Almost a New Year

Almost ... a New Year:

Still 2018 near Vancouver, Canada. At last I have had some inspiration and begun work on my Swedish House.

It began with the acquisition of a prancing deer in the Christmas section of a big box store. 'I may be able to do something with that" I thought. Home I raced and quickly decapitated the representation of a deer to create an over-the-mantle decoration for the season.

No deer were harmed in this post.

 It can take such a small breakthrough to get one energized for a project.  Now I was ready to fill the panels with a mural I had chosen some time ago.

 After a lovely mini day with Elizabeth of http://www.studioeminiatures.blogspot.com and a consultation on fabrics I began to cover the furnishings I had reserved for this house.

This chair was previously covered in a very shiny cream sateen but was easy to reupholster with cotton fabric. The small table is painted with chalk paint. Christmas tree and pastries by Elizabeth.

Lovely Bespaq cupboard bought at a Seattle Miniature Show contains two Elizabeth Causeret casseroles with lids. One from the Paris SIMP in 2017 and one matching a gift from Minteer friend Linda during her visit to the Kensington Show 2018.

 Hide on the floor cut from very fine leather.

Mantle decorated for the holidays.

Peonies by Fatima of Beauxminis, peaches by Elizabeth.

Preparations for a gathering to welcome the New Year.

Time to light the fire.

The Champagne is poured.

 Or perhaps you would prefer tea?

Tea set by Elisabeth Causeret.


I cannot help but be thankful for the view from my workroom window. It is not always so benign nor are the skies always blue but ever-changing and to me awe inspiring.

The closing of the final day of 2018.

I hope you were able to share this holiday season with family and friends.

Second Granddaughter and I wish you a very happy, healthy and safe 2019.

Warm regards and thank you for visiting.

Janine

Happy New Year 2018

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2018

This afternoon, just as the light from sunset faded a fabulous moon loosened from the horizon

Within moments a silver path traced across the Bay.  The air was cold and crisp but clear skies - what a wonderful beginning to 2018.

In the Swedish House construction continues and to celebrate a new year a small gathering is held. Food and drinks were spread on a work trestle among the unfinished renovations.

Need I say more?

The floors of the living/dining have been laid and painted in a whitewashed diamond checkerboard.

The fireplace has been installed but as the chimney has not been built Christmas lights are providing
a little cheer.

Frosted branches and pine cones are back drop to drying firewood and a few Christmas parcels still to be presented.

A silver star at the window is the only Christmas decoration - perhaps a symbol of the star that guided the Magi?

Wall panelling behind the fireplace is whitewashed cedar strips, rough cedar for the rustic ceiling beams and simple moulding on the front wall.

Wouldn't be exciting if the chandelier could be installed! Doorway on left reveals demolished kitchen.

 Hurrah, it works perfectly ...... but is it perfectly placed?

Only time will tell ......

Best wishes everyone for a happy and healthy 2018!

Janine & Bruce in Canada