Blossom Time Creations

I'm Moving

2010-09-17T04:00:00.000-07:00

I am moving my blog over to HERE. If you are a follower and want to continue to follow me, hop on over and sign up. Sorry for any inconvenience and many thanks for your continued support!

She Believed in Celebrations!

2010-09-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

I started painting this little one yesterday, but I didn't like the way the dress turned out. I decided to cover it with some scrap book paper and I love how it turned out.

At first I wasn't quite sure and then I covered her hat with some more paper and added a few scrappy butterflies.

And then I gave her scrappy stockings and some little pansy flowers on her shoes and . . .

I fell completely and totally in love! She has a bit of an art deco feel to her don't you think?

Someone on Facebook suggested that my drawings would make excellent cards. The good news is that I already to make some lovely cards with them . . . now if only one of the card companies would get on the bandwagon and discover them! That would be great! I can see them as unique little figurines as well. I have vision . . . it is only a matter of making them see the same vision I guess!

Some Cause Happiness Wherever They Go . . .

2010-09-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

I just love this quote of Oscar Wilde's. When I sat down to paint this little girl, it immediately sprang into my mind!

I'm sure that you would know someone who makes you smile! I know lots of people who make me smile, and who bring happiness to all who know them.

People like my oldest daughter. There is nothing spectacular about her when you look at her, but she just makes you smile and brings joy to everyone who knows her.

I think it's an extra special spiritual gift, don't you? Prints are available. Just message me to find out more.

Personality

2010-09-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

I found this quote the other day and I really fell in love with it. I could hardly wait to put a picture to the words.

This little lady has plenty of personality!

But, I think she also has plenty of character! I just adore her!

She has a sweet little face and is a little bit demure . . . but at the same time . . . you know she knows what she wants and just how to get it.

Plus I just love her dress and stockings. Sigh . . . I wonder if I could get away with it myself?

Sunflowers and polka dots are two of my absolute favourite things, along with cheeky little girls!

Nobody Can Be Uncheered with a Balloon

2010-09-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

So Winnie-the-Pooh went round to his friend Christopher
Robin, who lived behind a green door in another part of the Forest.
"Good morning, Christopher Robin," he said.
"Good morning, Winnie-the-Pooh," said you.
"I wonder if you've got such a thing as a balloon about you?"
"A balloon?"
"Yes, I just said to myself coming along: 'I wonder if Christopher Robin has such a thing as a balloon about him?' I just said it to myself, thinking of balloons, and wondering."
"What do you want a balloon for?" you said.
Winnie-the-Pooh looked round to see that nobody was listening, put his paw to his mouth, and said in a deep whisper: "Honey!"
"But you don't get honey with balloons!"
"I do," said Pooh.
~A.A. Milne

I am finally working my way around to painting some of the sketches I did when I was on holidays in Canada in July. I just love this little girl and her balloon. It seemed to go perfectly with this Winnie the Pooh story don't you think?

I find balloons quite cheery myself! They do make me happy.

Prints available. E-mail me to find out how you can get one for yourself at MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com. She looks rather lovely framed if I don't say so myself!

No matter where I serve my guests . . .

2010-08-18T22:33:00.000-07:00

This little lady is the first completed painting from the sketches that I did when I was away on holidays in July. I think she turned out really sweet.

As you know food and cooking are both things that are very dear to my heart. I like to think that when I cook for someone else I am sharing a big piece of my heart with them actually, and I hope that when they eat something I have prepared for them, they can feel the love that I have for them!

I was really pleased with how she turned out. She is available as a print or as a card. Just send me a message and I'll see what I can do for you! I can see her hanging in the kitchen somewhere! What do you think??

Miss Florrie Brighteyes

2010-06-01T23:08:00.000-07:00

There's a party down at the village Manse today and Miss Florrie Brighteyes is so excited to be invited. It's always such a special occasion . . . with lots of garden flowers bedecking little red and white toadstool tables . . . and pretty little fairy cakes.

Miss Florrie loves fairy cakes and has been known to consume more than a few in her lifetime. How much better they taste in a pretty hat, covered in flowers and wearing a pretty pink pinafore edged in pink embroidery . . .

Her cute little bustle hides a multitude of sins . . . extra poundage no doubt, a minor result from the consumption of a bit too many fairy cakes . . . but then again . . . can a mouse ever be too plump? Can there ever be such a thing as too many fairy cakes???

Her dainty skirt rustles as she prances through the grass on her way to the party . . . oh how lovely those pretty pink embroidered French Knot rosebuds look at the border . . . dainty ministrations from her adept needle and thread . . . perfect with her lace trimmed underdress . . . Perhaps a special *mouse* will take note . . . She's been hoping that he would for a long time now . . .

She can't help but smile a secret smile as she makes her way . . . she can hear the joyful sound of laughter beyond the hedge . . . and smell the sweet sugared fairy cakes . . . the bluebells tinkle amidst a faint spring breeze, announcing her arrival . . . all is well with the world.

With flowered caps, tinkling bluebells, pink polka dotted bustles and frosted sugar fairy cakes, how can it be anything else?

My Newest Doll Creations!

2010-04-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

I've made a few dolls lately since I moved up here to the North West. Enforced computer outage is good for your creative bent I have found. You get way more done!

This one is a primitive style Gingerbread Lady. I think she's really pretty with her red check gingham dress, beautifully trimmed underskirt, lovely pinafore and black Mary Jane Shoes.

A lot of love, time and effort has gone into her every step of the way.

Is this a face only a mother could love??? Or could you love it too??? Check her out in my Etsy Shop.

This little pair of raggamuffins is also for sale in my Etsy Shop. I just love Raggedy Dolls don't you???

A lot of detail and love has gone into these two as well. They are being sold as a pair.

Also listed in my Etsy Shop.

Thanks for sticking with me. I should be back soon with some artwork for you to enjoy!

Two New Stamps

2010-02-28T07:49:00.000-08:00

Walk in the Light

Please see terms of use HERE.

Digital Stamps

2010-02-25T22:53:00.001-08:00

I have decided to sell my images as Digital Stamps and am in the process of converting them all
to black and white outline images, and creating some new ones.

Here is what I have done so far:

I think Digital Stamps are the wave of the future. Not only are they easy to use (you simply print out which ones you want and then colour them in) but they're a great alternative, especially when you are short on cash and can't afford to fork out a lot of money on a rubber stamp. They are easy to store and you get instant gratification in that you don't have to leave the comfort of your home to buy one, or wait for the postman to deliver. They are right there in your e-mail box and ready to use as soon as you buy them.

Look for more from me real soon. And if you are interested in these ones, just click the button. Easy to use, easy to resize and easy to print.

Please note: The copyright will not be present on your purchased image!!

My friend Jen of Tater Tots and Jello hosts a weekly round of up various crafters and what they've been up to this past week. I've been digital stamping. Do take a trip over to her page by clicking on the button to see what other creative people have been up to as well!

Be Yourself!

2010-02-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

I saw this quote from Oscar Wilde the other day and immediately fell in love with it. Being myself is something that I have tried to be my whole life. It meant that I wasn't always popular with other people, but it also meant that I was always true to myself and my own ideals.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

If you are interested, contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com. Thanks!

We have a winner!

2010-02-15T06:50:00.000-08:00

Today is the day that I get to announce the winner of my One Heart One World Giveaway prize. I had 358 comments on that post so it was not an easy job for random.org to pick a winner, but pick one they did.

The winner was #55 , Great Granny Grandma!!

Please contact me via my e-mail Granny and let me know what you would like for your doll!

Congratulations. I wish I could give a prize to everyone, but I can't. Thanks so much to everyone for their very kind comments and for playing along!

The Singing Bird . . .

2010-02-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

I have always had a soft spot in my heart for bluebirds. They make me smile and I just can't help adoring them. I had a sweet little bluebird cream and sugar set until just a few weeks ago . . . Todd accidentally knocked the creamer off the shelf and it smashed into smitherines . . . They do say never cry over spilt milk . . . but I do miss it so.

Nevermind. I can have bluebirds anytime I want them. As soon as I found this quote I knew I had to do a picture with a bluebird in it. I have never heard a bluebird sing, but I can imagine that it is beautiful . . .

From an old Chinese Proverb . . .

If I keep a green bough in my heart . . . the singing bird will come.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

One World One Heart Giveaway

2010-01-25T00:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the One World One Heart Giveaway, a wonderful world wide event where bloggers all around the world unite together and pledge to give away one ite, either handcrafted or even purchases to another blogger anywhere in the world.

This is an annual event and last year there were over 900 bloggers participating. How exciting to be a part of something so huge!!.

You can read more about it here: One World One Heart

And now on to the fun part, the giveway! I am pledging to give away one of my beautiful doll creations. You will get to choose which one it will be . . .

Perhaps it will be a cake bearing doll???

or perhaps not. Mayhap it will be just a little sweetheart?

It can be whatever you want it to be. This doll will be made to your specifications, in your colour choices and style.

So what are you waiting for. All you need to do in order to win is:

One - be a blogger
two - leave a comment on this post

The winner will be drawn on February 15th by a random number picker. Let the fun begin! It could be YOU!

To Dance is To Dream

2010-01-24T10:16:00.000-08:00

I am a big believer in dreams as you all know. Life is a beautiful dance. I believe that if you want your dreams to come true, you have to dance as if they are already a reality.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

Patty Bakes A Cake

2010-01-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

Say hello to Patty. She is my newest creation, once again, handcrafted in the old fashioned style of Raggedy dolls as created through the ages.

Little Patty stands 19 inches tall and is handcrafted of sturdy cotton muslin with a handstiched nose, mouth and brow. Her eyes are beautifully painted and her hair of good quality 100% wool in a textured burgundy red colour.

Her 100%cotton dress is of two beautiful prints and adorned with white cotton ricrac, which I have embellished with cotton embroidery trim. The bodice is adorned with a beautiful large red button, stolen from my button box which contains buttons which I have been collecting for years.

As you can see she's been baking a cake. A lovely hand-stiched felt gingercake with beautiful fluffy white icing and a red cherry on top, not to mention a sprinkle of sparkle!

She has handpainted socks and Mary Jane shoes with button trim and is wearing cotton muslin bloomers.

Very simple and sweet, she comes dated and signed personally by myself. She's looking for a new home and someone to love. It could be you!

Price is £20.00 plus £5.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Perfectly detailed, quality construction, and from a smoke free home. What do you say, is there a place in your heart and your for Patty and her little cake??

SOLD! Thanks very much Pat!

Smile

2010-01-08T22:36:00.001-08:00

"Don't frown. You never know who will be falling in love with your smile."

That sounds like pretty good advice to me. Mind you, I've always been told I have a beautiful smile. A smile that lights up a room. My eldest daughter is blessed in the same way. Her smile is positively radiant! I found this anonymous quote the other day and couldn't wait to illustrate it.

How did I do??

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

Life Is Short

2010-01-07T05:11:00.000-08:00

As I have gotten older the truth of how short life really is has come truly home to me. The days seem to just whiz by at an enormous speed. I'm all for eating dessert first. Sometimes that's the only way I have room to fit any in at all!!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

The Little Things

2010-01-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

I just love life and all the little things that make it so very special. I have learned through experience that as a whole, it's the little things in life that fill it with meaning and joy. These are the things that truly count.

These are the special moments that make your heart resonate with joy and meaning. It's the listening to the birds, smelling flowers, catching snowflakes on your tongue kinds of moments . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

Miss Pitty Pat

2010-01-01T01:18:00.000-08:00

Say hello to Miss Pitty Pat. She is my newest creation, handcrafted in the old fashioned style of Raggedy dollsas created through the ages.

Little Miss Pitty Pat stands 10 inches tall and is handcrafted of sturdy cotton muslin with a handstiched nose, mouth and brow. Her eyes are beautifully painted and her hair of good quality 100% wool in a textured rusty red.

Her 100%cotton dress is wonderfully retro in a delightful red and white polka dot pattern and adorned with white cotton ricrac and a beautiful large white button, stolen from my button box which contains buttons which I have been collecting for years.

She has handpainted legs and shoes.

With white cotton muslin bloomers

Very simple. Very sweet. She comes dated and signed personally by moi. She's looking for a new home and person to love. Could this be you???

Price is £15.00 plus £5.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Perfectly detailed, quality construction, and from a smoke free home. What do you say, is there a place in your heart for Miss Pitty Pat?

SOLD Thanks very much!

Dwell In Possibility

2009-12-26T05:25:00.000-08:00

"Dwell in possibility."
~Emily Dickenson

This has long been one of my favourite quotes. I did this sketch sometime before
the Christmas holidays started and could hardly wait to have the time to put my
paintbrushes to paper. I just love how it has turned out.

It holds a gentle reminder to each one of us, that our possibilities in life are only limited by our imaginations and our drive. Nothing is impossible should we put our minds to it.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original work is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. It is also available as a download printable image file, just perfect for your mixed media, card making and artist trading card projects. You will receive the image as shown, as well as a black & white version. This image file can be printed as many times as you wish. Please see my terms of use in the side column. The image file will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of payment. The watermark will not be present on the purchased image.

Prints are £10.00 plus £2.00 postage to anywhere in the world. Print will be mailed out priority mail within 3 days of your payment clearing.

Downloads are available at £5.00 with no postage. Please read my terms of use before purchase. Download will be e-mailed to you within 24 hours of your payment clearing. This will include a good quality colour image of the above piece of work, plus a black and white image for you to play with and use as you wish within the boundaries of my terms of use. Please note that I retain all copyrights and rights to this image as the original artist, and you are not allowed to sell this image on to others or share it with others except as a piece of your own creative work. Digital files may be printed as many times as you wish. Files may be used as is or altered for your handmade craft and art projects. Please do not distribute or sell the digital file or the printed sheet as is. These images may not be used to create collage sheets or digital scrapbooking kits for sale. Small quantities of your finished project may be sold.

Here is how the black and white image looks. I quite like this as well. How about you?

Have never done this before, but have decided to put this into the Illustration Friday posts. I thought it fit the theme this week of Pioneer. Isn't dwelling in possibility what being a pioneer is all about!!!

Peek a Boo

2009-11-06T21:54:00.000-08:00

What child doesn't love a good game of Peek a Boo??? What grownup doesn't love to play it with a child??? I know I sure do!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for relatives or a special friend, or a beautiful print for the Nursery.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Peek A Boo!!!

A Christmas For Emily

2009-11-03T06:26:00.001-08:00

Emily is ready and waiting for Christmas, all dressed in her best Christmas dress, complete with a pretty red net crinoline underneath.

She's holding a lovely brown felt teddy bear, which is completely jointed with moveable arms and legs,button trim and adorned with a red satin bow.

Her hair is hand styled and composed of brown worsted yarn, and tied into pigtails with torn fabric bows which match her dress.

The dress is made of Tilda Fabrics, 100% cotton in a pretty red and white print, with lace trim around the edge of the skirt, hand gathered to create a ruched and scalloped hemline, which showcases the underskirt.

The neckline is graced with a hand crocheted lace collar and a pretty white pearlized and red button cameo adornment.

She has red and white striped ticking legs and black painted shoes, as well as white onasberg pantaloons beneath her slip.

Her pretty little face is hand blushed with beautiful hand painted blue eyes and black lashes.

Completely hand sewn of superior materials she would make a beautiful decoration and collectable. She is not intended as a play toy.

The asking price is £30.00. Please contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com if you are interested. Will ship first class, and insured to anywhere in the world upon receipt of payment.

Naughty or Nice?

2009-10-17T23:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have come to that time of the year that begs the answer to that age old question . . . Have you been naughty or nice this year???

That Jolly old elf himself wants to know. Will it be a lump or coal or a sweet candy stick in your stocking this year???

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for relatives or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

So . . . which will it be? Naughty??? or . . . Nice???

(and below just to show you what it looks like with a coloured background.

Huggin' Friends

2009-10-11T23:50:00.000-07:00

"Hold a true friend with both your hands."
~Nigerian Prover

I love my friends, they are precious to me, and I'm so very grateful for having them in my life. God has richly blessed me some pretty wonderful ones, I'm very thankful to say.

They're all huggin' friends. Which are the best kind. I just love me some huggin' friends, don't you?

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for relatives or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

She's also available with this really fun and colourful background. Something new I'm adding to my prints. A little change is good, don't you think?

A Little Romance . . .

2009-10-07T07:34:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit of a romantic soul myself . . . I love nothing more than a love story and if I can do my bit to help it along . . . well, all's fair they say . . .

Odd that their little pink noses don't show up well on the scan, but I can assure you, they are blushingly pink. Sometimes all that is needed is a teensy weensy push to get two yearning hearts together . . .

Mistletoe, the perfect excuse for a nice smooch!!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for relatives or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Angel Bear

2009-09-29T04:58:00.000-07:00

"The Christmas Angels"

If you see some different lights
Around your Christmas tree
It could be Christmas Angels
Hiding there to see.

The fun and joy of Christmas
As they watch the children play.
And as they watch you celebrate
This very special day.

But there's another reason that
The Christmas angels appear,
They're here to remind us why
It's a special time of year.

This is the day that Christ was born
Years ago in Bethlehem
He's the one who is our Savior
He is King of all the land.

So celebrate His birthday
With your presents, cheer and love
And let Him know you're glad He is
Our Savior up above.

Then the Christmas Angels
Will be happy they were here
And they can leave, but don't you fret
They'll be back again next year.
~Ron Lantz, 2000

I recently finished this lovely Christmas Angel Bear. Standing 9 inches tall, she is just perfect for sitting on top of your tree, or as a free standing angel. She's really sweet and has a hand sculpted head, and face created from Warm and Natural needled cotton Quilt batting. She is a one of a kind, and looking for a home to live in this Christmas. Available now for purchase in my Etsy Shop.

A Holly Jolly Christmas

2009-09-13T09:17:00.000-07:00

Have a holly jolly Christmas
It's the best time of the year
Well
I don't know if there'll be snow
But have a cup of cheer

This little character is sure full of cheer and wishing you the best holiday possible! Can't you just hear Burl Ives wonderful voice as you look at her cheery face!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for relatives or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas!!

Comfort and Joy

2009-09-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
~Luke 2:13,14

How amazing that must have been to the shepherds on that cold winter's night so many years ago for the heavens to be filled with angels singing their praises towards God for His most unspeakable gift to us.

This little angel is sure shouting out her praises and joy at this most blessed event!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely Christmas card or momento for that special person or family in your life.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

(I know!! It's been far too long. I've been busy doing commissions, but look forward to seeing more new pieces from me in the near future. Lots of sketches in my to do pile!!)

From This Moment . . .

2009-08-06T06:26:00.000-07:00

From this moment life has begun
From this moment you are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment on

From this moment I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love I'd give my last breath
From this moment on

I give my hand to you with all my heart
Can't wait to live my life with you, can't wait to start
You and I will never be apart
My dreams came true because of you

~From this moment, Shania Twain

A friend of mine asked me to design a wedding card for her to give to a friend. I was more than happy to oblige. I hope that I was able to capture the sweetness of this special moment in any woman's life.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for a sister, daughter, or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

And just to show you what it looks like with words . . . I can also personalize it with names and dates.

From this Moment.

Families are Forever

2009-08-06T06:13:00.000-07:00

I'm ever so grateful for my family and for the Gospel which teaches us that "Families Are Forever." Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) believe that families are the most important and foundational unit of our lives. In fact, as one modern-day apostle aptly declared, “No success can ever compensate for failure in the home.”

I have a family here on earth,
They are so good to me,
I want to share my life with them through all eternity.
Family's can be together forever,
Through Heavenly Father's plan.
I always want to be with my own family,
And the Lord has shown me how I can . . .
The Lord has shown me how I can.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for that special person or family in your life.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Families Are Forever!

A Baby Boy!

2009-08-01T00:49:00.000-07:00

A little bit of heaven
Drifted down from above -
A handful of happiness,
A heartful of love.
The mystery of life,
So sacred and sweet
The giver of joy
So deep and complete.
Precious and priceless,
So lovable, too
The world's sweetest miracle,
Baby boy, is you.

One of the girls from work wanted me to create a card for her in honor of a friend who would be having a baby soon, a baby boy. So I did this one. It was one I had had in my stacks of sketches for a long time, just waiting for the right moment to paint it. It works well in pink also.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for a sister, daughters, or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

A Baby Boy!

Under the Mistletoe

2009-07-19T22:42:00.000-07:00

Sitting under the mistletoe
(Pale-green, fairy mistletoe),
One last candle burning low,
All the sleepy dancers gone,
Just one candle burning on,
Shadows lurking everywhere:
Some one came, and kissed me there.

Tired I was; my head would go
Nodding under the mistletoe
(Pale-green, fairy mistletoe),
No footsteps came, no voice, but only,
Just as I sat there, sleepy, lonely,
Stooped in the still and shadowy air
Lips unseen - and kissed me there.

~Walter de la Mare

I just fell in love with this little girl and her cheeky expression. She still has a sense of joy from being young and not having
to worry about things like mortgages and cheap health insurance. She is definitely up
for some fun under the mistletoe!

Hi Ho the mistletoe, someone waits for you!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for a sister, daughters, or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Under The Mistletoe . . . someone waits for you!

It's a Marshmallow World

2009-07-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

"Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey,
and enjoy every idle hour. "
- John Boswell

I think this little girl is certainly enjoying her winter!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for a sister, daughters, or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Hop, Skip and Jump!

2009-06-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to particpate in a blog hop sponsored by the people at Sugar Nellie. They are a British Company that manufactures rubber stamps. My friend Diane, from Duda Daze is an artist for them. I was lucky enough to have been sent one of her stamps from Sugar Nellie and the challenge was to come up with a greeting card using the stamp that was sent.

I was so pleased to have received a stamp of one of my favourite pieces of Diane's. Diane is the Goddess of Froggies and little girls, I was so thrilled to get this one in particular!

This was a real challenge for me. I am used to making cards using my own artwork, but to use someone else's, well that just did not come easy.

I took out my scrap papers and inks and markers and went to work the other afternoon, and this is what I came up with.

I found this sticker that I had had for some time and it just seemed to fit in with the theme of this stamp. What do you think?

I then went for some matching background colours, matching marker colours to colour in the image and I also found some cute ratafia ribbons in colours that matched, and this is the final produce of my creativity!

I do have to say that I enjoy painting my own pictures more, but this was kind of fun for a change.

Hop on over to Joey's page and let her know I sent you. She is the next one in line and I know she'd appreciate you hopping on over to her page.

Now, back to the drawing board. There hasn't been alot of art going on here at Oak Cottage lately. I've been really busy at work, but then . . . some weeks are just like that!

(Sorry for the poor quality of my scan, because of the ribbons on the card I could not get it to lay flat and so it's a bit dull!)

Celebrate!

2009-06-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday is but a reflection
Today is now
Tommorrow
is a bonus.
~Jim Billingsley

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for a sister, daughters, or a special frien

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Life is a precious gift from above . . . Celebrate!!!

Life Made Us Sisters, Love Made Us Friends

2009-06-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

My sister and I have always been really close. She was the very first friend I ever remember having. Sure, we used to fight a lot when we were teenagers . . . you know, about things like clothes and makeup . . . nothing too serious. When it came right down to the line . . . we supported each other in everything. When my last marriage broke up, my sister was the only one who was there for me, supporting me. I love her to pieces. Life made us sisters, but love indeed made us friends.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely card or momento for a sister, daughters, or a special friend.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Life Made Us Sisters, Love Made Us Friends . . .

One Starry Night

2009-05-26T22:09:00.000-07:00

Which of us as a child of the 50's and 60's did not experience the joy of being able to participate in our school or churche's annual Nativity Play. I was lucky in that they were still being done when my older children were at school and even today the local village church does one at Christmas time which Todd and I like to go down and watch.

They are charming affairs . . . the little boys dressed up in their bathrobes, with mother's tea towels draped atop their heads and tied into place . . . the little girls with their long dressed and blanket head gear, the angels with their gilt wings tied into place. It's all so very lovely and
helps to remind us of the true meaning of Christmas and God's special gift to the world one starry night, a long time ago . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks, with a painted scrap paper star accent. This would make a lovely card or momento for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

One Starry Night . . .

Birthday Joy

2009-05-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

What could be more exciting than getting a whole stack of beautifully wrapped gifts for your birthday???

Perhaps getting a lovely little birthday card filled with love and a message of Joy!!!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Birthday Joy!

The Apology

2009-05-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

To err is human
To forgive takes restraint;
To forget you forgave,
is the mark of a saint.
~Unknown

Sometimes it's just so hard to say you're sorry. The words just don't seem to come or they seem so inadequate. Here's a little card that might help saying I'm sorry to be just that little bit easier, or at least break the ice . . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

I can also put sentiments on the front of the card for those who wish it that way. Any font, any colour, and any sentiments. Just let me know what you would like.

Think Snow

2009-05-12T22:34:00.000-07:00

I know we're just getting into spring time and summer is still a bit of a way's off, but in the Greeting Card industry it is never too early to be thinking about winter.

This little girl has her mind on snowflakes! I can remember as a child how very excited we would be with the first snowfall of the year!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks and paper card snowflakes. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

It's The Little Things

2009-05-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

It's not the big grand gestures in life that have the most meaning.
It's the small things . . . a cheery smile, a helping hand, a simple prayer, a tiny cake . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

It's the Little Things . . .

Joy

2009-05-02T23:18:00.000-07:00

For his anger endureth but a moment;
in his favour is life:
weeping may endure for a night,
but joy cometh in the morning.
~Psalm 30:5

This is another one of my favourite scriptures. It reminds me that tomorrow is a new day and a new beginning. Joy truly cometh in the morning, and after the rain, the sunshine appears. This is hope . . . every cloud does have a silver lining.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Joy truly does cometh in the morning . . .

Uh Oh . . .

2009-05-02T23:13:00.000-07:00

Uh Oh . . . He really didn't mean it. Honestly. Truly.
It was an accident, and accidents do happen . . . Can't you see he's sorry? He won't do it again . . . a promise true, cross his little heart.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

UH . . . OH . . .

It Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time

2009-04-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

I think my middle son must have been about 4 years old, as he was still going to nursery school. I can remember looking at him for several days, and thinking to myself, that something looked mighty different, but I just couldn't put my finger on it . . . He was my fuzzy bear with Shirley Temple curls scattered all over his head. The kind of hair most girls would kill for. It wasn't until I went to wash his hair in the bath that I realized that he had cut off all his curls across the front of his head right down to the scalp . . . Thank goodness hair grows back. I think this is something most kids do at one time or another, if not to each other, then certainly to their dolls . . . (I had a very bald Barbie doll at one time . . . )

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

It Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time . . . (well, it did!)

All Shapes And Sizes

2009-04-25T06:36:00.000-07:00

Some friends are diamonds
Some friends are gold
In all shapes and sizes
Both young and the old
All are a treasure
A precious gift to hold
Yes, some friends are diamonds
and some friends are gold.

~Marie Rayner 2009

(corny I know, but what the heck!)

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

All Shapes And Sizes

Make A Joyful Noise

2009-04-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
Serve the Lord with gladness;
come before his presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord he is God;
it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
and into his courts with praise;
be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting;
and his truth endureth to all generations.

psalm 100

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Make A Joyful Noise

Come What May And Love It

2009-04-22T22:23:00.000-07:00

"When I was young I loved playing sports, and I have many fond memories of those days. But not all of them are pleasant. I remember one day after my football team lost a tough game, I came home feeling discouraged. My mother was there. She listened to my sad story. She taught her children to trust in themselves and each other, not blame others for their misfortunes, and give their best effort in everything they attempted.

When we fell down, she expected us to pick ourselves up and get going again. So the advice my mother gave to me then wasn’t altogether unexpected. It has stayed with me all my life.

“Joseph,” she said, “come what may, and love it.”

I have often reflected on that counsel."

~ Elder Joseph B Wirthlin

One of my most favourite talks in recent years was this one by Elder Wirthlin, the very last one he gave to us before he passed. It was a timely reminder that many of us, indeed all of us will come up against adversity in this lifetime of ours. We need to trust in ourselves and each other and not blame others for any potholes we may come across as we journey through the paths we must take in life.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Come what may and love it . . .

Star Light Star Bright

2009-04-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

Star light, star bright,
First star I see tonight,
I wish I may, I wish I might,
Have the wish I wish tonight.

~An Old Nursery Rhyme

I can remember as a young girl looking up at the darkening evening sky and spying the first star of the evening. I would always recite this verse and then make a wish! Did my wishes come true? Now, that would be telling! (And as we all know, wishes that are told never come true!)

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks with painted scrap paper accents. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Star Light Star Bright . . .

God Loveth A Cheerful Giver

2009-04-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
~2 Corinthians 9:7

This has long been one of my favourite scripture verses. I like to think that the cheerful heart has a continual feast and there is nothing that give me more joy than giving something of myself to others.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

God Loveth A Cheerful Giver . . .

*Note the true colours are a lot brighter than what they look like here for some reason!

The Healer

2009-04-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

Help me as I care
For my patients today,
Be there with me
Oh Lord, I pray.
Make my words kind
It means so much
And in my hands place
Your healing touch.
Let your love shine
Through all that I do,
So those in need
May hear and feel You.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

The Healer

The Good Things in Life Are Better When Shared

2009-04-14T07:49:00.000-07:00

The Tea Party

I had a little tea party
This afternoon at three.
'Twas very small-
Three guest in all-
Just I, myself and me.
Myself ate all the sandwiches,
While I drank up the tea;
'Twas also I who ate the pie
And passed the cake to me.

~Jessica Nelson North

It's long been my philosophy that you can't really begin to live your life until you learn to give it away or share it with others. I think a tea party for three is just the perfect way to share your day.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

The Good Things in Life Are Better When Shared

Always Walk In The Light

2009-04-12T07:39:00.000-07:00

Teach me to walk in the light of His love,
Teach me to pray to my Father above,
Teach me to know of the things that are right,
Teach me, teach me, to walk in the light.

Come little child and together we'll learn
of His commandments that we may return
home to his presence, to live in His sight,
Always, always to walk in the light.

Father in heaven we thank thee this day
for loving guidance to show us the way
Grateful we praise thee with songs of delight
Always, always we'll walk in the light.
~Children's songbook #177, LDS

I just love the hymns of the church. Whenever I am singing them I feel really close to my Heavenly Father and to my Saviour. I really love the children's hymns as well. After spending umpteen years in Primary as a leader and teacher they have come to really mean a lot to me. This is one of my favourites.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Always walk in the light . . .

Gracie Gets Her Wings

2009-04-09T10:31:00.000-07:00

One of the most heartbreaking things in this lifetime is having to say goodbye to one of our children. As parents, we just are not conditioned to think that our children will leave this plane of existance before us. My own Todd lost his eldest son, Peter, when Peter was but 18 months old. Todd was not a member of the church at the time, and nobody had any answers for his broken and aching heart. A heart that wanted to know why . . . that begged to know where his son was . . . that wanted some assurance that he had not lost his son forever. It was many years before those questions that had burnt themselves into his heart were answered, and Todd was able to find the peace that he so needed to feel about this devastating loss . . .

As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Todd and I have both come to know that there is a special place in Heaven for a child that passes on before the age of accountability, and still in their innocence. There is great comfort in knowing that these special spirits go right back into the presence of our Heavenly Father, and that one day, as parents, we will have the opportunity to bring them up. There is hope . . .

My heart was recently touched by the spirit of a very special little girl. Her name was Gracie Gledhill. She was born on March 20, 2008 with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). What followed were months of hospital treatments, surgeries and a roller coaster ride of emotions, and heartaching moments for her parents and family. Sadly Gracie lost her fight on March 2, 2009. Although her little heart was not able to survive a lifetime here on earth, it managed to touch a world of hearts the world over, and she will never be forgotten. Not by her family, and not by countless others that were touched by her courage, and beautiful spirit, and by inspiration she gave to us all for the short time she was here . . . and by the courage and strong example of her family . . .

The example of Gracie continues to tug on my heartstrings. It's as if she is trying to tell me something . . . in my mind I see a beautiful little girl, free from the burden of pain and tears, safe in her Heavenly Father's arms, watching and waiting and loving still the family that waits below, resting in the promise that Families ARE Forever and they can be together again. There is joy. There is peace. There is comfort. There is love. Gracie has her wings . . . and she is soaring beyond the chains and heartache of this veil of tears. I have felt their soft whisper on my praying brow. Can't you feel them brush against you too?

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am in a thousand winds that blow,
I am the softly falling snow.
I am the gentle showers of rain,
I am the fields of ripening grain.
I am in the morning hush,
I am in the graceful rush
Of beautiful birds in circling flight,
I am the starshine of the night.
I am in the flowers that bloom,
I am in a quiet room.
I am in the birds that sing,
I am in each lovely thing.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there. I do not die.

~Mary Elizabeth Frye, 1905-2004

Gracie has her wings . . .

Bring it On

2009-04-07T22:34:00.000-07:00

I love this moxy little girl. She seems to be saying, "Anything you can do, I can do better!" And truth is, she probably can. She has a very determined look in her eye!

I believe she just may be a bit of a Tom Boy at heart. This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, and a painted scrap football accent. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Come on boys . . . Bring it on!!

I Feel My Savior's Love

2009-04-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

I feel my Savior's love
In all the world around me
His Spirit warms my soul
Through everything I see.

I feel my Savior's love
It's gentleness enfolds me
And when I kneel to pray
My heart is filled with peace

He knows I will follow Him
Give all my life to Him
I feel my Savior's Love
The love He freely gives me

~LDS Children's Song Book, pg 74-75

(If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. John 15:10)

One thing that I have been certain of since I was a very small child was the Savior's deep abiding love for me. That is something that has never changed. I pray it never will.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, painted scrap star accents, and painted letters. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, child, grandchild, or other loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

I feel my Savior's love . . . do you? I hope and pray that you do.

Happy Easter

2009-04-04T23:50:00.000-07:00

Easter Everywhere

Rabbits soft and cuddly
Baby chickens, too.
Easter eggs for baskets
White and pink and blue.
Easter cards of greeting,
Music in the air,
Lilies just to tell us
It's Easter everywhere.

I'm all too aware of the deeper meaning of Easter, and it is a most joyous time of year for me. A time of promise and a time of blessing. The climax of the greatest love story ever told. The story of a Heavenly Father who loves His spirit children so very much and wants nothing more than for them to return to Him . . . and in His most beloved eldest son, His only son in the flesh, who sacrificed His all in order to show us the way and means we need in order to find our way back to our Heavaenly Father. It is a beautiful story.

I know this is a little late to be used this year, but, as always this latest piece is available as an A4 size print, or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Happy Easter!!

There Was a Little Girl

2009-03-31T22:10:00.000-07:00

"There was a little girl
Who had a little curl
Right in the middle of her forehead.
And when she was good
she was very good indeed,
but when she was bad,
She was horrid."
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

You are probably surprised to find out that this little ditty was written by Longfellow! I know I was when I discovered that fact myself. I had always thought it was a Mother Goose rhyme.

I fell in love with this little girl as soon as she sprung from the end of my fingertips. It's really not her fault that she isn't always perfectly well behaved. She tries, she honestly tries, but, well . . . you know how it goes . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, and coloured chalks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

There was a little girl . . .

First Faith . . . and then . . . The Miracle

2009-03-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

"Oh how lovely was the morning,
radiant beamed the sun above,
Bees were humming, sweet birds singing,
music ringing through the grove,
when within the shady woodland,
Joseph sought the God of love . . . "
~Joseph Smith's First Prayer

Sitting in church yesterday morning as we sung this hymn, I had inspiration to do this picture. A simple and faithful boy, an honest and heartfelt prayer, a miraculous answer . . .

I am a great believer in faith working miracles. We experience them every day. We only have to stop and listen . . . and then expect and believe that they will come to us . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, and coloured chalks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

First faith . . . and then . . . the miracle.

A Surprise For You

2009-03-28T22:47:00.001-07:00

There's naught so special to behold
it's worth it's weight in gold
A lovely flower so bright and gay
to help lighten up your day
to bring some joy into your eyes
a beautiful sweet sunflower surprise!
~Marie Rayner

This is my latest piece. A lovely little girl with a beautiful surprise tucked behind her back, just waiting to be presented to someone special! It matters not that it's quite obvious what exactly the surprise is, it only matters that it is a gift from the heart, and as we all know, those are the very best kinds!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, and coloured chalks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

A Surprise For You . . .

Wherever Two Are Gathered

2009-03-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."
~Matthew 18:20

How wonderful to know that He is only a whispered prayer away from any one of us at any time, and that truly whenever we gather together with other believers He is indeed there in the midst of us.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, painted scrap star accents, and painted words. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Always Kiss Me Goodnight . . .

2009-03-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

One thing my mother told me before I got married many moons ago, was to never go to bed angry with my husband. (Having lived through three marriages, it has always puzzled me how anyone could sleep while angry anyways!) Happy to say the third time's the charm and I am quite happily married this time around and we have a rule . . . a kiss last thing at night, and another one first thing in the morning. Next to my daily prayers, those two things are the highlight of my day!

I present my latest piece of work, "Always Kiss Me Goodnight." Another one of my ballerina fairies. I have fallen quite in love with her.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, painted scrap star accents, and painted words. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Always, always . . . kiss me goodnight . . .

Make A Wish . . .

2009-03-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

A fairy danced upon my brow,

on a lovely springtime day

a soft tickle upon my nose

and cheeks pink as a newborn rose

Make a wish, make a wish

her little wings seemed to say

and so I blew a whispered wish

and watched her fly away.

~Marie Rayner, 2009

This is my newest painting, entitled "Make a Wish." A charming little fairy, right from the tips of her head to her cowboy boot clad toes!

I love her delicate wings and her fairy princess tutu!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, inks, and scrapbook paper accented leaves. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Make a wish . . .

A Postcard From Heaven

2009-03-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Postcards from Heaven,
That fall like the dew
Little gifts from God
just for me and for you.

The song of a bird,
the dew on the grass,
the stars in the night sky,
daffodils en masse.

Beauty surrounds us.
We see it each day.
All ours to enjoy.
In God's special way.
~Marie Rayner, 2009

Excuse my cheesy little poem, but it is the way I felt when I was painting this newest piece of mine. I can't help but see God in all the beauty that surrounds me and the miracles that I experience each and every day . . . from the smallest blessing to the largest grace. They are like postcards from a loving Heavenly Father. Isn't it amazing!! We are NOT alone!

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend or loved one.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Love Is Blind

2009-03-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

"True love is a blessing from life, something that cannot be secured by effort. It is a gift of the spirit, not the consequence of action. It is not an objective that we can target, it is a treasure entrusted to our care."
~Daphne Rose Kingma

I for one am glad that Love is Blind. Otherwise with all my shortcomings and faults, who could ever love me?? Well, I do know of one who would love me no matter what. How can I do any less for another than that . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks with scrap book paper accents. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, a friend of the heart.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Love In a Garden Grows

2009-03-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; They are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."
~Marcel Proust

Amidst Holly Hocks, Pansies and other garden delights, the butterflies flutter by and dragon flies buzz. This garden is filled with love.

Original painting has been done in acrylics, prisma markers and pencil crayon, with scrapbook paper accents.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend of the heart.All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Side By Side

2009-03-03T09:40:00.001-08:00

"When I have opened my heart to a friend, I am more myself than ever."
~Thomas Moore

When you are with a friend of the heart two minds work as one. When one gets weary, the other one willingly steps in to carry, or lift, or pull . . .

Though good times and bad times, friends carry the day. I think that God made them love in that way . . . Side by side in the journey of life . . . they enjoy wherever the journey takes them, together.

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of water colours, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks with scrap book paper accents. This would make a lovely gift for a special friend, a friend of the heart.

All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out more.

A Friend Loveth At All Times

2009-02-24T08:33:00.000-08:00

*A friend loveth at all times.*
~Proverbs 17:17

The mark of a true friend is that they are there for you whenever you need them, no matter what you do, or where you are. They don't have to agree with what you have done. They love you no matter what, when, where or how! The love of a true friend is seamless, boundless and eternal. You can tell them anything, and you know they will listen and never judge. A friend truly loveth at all times . . .

This latest piece is available as an A4 size print or as a greeting card. The original piece is done in a mixture of acrylics, prisma markers, prisma coloured pencils, and inks with scrap book paper accents. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Feel free to contact me on mariealicejoan at aol dot com to find out how you can make this delightful little sentiment yours. It's the perfect gift for that special friend, or even as a special gift just for you.

A Heart Like His

2009-02-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

Of all the hearts in the world
I've only one to give
So insecure, a desperate pulse
Racing to Your embrace
That You could want me and seek me
Is more than words could ever say
That You would love me and see in me
A pearl of price, thrown away . . .

How many of us long to have a heart like His. Some days it seems we fail, and yet other days we soar. This is my constant prayer to have . . .

*A Heart Like His*

As always, this is available as an A4 sized print or as a greeting card. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out how you can make it yours.

Flower Days

2009-01-31T23:03:00.000-08:00

Once in a golden hour
I cast to earth a seed.
Up there came a flower,
The people said, a weed.
~Alfred Lord Tennyson

I love this little girl. She looks so proud of her bunch of flowers. Again I have added the extra touch of mixed media, in the way of paper flowers, butterflies and dragonflies, cut from an old book and painted with washes. I really love how it turned out and hope that you do too.

This would make a lovely Mother's Day present or card.

As always, this is available as an A4 sized print or as a greeting card. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out how you can make it yours.

Snaps and Snails

2009-01-31T22:55:00.000-08:00

"What are little boys made of,
What are little boys made of,
Snaps and Snails,
and puppy dog tails,
That's what little boys are made of!

A friend of mine this past week had requested a little boy birthday card. I had a lot of fun doing this one. With his hair slicked into place and wearing his best bib and tucker, he is ready to go to the party and have some fun! Todd is always telling me I need to do more little boys and I am happy to say I have a few more sketches in the sidelines waiting to be put to paint and paper.

As always, this piece is available as an A4 sized print or as a greeting card. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Be Still And Know

2009-01-24T23:43:00.000-08:00

Be still and know that He is God
Be still and know that He is holy
Be still oh restless soul of mine
Bow before the Prince of Peace
Let the noise and clamor cease
Be still and know that He is God
Be still and know that He is faithful
Consider all that He has done
Stand in awe and be amazed
And know that He will never change
Be still . . .

(words from Be Still and Know, Steven Curtis Chapman)

My absolute favourite bible verse has always been "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 This verse has brought me comfort and peace throughout my whole adult life. Yesterday I put the way it makes me feel down on paper in a vision that all can enjoy.

This is a bit of a detour from my usual paintings in that I have added some mixed media in the way of little paper stars, cut from old books and then painted and aged. I love the way it turned out and I hope you do as well.

Be Still and Know . . .

As always available as an A4 sized print or as a greeting card. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out more.

Raggedy Joy

2009-01-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

She's a little bit of a departure from what I usually do, but I am loving her all the same! I have always loved Raggedy Ann and so yesterday I put my paints to paper and came up with this little dear. I call her Raggedy Joy, as her arms are flung open in joy and she looks so happy!

I love her little button hair ornaments and the happy smile on her face. As usual she is available as an 8 by 12 print or a greeting card.

Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out how. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Little Miss Sunshine

2009-01-15T22:35:00.000-08:00

Through the closed blinds the golden sun
Poured in a dusty beam,
Like the celestial ladder seen
By Jacob in his dream.
~Henry Wordsworth Longfello, *A Gleam of Sunshine*

Just when you think that life can't get any better, or worse, along she comes to brighten up your day!!

*Little Miss Sunshine*

She makes me smile. I hope she makes you smile too!

Available for purchase as a print or greeting card. Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out how. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

She danced to her own music . . .

2009-01-10T08:07:00.000-08:00

Dancing with the feet is one thing,
but dancing with the heart is another.
~Author Unknown

As I worked the other day this image of a little girl dancing came into my mind. As a child I loved to dance and sway to music, and even now, when I am on my own, I often let the music I am listening to carry me away and for an instant I am a child again and I am dancing with my dreams.

To watch someone dance is to hear their heart speak . . .

Available as a print or as a greeting card. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks. Feel free to contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com if you would like to make this your own.

Dreams Were Meant To Be Shared

2009-01-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

"There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other."--Douglas Everett

One of my favourite sayings is, you got to have a dream if you're going to have a dream come true! I am a big time dreamer. I work a fairly tedious job a lot of the time. Of course if I am cooking then that is one thing, but I also have to do a lot of cleaning and polishing and that is the perfect time for me to daydream. Oh the adventures I have taken!!!

It's also nice to have someone to share those dreams with, for dreams really were meant to be shared . . .

I have my Todd of course, but a good friend, a much loved pet . . . a fish in a pond with a listening ear . . . whatever works for you is good!

As usual this is available as a Print or as an all occasion greeting card. Contact me to find out more details. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks.

Springtime Blessings

2009-01-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

*Ah, the blessings of spring
They bring renewed hope
A joyful new outlook on life
The heart’s dream of everlasting love*
~Ann Marquette

My latest offering. A happy little girl enjoying the blessings of spring along with her bunny. I just love the look on her face . . . it makes me smile.

I always wanted a stuffed bunny doll. Her's looks well loved.

Done as always, in a mixture of acrylics, Prisma Markers and Prisma pencil crayons on cold press water colour paper. Prints are available as are cards. All artwork is printed in archival pigment inks and on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Contact me to see how you may purchase a print or a card.

Thank You!

2008-12-30T10:15:00.000-08:00

I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks
~William Shakespeare

Just a little way of saying thank you to that special friend for a kindness done, a wonderful gift, for being there when needed etc. . . . no matter what the occasion I think this sweet little Thank You suits.

Done in cheery Reds it is sure to please. This is a 9 by 12 painting done on watercolour paper in acrylics, prisma markers, prisma pencils and inks. Prints are available in A4 size on 100% cotton Somerset enhanced art paper and in archival inks. Also available as a cheery greeting card to wish that special thanks! Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out how this can be yours!

January Brings the Snow and Birthdays . . .

2008-12-27T05:45:00.001-08:00

I've been really busy painting over the holidays. First of all I wanted to really paint a special Christmas Card for all of my readers on the Oak Cottage Blog, and so I did this little girl with her Merry Christmas wish. I expect people will soon get tired of seeing her, but I hope not, because I really do love her . . .

Then today I was able to finish two more paintings that I have had ready and waiting for some time now.

This first one I call, "Happy Birthday to You!!" This wee girl looks just thrilled to have baked up a delicious birthday cake just for you, and her cat looks ready to get stuck in as well!!

He looks like he's having a nice long stretch after having lazed around and watched her do all the work!!

Finally there is this wee one enjoying some of the Janary Snow . . .

*January brings the snow,
Makes your toes and fingers glow . . . *

Oh how I long for some snow . . .

All are available as cards of course, or as full size prints. Just contact me to find out how you can get one for yourself, or as a gift for someone else. All artwork is printed on A4 sized Somerset enhanced Archival 100% cotton paper. Cards are 6 inches by 4 inches and mounted on linen textured card, left blank inside, waiting for your own personal message to be inscribed. Printed in Archival pigment inks, these are sure to please even the most discerning recipient.

Easter Blessings

2008-12-20T22:41:00.000-08:00

I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills.
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake,
eneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

~William Wordsworth, "Daffodils"

I know it's a bit difficult to be thinking about Easter when Christmas is only a few days away, but one has to be ahead of the game in the card game. I did this little picture yesterday afternoon and I was well pleased with how it turned out.

One can almost hear her thoughts as she quietly reflects and surveys the springtime beauty that surrounds her. I always had a new hat for Easter as a child and I just love her little straw bonnet that she has chosen to adorn with purple flowers on this beautiful Easter morn . . .

As usual this is available as either a print or a greeting card. Contact me to find out how. Thanks so much for taking a peek!

Happily Ever After

2008-12-17T23:51:00.000-08:00

This is a painting I recently did for a young couple who just got married. They loved it. I was so pleased. It ended up actually looking quite a bit like them!!! I love it when I do something for someone and they are happy with it in the end.

This is a closeup of the detail of their faces. I think I managed to capture the emotion of the moment quite well.

Obviously the original is not for sale as it was a gift, but you can purchase prints and or cards. Just e-mail me on MarieAliceJoan@aol.com to find out how!

Bucket Full of Sunshine

2008-12-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

I just love this picture I did of little Emmeline this afternoon. It's one that I have had sketched for quite a while, and although it is the Christmas season now, it won't be too long before the days will start getting longer and we can start thinking of spring. Just think of all those lovely little seeds going to sleep right now that will awaken when the springtime sunshine hits them.

Here is a close up of her face. It's hard to get the full impact and detail unless you see a closeup.

This is a 9 by 12 painting done on watercolour paper in acrylics, prisma markers, prisma pencils and inks. Prints are available in A4 size on 100% cotton Somerset enhanced art paper and in archival inks. Also available as a cheery greeting card to suit most occasions!

What do you say, are you ready for a Bucket Full of Sunshine?

Merry and Bright

2008-11-29T23:20:00.000-08:00

A last minute entry just in time for Christmas. I actually did this to grace all of my personal Christmas Cards and couldn't help sharing it with you. Done in a mixture of acrylics, Prisma Markers and Coloured pencils. I think it's one of my favourites thus far!

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not . . .

2008-11-26T04:39:00.000-08:00

I remember those wonderful, heart wrenching days of young love. Secret crushes,tender and sweet, and sometimes painful . . . a testing ground for the glorious days of true love to come. as usual Emmeline has her little friendly Robin friend to keep her company and help her count the petals of her love . . .

Available as a card or a print. Cards are £2.50 and prints are £15. All cards and prints are printed out on Somerset Enhanced 100% cotton archival paper, and with beautiful pigment inks. The Prints are A4 size, suitable for framing in any way which you desire. They can also be printed smaller and hung in groups. (prices are adjusted accordingly) The cards are mounted on quality linen textured card and are 4 by 6 inches in size, left blank inside so that you can write your own personal message of greeting.

All my art is available as either a print or a card. Contact me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com to find out more details. Thanks so much!

A Stolen Kiss

2008-11-22T07:15:00.000-08:00

A kiss, when all is said, what is it?
A rosy dot placed on the "i" in loving;
'Tis a secret told to the mouth instead of to the ear.
~Edmond Rostand

As you can tell my mind has been on Valentines this afternoon. Just a playful little picture. I love the little look of embarassment on the little boy's face, and the little girl looks so sure of herself. Contact me to see how you can get this print as a card for that special someone. (Obviously the watermark will not appear in the print!)

Just in Time for Christmas

2008-11-12T00:04:00.000-08:00

Here's my latest creation, entitled A Candycane Christmas. Just in time for a last minute Christmas Card or even gift tag I suppose. Anyone who knows me knows I have a penchant for cats, especially ORANGE ones! It runs in the family. My mother has a penchant for them as well. Anyways, if anyone is interested in purchasing this painting as a card, set of gift tags or indeed any of my paintings as such, feel free to contact me via my e-mail. Thanks so much and have a great day!

Some New Card Samples

2008-11-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

I had the chance this week to do two new paintings for cards. I think they turned out quite cute. The first one is a Christmas one, of a girl all ready to decorate her tree with a garland of Gingerbread men. She looks quite pleased with her efforts and I can just smell the gingerbread!

Next is a little sweetheart for Valentines or anytime you want to tell someone that you love them. She has her arms spread wide open in love for you!

Remember if you would like these or indeed any of my artwork as cards, just e-mail me on MarieAliceJoan at aol dot com and I will be happy to talk about it and make some arrangements at a very reasonable price. They are quite nicely presented on quality linen card, each in their own plastic film packet for protection, with a certificate of authenticity on the back detailing the name of the piece, the artist. It's A Marie Card!

Just in Time for Christmas

2008-10-25T06:32:00.000-07:00

I know, it's not Halloween yet, but I just finished another Christmas painting and I thought it was really cute. I just couldn't wait to share it with you all.

I call it, "All Hearts Come Home For Christmas." She's stretching up on her tippie toes to try to get her post into the box in time for Christmas! Of course Emmeline's little friend Robin Redbreast is there to help cheer her along!

Here Emmeline is putting together all the finishing touches to make sure her Christmas and yours is as special as can be! *Believe*

I have made the two latest ones into cards and I think they're swell. (Believe, and All Hearts Come Home For Christmas)

I've even put a cutsie label on the back of each.

What do you think?

If anyone is interested in purchasing any cards just e-mail me for the particulars. MarieAliceJoan@aol.com Thanks!

My Cards

2008-10-19T07:44:00.001-07:00

A lot of you have expressed interest in my cards. Thanks so much!

I think they are quite lovely myself, but again, I am a bit biased! The cards themselves measure 6 inches by 4 inches. On each is a print of my own original artwork, printed out on watercolour paper and mounted on coloured card and then onto the linen textured card. They are blank inside so that a person may make their own statement of greeting. They may also be used as note cards and each comes with it's own envelope and sealed in a cello bag for protection. I can make as many as you like and using whichever print you like in any combination you like.

I am charging £2.50 for each and £1 for postage each, so a total of £3.50 per card, which I think is roughly $6.05 American give or take a few pence. In Canadian dollars they are $7.18 Canadian, including postage. I suppose that's not much when you take into consideration they are hand made and pieces of art. Anyways, if you are interested in any you can e-mail me and we can talk about it. The more you want of course, the less they will cost, say 5 for £10, plus postage. (that means one is free!) I also have more Christmas pieces that I am working on for Christmas, but for now just have these two.

In any case if you are interested send me an e-mail and we'll talk. I take paypal as a form of payment. I hope you are all having a lovely Sunday. The sun is shining here although it's very breezy!!

Forever Friends

2008-10-05T06:20:00.000-07:00

This is Forever Friendship.
When you're down,
and the world seems dark and empty,
Your forever friend lifts you up in spirit
and makes that dark and empty world
suddenly seem bright and full.
Your forever friend gets you through
the hard times, the sad times,
and the confused times.
Your forever friend holds your hand
and tells you that
everything is going to be okay.
And if you find such a friend,
you feel happy and complete,
because you need not worry.
You have a forever friend for life,
and forever has no end.
~unknown

I had this little treasure dancing around in my head all week. I did the sketch the other day and could hardly wait to sit down and paint it. I'm quite pleased at how it turned out. I shall be selling prints in my Esty shop I think. This is dedicated to all my forever friends, both visible and invisible. You know who you are.

Home Is Where You Hang Your Heart

2008-10-04T09:36:00.000-07:00

Be it ever so humble, there's truly no place like Home. I have lived in many houses and locations in my lifetime. Some really lovely houses and some not so lovely, but wherever it has been it truly has been much loved and comfortable. Whatever else home is to other people, it has always been to me the place where I hang my heart.

This is my first painting with characters in it other than people and I really enjoyed doing it! I think mama bird and her two wee birds look quite happy and comfortable in their home! I love the circular window as well. Would love one of those in my own house!

If you are interested in purchasing this painting toss me an e-mail. It's been painted in acrylics on a boxed canvas measuring 9 by 11 inches approximately with a 1 1/2 inch depth. The edges are all finished so there's no need to frame. It can be hung right away.

Upon a Midnight Clear

2008-09-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about Christmas lately. Someone told me the other day that there was only 13 weeks til Christmas? Can it really be so!!! Amazing.

This first one is a little fella acting in his first Christmas pageant. He's a Shepherd boy. I love the look of awe on his face. This is my first little boy! I'm quite excited about that and have already sketched another boy, which is quite cute. I can't wait to make him come to life with my paints.

This second one is a little girl acting as an Angel in the same pageant. I kind of think she's not actually too sure she really wants to be up there with everyone looking at her, but she's doing it anyways. What do you think?

She Had a Heart of Gold

2008-09-13T23:40:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest piece. I call it "She Had a Heart of Gold." I love how it turned out. It's been done on an 8 by 8 inch boxed canvas in acrylics and the sides are painted and trimmed with gold and brown polka dots. No need for a frame for this one. You can hang it straight away. I just love the little sparrow talking to her on the window sill as she sits there in thought. I like think that her heart of gold goes a lot deeper than that gold necklace around her neck . . . it must do, or the bird wouldn't be so comfortable sitting there so close . . .

I'll be placing the original for sale in my Etsy shop later on today.

A Sweet Little Baker

2008-08-27T23:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a commission I recently finished for someone wanting a logo for their baking business. The colours aren't showing up on here as lovely as they are in real life. They wanted pastels and they don't scan as well as vibrant colours. I thought it was rather sweet though, nonetheless.

Bakers Do It With Butter and Eggs

2008-08-23T23:28:00.000-07:00

For the past few days I have been inspired to want to do something for a very special baker I know. Her recipes and books have helped me to pass away so many pleasant hours and I hate to tell you this but they've also added a few inches to my hips. In short she inspires me to want to be a better baker and I wanted to do something very special for her to show her how much I have enjoyed her body of work. I have 3 of her books and I love and cherish each one of them. I'm not sure if she will even want this gift, or even how I would get it to her if she does, but in the meantime I am posting it here so that she can come and have a look at it at least!

By the way I have decided to do my signature differently from now on. What do you think?

Supercalifragilisticexpealidocious

2008-07-28T01:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a little painting I recently did for a friend of ours who is leaving our green shores to move back to America. Nicole from "The Poppins Blog". She is a lovely American girl who has been living and working over here as a Nanny for the past 18 months. OH, how we are going to miss that gal!! I tried to capture the essence of who she is in this . . . part adventurer, part nurturer, part whimsical, part impish. We gave it to her yesterday at her going away "do". She loved it and that made me really happy. She has always held a little piece of my heart anyways, and now she has something tangible to show for it.

Gathering Rosebuds

2008-06-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

This was the first piece that I have done on an actual canvas. I did it on a box canvas so that it has deep sides. The sides are also painted as well as the front and so a person doesn't need to frame it. You can hang it just as it is.

I loved the whimsical look of this little girl with her basket of roses. She looks very pleased with herself!

I painted the sides with the same rose colour as the front only I added the cheery touch of some big white polka dots to dress it up.

I was thrilled in that this painting sold before I even had a chance to list it. Because it is on a boxed Canvas I was selling the original not prints. It is always a bit of a wrench to sell an original I think, kind of like selling one of your own babies in a way. I suppose I could still sell prints if anyone wanted them, but they wouldn't have the cheery polka dots on the side.

I think I may do more of these on the canvas as I am really pleased with the way this one turned out. What do you think?

Sometimes in the Rain

2008-06-07T10:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when things seem to be going really wrong we may be tempted to ask ourselves where is God. Sometimes it takes the rough times to find Him and I truly feel that He is never closer to us than when we are in despair and feeling down. All we have to do is reach out to Him. He'll reach back and hold us if we reach out in faith. He truly does love us. It reminds me of a beautiful song I like to listen to by Steven Curtis Chapman. Here are some of the lyrics...

"Sometimes He comes in the rain
And we question the pain
And wonder why God can seem so far away
But time will show us
He was right there with us, and . . .

Sometimes He comes in the clouds
Sometimes His face cannot be found
Sometimes the sky is dark and grey
But some things can only be known
And sometimes He comes in the clouds . . . "

Sometimes In The Rain . . . prints available now in my Esty Shop, or by private arrangment.

For Dad

2008-06-06T00:57:00.000-07:00

Just a little something I have done for my dad for Father's Day. I call it "The Hug" My dad took me everywhere with him when I was really small and before my sister and brother came along. He's always called me the apple of his eye. He probably calls them that too, but when he says it to me I feel like it's a name just for me. He has always believed in my art talents and has carried a painting I did for him of a winter scene when I was about 17 years old with him everywhere he has gone in these past years. He always displays it with pride in a prominent place in his home. I reckon it's about time I did him another one, don't you?

A Few Commissions I've been working on

2008-06-01T00:54:00.000-07:00

For a little girl who is whimsical and who loves animals. I don't think the Polar Bear looks too ferocious do you?

A delightful little picture for a girl that loves to read. I hope that the recipient loves it as much as I do. This is the first one I have done with background colour. What do you think?

For a store that is also a restaurant. They wanted something whimsical and fun. I hope that I managed that!