Elven Slippers

Bobbi Baldstraum's Christmas Wish

2012-01-17T22:33:00.000-08:00

  A SNOWCHILD named Bobbi Baldstraumand the Pixie who believed in her.
Mrs. Baldstraum loved her daughter more than just about anything.So of course for Christmas she took extra care tofind just the right gift for her daughter Roberta.(who preferred to be called Bobbi) But as she often said, "This child's mind was made up the moment she was born."So, finding the perfect gift was no easy task. This year, little Bobbi wanted a Snowman. Not a toy snowman. Not a big balloon snowman. Not even a fancy snowman robot with jingling icicles. Bobbi would have none of it.Because...SHE wanted to become a Snowman...Snowgirl...     Finally after a couple sleepless nights, Mrs. Baldstraum came up with an idea.   On Christmas morning, Bobbi found a sparkly Snowchild suit sewn by her mother beneath the tree.Next to a used pair of black Nutcracker Boots.  Leaving her cocoa and the rest of her gifts behind, she squirmed into the suit and went out in the front yard to turn into Snow.She struck a Snow Pose.    Then Another.     And another until she was sure she looked just like a Snowgirl. Then she waited.    And waited.  The suit was well padded, so her mother was not worried that she might catch a chill.Roberta waited so quietly that her mother could barely see from the kitchen window whether she was still breathing or not.         While cleaning up after breakfast,she began thinking about Frosty... if Frosty's hat could bring him to life, what could an entire suit do to a child?! While Mrs. Baldstraum was searching for Bobbi's Frosty book, down the snowy path came a bright and cheery Pixietrying out her new red sled.  Her wings full of Christmas Cheer.     She stopped in awe right in front of Roberta.Is that what I think it is?  She wondered...?     She climbed up on the Snowchild's shoulder and peered deep within her twinkling eyes.Well, what do you know...a REAL Snowgirl!      Bobbi could not help but smile really big. Yet remembered to hold as still as freshly fallen snowso as not to scare her little friend.   Naturally, the merry little Pixie was beside herself and immediately flew home to tell her mother what she had seen!      Bobbi sighed a big satisfied frosty sigh.Her Christmas wish had been granted...      Now there was nothing left to do but to go finish her cocoa... and see what else might be under the tree!

Description This Set includes 10" full sculpt Bobbie Baldstraum the Snow Child(she also can display your favorite ornament!)covered in German Glass Glitter and Mica Flakes 6" scale poseable Pixie, created by my daughter Angi!  Frosted pinecone ornament(brought back from our summer road trip) 3 1/2 x 4 1/2 glass display base

This is my last sculpture offering of the year. It is likely that I won't be listing again until spring.

The next couple months will be spent working on commissions,

and spending the longwinter evenings hunkered down by the wood stove.

If you are in the neighborhood, please stop by my blog

and see what is going on in our corner of the Forest. I would love to see you there!

Have yourself a Very Merry Christmas,

and I hope there is something wonderful waiting for you under your tree! Rose

Hildys and the Christmas Mouse

2012-01-17T22:28:00.000-08:00

This Companion Set is being presented as a living Christmas Card for all my friends who have generously allowed me to continue to work my art...for one more year.  The Prayer of the Christmas Mouse
  loosely based on a True Story...

There was once a Poor Mouse who came to the Northern Country during the Dead of Winter. She was carried along by a wayward traveler while snacking on hazelnuts in his backpack. When discovered , she was quickly dumped out in the snow, along with her Mousling.  The ground was too hard to burrow a nest, and all the nuts and seed were buried under layers of snow and ice. She did what she had to do...  Lying under a fir branch, she tucked the baby under her belly and murmured a Christmas prayer.

On the other side of the forest, Hildys,  was readying her wooden Wagon.
She was the House Gnome of the Toymaker and his Wife, and every evening the Wife sent her out to bring Christmas Cheer to the rabbits, mice, and birds of the Forest.

With a pot of hot peppermint tea and a warm knitted sweater she watched while the Wagon was loaded.
As she stepped out the door, the voice of the Wife trailed after her...
"Be careful to feed all that are hungry, but do NOT let any of them follow you home!"

This was the Toymaker's busiest time of year.
And his Wife did not have time to chase little rodents running through her flour, or messing up her tidy cupboards.

After a long walk in the woods, Hildys was ready to return home. Turning to go, she almost stepped upon a bit of fur huddled in the snow. Poor little thing, she thought. But alas, I cannot bring it home. Perhaps a couple nuts and a piece of moss will keep it warm through the night. She left two acorns and slowly moved on.

Later that night as she sat by the mantle's candle, she could not get her mind off that tiny figure in the snow.

She was sure it was alive...and she knew what she had to do.

Well after dark, Hildys once again wrapped her sweater aound her shoulders, and trundeled off into the Forest.
By the Moon's light, she carefully retraced her steps and came upon the still figure she had left behind.

Hildyce lifted the Mouse up into the wagon. To her surprise, she found a tiny Baby curled up in a hazelnut shell beneath her.

Taking them home, she placed them in a Nest hidden deep in the Christmas tree, whispering a Christmas prayer that they would be alive and well in the morning.

The Mouse and her Baby thrived amidst the soft lights on the tree and the warmth of the little Gnome's care.

Little did she know in the meantime, that the Toymaker had spotted the pair. Just as he was about to shoo them from the house, the Mouse caught his gaze. Suddenly he was taken back in time to a Humble Barn and a Simple Manger. He saw animals gathered around, even the smallest of mice, to keep a new Baby warm.

And he knew what he had to do.

That evening, the Toymaker stopped his Toymaking to fashion a tiny Golden Bell. He tied it upon the Mouse, and in return, he asked her to hang the silvery tinsel and to keep the tree lights twinkling.
And to NOT go into the Kitchen.

All was well until Christmas Eve.

Hildys thought she might just faint when the Toymaker brought his Wife to the tree and pulled back the branches to show her the Nest.

"Wife, have you ever seen our tree look so Divine? Nary a light has gone out over these long Work Days.
And look how Perfectly the Tinsel is placed.
...My Gift to you...a Christmas Mouse who has done it all!"

The Wife could not help but marvel that not one light bulb had gone dark.
And the tinsel had glittered with the sound of tiny bells in the quiet of the night.
Nor had she seen a single sign of mouse tracks in her kitchen...
She thought upon her Gift for one Moment,
then kissed her Husband and off they went for their Long Winter's Nap.
Hildys sighed with relief because...
Now, she could finally enjoy Christmas.
..

Hildys gingerly climbed up the tree and curled up in the Nest with her Mice.
Together they thanked the Baby in the Manger for answering their prayers
as they waited for the Morn...

When off they would trundel with their Wagon full of Christmas Cheer...

Details
Included in this Set... 6 inch scale Hildys Gnome with wire joints for gentle display posing...Original hand sewn Christmas Gown made of vintage fabrics, tulle, lace, Paper,and a Sweater and Scarf     Hildys is fully detailed in dyed woolies and breeches under her Gown.     Mama Mouse and Baby in a real hazelnut halfshellwere sculpted by my Daughter.     Wooden Wagon is laden with found acorns,a sculpted Teapot, Pastry and Plates5" x 9" Glass panel covered in glittered cotton snow nicely displays them all.     This little group of Friends and their Story was created with Wishes of Good Cheer for you and yours this Yuletide season!
Rose and the Toymaker(graciously played by my husband)

2011-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Please meet a sweet little friend of mine.I have named her Karli Star. And this is why... M Her life began late in the Spring with great excitement
Who might this tiny Gnome Child become?

But as Summer turned to Autumn,
one busy day quickly followed another while Karli waited her turn in the Doll Room.
In the meantime...

I am sad to say she missed a
birthday party (or two)
because her Dancing Slippers
were not ready.

By the time I came home, the daylight had turned to darkness.

But there she was standing on my desk greeting me with a hopeful smile.

She missed the apple cider pressing because her Day Dress was not hemmed. When we arrived home late that night, the first sight to greet me was her sleepy smile.

The Community Harvest Dinner came and passed without her presence.
All because her Holiday Gown was still in pieces.

That evening upon coming home,

I caught a glimpse of her

waiting at the window with her Walnut Basket.

Filled with all sorts of good things she had wanted to share.

Moments here and moments there, this child's details were ever so slowly coming together. But not quickly enough to keep Karli from being left behind one too many times.

    One day when passing her by,it seemed as if Karli's bright colors were gradually fading.
Suddenly, I desperately missed her bright smile twinkling during those late, dark nights.I resolved right then and there that nothing would prevent me from finishing her.  Soon, on a chilly  Autumn afternoon, I called her into the Doll Room and gave her the now complete Holiday Gown.  She shyly slipped behind my teapot to try it on.   When she stepped out, I fitted a pair of diamond crystal wings upon her back.      She lifted up into the air and Took My Breath Away.  Her long wait was finally over.        Twinkle Twinkle little Karli Star,Now I know exactly who you are!    A diamond twinkling bright insmiling skies.

Pippi Dreams...a poem by Suzanne Milson

2011-05-07T22:29:00.001-07:00

Pippi Dreams of Growing Up

a poem by Suzanne Milson

When I grow up, I know I'll be

The captain of a ship on the great blue sea.

I’ll sail to ports both near and far,

Charting my course by the evening star.

I’ll follow in the footsteps of my father brave.

I’m stronger than a horse and ready to save…

Animals and fishes and pippins, too.

If you’re very very lucky, I might save you.

Tweedle, Annika and Tommy-my crew.

And first mate Nelson will be there, too.

I never worry and I never fuss,

That’s Nelson’s job. He’s the conscience of us.

Tweedle is a bluebird who came along.

As we sail through storms, he sings us a song.

It raises our spirits and gives up hope.

We are always very busy and we never mope.

We’ll search for treasure on islands unknown.

The ship and the sea will be our home.

Our daring deeds, in stories will be told,

Of rescues and battles and treasure very old.

I will be known both far and wide

With Annika, Tweedle, Tommy and Nelson by my side.

Every once in a while to Villa Ville Kula we’ll sail

Because now and then we need to pick up the mail.

And maybe someday in a far far time

We will find an island that feels just fine.

Then we will anchor our ship on the leeward side

And on that island for a while we’ll abide.

But always back to the sea we will go.

The salt air above and the marine life below.

Because that is my destiny and that is my heart

The ocean is the home from which I cannot long depart.

When I grow up I know I’ll be

The captain of a ship on the great blue sea.

So wish me luck as I sail away

To follow my dreams forever and a day.

Pippi, Nelson, Tweedle, and I
thank you for visiting
and taking a fanciful trip upon the sea with us!

Rose

Looking Forward

2011-02-04T17:47:00.001-08:00

Frosti the Snowman and a Christmas Gnome

2010-12-12T22:13:00.000-08:00

FROSTI THE SNOWMAN (to visit Frosti and Tinpani's auction, please click on the EBAY sign in the upper left hand corner)

light shines through the snowdrift covering the Toymaker's Workshop.

Christmas fast Approaches

and the Ancient Elf knows that his chief Helperwill be busy well into the final Nights.

So, about this time of year,
a Christmas Gnome is sent each morning to illuminate
the Tannenbaum for the Toymaker and his Wife.

The young Gnome's  name was Tinpani.
And as she reached her white gloved hand up high,
gloriously colored Stars would suddenly appear across the branches.
Christmas Stars to Brighten and Inspire the Toymaker's labor.
Once done, she would politely pause for just a moment
to admire the new toys in progress on the large wooden table.
Then, she would quietly leave.
Only to pause again... longer this time...at the Window.

   Because what Tinpani especially Loved
was to watch the elven children build the Snow People.

She would close her eyes very tight and wish with all her mightthat one day she could have one for herself...And maybe just maybe, he might become Real.

(a *real* Snowman built by my daughter this winter!)

The Toymaker and his wife loved Tinpani so much
that they decided he should carve a Snowman for her.
And so, he did.

But he knew he could not fulfill Tinpani's greatest Dream.
He could not give his Toy life.

  Finally, late Christmas Eve,
the Toymaker's Wife placed a jolly Frosti Snowman and a Gumdrop Tree
on a branch
to await Tinpani's arrival.

Then off they went for their long Winters Nap.
As midnight approached,
a Golden Light came from a special Ornament near Frosti's head.

  Frosti slowly turned and saw the Christmas Child.
Bowing deep, he tipped his felt hat
and quite suddenly a cold chill ran through his Wooden Heart .

Tinpani arrived early Christmas morning
and there she discovered
A Real Snowman waiting just for her.   He presented her the Gumdrop Tannenbaum. But the child could not take her eyes off her Snowman.

Then, together they bowed low before the Christmas Child...
the Source of the real Yuletide Light.

When the Toymaker and his Wife awoke,
Frosti, Tinpani and her Gumdrop Tannenbaum were gone.

But to their amazement there was snow,
Real Snow
on the tree branches.
And a small snowdrift sparkling near the Nativity Ornament.

Merry Christmas!
This Set is a Christmas Card
specially created from my deep appreciation to all of you
for allowing me to sculpt yet another year.
  With your kind generosity and Grace from Above,
this has been a profoundly fulfilling year.

Thank you...

And may your Christmas also bring a Miracle
from the Christmas Child just for you!    love, Rose

Pippi

2010-11-18T10:48:00.001-08:00

I would like you to meet a very special Friend of mine.

She has the most lovely red hair and freckles
sprinkled across her nose.
And she rescued me from a mighty Sea of Mayhem in my
Doll Room,with a Happy Attitude even.

In return, I made her a Birthday Party dress,
per her Instructions,while she fidgeted impatiently in her Fairy-Travel-Trunk-House..

(flocking tights and undies all non-removeable)
The children insisted on naming her Pippi.She thanked them by dancing her heart out for them on their Birthdays.

.I think she was pleased with her Dress gift,but we filled her secret treasure bag full for good measure.

And we all Prayed she would Never leave.

But late at night, I heard her shining up the handles of her Travel Trunk....

She would often pause by the kitchen window listening for Something...or Someone.

The children and I knew Pippi would have to follow her Heart.

And if she has to go to that Voice calling at the Window...

She will have left us with...

The flame from her hair

that renewed the Fires of Inspiration in my Doll Room.

Her exuberant dancing that encouraged us to entirely celebrate

one another

without reservation.

And she proved to our own human Pippi child

(who always has ketchup on her nose)

that being a little different can be a real BLESSING.

We love you, Pippi...

and we are so very Thankful to have known you!

Day Dress.

Birthday Party Dress.

Ballet Tutu.

To wear during Impromptu Performances at Birthday Parties.

Displayed on a well used Paintbrush

with a crocheted knob and doillie,

and two tiny clothespins

Sturdy Swedish Pixie Clogs

Paintbrush Broom and Dustpan
to clean Spiderwebs and Fabric Fibers

Large Fabric Remnant Bag

How she started some months ago!
Because of the wraps,
she is poseable just enough for dressing
and gentle movement in my hand.

Thank you for meeting my Pixie of a Pippi...Rose

Minuet and Nissi

2010-11-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

Once Upon A Time, two babies were born
one late at Night
the other in the Morn.

A pink New Moon,
Minuet was her name...
the first of her kind,
wearing a Bow as bright as a flame!

But as Different as they were,
they were even more Alike.
As they soon would Discover,
when the Hour of Providence would Strike.

Once in a Blue Moon
the Golden Hour would allow...

Nissi to follow her daytime dreams
all the way to the Stars.
On Bunny Rabbit Ears and Dragonfly Wings.

It was then that Minuet spotted Nissi,
and even though she looked rather funny...
The Moon was determined to capture
this strange Flying Bunny.

Minuet held her breath
('til she began to turn Blue),
tinkled her nursery bells gently
as the Baby nearer flew.



Nissi came to rest
upon the New Moon's pink tip.
Minuet began to giggle,
causing the baby to slip!



Minuet quickly went into to an Orbit to keep the Bunny sound asleep.
Softly humming a Lullaby while moon clouds
tucked in about her small feet.

Together they circled every planet they could find.
Two babies Content
of one Heart and one Mind.



When Nissi awoke she was soundly rested, back in her bed.
The Sun was Arising
and she was ready to be Fed.
While High Above her, was circling a pink New Moon
happily Orbiting
while humming a Bunny Rabbit tune.

Two Friends though separated by distance and time,
finally found  perfect Peace together
within this Fairytale Rhyme.

The (happy) End.

Minuet and Nissi's story is inspired by a real baby ,
we know very well, who sleeps during the day
and is awake most the night...
and who has yet to meet her Minuet!

The Story of Givanni Thistledown

2010-09-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

Once upon a Timethere lived a Faerie Child who was born with No Wings.Destiny seemed to offer her no treetop Flightsnor soaring with the birds in the Clouds

She was Givanni of the Shoemaker Clan,

and the Forest Folk did not quite know what to think of her.One lonely day, she left to live forever with the Creatures of the Ground...the field Mice who gathered the Seeds of Posterity from Flowers and Thistlesin the Hidden Gardens very very Far Away.

The humble Mice welcomed the faerie child and made aCrown of Devotion for her.Which she often used as a basket to help gather theThistle Seed for their Winter Stores.

From her own Devotion,she crafted a pair of polka dot Mouse Ears to wear.The field Mice were quite Honoredand Loved her all the more.

However, Destiny also proved to love Givanni.It happened that at the end of a particularly Long Summer,  the Forest had not yet Bloomed.

Brother Sun had tarried elsewhere and the delicate Flower Sprouts were languishingfrom the lack of his life giving rays.

But, in late August, his face finally smiled uponthe deep Woodland Gardens and Joyful Blossoms sprang forth.Their soothing fragrance filled every corner of the Forest Realm.

The Sun's arrival was heartily welcomed by the Forest Folk.
An order was sent to the Elven Cobbler Gavierto immediately build a pair of Slippers from the rarest, most beautiful Blossoms before they faded.

The Elven King would present these Slippers to his Queenbefore all the Forest inhabitants.

  The Cobbler was no Gardener, nor was his assistant Fairy Everllie.They were at a loss to find and prepare the perfect Flowers in such quick order.


Everllie enlisted the advice of the supplyroom Mice.Who then relayed the urgent request to their Kin far and wide.

The news finally reached the farthest corners of the Forest and was told to the child Givanni.

Givanni indeed knew where to gather the most beautful Flowers.But without a Winged Flight, the Blooms would surely not survive the long Journey.

It was her Mice who finally figured a solution.They gathered their Thistledownand tied it all into a very large bundle.Givanni gingerly climbed up onto the fluffy Cloud ...

Then the Mice sang for Charity Windto blow a Faithful Breeze to carry their beloved faerie all the way to the Cobbler's Forest Door...
And that is just the way it Happened.
The sight of Givanni riding in on a white cloud of Thistledown, her arms full of late summer Blossoms,so impressed the Cobbler ...

that he allowed Givanni to add the Flowerswith her own Sewing Needle.

When the King presented the Slippers to the Queen,everyone bowed in awe at the rich Fragrance and brilliant Colors.

The Queen could not take her eyes off the Slippers ...

and lost her Heart toThe little Wingless Fairy with her Spotted Mouse Earswho finally found her Flight!

The Forest Kingdom forever thereafter affectionately embraced and christened her...
Givanni Thistledown

Efee and Little Bird

2010-08-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

From the 2008 archives of b.b.flockling...

Efee and Little Bird.

(Ever so slowly, I would like to transfer my favorite stories here to serve
as a visual journal

for the gentle characters who began their life in the Doll Room!) .

Arriving next from within the deep recesses of the Rainforest will be an Elder of great reknown...and affection. Her name is Efee. She is, oh, about 700 years old ~ give or take a 100 years ~ and is the most treasured visitor of all the faerie children because of her fantastical stories and her seemingly bottomless heart. She finds room for all the young faes in her generous heart, and they know it well!

Queen of Emerald City

2010-06-25T00:43:00.001-07:00

In the Land of OZ, young Queen Ozma
reigns on a benevolent throne.

Winged monkeys welcome visitors
at the glittering Gates of

Emerald City.

A place we all long to visit,
on the other side of the Rainbow.

Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high,
There's a land that I heard of
Once in a lullaby.

Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue,

And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true.

Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far
Behind me.


Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me.

Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly.

Birds fly over the rainbow.
Why then, oh why can't I?
Where happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow
Why, oh why can't I?

And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true!

  Thank you for meeting Ozma, and
traveling over the rainbow with me...Rose

Icelandic Faerie Mitzl (b.b.flockling archives 02/09)

2010-06-16T19:59:00.000-07:00

Baby Antje

2010-06-03T12:17:00.000-07:00

a

Woodland Faerie Cocoon

Baby Antje

In the early spring, as the forest faeries begin clearing the winter debris

from their overgrown flower gardens,

a very observant eye might catch a glimpse of a small bundle of white fluff ...

Baby Cocoons.

Hidden in tree trunks or tucked under a gangle of roots.

Upon closer inspection, they might just find a little slumbering face

sleeping in the midst of a white fluffy cloud.

A baby who has became lost somewhere in between.

Still in winged form.
Patiently awaiting her human home.

To be called by a lullaby  carried along by a morning breeze. A lullaby sung from the longings of her new mother's heart ...


" Hush now baby, don't you cry
rest your wings my butterfly ..."

" Peace will come to you in time
I will send this lullaby.
you'll find your way, my Love ... "
                                    Josh Groban and Ladysmith Black Mambazo

The baby begins to stir,
Her wings are set aflight!
For her journey Home.

Thank You for traveling along with me
on this tender journey of imagination! Rose

Lizette and Milicent

2010-05-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to make a Rabbit Child for the longest time!

...

My most faithful companion in the Doll Room
is my very real rabbit, "Bootsie".
She is the inspiration for Lizette
as well as a very whimsical rabbit sculpture
named Milicent who will be arriving soon.

I thought to offer Milicent in a separate auction,
but knowing that she is Lizette's best friend, I reconsidered.

Boots in her comfy bed chambers, right next to mine,
wondering when the lamplight might finally be turned out.

( why it is on so late...)

Please meet Lizette,
a young girl who fancies herself a Rabbit.

Her soft bendable rabbit ears, fluffy pink bodice,
as well as her heeled bunny slippers and crinkly white tail
ensure she is welcomed
to all Bunny festivities in the woodland meadows.

She measures 10 inches and is a very unique girl...
Her torso is flexible because of a durable coil and wire backbone
that allows her to easily bend and twist.

Her limb joints allow for gentle bending ...
and her delicate hands are sculpted of epoxy,
I used Epoxy and Prosculpt to shape her arms and legs.
Lizette's face is sculpted from Cernit,
and all features are painted in heat set oils.

Lizette stands quite well all on her own.

...

Look who is coming down the lane...

Here she is walking home from the market with a box of cupcakes from the bakery

and a sparkly balloon to greet her guest at the door.

Tea preparations are now complete ...

Milicent's silver candlestick table is covered
with a pink edged table covering.
Her favorite color.

The carefully chosen pastries are thoughtfully arranged
(crafted by my daughter Angi),
and a bit sugar is sprinkled over everything, for good measure,
before the guest of honor arrives.

The triple chocolate cake looks deliciously scrumptious...
but Milicent decided to test a small sliver, just to be sure.

This particular Rabbit is careful to watch her calorie intake,
so she sticks to only a half a cup of tea.
Wild Chamomile is her favorite brew,
and a full pot is ready and steaming on the stove.
She uses her finest cups, of course.

The very minute her vanilla cookies were frosted ,
she hears the bell chimes on her door.

Just in time.

Lizette stands there with a shy smile on her face,
and a cheerful red bird on her finger.

Milicent heartily welcomes both ...
and what a fine party it was!

May your own tea parties be lovely
and your friendships as sweet...

Winter's Child and Spring

2010-03-16T21:03:00.000-07:00

and

Spring Blooms, Summer Fades, Autumn Sleeps
and Winter Flees...
Each Season must give way to the next,
but this year, Winter's Child refused
to give up her Post.

When Spring's Apryl came to Winter Season's Gate,

Little Poe cried..."To welcome you, Spring,
I am not ready to agree...rather, I am thinking about
what will happen to me!"

Apryl had indeed arrived to welcome in Spring,

with warm winds and gentle rains within her wings,
and with flowers springing up wherever she sings.But first, the Winter's Child must leave.

Yet Poe firmly sent her away.Apryl left her shoes by the Gate, returning the next day to argue her fate.

Meanwhile, Poe sat forlorn upon her perch...How she loved the sparkles that danced across the snowas she pondered whereto and wherefore they all might go.

She glanced down at the stoop's seat whichsuddenly had changed...

Sadly, Little Poe's world was becoming quite rearranged.

One day as March was caught in a lull, Apryl brought a flower with one tiny dew drop, very dull.It held no sparkle like the winter fields of snow,it merely reflected her sad face of woe.

Poe was not impressed.

Apryl softly said, "Poe,
I think I know where you can go!

"Each morning could you lend the morning dew,a sprinkling of your icey sparkles anew?
And when the flowers go back into the ground,
your Season's turn will soon come back around!"

"So now, Winter's Child, can I bring in the Spring?"

Poe thought for a long moment...

Then, she left her perch with a hop,
handed Apryl her slippers
and quickly went off to sparkle the dewdrop...

Apryl knew Poe's mission would carry her along,
and Winter would be welcomed in again,
before she even knew the snow was gone!

With both Poe and Apryl working together,
this Spring would be even more beautiful than ever!

Please join Apryl, Poe and me as we heartily welcome in Spring

Maiden in a Tower

2010-02-17T10:51:00.000-08:00

There was once a King who had a son who asked in marriage the daughter of a mighty King; she was called Maid Maleen, and was very beautiful.

(a tale by Brothers Grimm)

Since her father wished to give her to another, the prince was rejected; but as they both loved each other with all their hearts,

they would not give each other up,

and Maid Maleen said to her father,

"I can and will take no other for my husband."

Then the King flew into a passion, and ordered a Dark Tower to be built, into which no ray of sunlight or moonlight should enter.

When it was finished, he said,

"Therein shalt thou be imprisoned for seven years, and then I will come and see if thy perverse spirit is broken."

Meat and drink for the seven years were carried into the Tower,

and then she and her waiting-woman were led into it and walled up, thus cut off from the sky and from the earth.

There they sat in the darkness, and knew not when day or night began...

so the story of Maid Maleen unfolds...

Maleen escapes the Tower using a bread knife to dig through the walls.

After many more trials she is finally reunited with her betrothed.

Her courage in remaining faithful to the one she loves

was rewarded...

as destiny and her determination

brought them together again.

Her imprisonment was remembered for many years.

Local children sang this song whenever they passed by the Tower...

"Kling, klang, gloria.
Who sits within this tower?
A King's daughter, she sits within,
A sight of her I cannot win,
The wall it will not break,
The stone cannot be pierced.
Little Hans, with your coat so gay,
Follow me, follow me, fast as you may."

yet, Maid Maleen held the Key to her destiny...
that no lock nor Tower could contain. A tiny key hangs by a silver thread around her neck

and her
Lost love was Found

Tinkerbelle Found!

2010-02-04T17:50:00.000-08:00

Just after the Cobbler's Messenger left, a golden light shot through the tops of the treesand settled gently...and thoughtfully... on the edge of the clock house.

It was no other than Tinkerbelle, returning from an important outing,completely unaware of the recent callerfrom the Elven Wood.

She had just returned from a lengthy visit with the Lost Boys.

A beautiful Lost Baby had arrived from the Island and she was making plans to move her home back to Neverland to care for him.

Peter's Elven Slipper would have to wait...

Tinkerbelle was sure he would understand...

for she had cared for him when he was just a wee mite himself.

Her golden light would be needed againuntil the Child's Human could be found...

Clock House for Tinkerbelle and Two Awards!

2009-11-22T21:51:00.000-08:00

A House made for a Tinker...

(15 inches)

A robust rumor was circulating in elven circles that Tinkerbelle desired a special commission for Peter Pan. A marvelous custom made slipper to wear during the New Year Welcome. However, the faerie herself had not yet made her appearance at the Cobbler's Shop to confirm this rumor and the clock was ticking away the time needed to build such an important shoe.

Princess Everllie decided to send a messenger to Tink's home to find out whether this rumor was true!

No one in the elven realm knew exactly where she lived,
but it was assumed that a Tinker faerie would likely livein a clock house.
When the Cobbler's messenger came upon two
remarkable cuckoo clock houses,
she was sure one of them must be the abode
of the most famous Tinker faerie of all.

Timidly the shoemaker knocked at each door,

with no success.

Evidently no one was at either home.

Or...was there...

(12 inches)

Somehow the messenger faerie felt that someone was watching her from near the tower.

Yet there was no sound to welcome her timid knockings.

The tiny messenger flew back home straight away
carrying no news.

The Cobbler and his staff would just have to wait...

Which clock do you think a Tinker faerie would call home?

(note...these two small fantasy homes in altered cuckoo clock cases are a stupendously wonderful custom request from a dear friend who lives in the land where cuckoo clocks were born. A tiny Tinkerbelle is almost complete and is quite excited to see which home will be chosen to be hers...)

Hey...LOOK WHAT CHRISTEL SENT!

I heartily thank Christel for passing these two awards back to me because now I can send them along to

seven more simply wonderful artist friends...

I hope you will visit Christel

a totally dedicated artist new to the world of ooak

http://christelhutson.blogspot.com/

the Rules...

1. Thank the person who gave this to you.
2. Copy the logo and place it in your blog.
3. Link the person who nominated you.

4. Name 7 things about yourself that no one would really know.
5. Nominate 7 Bloggers
6. Post links to the ten blogs you nominate
7. Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know

Please accept these awards with my admiration and hopes that many fine friends will find the path to your most unique corner of the forest!

Dessa

an artist of incredible dolls that seem to have souls peeking through their eyes http://dessaraeartdolls.blogspot.com/

Lisa

(her) light truly emanates from the paintings of her peaceful angels

htttp://schererart.blogspot.com/

Liz

a true friend of the animal realm and to me, her heart is her art...

http://frumcountryheartstudio.blogspot.com/

Maria Del Carmen

a brilliant decorative arts ARTISAN from Spain...one visit to her gorgeous blog and you will be forEVER hooked! http://manualidadesmariadelcarmen.blogspot.com/2009/11/inaguracion-nueva-ventana-y-trabajos.html

Marimer

artist extraordinaire of paper crafts and much much more,with a heart that reaches across languages and waters

http://artesaniamarimer.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-09-05T13%3A20%3A00%2B02%3A00&max-results=15

Shar

fascinating sculptor of Celtic warriors, wizards and

fantastic mystical creatures of the forest
http://olderealms.blogspot.com/

Penny White

a precious friend who has the soul of a child, wisdom of a sage

and art that takes flight on angel wings

http://angelsdoor.blogspot.com/2009/11/angels-crossing_03.html

Now, off to find Tinkerbell...

Friedrik, Winslow and Clemot

2009-11-14T22:19:00.000-08:00

Summer had turned to autumn with the usual elvish flair. The forest meadow leaves were ablaze with brilliant colors that signaled the onset of a bright season of festivities. New capes, crowns and elven slippers must be had to wear to autumn gatherings.

The shoemakers in the Cobbler's work room were at the center of the preparations.

Their slippers continued to find favor among the townfolk.With Christmas quickly approaching, orders were piling up.Cobbler Gavier was busy assigning deadlinesand the faeries were determined to meet them.

But a slight glitch unraveled their tightly woven schedule. Cobbler Gavier's nephew had come for a fortnight's visit. He was a young elf from the northern country whose family had close ties with the Great Toymaker.

Even at his tender age Friedrik displayed quite a knack for tinkering.However, in a shoemaker's shop, *tinkering* can easily be turned into mischief. The little elf fiddled with and lost buttons,tied knots in the threads, and tangled the tinsel. One evening he doused the candlelight with a full jar of faerie dust filling the room with purple smoke, sending the faeires into confusion by losing their stitches and finally...their composure!

After a couple days of this, Rume Gavier pulled out a silvery Top Hat

from a shelf in the supply room.

The faeries' eyes twinkled when they held it out to show Friedrik.

Would you like to go for a sled ride? they asked. He stuck out his lip and headed for the barrel of tinsel.

A Top Hat's whimsy only works after the first snow, but Cobbler Gavier was banking on a desperate prayer and a good coating of icy dew in the morning to cover the hat in frost. With a collective sigh, they set the Topperon the outer windowsill that night.

At first light there was a hearty rap at the door. Opening to a gust of chilly wind there stood a large snow person holding the Top Hat with a blue snowbird on his shoulder. His snow jacket was covered in glimmers of mirth and goodwill.

I am here to see Master Friedrik, he said.Would you like a jolly sled ride?

At first, the young elf would have nothing to do with him,preferring to stay and...tinker.

But when a winkle of a snowchild peeked out from behind him,Friedrik reconsidered.

Standing before him were Winslow and Clemot,the snowfolk of the Elven Wood...Arriving a little early this year.

Out on the cobblestones in front of the Shop sat a little white sled all made up for a wintry ride.With ice frosted forks for blades and an icicle pull.It reminded Friedrik of home.

Clemot was still sleepy from being awakened from his nap, so he leaned upon the cup handle. But soon he was singing a wintry traveling song. Before Friedrik knew it, he was tucked in the sledand gliding down the lane, the fork tines barely touching the stones. Off they went...in a flurry of tiny snowflakes.

Clemot yawned and continued to sing while Friedrikstared in wonder at this tiny snowman.He had seen some unusual toys in his father's workshop, but nothing like this little mound of moving snow.

They sailed up through the clouds, over andacross the other side of the moonall the way up to the far northern borders.
The shoemaking staff was relievedto continue their work that day without disruption.

By nightfall the trio returned. Friedrik was asleep in the sled. Little Clemot was still yawning and the Snowbird was curled up in Fredrik's lap, asleep himself.

Winslow visited often during Fredrik's stay. Whenever the faeries put out the Top Hat on the windowsill, he and Clemot rapped on the door early in the morningand off they flew with Friedrik in the sled.

By the time Friedrik's visit was coming to an end, the frosty folk and their little bird were despondent that their fanciful outings would be coming to an end. Friedrik was sad because he knew his friends' visit to the Elfin Forest would also be over at winter's end.
The snows would come and then go again. Winslow's Top Hat would be shuffled to the back of the shelf and gather dust. And the snowbird would mysteriously disappear during the spring and the summer.

Friedrik, though young, understood.

At the end of his visit, Winston and Clemot sadly bid adieu to the little elf. With kisses from the faeries and a hug from his Uncle,Friedrik returned to his home in the northern country.

It was not until the first real snow that the shoemaker faeriesnoticed the missing Top Hat. Their merry Snowman did not make his jolly appearance that year,nor did little Clemot and the Snowbird.

But way up North, on the colder side of the Moon, a company of four was laughing as they dartedbetween the ever-present snow flurries on their daily sled ride.Winslow, Clemot, Friedrik and the Snowbird sprinkled their friendship joy over all the snow covered workshops of the North.The Toymakers were very thankful that Friedrik was so entertained.

...for you see, young Friedrik had *tinkered* secretly (or so he thought) with the Snowman's hat...he saw to it that the Topper ended up inside his satchel so he could carry it and his friends to a placewhere the snow flurries never end...(under the quiet gaze of Uncle Gavier who considered itan early Chrismas gift to the northern Toymakers!)

And they lived happily ever after...bringing goodwill (and relief) to Cobblers and Toymakers alike!

Princess Everllie and the Meadow Garden Slipper

2009-08-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

A Shoemaker Faerie

and the Meadow Garden Slipper

Just as soon as the sign was hung above the door of the new Shoppe, Cobbler Gavier received a request for a festive garden slipper to be made to wear at the autumn Harvest Gathering.

Immediately plans were drawn up, and soon thereafter the work began.

Beads, crystals and trims fastened with silken threads were sewn with the greatest of care by miniature hands.

Princess Everllie enlisted the help of her Clan to sew the countless stitches required for the elaborate detailing. And to add their distinctive faerie's touch of feathery lightness to the soles of the Slipper...

A cushioned golden heel was crafted by Rume Gavier to display the Slipper when not being worn.

An encased round balance stone was added to the end of the toe to guarantee sure footedness in all terraine.

The steady work progressed in an aire of quiet excitement...
All under her watchful eye.

as day slowly turned into night...

a shoe worthy of the elves was taking form...

Just as the Sun's first gentle rays curiously peered through the window, the last stitches were being added to the jeweled fruit, gems, and beadwork...hand dyed velvets, royal green trims and organza petals had all been tucked and settled into place...

Everllie paused in her sewing for a moment and then pronounced to the sleepy crew that their first Slipper was finally complete.

Rich textures and glittering faerie detailing make this slipper a delight to behold!
Along with Everllie, the faeries and the Elf all agreed that their very first Slipper was an even greater delight to create!

Coming next! A special visit from Tinkerbell...

The Cobbler's Story of Elven Shoe Making

2009-07-26T00:55:00.000-07:00

According to ancient Forest Lore, leprechaun's were once commissioned to sew elven and faerie shoes. However, the name leprechaun is thought to come from the Gaelic phrase leith brogan, meaning "maker of one shoe."

As the story goes, this industrious but mischevious Cobbler would always hide one shoe and carry only one to the new owner. Just in case he was spotted by a mortal. If captured, the leprechaun was obliged to reveal the location of his hidden crock of gold. Naturally, the leprechaun was very tricky and cautious about this information, and at the first chance he would disappear along with the single shoe and all his treasure.

Following a few mishaps of only receiving single slippers, or worse yet...no slippers at all, the elves decided to take shoe making into their own hands.

Word was sent throughout the faerie and elven realm that a shoe making contest was to be sponsored by the Elders of the High Counsel.

Shoes play an important part in community culture. They were such cherished elven wear that their formal slippers were christned with names and generally worn for a lifetime. Well used and beloved slippers were passed down to the next generation and displayed on their carved mantles along with other valuable family heirlooms.

Talented elven and faerie artists traveled from realms far and near to submit their shoe designs for the Elders to judge. Only one elf and one faerie would be chosen for the honor of holding the title of Elven Slipper Cobbler.

The Cobbler Rume Gavier and faerie Everllie (who was later affectionately crowned *Princess* by the grateful citizenry) won the contest. Together, they were granted a prominant place to begin work on their newly honored and greatly anticipated shoecraft.

Setting up shop near the Counsel's amphitheatre at the center of town, it soon became one of the most popular places in the community. Especially before a festival or royal event which required special costuming.

Princess Everllie enlisted the help of her clan to secure crystalized dewdrops, wild flowers, cob webs, frost spires, and rare gems from the dwarves (who do not traditionally have inclination to share their treasuries with elvenkind.)

Soft bark leather and rose velvet is sewn with dyed silken threads.

Threads and faerie crocheted flowers are stored in shoes that were gifted to the Cobbler and his staff, along with other findings that would be useful for the craftng of their shoes.

Each slipper displays it's own *medallion bouquet* which illustrates the name of the shoe, and holds special significance for the wearer.

Cobbler Rume Gavier carved a Swan chair for the faerie artisans to take a moments rest. There were occasions when anxious orders were backed up such that shop candles were burning around the clock.

It is quite interesting that souls...faerie, elven and mortal...are tied so intimately to the soles that cushion our feet. I think it is that connection that make crafting fantasy slippers both a fascination and a passion that I have long wanted to explore. Won't you travel with me into the magestic hidden forests of the elves? I would love your company! Together we shall see what gentle adventures might be found along the way...

Coming Next... the Meadow Garden Slipper