For Vanity's Sake

Dressing tables originated in 18th century France. Called toilette tables because a small linen cloth (the toilette) was wrapped around cosmetics before placing them in a chest.


The 'Chambers Cyclopedia' of 1727-41 referred to a dressing case ' where in are kept paints, pomatums, patches and the pincushion, powder box, brushes and esteemed parts of the equipage of a lady's toilet.'


In England the Victorians also adored these vanities... containers and trays evolved specifically for them...



Over the years many items from the vanities of the past have found their way into the hands of collectors who cherish them for their beauty.


* Sentimental trinkets collected over the years.

Winter Whites

Under The Moonlight

The lure of the pink setting sun reflecting off the blanket of freshly, fallen snow entices one to tie up the skates and head for the frozen pond... skating in the solitude of the beauty that surrounds you under the moonlight.


All is quiet except for the subdued rhythm of the skate blade meeting the ice.
Almost sensual in nature it is a perfect way to spend a Winter's eve...


Except for the warm bread pudding awaiting your return.


* Painting - ' Evening Skaters ' Trisha Romance

January Wonders

Living in the Niagara Peninsula one may witness a unique harvest that takes place when the temperatures drop below -8 celsius (17F) for several days.


Grapes left on the vines well into the Winter months freeze allowing the water content to intensify the flavours producing a luscious sweet ice wine...
Ice wine pickers arrive in the dead of night to begin to harvest the frozen clusters, then the grapes are immediately pressed to extract the nectar.


Coveted the world over there is even an Ice Wine Festival held in January.


Madelaine on the other hand would much rather snuggle indoors and let the humans partake of the harvest...

Beginnings

As another year draws to a close, one begins to reflect on its passage ... the wisdom gained from experience, an inner indulgence of pride through accomplishments, the revolving door of gifted people that have somehow found their way into my life and the sense of community shared with others.

With the dawning of a new decade I hope to embark on fresh fields of learning, sharing time with fellow knitters, spinners, quilters and whimsical artists.

I look forward to 2010 and all the dynamic challenges it shall bring...

Happy Holidays

Wishing you a Joyful Christmas

Winter Beckons

The official start of Winter is but days away...
This solstice is shrouded in mystery; harsh and cold one moment, gentle and soft the next.


It is a season of walks through the woods snow crunching accompanying each step, starlit nights reflecting off the crystal blanket beneath, homemade soup simmering on the stove, a fire in the hearth and knitting in hand to while away the long evenings...

A kittie cozy I'm working on for Christmas... lined in vintage chenille it is a perfect place for a cat to snuggle in.