Fanciful Gnomes for the Garden

Because I was not willing to risk my precious gnome, Gerome, being kidnapped from my front yard, I created a motley crew of gnomes to keep an eye on things out there. My friend, Kim Mayhew, made Gerome for me. He's wonderfully spooky-cool! Here's a pic of Gerome in my living room:

 

 My little collection of gnomes came from Harbor Freight. They were super cheap and started out pretty plain looking: 

There's nothing wrong with them... they're just not that fun. And the one on the right looks... okay... strange! 

So I painted them and added some glitter and bling from the thrift store, and I think they are WAY more fun!!!

Introducing the garden crew: 

Henry DeGnome by Laura Pallatin of LaBelle Mariposa

 Lupe DeGnome Laura Pallatin of LaBelle Mariposa

Pierre DeGnome by Laura Pallatin of LaBelle Mariposa

Wellness Sanctuary and Spa artwork gift

Heart Chakra tree by Laura Pallatin of LaBelle Mariposa

I am so excited to be part of Joaquin Fioresi's new endeavor called "Wellness Sanctuary and Spa" in downtown Placerville, CA. As a business warming gift, I created a painting for his space. I love it! I was sitting with Joaquin in his healing space and opened myself for inspiration to create a piece of art for the room. The Heart Chakra Tree is the image that came up in my imagination and now exists in the real world for all to see. I hope that Joaquin and Jen enjoy the piece and have incredible success with their venture.

Joaquin has invited me to display and offer my art work for purchase at his place and I am just so pleased! I look forward to creating inspirational projects including Joaquin's music in the near future.

Christmas Eve Eve 2012

Some of the dolls and teddy bears we've collected through the years taken up residence on the hutch for the holiday.

2012 has been an interesting year. Some good, some not-so-good. But, I guess that can be said of most years. I am excited to be moving into 2013. Glad we all didn't die on the 21st... And generally happy about the plans I have for the coming year.

I had fun decorating for Christmas this year, so I thought I'd share my humble (and a bit silly) decorating with you all. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and share my anticipation and excitement about 2013.

our family Christmas tree and stockings

my antique dress form (Eleanor) all dressed up for Christmas posing with a painting from a local El Dorado County artist

Gracie our Aussie comfortably waiting for the big day.