Slow going on the decorating,

But I've had to move all the rugs to the front porch for cleaning, then do the floor, and the baseboards . . . you know the routine.

The ceramic tree is up though, as the balcony is all done. I made this in 1984 and still enjoy it.

Found these recently at Hobby Lobby for 50% off. Now what to fill them with, hmmmm.

Still working on the mantle.

Dolly's wagon full of quilts, some waiting to be displayed.

I bought this originally to teach Dolly to pull in the 40-lb bags of pellets for the stove. However, it's wayyy too big and thus I'll be selling it soon. Made by an Amish craftsman, it even has the bars to hitch up your pony.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Last, but certainly not least . . . .

Lee Davis' blue and white pottery, Weaverville, NC.

Carolyn Anderson's whimsical hand-carved ornaments, Brasstown, NC.

Nanette Davidson's woven rugs and table runners, Brasstown, NC.

Michael Lalone's lovely pottery, Murphy, NC.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Fireside Sale = Phenomenal Art

Are these not the most gorgeous sunflowers! When I look at them, I see dancing, happy flowers cavorting in the breeze. Almost gleeful aren't they? I've never known an artist who could capture the great outdoors with such vividness as my friend Suzy. To see more of her work, head on over to http://artbysuzy.com/

I've never met a dragonfly like this one. Yet I forgot to ask it's name, as you can bet the artist, Katrina Miller, has come up with something fun and frivolous. I've shown Katrina's work before, so you know she makes the most wonderful Christmas ornaments also. To contact Katrina, just click on her name above.

Porcelain pottery with softly muted earth tones are a trademark of Marcia Bugg, long time resident of Brasstown, NC. If you're familiar with hand made pottery, then you're aware that glazes are a potters signature, and Marcia's unique talent with color is no exception. If you'd like to order a piece of pottery by Marcia, she can be reached through the folk school or e-mail me directly.

Utilitarian art is how I think of hand made chairs. Are these not exceptional pieces? If you work with wood, then you know the craftsmanship that goes into making such a functional item. Mr. Thomas Donahey has an eye for fine detail. To reach him, you may contact the folk school or e-mail me directly.

Do you recognize the technique? I didn't. But when I stopped by to chat with Pam Strawn, long time weaver, I learned that these are not only woven, but hand painted, sliced, woven, and framed. Pam's husband does the framing with native woods. I was impressed to say the least. To reach Pam, you may contact the folk school, or e-mail me.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Annual Fireside Sale at the Folk School

As usual, there was a vast variety of unique and exquisite items for sale this year at the John C. Campbell Folk School's Fireside Sale.

Helen Gibson's figures are hand carved in amazing detail and show such a high degree of artistry, one can tell she's been perfecting her skill for many years. And she also happens to be a very nice lady. Helen did not give me her e-maill address; however, she can be reached through the Folk School.

These are hand built clay houses, simply adorable.

My dear friend Louise displayed several beautiful potholders amongst her quilts. Far too pretty to actually use, but they would accent any quilters' kitchen.

Mr. Libman is a local wood turner with a gallery in Andrews, NC. Anyone who admires beautiful wood would want this piece on their mantle. (www.woodbowls.net)

If you've ever had the opportunity to watch a blacksmith at work, then you have an idea of the skill and endurance forge work requires. These tools were hand forged by Elmer Roush and are the perfect gift for anyone who loves high quality tools. Elmer can also be reached through the Folk School.

I'll have more photos later in the week. Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Mother Nature put on a show this morning,

with a glitter of tinsel decorating the trees.

All we needed was a sleigh to enjoy this winter wonderland.

I already have "the pony." Who managed to get into mischief once again by carting off and breaking the bucket meant to hold the Christmas tree.

Bucket toss is one of her favorite games, no matter how big the bucket.

So tell me please, when does puppyhood end? I love my pup, but I'm running out of buckets!

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .