elves wanted

This image was sent to me last year for a private commission.

A gift from a daughter to her Mother.

While I was working on it, I could not help to think if the client would like to have note-cards printed. Capricious and carefree thoughts come to me while I draw and paint.

Yep, note-cards and a framed work of art.

I love working on holiday cards in January!

I also love keeping a blog as a reminder of how much I love working on holiday cards in advance!

I mean, I would love a staff of elves too, that could keep up with my supernatural powers.

Does December make you want a staff of elves?

Like I told you, capricious and carefree thoughts come to me when I work.

circle of style

I was honored to illustrate the door of this stylish lady to be used on her holiday greeting. It was the first card to arrive at my door yesterday and how proud was I to see how she had utilized my art along with a photo of her four smiling children. They look so excited for Christmas! My illustration was like a little tiny treasure on top! Read below for the history of the wreath.

pve design illustration for style chronicle

History of the Wreath;

The wreath is made of various evergreens, signifying continuous life. Even these evergreens have a traditional meaning which can be adapted to our faith: The laurel signifies victory over persecution and suffering; pine, holly, and yew, immortality; and cedar, strength and healing.

Laurel Wreath, Wikepedia

Holly also has a special Christian symbolism: The prickly leaves remind us of the crown of thorns, and one English legend tells of how the cross was made of holly. The circle of the wreath, which has no beginning or end, symbolizes the eternity of God, the immortality of the soul, and the everlasting life found in Christ. Any pine cones, nuts, or seedpods used to decorate the wreath also symbolize life and resurrection. All together, the wreath of evergreens depicts the immortality of our soul and the new, everlasting life promised to us through Christ, the eternal Word of the Father, who entered our world becoming true man and who was victorious over sin and death through His own passion, death, and resurrection.

Do you deck your door with "a wreath" and have you ever given thought to the origin of this circle of style and symbolism? I just love the history and tradition of the wreath.

thanks to Debra over at life-scapes for these lovely wreath images!

witch-craft

The Witch is IN - Photo from The Kansas City Star, Tammy Lujunblad

Feeling witchy? Does Halloween bring out your inner Witch-craftiness?

Does your holiday decor reflect you inner witch?

october fest

Image from Better Homes and Garden

Look how festive this October door step is! Funny how Autumn just makes me want to get out and give my front steps a full blown harvest. I always admire those that can rally to make an entrance. How about you, do you have a party outside waiting for guests or passer-bys to make a fuss over? This makes me want to have my very own Oktoberfest now!

door to door

"The Blue Door" of a client's cottage for the Holiday Card~

In a matter of days, many of us will be opening our doors, embracing guests for Thanksgiving Day or the Holidays which shall descend upon us swiftly.   I shall be posting a series of doors from around the world.  Knock Knock, who's there, do you hang a wreath or have something wonderful to share?  Ding dong, it's me, here to see your door!