From Canada to Asia, with Love

I hope this token will capture unimagined adventures.

Stitching by hand is such a meditative process.
It helped me gain some inner peace before I had to say farewell.

I wrapped each signature with a section of vintage
topographic maps from our region.

My latest book was not a commission piece nor was it created for an upcoming artisan show. This book was made entirely out of friendship, admiration, and a deep, deep respect. My Tae Kwon Do instructor (yes, you read that properly) is leaving Canada very soon, with a yet-to-be-determined return date. At this time last year, I had no idea he walked the streets of my city; but today, I am a richer person for knowing him and having learned from him. In fact, my life`s trajectory has been altered significantly, in part, due to him. There are many extremely positive things that I can say about this special individual, whose inner light makes his students likewise shine, but I will respect his privacy by not doing so in this forum. Anyone who has been blessed to be his student knows whereof I speak. Instead I can say this--I hope he knows that it was my utter joy to make something for him with him specifically in mind. I hope his own story continues joyfully and in so many wondrous ways. And I wish him safe travels wherever life may take him. Further still, may our paths cross again. Until then, we carry him in our hearts. Tae Kwon. Thank you, Sir.

Customized Right Down to the Guest Book

I must first give a huge cyber hug to Mimosa Flower Studio for allowing me to contribute to their jaw-dropping display at The Wedding Co. bridal show. Just as if I were working with any bride, we collaborated on brainstorming. Jennifer Elliotson of Mimosa told me her vision for a guest book for their display and I showed her what was possible in practice. Delightedly, she offered me ideas that I'd not fully considered, and with my experience and excitement I made them a reality. The result? Well, see for yourself! We created an elegant book that echoes the feel and colours of her display. The tangerine Japanese silk-screened paper was a perfect choice. As pretty as it looks closed, once opened there are unexpected delights, such as the co-ordinating grey on the end papers. My favourite touch, however, is the bright orange Japanese tissue dividing the page sections, or signatures. They just make the book "pop." Together we took her wedding story and made it a timepiece to treasure. Just think what I can do for your own special event!

Hey! It`s 2012! Yippee!

There are some wonderful plans for this coming year! Some new directions to explore. Some new designs to unveil. And a few other surprises along the way. Stay tuned and I hope you share the ride with me.

Heading South (okay, south of here)

One more official show for this holiday season--this Sunday, December 4. Please find me at the Annual Open House at Studio Twenty in Fonthill. You'll find an intimate gathering of artisans as well as other vendors at this convenient location. Since I don't always get out to the southern part of the Niagara Region, this is a great opportunity for me to meet with you there.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

10 am - 4 pm

Fonthill Shopping Plaza, Highway 20

Fonthill, Ontario

www.studiotwenty.ca

905-892-2920

Christmas at the Market

This Saturday, November 26 and Sunday, November 27, are two of the most exciting days on my show calendar. The Christmas edition of the Handmade Market is upon us, and I can't wait! This upscale, select, and oh, so fun, local artisan show is everything you could ask for in a show. 

Pinky swear!

The First Fall Handmade Market!

Oh boy, oh boy! Fall is upon our doorstep and with it comes the annual Grape and Wine Festival here in the Niagara Region. (Okay, technically it's now called the "Wine Festival" but habit goes deep and I can't let go of those grapes!) I can think of no better way to kick it off than to spend my weekend at a beautiful local winery. My fantasies of shopping, eating, and drinking wine--all in a beautiful setting--are coming true! If any of the above might tickle your own fancy, please stop in at the 13th Street Winery on Fourth Avenue (I know, I know, a tricky name) in St. Catharines. You will be delighted by all the delights that Handmade Market has to offer. I promise!

Good morning, Sunshine!

Here it is, the start to my day. The sunshine casting long shadows on my morning cup. Not a random selection, this cup. In fact, quite a personal journey. I opened the cupboard and surveyed my drinking vessels. "Hmmmmmm," I pondered. Which friend will join me for coffee today? Who will fit in my hands so perfectly this morning. Will it be you, tall, indigo pottery mug? Or maybe you, yellow hot chocolate mug? Ahhhn, of course. I reach into the back and find my lovely namesake. Here is my morning coffee companion for today. Come here, old friend. Let's share a cup of magic, shall we?  So as my other friend, Mr. Moka Pot brews up some wonder, I have a brief moment to plan out this Thursday in my mind. Photo albums are on the slate. And, oh yes, I get to try out that fun, sparkly cotton paper from India today, too. Maybe some map journals. And of course, I have Mozart sheet music to create with, too. Hurry up and brew, Mr. Moka. I've got a fantastic day ahead!