Thursday, December 24, 2009

hurry up Santa

pve design illustration for melissa c. morris
C'mon Santa, hurry down my chimney tonight! Wishing each of you a splendid Christmas eve.
Don't forget to leave a little something for Santa, some cookies, a glass of milk or eggnog!
Take time to slow down and enjoy your self!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

holiday cheer


Wishing each of you holiday cheer!
May you find joy in your hearts and your homes.
Make time for Mistletoe kisses and holiday hugs.

Hopefully all your lists have been checked!
T'is the season to share it with those you love.
Welcoming guests into your home from far and near.
Preparing room in your heart and your home.
Sumptuous meals to share.
Libations to toast! Chin Chin!
Peace and Joy to each and everyone!
Travel safely and celebrate holiday cheer!

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

stocking stuffers

It seems most people are wrapping the shopping up and all that is left is to fill the stockings by the chimney with care. Last year, I shopped at this wonderful spot "Barneche" located in the Catskills of NY and found some lovely items, soaps, creams, and handmade things. I love filling stockings with thoughtful items and old fashioned things too, like oranges, peppermints. Are your stockings hung by the chimney with care?

Monday, December 21, 2009

got the spirit


I have always loved fancy writing and those that have "got it." Way back in elementary school, I became obsessed with script and just how fancy I could make my own writing. Well this gal (Jessica Hische) has got the most spirited script over here.
So, how about you, does fancy script put you in the spirit? Somehow it does seem that seeing messages written in a card or on a sign seem to be gentle reminders to find the true spirit of the holidays!
How quickly do you begin to lose that feeling and life returns to routine. I for one am going to challenge myself to hold on to the spirit and the magic of the season during the year ahead!

How do you plan to get in the spirit while there is still time?

Sunday, December 20, 2009

santa baby





Tartan, tattersall and ties all add a bit of festive flair during the Holidays. It is always fun to see designs appear in the form of merchandise! You can buy this tie for "Santa Baby" to hurry down the chimney on Christmas morning!

This witty design was illustrated (August 2009) for a tie pattern, for happy jolly souls to sport.
The design is sketched and then the colors are decided in what is called a "strike-off" or a "sample" from the factory. This pattern is woven on a "Jacquard" loom to produce intricate designs. There is something fun about wearing holiday ties or socks to add a smile. Look closely and see who is pulling the sleigh?

Do you have any Christmas accessories or attire to deck the halls this week or is that a major faux pas in your book?

Friday, December 18, 2009

happy and (sad) holidays

Holiday greetings to each of you. I am busy sending out greetings, finishing art, polishing the place and preparing room in my heart for a Merry and Joyous Holiday here. Unfortunately, I took on way more than I could do this year, some happy clients and some not so happy and I have learned that for the new year, I will pace myself. Anybody else feeling (sad) side affects of the stress of trying to please everyone. My apologies to those of you that I promised art. I promise to be better, faster, stronger! Thanks to those of you who have been so encouraging over the years which makes me so very happy!

Thursday, December 17, 2009

california dreamer

pve design - home illustration - commission artwork

When Mel contacted me to illustrate her "crumb" and the above home illustration for a friend, I of course jumped up and down but at the same time, was a tad nervous about living up to fulfilling the expectation. It is like that for me especially when I know that I am working to achieve something for someone with such a lovely style! Surely you all know Reverie-daydream, hop on over and see what Mel is dreaming up today!

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

qautre saisons

A recent commission for a friend and neighbor envisioned her holiday card showing her lovely home in all the seasons.
I love knowing that Spring is the next season in line.
Ah, Summer, one of my favorite seasons, I do love summer time, fireflies and the warm weather.
Autumn enters with cooler air, crisp apples, colorful leaves and lots of raking, and Fall celebrations. Hay rides, harvests, halloween and a display of pumpkins and costumes.

Which season is your favorite? I sincerely hope that each season brings you JOY!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

all is calm

One of the best things about being an illustrator of client's holiday greeting cards are getting the actual card in the mail. There is a certain sense of "all is calm" in knowing that my art has a way of making things bright in each greeting. My client sent me several photos to work from and I just could not resist the urge to illustrate this charming home all lit up for a silent night.
But wait a minute, remember these fine four legged creatures, they live in that house, see them sneaking a peek out the windows upstairs to see if Santa has anything in store for them. I imagine a home full of spirit and magic and all things bright!

Monday, December 14, 2009

12 days of peace

When asked to illustrate a button to promote peace, I jumped at the opportunity to do this for Deidra, from Jumping Tandem. During the holidays it is so important to find the peace, by making a list of all the things that you are grateful for. Simply visit her blog and grab the "peace" button and spread some peace.
I have always been drawn to those who have a positive attitude and a certain knack for spreading peace. Deidra is one of those gals, who was born to inspire, to push and to provide support.