, and said, "Hey Dovee, Lose something?"  And I said, "well, aren't you going to dry it before you give it back to me.  I have no use for a wet ribbon."  Then I gave the signature devlish grin. 

He was actually amused at my ribbon, and didn't think that the ribbon hindered his coffee at all, what a guy!

Try it!!  Let me know what happens ;)

      

The poor man.  I do other things.  Like wear his shoes, when I can't find mine.  Nevermind that they fit me like giant boats.  So, his shoes go missing.  Then he finds one shoe in the studio and one outside.  I know, it is like a grown man, living with Pippilotta Delicatessa Windowshade Mackrelmint Ephraimsdaughter Longstocking, or just call me Pippi... 

         

    

But, I do make up for it!  I found a tiny extra pocket in his blazer that he was going to wear today.  I borrowed it when he wasn't looking, and strolled off to my giant mailbox.  I still can't figure out why the mailbox is sooo huge- but anyway...  I found this secret pocket in his jacket.  So, I filled it with Magic Jelly beans... Wonder when he'll find them???  It was the cutest pocket, inside of a pocket...  He will surely be delighted ;)

        

Anyhooooow, those are my stories for the day.  Mr.  Lovee doesn't know his derrier and curly locks were in my last blog post.  He is annoyed that I talk about his hair at all ;)  He thinks noone would care and or wants to hear about it.  But, I tell him, of course we do!!  ;)  His hair has always been that shoulder length and a tad longer.  BUT, here is some serious injustice.  In one year (fall 2007 - fall 2008), he grew it to his waist.  How can a man grow his hair so fast?  Some men have all the luck.  He can eat pretty much anything he wants and remain gloriously fit, and grow 12 inches of hair in a year...  No fair!

Okay, now I am just rambling... of I skedaddle!! See you Sooooon!  Hopefully on Saturday ;) at the Shop Update.  Lots of - Sugar Plum Fairies, Elfin (and houses), Mini Trees, Art Dolls, Little Theaters and more, will need homes ;)

♥♥♥, V

PS:  I almost forgot!!  The winner of the cross was, lucky number 20!!  Which is Miss Vanessa Marie!!  Yippeee, please e-mail me your address!

Since so many of you liked the cross, I might conjure up a second one for another drawing very soon!!  What do you think?

PSS:  Trifle Recipe from Last post, is coming.  I promise.  I asked Mammie for it!!