"Not A Creature Is Stirring On PFATT...
I have tried to get away from the "rodent" community but for some reason they keep sneaking their way in and finding a spot at the "Soft in the Head" house. I do have to admit though this little vignette kinda stole my heart. Sleepy little mouse with a half eaten cookie kinda reminds me of myself after a long night in my "ahhhhhh studio?" LOL! Cracks me up when I refer to my little cell block as my studio! If it wasn't for the fact it is the ONLY place I have to work I would NEVER set foot in it cause it is such a disaster! Well they do say "Creativity is not a pretty sight" and this old "Softee" is definitely NOT pretty!

I also have a personal favorite on PFATT this month, my little dove Noelle. I enjoy making clay birds and since my ravens were such a hit I thought I would try my hand at a Christmas dove. She is very sweet! I also have an old favorite on PFATT this month..."The McSqueaks" the cute little pilgrim mice.

Often I run across something that just says it all and I have to share......

There is only one thing about which I shall have
no regrets when my life ends.

I have savoured to the full all the small, daily joys.
The bright sunshine on the breakfast table;
The smell of the air at dusk;
The sound of the clock ticking;
The light rains that start gently after midnight;
The hour when the family come home;

Sunday evening tea before the fire!
I have never missed one moment of beauty,
Not ever taken it for granted.
Spring, summer, autumn, or winter.
I wish I had failed as little in other ways.

How many times do we say something that we immediately realized was not the right thing to say?

How many times do we look back on an event and think, if only I had....
How many times do we do something that we wish hadn't done?

You can't change what has been said.
You can't change a past event.
You can't change what has been done.

Do you call it regret, sorrow, repentance?
Do you think about what might have been?
Do you relive an event the way it should have been?

Forget about regret, and focus.
Focus on today, not on the past.
Focus on what you can do, not what you didn't do.

The only thing to regret is living in the past
The only thing to feel sorrow for is not living each day to the fullest.
The only thing to do to repent is to sincerely say, I'm sorry.
Don't live your life regretting yesterday.
Live your life so tomorrow you won't regret today.

This Just Cracked Me Up!

I have this wonderful customer, Tina Burgan, who purchased my "Bewitchin' Tyme" pattern and used it to create centerpieces for a Dental event she was doing. Can you believe the imagination that went into this. I haven't quit chuckling since she sent me the pictures. The "Fang Floss" is a riot and needless to say that grungy toothbrush would give anyone the "willies"! These are really very cool indeed! Way to go Tina....you definitely make me want to brush more, lol!

Often as I sit alone pondering new designs or working on a whimsical character my mind wanders to the days that I had no time for myself and find myself missing those days very much indeed. As the holidays grow closer the emptiness of my home bears down on my husband and I like a huge black cloud...Don't get me wrong... I love the fact our children are who they are and have taken a hold of life with a vengeance but I miss the spats, teasing and utter chaos of little feet. I never dreamed that I would have to love grandchildren via a flat screen on a computer or that it would be weeks before I would hear from one son because of civil unrest or earthquakes. Hug your children every second you get, time marches by far to quickly and empty arms is definitely that "empty". I see so many parents filling their days with so much that the children become lost in the shuffle and time continues to march on. I was guilty of this myself and now I look back and wish I had a "do-over"! If I could just see Casey dance in one more recital or sing in one more play...just one more chance to watch Chip throw that winning touchdown and one more seranade from David while he plays his guitar singing a new song he just put together....such memories! Now it is their time to find their paths and here Dan and I are cheering them on with such a tug in the ol' heart! Life is a cruel task master that it only gives us 18 years with our children and then they acquire sole ownership of their actions....not an ownership they welcome happily at times, lol. Eighteen short years to teach them about what to expect and look forward to, only if they had listened, lol....ah yes there's the rub, "IF THEY HAD LISTENED!" Dan and I have been so blessed by our three. It was a rocky road for all of us many times but because of the love and hugs, we have waded through it all and we're still able to laugh!
I think this says it best:
The family. We were a strange little band of characters trudging through life sharing diseases and toothpaste, coveting one another's desserts, hiding shampoo, borrowing money, locking each other out of our rooms, inflicting pain and kissing to heal it in the same instant, loving, laughing, defending, and trying to figure out the common thread that bound us all together. ~Erma Bombeck
Hug your kids...alot! I would if I could...I do often through cyber-space!

My Weekend Warrior! (He's the short one!)
Often I am left home alone while my "better" half goes out into the world to re-live history and march and fight along side his Virginia 7th comrades. This last weekend took him off to Williamsburg, Va. Here are a couple of great pictures of my "weekend warrior" in full costume with his prized flintlock long rifle, which by the way he is a crack shot with. I have often wished I had the same love and devotion he has for our American history and could go out into this imaginary world and enjoy it the same way he does, but alas I am the proverbial stick in the mud and prefer my warm cozy bed and electric blanket to his bed of straw and wool blanket. Dan has such a knowledge of our American history that he not only re-enacts it he gets it! I just love this man and everything that goes into making him who he is. You Go Dan...Enjoy!

Come On and join the PFATT Marketplace family tonight with all our new October offerings!
I will have some new Halloween characters making their appearance! Hope you will pop over for a peek! Meet Mystic the clay headed Raven witch...If you love Ravens then you will love "The Raven" clock with a complete copy of Poe's "The Raven" hiding inside.....And for some serious chuckles meet "Chester the Jester" a very funny pumpkin head that is mounted on top of a vintage silver plated candlestick! Happy Halloween All!


Mystic the Raven Witch........Poe's Raven Clock........Chester the Jester

"Soft in the Head"...set up and READY!
Many people can tell you about having butterflies when they are under stress or excited about an upcoming event...but how many can tell you about fire-breathing gerbils with road rage racing around in their stomachs..."ME"...and I have a big enough stomach for lots and lots of road rage! I don't think I have ever been so excited and nauseated at the same time. I didn't know, only having 6 weeks to prepare, that I would have enough character's for this show...well I did! I also didn't know where "Soft in the Head" could possibly fit in with this group of just simply amazing artists, but guess what, I did! It was fun to see the expression on my husbands face as he looked around at this incredible group of talented and humble individuals. The warmth and sincere appreciation they have for each other was so comforting and a bit emotional, well for me anyway! As I have traveled down this road of artistic discovery I have often stumbled and fallen over a huge ego or two which has kept me on the straight and narrow. I had an epiphany when I was surrounded with the likes of Scott Smith, Nicol Sayre, Paul Gordon and Stephanie & Vaughn Rawson, Sheila Bentley, Will Bezek, Allen Cunningham, Lori Ann Corelis and the list goes on and on...as I stood there being hugged and smiled at and completely made at ease... I realized "here is the A team of artists and there is NOT one ego among any of them, they are friends and comrades. They all have the same goal...celebrate their art and have fun doing it! Help other artists do the same! OMG...this was "ART Mecca"....I had finally found a place where I fit! I was constantly picking my jaw up off the floor at the imaginations that came to life around me. If you love Halloween and have a real passion for it...you have got to go to this show! You will NEVER be the same! If it hadn't been for the encouragement from Joycee, Lori and Dan (hubby) I might have turned the car around and came home...I was speechless at what I saw (and any of you that know me know that would be a miracle in itself, me speechless). Okay now for some pictures.....


Our Meeting Before Set-Up at the Hotel....













Scott Smith and Me (I'm the chubbyone) and a peek of his table!

















Nicol Sayre and Me (she's the pretty one) Paul Gordon (who I adore)

















My Buddy Carolee's booth (sadly no Carolee)












Will Bezek (dressed in the actual costume from "Ghostrider" movie...too cool!
)












Allen Cunningham (just the sweetest)and his work!













Lori Ann Corelis' table (sadly no Lori Ann)












Vaughn and Stephanie Rawson's work (Stephanie kept me sane! I adore her!)












Sheila Bentley and Me (again she's the pretty one)..Let me just tell ya...I was next to Shelia and when the doors opened it was like a feeding frenzy at her table...it was unreal! WTG Sheila!









Dara DiMagno and her incredible jewelry (Dara is my new best friend!)...









Lori Brechlin of Notforgotten Farms' table..AMAZING WORK! Lori and I are neighbors here in Virginia!










Soft in the Head...Before (and under my table was full) and Soft in the Head after (and under the table was empty) WHOA WHAT A RIDE!!!!!!
I miss getting pictures of so many of the artists there, but by the time I had gotten set up there just wasn't time. The lines were so long at the doors that I think we all felt more comfortable staying close to our tables than wandering around. Heck we could have gotten trampled in the wake of thundering feet if we weren't careful. I want to take some time here to thank some wonderful friends. You all came out to see me and your support and encouragement meant so much that mere words just can't express it. Thank you Michelle you mean more to me than you will ever know and Jamie is everything I thought he would be, Teresa B. you being there was inspirational and emotional...I have admired you for years...Jan what can I say but thank you from the bottom of my heart...Cynthia you have always been special to me, thank you!....Theresa M. You are definitely more than a Facebook friend...thank you so much! Mary Ann it was so good putting a face with the name and hugging you, you have always been so good to me...Kathy you made me cry, I miss you! Lori and Joycee nothing can EVER be said that could compare to how I feel about the two of you! A very special thank you to Brenda who couldn't make the show but made it to see me at my hotel...We love you Bren and Max you are the "Man"! LOL! All in all this trip has given me an entirely new look at my characters and my life. I have grown in so many ways from this show and not just around my waist, lol...Scott thank you for believing in me and giving me this incredible opportunity! Now it is time to start planning for next year! WOO-HOOOOOOO!

Dan and I have packed our "Ghoultide" characters in the ol' Softee mobile and we are heading out to Michigan. My nails have been chewed down to the quick and my stomach is in knots but I am sooooo excited! I know I'm going into the "Halloween Artists" mecca and will be completely over-whelmed by the talent that will be on display there but I have a wee bit of confidence some of my "little softee's" will hold their own (I hope they will)! I'm beginning to think that Dan is more excited about this new adventure cuz he seems to have found quite a spring in his step since his knee surgery two weeks ago.
I love going on road trips with him.....everything is an adventure! Even if I walk away from this amazing opportunity with as many characters as I brought I will still have the memories of being invited, getting to meet my artist hero's and having drinks with my PFATT and EHAG friends! LOOK OUT NORTHVILLE, MI. HERE COMES THE SOFTER SIDE OF HALLOWEEN!
Introducing "Stretch the Pumpkin" and "Frog-cula"!

LOOK AT MY NEW DISPLAYERS!!!!

They are being shipped to me today. I am so thrilled. I found the greatest woodworkers, Carol and Brad Bryan, and they live in North Carolina. I needed something special for "Ghoultide Gatherings" and I think these will fit the bill just fine! I only have a six foot table to get all my "goodies" on so these will help with all my little critters. I am doin' the happy dance! I am down to my last 33 dolls to finish before next week! Wish me luck!!!!!

Wax Never Smelled So Good!
Since my little "Christmas Mouse" came out in the "Better Homes and Garden" craft issue I have taken a more aggressive look at "Blackened Beeswax". Sharon Mitchell of "Homespun Heart" provided the little black beeswax candles for my little mouse. She is the one I have often turned to for her opinion about beeswax, quality, molds and the whole process. I love the smells and textures of this very old art form. I have purchased many of Sharon's pieces and always love displaying them in my old country store/home. One of Sharon's favorite beeswax artists is Janet Gerding of "Bee Charmers Cottage". I love drooling over her pieces of beeswax art and often having to remind myself that it is wax.

I have noticed many individuals trying their own hand at this art form...Maybe someday when I have more time and a bit more confidence I will consult with the experts and give it a try....but in the meantime I will continue shopping at HomespunHeartPrimitives.blogspot.com and www.beecharmerscottage.com

Guess Where I'm Going?????
Ah-h-h Miss Lenore is packed with her sisters for the trip to Michigan Oct.2. I am still buried in body parts with a small light at the end of the tunnel. I have serious hopes of completing all that needs to be done. Sleep? What's that? I find that when I don't sleep I have a goal to work towards...I have visions of my nice soft pillow and warm flannel sheets calling my name and lulling me towards the bedroom. This of course gets my hands working faster and my sewing machine begins to go into over-drive! I have my own little "sweat shop" here at the "House of Soft" having trained my cats to stuff and paint and work for kibble! I don't think I have ever seen paws move so fast! I have a contest started....the first cat to finish their quota will receive a baggie of freshly mixed catnip and their own drool bib. Right now it seems that Casper is in the lead over Seamus and Issa but Issa is coming up fast!

I just signed an agreement with Keebler and should be receiving some elves this weekend. Wow maybe then I can get a nap! I am sure looking forward to meeting everyone at Ghoultide...and yes Sharon I will remember to take your magazine so Joycee and Scott can sign it for you. Time to hit the sweat shop, I think Seamus is trying to start a revolt!

Looky What I Got! Woo-Hoooo!
An absolutely wonderful customer/friend Sharon Gobbo from "down under in Australia" sent me this amazing collage. Notice the skeleton...it has the head from my "Soft in the Head" logo! I can't begin to express my joy upon seeing this! THANK YOU SHARON!!!! There is never anything an artist will treasure more than when they receive a piece of art that is made especially for them. This is truly amazing! I LOVE IT! I am such a Halloween collector and lover that this fits right in with my life and home! If anyone ever asks me why I love my business so-o-o-o much here is the reason...it's the "people"! It is their warmth, sincerity, kindness, love, and friendship that makes every "Soft in the Head" creation shine! THANK YOU AGAIN SHARON!!!!

OH MY...the Pressure! Getting ready For Ghoultide!
I have put the headphones on and have gone off to the mystical land of "Soft". I plan on re-surfacing after October 3rd with the hopes of new friends, customers and a few ducats in my pocket. I will be entering the surreal world of "Ghoultide Gatherings". I will be rubbing elbows and gawking with adolescent glee at my heroes of this art world. Artists that I have only read about and dampened the pages of the magazine with my drool....ewww. I can only hope that "Soft in the Head" has the creative stuff that these artists are made of in order to hang with them and not feel grossly out of place....kinda like how one would feel arriving at a formal dinner wearing a burlap bag. Wish me luck my faithful friends! As you can see by some of these pictures I am definitely not worried about neatness....move-over "PigPen" there's a new slob in town and she is on a mission!

My Buddy Rennie Para sailing!
Rennie and I have had many adventures in our 47 years as friends, some together and some alone, but they have all been story worthy! This is one of Rennie's latest, "para sailing". Her husband Daryl had been doing it for years so it was no surprise to me to hear that Rennie had and is doing it! She has always loved feeling one with nature, but I honestly don't think there is a better place to do that than in the sky soaring with the birds! I believe we all need to grab a hold of every opportunity we get to live, really live! Whether is just a walk along a beach or your neighborhood, seize the moment and live. See the world through "new" eyes and experiences. Open your mind and heart! You will find it to be the best gift you can give yourself! I especially love when I take a wrong turn cause it always sends me on the road to a new adventure!

Who Said You Can NEVER Go Home Again?????
Just got back from 10 days of traveling with my "bestest" friend...When Rennie comes to visit and we plan an adventure together anything can happen! We have had many adventures in our 47 years of friendship, some are memorable and some....well let's not go there! This last adventure was memorable and then some! When we were growing up together on the west coast I used to hear Rennie tell me stories of her life on the east coast where her roots started and the memories began. It's great to put faces with those stories! What a fantastic and exhausting past 10 days ....I saw seven states, visited many wonderful people and became a grandma for the 6th time. Whew! I'm tired just thinking about it! I was also able to do some of my own visiting along the way. I made a stop in Newburgh, New York and spent time with my dear friends Sharon and Mark Mitchell and their daughter Karissa. I love them so much and it isn't often we can get togehter. We had a blast...maybe it had something to do with my "NEVER" empty wine glass, lol! Good Times! I was also able to get to Vermont and touch base with friends who I haven't seen since I left and also to pass my condolences in person to a new re-kindled friend, Stacey Mead. They buried her father the day before I arrived. What an amazing man he was having earned over 100 medals while in the service including 4 purple hearts and 3 bronze stars.....Simply amazing! We saw fields of sunflowers in Massachusetts and beautiful farms in Upstate New York and Vermont. We had to take pictures of the decorated moose in Bennington, Vermont. The imagination that went into the designs of these moose that you would find scattered throughout the town was sensational and caused quite a few giggles! We especially loved the "John Deere Moose". While in New York we visited the town of New Paltz. Rennie had many fond memories spending time on her grandfathers farm there. The farm is now a shopping center but still the memories hang on and you could almost envision the farm and its family. We traveled down "Huguenot Street" which is the oldest existing street in the country. We visited the fort and other buildings that have been kept in pristine condition for hundreds of years. I LOVED IT! Here are pictures of "Huguenot Street", family and the incredible New England country. The picture of "Chuck" the woodchuck was taken in my backyard. He missed us while were gone and came out of hiding to express his eagerness to see us return to Virginia!

Our New Grandson has arrived!
Our new little bundle of joy arrived this morning after weeks of preventing an early arrival. He made his entrance with a loud squall and much to-do which made everyone sign with relief, his lungs were in perfect working order. Dan and I can't wait to hold our new little grandson and we are counting the days till Christmas as we are hoping to be celebrating with the "Dunbridge" family in California . This new addition to our family is being blessed with the name "Grayson Allan Dunbridge". I can't wait till brothers Jude and Ethan meet him. Our beautiful daughter, Casey, wanted one of her three boys to have a part of her maiden name and family and decided on Grayson, which means "Full of Grace" and her maiden name Gracia means "Grace" in Portugese. We are thrilled with the choice and feel it is a strong name for a strong boy! Go forth Grayson and make your mark in this world but always be humble about it!

Trick or Tweet Pin-Keep............ Miss Holly Christmas Mouse......... Edgar B. Drifty








Here are some new "Soft in the Head" patterns. This little "Pin-Keep" was such a hit on Simply Primitives last month that I decided to make it a pattern...."Miss Holly" is making her debut in the "Country Sampler" magazine next month but for all my "blog" followers you will get first DIBS on this new pattern. The last one may look a bit familiar to you...he was in Better Homes and Gardens Holiday issue last year. "Edgar B. Drifty" now belongs to me again and I am able to have him ,join the "Soft in the Head" family of patterns. Just email me at: softinthehead@gmail.com if you would like any or all of these new patterns! Shipping on new patterns will start August 27, 2009 since I will be traveling again....

Stopping In New York and Then On To Vermont!
I'm picking up my bestest buddy today and we are goin' on a road trip. She is originally from the New England/ New York area and comes out annually to visit family. Funny thing though...when we met 45 years ago she was living on my turf, the Northwest, now I live out here on her turf, the east coast and she remained in the Northwest. It was much easier when I lived in Vermont to do the traveling thing cause everyone was closer and we could catch a Red Sox game in Boston... but she does have family here in Virginia so we will be seeing them before our trek North. I am so excited cause we will be stopping over in Newburgh, New York to visit with my buddies Sharon Mitchell and her daughter Karissa. I miss them so much.....This will be an adventure and I am really looking forward to it. I can't wait to see Vermont again and visit old friends in Manchester, West Pawlett, Poultney, and Rutland. My bags are packed and I am ready to go....but my laptop is coming with me, lol!

Daddy and Jude Swimming in North Carolina!

Okay I am definiely going to be that "Grandmother" who makes everyone suffer through the pictures of her grandkids....Is Jude just the cutest little swimmer. Daddy and Jude went to North Carolina to visit his other grandparents and also to give mommy a little break before baby #3 arrives....I truly love my grandkids and in about 2 weeks we will have #6.....Life is good!

Meet Hester Boggles....Nessie Nettles and Jolly Harvest...








This month on PFATT I have a very disgruntled "Sour Puss" Miss Hester Boggles of the New England Boggles.....a little witch mouse named "Nessie Nettles" that has an obsession with Hide and Seek....and the sweetest little pumpkin guy "Jolly" that will take care of all your sewing notions! Gotta love Halloween!

Now Is The Time To Help Each Other....
I had a wonderful opportunity recently to have some of my patterns published in a great magazine, Better Homes and Gardens Holiday Crafts". I have heard from so many of you either through email, my blog or Facebook that you have purchased this magazine. If you will look in the back of the magazine, I believe it is page 108 under"Sources" you will see that I listed a couple of very dear friends as sources for some of the supplies that I used. Sharon Mitchell of "Homespun Heart Primitives" is one of my oldest and dearest friends and I was able to use her wonderful mini black beeswax candles with my Christmas mouse pattern (a personal favorite). How about if all of you that will be making this mouse do the same and order your candles from Sharon. She is another hard working folk artist that would benefit from the sales....besides her stuff is da bomb! You can find Sharon on her blog: HomespunHeartPrimitives.blogspot.com The other wonderful individual that I used as a source is Fran Banas the owner of Cloth Doll Supply. I have known Fran for many years back when she thought she would throw this old dog a bone and carry my patterns. Since then we have developed a unique and tight internet friendship. If you have never shopped with Fran now is the time to give her a chance. She carries everything for the everyday doll maker from muslin to shoe wax! You can find Frannnnnnnny (as I call her)at: www.clothdollsuppy.com and be sure to tell her Pammmmmmmmy sent ya!

After writing everybody's name on little slips of paper and putting all the names into my "Sorting Hat" and shaking, and shaking and shaking....the names drawn are: Snicker, Snicker....Laurie Hardin (way to go Laurie!)of "Monkey Cat Studios" and Cynthia of "Cynthia Lee Designs".....Please email me with your addresses. Thank you everyone for being a part of "Soft in the Head". I wish I could make enough for everyone! You guys rock!

Well slap me silly and call me Billy Bob, I made the cover of Better Homes and Gardens! It may be a small little insert but there it is. Wow who would have thought that me Pam Gracia would EVER land on the cover of anything? The entire magazine is worth buying. Johanna Parker, a fellow PFATTIE and friend, has some awesome candlesticks in the magazine along with other designers who have great ideas for the upcoming Holiday season. This year they combined Halloween and Christmas....Good Job BHG!

Sometimes life has a way of being like an annoying little gnat that just keeps buzzing in your face until you finally make contact and "WHAM" it's gone! This last year I have made it my "game plan" to try and be the kind of person that my family and friends(especially my grandkids) can be proud of. Often this task has taken me down some pretty bumpy roads but I must say I have become a better person because of it. It seems, I have also gathered a rather unsavory following from New England that likes to poke their evil head into my world numerous times a day. Instead of being annoyed by this I find it gives me "the giggles" and makes my day! They know who they are and I am sure they will be reading this post. Hi There!!!!!! Any who....any time we can take the selfish antics of others and turn them around to bring sunshine into our world seems like a good day to me!

I do have some dark days ahead with receiving some devastating news concerning a dear family member. I hope that we can find strength in our family, friends and spirit to get through what will be an emotional roller coaster for those I love. Life can be a cruel task master and test us often....but I hold onto my faith to help me endure!

I have many grueling days ahead getting ready for the event "Ghoultide Gatherings". The response to me being a member of this prestigious group has been amazing and heartwarming. Thank you EVERYONE for giving me the confidence to go forth and create! I still think Scott is a bit insane for inviting this "old bag of tricks" but I am sure glad he did. For all of you out there that work hard trying to find yourself in your art....keep plugging along. I am living proof that it pays off! Not always with money but with a true sense of who and what you are! For the first time in many years I can call myself a true artist and mean it! Wow never thought that day would ever come...still scares me a bit! Find some time in your day just to sit back and look up and say "Thank You"!

Oh My! I think I'm getting a might to old for this kind of experience.....OUCH! I had to have one of my lower canine teeth pulled today. I cracked my tooth sometime ago and it just never healed right and needed to be removed and an implant put in its place. I'm absolutely miserable right now but the pain meds are giving me some awesome new ideas for characters...a bit on the scary side but still pretty darn awesome, LOL! Okay, I have stuck the remnants of my tooth under my pillow and I will be waiting for the "Tooth Fairy" to arrive. Every little bit will help to pay my dentist bill...that's where the real pain is coming from "YE-OW"!

The Adventures of "Despereaux Tilling"

Welcome to the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who is in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It is also the story of a rat called Roscuro, who lives in the darkness and covets a world filled with light. And it is the story of Miggery Sow, a slow-witted serving girl who harbors a simple, impossible wish. These three characters are about to embark on a journey that will lead them down into a horrible dungeon, up into a glittering castle, and, ultimately, into each other's lives. And what happens then? As the author Kate DiCamillo would say: "Reader, it is your destiny to find out.
My grandson fell in love with this story of a 'humble" little mouse who becomes a hero. So as a gift I was able to purchase a signed "by the author" copy of this amazing book for him for his birthday. Books are very special to me and I am hoping to pass this passion on to my grand kids. I know that Dan and I were very fortunate that our own children (now adults) have the same passion we do for reading and collecting books. I thoroughly enjoy how characters from books can inspire us with ideas that we use to create the characters that we have living inside us. I'm sure little Despereaux has inspired many artists with his cuteness and innocence. Maybe I should try making a little "Despereaux" as my next project!

Check Us Out! Soft in the Head X 3!!!!!
The Holiday issue of Better Homes and Gardens is hitting the stands August 5th or sooner. I actually will be having 3 new patterns (some changed a bit from some older ones) going into the magazine this year. I had to re-vamp a couple of older designs cause the editor really wanted them....and who am I to deny the editor, lol! Mice are still the rage and I have a couple in their magazine. My Christmas mouse was designed for the editor using her ideas. She loved the fact that I did it. I think it was "wishful thinking" when she asked me what I thought of doing a mouse with a candle and wearing a night hat! I think this guy turned out great...let's see if my arm is long enough to pat myself on the back? You can get all these patterns for free in the "Better Homes and Gardens Holiday Craft Issue". This is a wonderful group of folks to work for. I also want to thank Sharon Mitchell of "Homespun Heart Primitives" for the candle the little mouse is carrying. She made it for me and you can get then through her blog: HomespunHeart Primitives.blogspot.com
I would also like to thank Fran Banas of Clothdoll Supply for her rusty wire, jar lids, safety pins and muslin. I have been a member of Fran's wonderful site for years with my patterns and she has a great place for all your sewing needs and supplies....and a great variety of patterns from some fantastic designers! I hope you all will enjoy the new "Soft in the Head" patterns from Better Homes and Gardens!

Meet "Celebrate" the Mouse!
I think as a small business person we sometimes forget to say "Thank You" enough. My customers sometimes get lost in the daily shuffle of trying to keep eveything looking fresh and new and just plain ol' staying afloat! I am having another give away to let all of you, my incredible customers, followers and friends know just how much I appreciate each and every one of you! I wish I could make 10,000 mice so each one of you could have a piece of "Soft in the Head" as a true and sincere thank you!.....Since the elves are on strike (silly elves) and the fairies are on vacation it is just me and I was only able to make two. I have two party mice named "Celebrate" to give away, the one pictured in an orange tutu and another one just like it but in a black tutu.

To enter this drawing just leave a comment, preferably a "nice" one, lol, and you will be entered. If you want to triple your chances become a follower on my blog and I will enter you 3 times. If you are already a follower just let me know and I will enter you 3 times.

I want all of you to know that the "spirit" of Soft in the Head is in its customers and followers. You are the ones that inspire me! Without you, my imagination would not thrive and my spark would surely fade. THANK YOU ALL!

The Frog Prince.....
I am attempting to find my way back to Ebay. I left Ebay a little over a year ago when they began changing their format and fees. I found that selling a $10 pattern was not a good way to make money on Ebay after all the fees and my cost of goods was deducted so-o-o-o I started selling on some great selling sites like TDIPT (which I am no longer on), PFATT Marketplace and Simply Primitives. With the encouragement and the uncomfortable boot in the backside from some of my internet buddies "Soft in the Head" is back on Ebay.

I belong to two incredible Ebay groups....PFATT and EHAG! You can always find me by typing either of those into the search line or just linking from my ebay tab above here on my blog. Right now I have two characters up for auction...."The Frog Prince" and "Magda the PODD Witch". Everyone keeps telling me to hang in there because it does take some time to get your "groove" on with Ebay....so I am hanging in there and hoping for the best! BUT EBAY IS SKEEEERY!!!!!

I have always encouraged reading in our family which was never a difficult thing to do with our kids. The fact of the matter is I am a HUGE book collector so they always had access to all kinds of different worlds, situations and fantasy to grab them and hold their interest. Besides Dan and I made a point to read to them every night while they were young. Our kids grew up with C.S. Lewis, J.M. Barrie and Lewis Carroll and the list goes on. Now I get to watch my grandchildren grow up with J.K. Rowling and her amazing "Harry Potter" books! I am a "Harry Potter" nut and I know I'm in good company because most, if not all, my friends are just as nutty about Harry as I am. Sooooo Dan and I are off this weekend to absorb and be entertained by yet another Harry Potter movie....I may be a Muggle but I have the heart of a wizard/witch and it seems so does our granddaughter Abby!

A New Interest and Exciting Info!
Because of the interest that my little witch print stirred I started to do some research into woodcut illustrations. This was an art form that back in the 18th century was being sold for a penny on the streets of London and so they “caught a penny” for the seller, hence the name "Catch Penny". CATCHPENNY prints offer a closeup look of life in the 1700s. You can find these woodcut illustrations adorning and brightening homes while adding a bit of history in the process. A wonderful artist named Katie Estavold uses these wonderful illustrations in her amazing Ladye Theatres, ornaments and on her journals. There are many artists that offer classes to teach this beautiful, and I bet fun, technique. I, myself, own a few works from some artists that have used this technique and I sing their praises. Someday, when my time isn't so precious, I will search out Katie to see if she will be teaching a class or two using this woodcut illustration technique. In the meantime I can enjoy the quaint framed pieces I own and my images, like my witch, here on my blog.....

If anyone is interested in participating in one of Katie's classes here's a link: Katie Estavold...Ms. Witch class
This isn't a "woodcut illustrated Theatre" class but a quaint doll class. Traveling to and shopping different selling sites you can see quite a few artists that have learned Katie's techniques and are using her style creating their dolls. I'm in love with this latest creation of hers....but I do have a soft spot for pumpkinheads!

Isn't He Cute.....
As many of you know my husband, Dan, is a re-enactor. He dons his 1770's clothing and accessories like a man on a mission and with a real passion. He loves our history and enjoys being a part of bringing it to life and living it. Recently he was at the Smithfield Plantation here in Blacksburg, Virginia for the fourth of July participating in a bit of our history. In a land of log cabins and physical hardship, Smithfield provided a haven of aristocratic elegance and became the social and political center of the country during the Revolutionary war. Dan loves the place and thoroughly enjoys the group in his company. I have yet to make it there but I will soon. In the mean time I get to see my better half (seriously) get dressed up and wear a huge grin as he sets forth to go play soldier! Oh and by the way....Dan throws a mean tomahawk!

I LOVE THIS DRAWING!!!!

I absolutely love this drawing of a witch that my dear friend Sharon sent to me a few years back. I was looking for a vintage/colonial type drawing for a piece I was doing and she found this on the internet and sent it to me. I have since seen it used many times by others. I love witches in all shapes and sizes, especially ones that have been grasped by an artists imagination and been transformed into a piece of pure delight!

Well enough of my daydreaming....I just want to remind everyone about "Simply Primitives"....It will be going up tonight and I have some real treats (lol) being listed. So pop on over and take a look tonight, tomorrow or in a day or two and enjoy a blast to the past and some sure fire "eye candy"! www.simplyprimitives.com

Trying Something New and Fun.....
I don't know about the rest of you out there in "Artist Land" but I truly have a tough time trying anything I am not familiar with, you know something new? While paperclay is nothing new, me using it is. I am also a very proud and shy, yes shy, person about asking how to do something. I got burned once, quite severely, asking for help with a project from another artist so I shy away from classes by other artists and asking to many questions. I am very fortunate though to belong to an amazing group of women, "THE PFATTIES" that think nothing about reaching out their long arm of experience and helping the less knowledgeable, like me! I have learned so much from these women about art and life in the art world....NEVER SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF and BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!

I guess I am rambling on about this because of my latest creation "Greta the Crow". I can't tell you how excited I am about how she turned out...simply amazing, well for me amazing, lol! I seriously think she is one of my favorite creations. I am also excited to announce that she sold to a wonderful friend and artist! THANK YOU NANCY! Having Nancy purchase Greta was such a compliment to me especially as I travel down this scary and unknown road of the world of paperclay! I think all artist type people should travel outside their comfort zone and enrich themselves with the new and undiscovered! You NEVER know what might come forth from your mind to your hands. Heck any of us could be the next Michaelangelo! Okay that's pushing the envelope a might but ya never know! Well I do know a few words of Italian so I'm at least headed in the right direction...

>The PFATT Marketplace is Having " JINGLE TIME JULY"

It's Christmas in July at the PFATT Marketplace! Come on over everyone and celebrate with a bit of Christmas cheer. Enter for the giveaways!

"Soft in the Head" will introduce you to Jingles the singing and dancing mouse, Lucious and Glory, two mice with the Christmas Spirit and Greta a very unusual crow. Grab your beverage of choice and get comfortable and start shopping. PFATT is even a nice place to just visit and relax.

check it out on the 10th on: PFATT MARKETPLACE

Meet Mrs. Hutchins
When Mrs. Hutchins made her appearance a few months back as a finished character she was VERY popular. I thought at that time she would make a great new addition to the Halloween line of "Soft in the Head" patterns....soooo here she is.

Next is Mrs. Potts a mouse with a curious need to serve tea so when visiting be sure to bring a crumpet or two to share. She too was a finished character some months back and was very popular with so many that I thought that she should be expanded and shared as a new "Soft in the Head" pattern.

Each pattern sells for $10.00 and this includes shipping. To order just email me at: softinthehead@gmail.com Please remember these patterns are copyright protected. Seems silly that I need to remind some people of that huh?

My Little Brother.....
Often we hear amazing stories about miracles and blessings that happen to people, but we never think that it could happen to us. We might wish it would but deep down I think we believe miracles are left to others. Well I have to share a miracle and a blessing that did happen to my family...not my immediate family but to my brother. Some of you already know but I'm going to share with everyone now.
Twenty years ago my brother lost his daughter. It was a messy divorce and some sneaky manipulations were involved so that his ex wife could run off with his little girl. I think it broke my brothers spirit when this happened. He dutifully paid his child support every month through the courts but never had any idea where his daughter was. About a month ago my brother received a phone call from a young woman...his daughter! She was living in Alaska and with the advice of her best friend went searching for her father. My brother got to spend Father's Day with his daughter, a daughter that he hadn't seen in 20 years! Miracles and dreams do happen. My brother has spent all those years hoping and praying that his little girl would return and she did. I even got to talk to my neice while she was visiting my brother, what a thrill. I am a firm believer that we don't re-visit the past when starting out new. You take each new day and make a memory and let that day become your yesterday and your past. I thank the" powers that be" for re-uniting Stephanie with her dad, my brother Mark! Blessed Be!

We Should All Work Together!
Like anything in life finding a good balance with your business is essential. Sometimes if we reach out to a fellow artist or business person and we find that we just might have something the other person needs or wants and so begins the bartering system. We also are able to find those that have unusual and wonderful items of interest that can be shared with others. The reason for my weekly posts about my friends and fellow artists is to get the word out there about what they have and the quality of the items.

This week I would like to introduce everyone to someone that I truly admire: Sandy Wood from "Sam I Am Creations". Sandy is a miracle worker when it comes to graphics. If there is ever anything you might need for your blogs, webs, anything, she's the one to contact . She is a designer extraordinaire. Sandy has designed all my banners for my blogs and selling sites. She does all the artwork for the PFATT Marketplace and the ads that PFATT have in certain magazines and on Ebay. For some wonderful eye candy check out Sandy at: www.samiamcreations.com

Next I would like to introduce Gina Cooper of "Cat Nap Inn". She sells all kinds of wonderful items we can use to spruce up our homes, whether it be for comfort or to smell really good Gina's got it. I met Gina on my travels out west. She presented me with the most awesome "hip bag". The work on this bag was genius and will last me for many years. Heck she even embroidered my name in it. Check out her incredible pillows, very nice, at: The Catnap Inn

The next individual is an old friend. Though we have never met in person we have always had a special bond...Michelle Sylvia of "The Blackberry Briar". She and I go way back to the time she lived in New Hampshire and me in Vermont. Michelle was one of my very first pattern customers. I have so much respect and love for Michelle. She is a true and caring person and an amazing artist. Michelle also has her own line of incredible soy candles. Now I have not purchased one for myself but I can tell you that the hub-bub on the internet is that they are the BEST! There is no finer tribute than the word from other artists about the quality of work and the word about Michelle's soy candles is nothing short of "AMAZING"!!!! Check them out at: The Blackberry Briar

These are wonderful and incredible artists....visit them and do some shopping. You will not be disappointed. Hmmmm I wonder who I will feature next week???? So many and so little time, lol!

It's Christmas In July On TDIPT!!!
" Midnight Ride" with St. Jack
It may be Christmas in July on TDIPT but it's October at my house! I thought I would combine the two seasons....I mean it worked for Tim Burton! I did manage to get a bit more into the Christmas spirit with "Miss Cimblecorn" the church music director. She is busy preparing all her little charges for the Christmas pageant.

I was very lucky while visiting a second hand store not to far from me here in Virginia and got this amazing vintage child's shoe. It was just calling out for Little Hedgewick the Mouse Witch. I could see her sitting patiently with her broom and "WAH LA" here she is! I love my little mice...they always have such a personality and no two ever look alike!

This will be my last month on TDIPT! It is beginning to get crazy here with magazine deadlines, custom orders and designing some new patterns. I really needed to eliminate some of my stress so I can enjoy my life and still make a living. I want to take some time to visit friends this year and I have my shows to prepare for. I will still continue to be on PFATT Marketplace and Simply Primitives and now Ebay. Visit me and please if you have any questions just let me know....

Meet Lady McCath..a Spirited Feline!
After a year of being away I am headed back to ebay. Since being asked to be a part of the EHAG (Eclectic Halloween Artist Group) I figured it was time. I'm hoping that I will be able to maintain it and keep it fresh often. I do love Halloween and this will be a great way to keep the ol' Halloween imagination alive and going strong. Hope you will take some time and visit the "Soft in the Head" characters that I will be introducing on ebay.

My first new character is "Lady Mac Cath"....she is lost feline soul who has gone to the darkside. She roams the halls of her ancient and decaying castle looking for her next victim, while quoting Shakespeare the entire tyme. You will see her lighting the way with her melted candle and carrying a snack. I do love cats and Lady Mac Cath was an adventure to make......Wish me luck!

With Cuteness!
Everyday I praise the "powers that be" for the internet. I'm able to watch my grandkids grow and see my own children flourish....where ever they may be this month!

This picture is of Ethan, my little namesake. No my name isn't really Ethan but Ethan does share my middle name of Kay (very Nordic of his parents). From the time he was born he was very secure and happy being #2 son and having BIG brother Jude being the out going "Alpha" child. Let me tell you though this #2 son is leaving his mark, whether it be strawberries on the back of a chair or bananas on the ceiling he is a force to be reckoned with! Smooches to my little buddy....oh darn I just smudged my computer screen....that's not good! Where's the screen cleaner?
Jude, Popcorn and Transformers....... Jude and Daddy are taking in the Saturday matinee of Transformers....I remember when Saturdays were all about those awesome, adventure type movies. I was no different than my grandson Jude when it came to "MY" big bag of popcorn and some M&M's and then I would snuggle back in my chair and prepare myself for the ride of a lifetime. I so wish I was there to watch Jude's eyes get big and watch him shovel popcorn into his wide open mouth as though he is in a daze...Some things never change as the years go on....Make a memory Jude!

I've noticed that this quality of speaking my mind and being so incredibly honest carries with it such a burden. A burden that at times makes me feel like a real "PUNKIN' HEAD" a head filled only with mush and seeds and not an ounce of "common sense".......My kids use to laugh at some of the things that would come out of this mouth of mine...sometimes blaming it on to much medication or a bit of the bubbly. Neither, of course was true, well I don't think it was true! Now I am worried! Could I be one of these women that is souring with age? Am I becoming a "curmudgeon"? Oh No not a "CURMUDGEON"! That would be the kiss on death!...I just had a flash of me sitting alone, old and gray with a toothless snarl and complaining about the weather....OH MY!!!!!! I still have time to change, I hope. No more soap boxes for this girl, well at least for a while. I am going to hang up my cape and focus on the task a hand.....my business and hope that no more crusades cross over into the" Land of Soft". But...to all you gossip mongers, imagination stealers, and all around bad hair people, know this....I am out there and I am watching.

*****************************************Found this and Love It!***************************************

I HAVE A MOUSE STALKER!!!!!!
This business comes with a lot of senseless hull-a-baloo and greed. A person (me for instance) can spend sometimes days trying to figure out a design and/or vignette and "POOF" just like that someone comes to your blog and takes it away and calls it theirs! You know I hate the word "copy", it's such an overly used word and so many people out in the art world sling it around like a Frisbee on Saturdays at the park. I kinda like using imitate, duplicate, resemble or my old time fav reproduce! I am being hit pretty hard right now with this ridiculous act by someone that seems to like visiting my blog sometimes 10-12 times a day. They REALLY like my mice pictures and proceed to check every single one of them out. Well needless to say I had to check this person out and "Low and Behold" they are selling patterns. Now not just any pattern mind you but they are selling "MOUSE" patterns and oddly enough the mice look just like a pattern that I started selling in 2006....Wow isn't that something? Why is this necessary? Does an individual really get gratification from creating something from another persons imagination. Personally I think the gratification should come from knowing you did it on your own. All ARTISTS can stand back and know they created what they have with bits and pieces of themselves inside their work, this is why stealing any part of it is criminal.....To my mouse stalker....just know I'm watching and I do have an attorney in the family. I'm a generous soul by nature and I will let some things slide once and then my darkside starts to get antsy.....

Who Would Have Thunk!!!!
So many things have happened to me along this very unexpected journey that I have been taking for the past 15 years but none has been as exciting and yet as nerve racking as joining the "Ghoultide Gathering" gang. I will be in the company of artists that I, personally, have held near and dear to my heart. To be able to meet your idols is one thing but for them to feel your work warrants being alongside theirs is surreal! I am so honored and yet I can't seem to find a way to keep these old fat knees of mine from knocking together at the approaching date.

Scott Smith of "Rucus Studios" designed this beautiful ad. I have been told this is the Halloween Event of the year....so if any of you can make it do it, you won't be disappointed and you will get to meet the artists behind all this incredible talent in person! Be sure to check out the ad in the " Somerset Holiday & Celebration" magazine and if you present the ad you will receive a discount on your admission. If you look close at this ad you might see this humble little pumpkin guy, you know the one down on the left corner....yep that's the one! He's mine! I'm not proud or anything am I????

Sticking Together In Tough Times......
I may live in a store but I do most of my shopping online. Many of my friends on my favorite list sell more than just dolls or characters...they sell "ART" and the items needed to make the art!. What I am going to do is start to profile some of my favorite people and what they have in order to share with everyone that visits here. Some of these artist sell some quality materials and need to have the word spread far and wide about it.....So here I am yelling far and since I am already wide I will fore-go that...

First I would like to introduce you to Ann of "Crowing About Primitives" ....Not only is Ann an accomplished doll designer and shop owner but this woman sells the BEST DARN SHEEP WOOL I have ever used. I'm sure I could get a mountain of testimonies re: her wool but just know that I am a customer for life with Ann. Her wool makes my characters look good and there is nothing that says Santa like a nice, rich full beard...right?

There is another very special friend that deals with wool as well but hers is already made into fabric.....Meet Alice of: "Folk Art Primitives". This woman dyes her own wool and it is spectacular. I first met Alice at the "From Our Hands" Show in Columbus, Ohio and have been a fan ever since. If you need wool fabric in a special color....just ask Alice!

Next is a wonderful friend and PFATT sister, Lori Davis. Lori is a fantastic artist, her small and detailed portraits of her characters are simply amazing. Lori sells her paintings on ebay through her wonderful "Village Gift Shoppe" where you can find incredible treasures and smells and also her artwork. I bought some fantastic bottle brush trees from Lori last year and the room sprays are "deeeee licious"! Hmmmmmm, I love anything with the smell of cinnamon!

I hope to continue this tribute and description of our fellow artists out there that are trying to get by in this present economic upheaval. We need to stick together and pass the buck, so to say, with each other. Even in your gift giving "REMEMBER" nothing says love more than something "HANDMADE"!

"Hope"
is the thing with feathers..










"Hope" is the thing with feathers --
That perches in the soul --
And sings the tune without the words --
And never stops -- at all --

And sweetest -- in the Gale -- is heard --
And sore must be the storm --
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm --

I've heard it in the chillest land --
And on the strangest Sea --
Yet, never, in Extremity,
It asked a crumb -- of Me. Emily Dickinson

This poem comes to mind more so now than ever before. Everyday it seems I am coming in touch with more sadness regarding friends and family. I know the "circle of life" can be a cruel and unyielding task master and we have no control over time "BUT"! When young life is cut short or those close to you are dealt a bleak and desperate hand of fate, what can you say? You say have HOPE... How many times a day do we say "I hope"? Often we are so consumed by the onslaught of our own lives that we get lost and forget that our world is not entirely about us...I know I'm guilty.

In one day I had a friend lose their father, a loved one take a turn for the worse with cancer and a friend lose her home, but did one of these brave souls lose "hope"? Never! It is what makes each one of us strong and able to survive life.... Take a minute out of your busy day and just throw some "hope" out there, cause I know no matter which direction it flies someone will catch it!

I love when PFATT Marketplace does their annual "Halloween in June" cuz I get to go a bit bonkers! The new characters I have being introduced this month are some of my favorites ever! They were a bit time consuming and at times a bit stubborn in their construction but alas here they are.....Hope you will giggle and chuckle as much as I did while looking at them!

The first on the list is "MR. JACK O' LANTERN" (SOLD)....He is this first of his type, that is a guy with a "lantern" for a body. Not just any lantern mind you but one that is old and rusty. Next I would like to introduce another of my frog witches meet "HOPSEBAH THE SWAMP WITCH" (SOLD). I love making the frog witches it has been one of my most popular designs. I have sold over 400 of the "Frogette" pattern which is a small version of the frog witch . The expressions they have are always good for a giggle.

The last member of the PFATT cast is "NICODEMUS THE WIZARD" (SOLD) another of my Halloween Ravens. This is another group of characters that I thoroughly enjoy, my ravens. From the beginning with Ulysses to now the ravens have always been special to me. Nicodemus is no exception. He has a wise and all knowing look about him as he calls to the cosmos for guidance. I hope these new Halloween characters will spark some chuckles and good feelings your way. I know they did for me. Take some time and go enjoy all the Halloween Magic that PFATT Marketplace has this month, you won't be disappointed, I know I never am!