Father Christmas

Once upon a time...

In a faraway place....

 a figure was fashioned,

with a beautiful face,

and delicate fingers, belying his grace.

Dressed in brown woolens,

buttoned up to his chin...

With a satin- white beard and benevolent grin.

 His blue velvet collar

sewn with gossamer thread,

And worn leather boots,
in which to tread.

'

 And lovingly crafted from plaster and wood...

tiny toys, drums and dollies,
for those who are good.

Each tiny piece

painted...

  or sewn with great care,

from the hands of an artist,

with great gifts to share.

This wonderful Father Christmas may look as though it is a century old, but it was created by a friend of mine and given to me about 20 years ago. The " faraway place" was Colorado, where I grew up. The artist is Rosemary Volpi. We have lost touch over the  years and miles between, but each year, I bring Father Christmas to an honored place, and am reminded of my friends great talent and generosity. Every inch of this Santa was created  from her talented hands, and I was so incredibly amazed that she gave this to me. I believe she has gone on to become quite renowned in the doll world.  Rosemary, where ever you are... Blessings to you this Christmas!

 I have noticed a real resurgence in the past 5 years or so, of hand-made gifts. I love that. I remember making all my gifts to friends way back in  my school days. I like to think that some of those little things, like the handpainted Christmas cards, the crocheted chignon netting, the quilted skirt, the little drawing of a mouse, or the big drawing of a beaver (on a brown paper bag), have survived the years.

  And now,
a little gift from me to you...In the spirit of Christmas and the giving of gifts, we will have a GAME to win this print.

 "Dashing Through the Snow"  
Originally a painted papercutting.. this is

a signed and numbered Lithograph
by me

  to one of you!

(We will have the contest next week, stay tuned )