To Touch the Future

It was a wonderful Christmas spending
time with loved ones, basking in much
merriment. But today, the house is very
quiet, and I find myself sort of drifting,
slowly trying to find my way back to the
familiar routine.

I will spend these remaining days of
2010 preparing for yet another holiday,
where once again I will have the delight
in sharing the joy and comfort of family.

So for now, I leave you with this bit of
poetic journaling as we say goodbye to
the year.


"Beads of Light, dance, flicker,
beautiful daydreams,
one
stacked
atop
the other,
and I reach out with one hand... hoping,
to touch the future"

Poetic Journalings: Christmas Day

'Tis christmas time
the christ child born,

repeat the noise
of sounding joys,

a chilly morn
a world of white,

all is calm
all is bright.

A winter sky
in shades of gray,

peace to you
upon this day,

the bells ring out
to humble hearts,

give thanks,
give praise,
and celebrate!


Wishing you and yours Glad Tidings of Great JOY!

A Vintage Notions Winner!

Dear Friends,

This last week has been completely wonderful reading
all the lovely comments left during this Vintage Notion's
Giveaway. I have been so enchanted by the shared memories
of Christmases past and present, as you recounted traditions
and special moments that are close to your heart.

If you have not read some of the messages left, I encourage
you to browse through the list. It will definitely put a BIG
smile on your face and leave you with very warm fuzzies!

I wish I had enough gift packs to send one to each of you,
unfortunately there is only one.

So now, it is my pleasure to announce a winner....
CONGRATULATIONS #2 - Jeannie!

Please contact me with your mailing address at
TheRedDoorStudio@yahoo.com.

A HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY Of Vintage Notions

I love celebrating all the holidays, particularly Christmas!

Just like in years past, it is hard to believe that this most
wondrous day is almost here. So to commemorate the
upcoming event here on my blog, I am thrilled to host
A Vintage Notions Holiday Giveaway.


Inspired by Mary Brooks Picken, a pioneer in the
domestic arts, Amy Barickman has authored a book
that is enchanting, educational, and a tribute to the
entrepreneurial spirit. It is a definite MUST HAVE
for any artist/decorator/cook/crafter/sewer's library.


Not only is the book filled with beautiful and dreamy
photo's from cover to cover, every page is brimming
with seasonal recipes and decorating idea, inspirational
essays and projects for each month of the year, plus
patterns and storage pockets.

To WIN a copy of Vintage Notions, and a beautiful
Vintage Notions oil cloth bag, simply leave a
Comment sharing your favorite Christmas Delight.

A winner will be selected on Christmas Eve Day...

And be sure to stop by Amy's website to purchase additional
copies of this sure-to-be classic as a gift.

The Seeds of Seasons, Yet to Be...

Even now... here in the midst of the festive winter holiday,
I am dreaming of the months to come. The seeds of seasons
yet to be, fill my thoughts.


I have been tucked into this studio of mine painting away,
creating beautiful, beautiful brightly colored butterflies.

What for, you might ask?

Well, In preparation for an Absolutely Glorious Event!!!



I invite you to join me and other incredible artists for...



The Art of Craft is a full weekend of exquisite workshops
hosted by the very famous French General. It is an ideal
way to chase away those winter blues as a special treat for
yourself or maybe a perfect gift for someone special!!

Find out all the details... HERE!

Aviary Delights

Each year, I go in search of one or two unique
ornaments to adorn my tree. I thought I would
share a few of my favorite aviary delights.

A Holiday Sparkles Tutorial

I love bringing bits of nature indoors. Especially at the holidays,
such treasures add that extra sparkle to any holiday decor.

Create this unique ornament from findings in your own yard or
pinecones and dried flowers purchased from a local hobby/craft
store.


Select varying sizes of pinecones.


Gather your favorite spray paint and glitter.


Cover the entire pinecone with paint.


While the paint is still wet sprinkle on glitter.


Allow the painted and glittered pinecone to dry.


Tie or glue your favorite color ribbon to the pinecone base.


Glue rose buds or other nature elements around the ribbon base.

The Evolution of a Holiday Greeting

I am a lover of mail. The holidays give me another
wonderful excuse for whipping up my own paper
creations to surprise friends and family.

Last week was all about getting this year's
Holiday cards ready for the post. But it was
not only about completing a finished artwork,
but also about enjoying the journey.

All a TWITTER!

It's official! You will now be able to find me on Twitter.

Each day, I plan to tweet verses of poetry and poetic prose
from my journals, as well as other nature inspirations.

Here are just some sample Twitterings...
* nature inspiration - Even the withered rose clinging to the vine is beautiful in this it's final repose.

* poetic journalings - "I wrote my days upon these Plains with words scattered about by the wayward winds."

* poetic journalings - "Take notice of nature's details, the fine laces woven to create a glimmering tapestry of spun silk."


I invite you to follow along at... www.Twitter.com/TracieHuskamp

Greeting December

It is the first day of a new month, and the last month of 2010.
Hard to believe the year is winding down, and soon we will be
welcoming 2011.

It is also the official start of the Christmas season. I am nestled
in my studio today, drinking a hot cup of winter blend tea,
reveling in the sweet ambience of joyful holiday music wafting
through the air, and preparing to paint and collage a nature
inspired artwork that I will plan to use for the front of this
year's Christmas card.

I am also excited to have some lovely single holiday cards and
sets of holiday cards to offer in my little shop.

I invite you to take a look as they are the PERFECT way of conveying
your personal, heartfelt sentiments to that special someone you
wish to remember at this time of year. These paper treasures will
only be available until December 15th, so don't wait!