Leo 2 & Summer

Always taken back to being a child in some way when I work... after all I am thinking about dogs or in this case dogs and horses..something I did always as a little girl. Leo 2 seems to be the stable mate of Summer.  Summer and Leo 2. Here is  an example of a little dog with a love to be in the same place as a horse of the same color, they have become quite good friends. A horse that has an expression on his face of kindness and a gentle loving nature. I always wait for that look to come through for that something... spark that speaks to me in some way... I can't explain. Two of my favorites right here. Oh I love horses .....to think what they have always done for us always adding new ways to help us out.

Belly Scratch

  The photo will show the reason I named the post... I spent the day organizing dogs! Not the real dogs, that happens here a lot but this was the mini dogs.  Cleaned out the display case putting sold and commission work in order.Getting ready to start the new work that the owner has been more than patient for. Unpacked Old Ted's replica.. he had been in Chicago with me and I didn't unpack him into the chaos my studio was when I got home.  I am rambling sorry. Was told once by a very close friend reading my writing is a bit like the frolicking lamb I guess here and there  ... The little dog I am writing about was one I came across and had not really given any attention to for some time.  I placed him in a Kari Bloom chair.. my fist Kari Bloom chair in fact.  So many years ago... lets not actually count.  It is to me a special collector piece, reminding me of a loved friend and a wonderful beginning to both our mini work... She makes some incredibly creative things however I asked for a simple chair that I could make my little dogs pose in.. Belly Scratch is posing today. Cute little mix of some sort he seems perfectly content to stay in this chair until someone comes along to give him a real home in a real dollhouse or roombox.  You see I obliged him the belly scratch I can never resist a belly!

Miou

 How can a kitty from Germany have such an impact with just a photo?  The online community has had such a impact on my life.. personal and business alike.  One major and very enjoyable one is the people I have met from all over the world and of course their animals.. Always about the animal for me.  A very special woman and cat touched me in that special way that has no explanation. A simple compliment on a beautiful photo has led to a deep and very heat touched relationship.. For me something strikes like lightning! I saw the picture of Miou and just felt compelled to create him in miniature.. I don't remember when I have enjoyed a project more. The fiber fell into place, the special pieces I have held onto for years seemed to be just right for Miou... When the pose is up to me I  let the animal choose.. Miou in a seated position, later I learned one of his pictures is sitting in a window with a slight glance doward.. I loved it!  He decided his pose for me.. I hope you all enjoy this little photo display of Miou.. it is rare I make a cat as I don't think it is my real calling however Miou did call to me! Enjoyed my time studying his little face in photos and getting a real feel for him.. I hope I have captured Miou in all his wonderful glory..

Old Friends

This post is to show off a Collie but it is also showing off a sofa I recently purchased from a dear old friend.. this friend and I were starting out in the business at similar times lived in the same state and just got along marvelously from the beginning. She has become someone I love dearly. Her talent and creativity are not matched. Her unique one of a kind furniture is done with the quality you would hope from a life size piece. A fine quality piece! I love this sofa I love that she made it and I am so happy to show it off for the first time with a Tri Collie... Thank you  dear friend Kari Bloom

Two Terriers

  I can't call it work when I get so much pleasure and have so much fun looking at these little dogs! These brothers are part of a family group.  The wire faced brother was the first to be made. Why he turned out to be such a plump little fellow I really don't know. You would think I would have some control over the outcome of the piece. Oddly some seem to just come out on their own with their own little look and expression to show and tell their personalities.  His look portrays "I'm going where I want and doing what I want when I get there" funny now that I think of it I have known a wire faced type of guy that felt that very way. In fact more than one.... the brother I intended to be plump, but as mentioned earlier I have no control... so he is less chubby and a bit timid. Looking to his brother for leadership.  Possibly part of him being less plump... always waiting his turn. Around here if you waited your turn for dinner you would have none.. they both wear leather collars Mr. Timid wearing one that is way too big to add to his little personality. So here is the story behind these two boys.. I hope to show the parents off very soon.

CDHM.org - Custom Dolls, Houses, & Miniatures: WooF....We Double Dog Dare You

CDHM.org - Custom Dolls, Houses, & Miniatures: WooF....We Double Dog Dare You

Janson Estate

I wanted to share a article today from a friends magazine.. Miniaturia.. a wonderful Miniature magazine from Spain. The quality of the photos and paper are a treat to have in your hand.. enjoy

    JANSON   ESTATE                                                                                                                                                                    

 

 

Welcome to Janson Estate in Pinehurst, North Carolina. The Estate comprises of Janson Manor & The Servants Quarters which are separated by a sunroom and barn.

 

The exquisite landscaping, designed and executed by the writer, enhances the beauty of this Estate. It's charm offers an invitation to all who visit to wander through its pathways , enjoying the perfume of its blooms and the gentle color of its flower's petals, The reader will notice that its mini visitors are doing exactly that. One can see them casually strolling among the blooms.

 

The time period is around the mid to late 1800's and, as usual, there is activity abuzz within its rooms and throughout its outdoor property. The lady and the gentleman of the house, Mr. & Mrs. Peter Williams, are the parents of a set of twins and make sure every attention to detail is maintained by their large staff, headed by Olga...the very stern and fair housekeeper. In one of the rooms you will find her pointing out an infraction of the rules to two contrite maids. The servants each have specific duties to perform. Lady Lucy, the white German Shepherd, is the twin's loving protector...she is with them at all times. Lord Wilson, the harlequin Great Dane, is in charge of protecting the Estate, when he is not busy romping with Maloney, his best friend and the family's handsome horse. Lord Nick, the black Great Dane, is responsible for making each guest feel welcome. He is always busy because the Manor enjoys a steady compliment of happy guests...'Entertaining' is the key word at this Estate.

 

Frivolity is abundant in the Servants Quarters' as well as in the main house. The staff entertains their visitors on their days off...such a hub of activity. Joy abounds throughout the Estate. One could say "Olga has a very well-oiled 'machine'" In spite of the large number of maids, she is able to keep the household running smoothly.

 

The Manor was built by Miniature Designs and decorated by Wilson@ Dollhouse Linens and More...he also furnished entire bedrooms, the Music Room and the Living Room. The Manor's Estate comes to life with an array of beautiful dolls...primarily by Viola's Dolls, Annemaries Dolls, and the China Doll among many others. The animals, of which there are many, are the result of Lucy Maloney's exquisite 'life-like' creations. The Manor is not lacking in friends, family and servants to depict the many activities that keep this elegant home so alive with entertainment and joy.

 

Each resident, whether human or animal, enjoys a responsibility which they perform with admirable efficiency. The viewer can see each one performing their respective duties. The residents and guests of the home are not idle either. They walk through the property, and within the rooms, chatting with others who, like themselves, are frequent visitors.

 

This is an Estate of pure magnificence...the front door is open.. it welcomes the reader to enjoy the exquisite rooms within.. It is hoped that the reader will visit often, knowing he/she is always welcome.

 

 

Janelle Smith