Papillon Bleu UK

I have turned 40!

2012-01-23T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hello dear blog friends!

First, let me wish you all a happy new year.

I have the feeling that this year 2012 is going to be a fabulous one!

Lots of things to celebrate in 2012: Dicken's 200 years, The Queen's Jubile

e, The Olumpic games in good old London and on a not very positive note, Titanic's first and only trip.

On a personal note, this month, on the 3rd, I have turned 40. Yes, I

am officially a middle aged woman and ever so happy about it. If I were asked to be

20 again, I would definitely say "no".

Anyway, for the occasion, of course, I had to treat myself to what I call a "Pretty Woman Day" ( shopping AND annual visit to the hairdresser...yes, I have to confess, I don't do this sort of things very often way too absorbed by work and doll making...)

(here, the crucial moment when the hairdresser gives you the mirror so you can see the back of your head and you have to say all the good you think of what she's done)

My friends, from England, France and even Florida were here with me.

There were big ones,

(Here I am with my lovely friend Angélique)

...and little ones.

My family from England had gathered for the party and my only regret was that my mother and my sister who are in Australia couldn't make it.Well...little did I know that my whole family was here! They'd made this extraordinary surprise, all the way from the other end of the globe to be with me. As you can imagine, my makeup didn't last long, wiped out by tears of joy.

(dancing with my mother)

Everything was perfect. Better than what I imagined!

We sung, we danced, we laughed.

(My adorable friend Sarah without whom there would be no photos on this post)

And I was sooooo spoilt!

But most of all, my best memory is to have all my friends and family with me.

Thought I had to share this with you as you are very special to me too.

So, you understand now why I had been quiet for such a long time?

I wish you all, love, health, wealth, AND happiness.

Patricia.

PS: A teaser of what is next to come

The Gingerbread Men Christmas

2011-12-26T13:00:00.000-08:00

This year, I don't know why, Christmas had a very different feel.

Is it because I feel a bit more settled in my new country? Is it because I wasn't out of work for once ( since the last 3 years) at this time of the year? Is it because there were so many friends ( far and near) to share it with?

Let's start by lovely things that arrived by the post.

First, a delightful doll purchased on Etsy at Rafael's lovely store.

There were a few extra gifts in the bag and I was like a little girl in a candy shop!

Then, there was another treasure made by my friend Evelyn.

She had added some delightful caramels to the parcel ( which didn't last ve

ry long)

(yes, I am wearing red glitter on my nails for the holidays!)

Then MORE treasures arrived!

from Spain!

AND...my absolutely wonderful and very talented KIM sent her usual handmade Christmas

decoration which I was excited to put in my tree!

Each year, Kim takes time to make something and send it on this spe

cial occasion.

Kim and I have met through blogging and I am so proud to count her amongst my very loyal and true friends, even though we have never met in the flesh.

Not yet... I know we WILL meet one day.

As I hope I will also meet Evelyn, and why not YOU who is reading this post right now.

This year, Christmas was filled with friendship and precious moments shared with people who, like this extraordinary lady on the photo beside me, made it clearly exceptional.

It was just about being together and having fun!

(oh my...I really need to loose a bit of weight...)

Victoire, as it is her name, and I went shopping on Christmas Eve as I wa

s looking for gingerbread men to offer my guests on Xmas day.

We went into 4 different shops, and not a crumb of gingerbread man in sight...

In the end, I just gave up and thought it wasn't worth checking in a 5th shop.

Victoire, who is French, and I celebrated Christmas Eve at lunch time together.

lots of chit chats and giggles were on the Menu!

I just love her company!

Later on she parted and Robert's son, Ben and his girlfriend Fanny ( who is French too!) came home to join us in a lovely quaint church to celebrate

Christmas carols by candlelight and spend Xmas day with us.

I was saying how disapointed I was not to have found the very traditional biscuits when Fanny gave me a huuuuuuuuuuge smile saying in her soft voice " there is no problem with this!

It happens that I have made plenty and I will need to finish them tomorrow if you don't mind me using your kitchen? They still need eyes and smiles".

So, after a magical Christmas eve, singing carols, then gathering in the lounge sipping sherry and watching The Muppets Christmas Carol, we all went to bed.

The next day, Christmas operated its magic before my very eyes.

Fanny started working on a whole army of gingerbread men!

Giving them little souls,

...and crimson smiles.

This was definitely one of the best touch ever to my Christmas table!

Handmade Gingerbread men!

I hope you've all had a wonderful Christmas !

I will see you again in 2012!

+*+

..+*

*+.

+*++

+***

All my love and hope all you wishes come true!

My lovely aunt at Ladurée !!!

2011-12-07T12:35:00.000-08:00

Sometimes is good to pamper yourself and feel special.

Because you ARE!!!

I only really treat myself once or twice a year but when I do, I love to go to Ladurée.

This time, I went with a very special person: my aunt!

Here she is showing one of her favourite pages of my last book.

She is the one with whom I spent the greatest holidays in my childhood.

She was always spoiling me and making me feel great and special all the time.

She would buy me really girly stuff like: pink and glittery clothes, shiny shoes with tiny heels and pink nail-polish.

In fact, she would get me anything that was forbidden at home by my parents!

My heroine!!!!

So, this time, I thought it would be nice to give the same in return.

No...not glittery clothes and pink nail polish...but, something to make her feel special.

So we went to Ladurée at Covent Garden!

This delicious Ispahan didn't last long, believe me!

My lovely auntie tried to take several pictures of me but it seems that photograpy isn't part of her skills...he!he!

Anyway, we truly felt like princesses and it was such a delightful time to spend together.

Next time, I would love to go with her and my mother.

I will have to write about my mum one day.

She lives far, far away in Australia and I miss her like crazy.

Super big sigh...

The dolls had a last photo session and were delivered to Benjamin Pollock's after our meal.

Covent Garden was illuminated with Christmas lights but I forgot to take some pictures as my aunt and I were too busy chatting and giggling!

Then , at the end of the day,we had to part.

On my way home, on the train, I remembered all the good times we had together, how she made my childhood special and it gave me a huge smile on my face.

Happy thoughts and happy memories...

I hope you do have many too.

Need a few mice...

2011-11-29T05:44:00.001-08:00

...who could help me finish everything in time!!!!

You know? like in those lovely children's stories where the tailor or the shoemaker are super tired and when they wake up the next morning,

K'TCHING!!!!!!!!!!

Everything has been finished by mysterious mini hands during the night.

Biiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiig sigh...

At least, I have finished one...

And the others have been sent to their new sunny destination.

****

1st December

AAAaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!! Have finished another one! YAY!!!

And I wasn't helped by a mouse nor a ... rat, as I read in one of the comments! He!he!

Next week, destination London with the girls!

Petit goûter entre filles

2011-11-15T06:04:00.000-08:00

Am going slowly but surely.

I have so much to catch up with!

I have managed to blog hop a little today and yesterday.

I really try to visit each of you.

Meanwhile, I have also managed to finish 2 dolls I had started ages ago.

They will be flying to Spain with Apple very soon.

The mini muffins and mini fairy cakes are by Christel Jensen.

3 new dolls are in preparation for Benjamin Pollock's in London.

One is in the making for my Etsy Store.

Also, I am preparing some parcels for 2 little girls who must think I have forgotten all about them.

Patience is a vertue that needs to be rewarded...

To be continued.

Apple and her candlelight

2011-11-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Just enjoy the pictures!

(don't feel like writing today)

Et voilà.

Saying goodbye

2011-10-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

25th October

I am ever so sorry to have missed the lovely evnt otganised by the sweet Vanessa of A FAnciful Twist.

Please, if you do visit for the party, do not think I couldn't be bothered.

Tonight I am saying goodbye to my sweet Taz that I have been fostering since July.

Tomorrow, I will be with him for his last little moment on Earth.

But, I would like him to be the star of this post.

I love you Taz.

****

26th October

My baby's gone

****

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Ze second book! (Preview) + dolls WIP

2011-10-06T11:38:00.000-07:00

Pssssstt!! Me again.

You know? it has been a few months since I have been preparing Ze second book.

This time, I haven't been through a publisher but through Blurb.

You can try it too, it is fun and easy.

I thought it would be nice to gather photos of some of my artwork and present some new unpublished stories.

Anyway, here is a preview of the firts 15 pages.

Hope you will like it.

Just click on the book cover.

And here are some photos of work in progress.

I am currently working for

Benjamin Pollock's in London and also for a lovely store in Spain called Bambolinos.

My dolls travel more than I do.

Speaking of which, if you have read "The Orphans of Sainte Cécile", one of the characters, Solange, has finally found a family ( in real life!!!) she is now in the heart of Texas in a super ranch. Her little mum, Carolina, has made her a fantastic house! I am very impressed!

Look!

You can see more about Carolina's family right here on the Shannon Ranch website.

Oh, by the way, pleeeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaase, keep on writing to me and sending news, I don't have time to visit everybody but I absolutely LOVE to hear about what you've been up to.

A bientôt!

I am Soooooooooo bad...

2011-10-01T14:27:00.000-07:00

My oh my...I cannot believe it has been a month since my last post...

I am so bad...

Ok, here is the deal, I will be back for Miss Vanessa's blog party with new dollies, ok?

In fact, they are already in progress...

Also, I am overloaded with work at the moment ( artistic and absolutely non artistic) so am struggling a bit as there are only 24 hours in a day... all I can say is that I am currently working on TWO new books.

One will be for the wonderful team of doll artists I am proud to be part of : Much Ado About Art Dolls which we also call Art Dolls Only ( ADO) click here for our super website

The second one will be a book/ portfolio in which I will include unpublished stories ( super short ones). here is a "méli mélo" I have made which will be include at the end.

So, see you for the party, ok?

~ Autumn ~

2011-09-02T00:41:00.000-07:00

Summer has already come to an end .

Really?

So quickly?

Disappointed?

Errrrrrrrrrr...

NOT A SINGLE BIT!!!

And you know why?

Well , simply because now has come my absolute favourite season: AutUmN

Time to slowly dive into the new season with a touch of pink.

The colours around are starting to change into something that warms up my heart and is stimulating my senses!

Does it do it to you too?

This is how, little by little , the Pink Angel came to the world.

Something warm: a rich bonbon pink

Something soft: her immaculate wings

Something that smells lovely : Her rose-like dress with 2 giant petals at the back.

Speaking of senses, the new season is bringing back its share of extraordinary fruits .

Not just extraordinary, ...beautiful, colourful,with rich textures, sweet, juicy and full of vitamines.

Just went to pick up some for a friend who loves to make compotes and jams...hmmmmmmmmmm!!!

I cannot help but feel the urge to share with you these adverts.

Autumn is simply inspiring.

In fact, I just cannot wait to finish this new doll.

See where I am going?

He!he! Well , I am not so sure of where I am going but all I know is where I come from.

It was fun to line up all the styles of dolls I have been making for several years and it just brought a big smile on my face.

What will the future bring. How will the dolls evolve?

AAAAAAaaaaaah dear Autumn, I had been waiting for you!

We are going too have so much fun!

I love you.

Let's have a stroll together at Covent Garden

2011-08-25T12:21:00.001-07:00

Welcome to London!

Let's jump out of the taxi.

I am pleased to have you by my side to spend some time here in Covent Garden.

Come on! let's hurry! I think it is about to rain, so we'd better rush under the big arcade.Shall we do some shopping together?

Let's have a look at the windows.

Would you like some perfume maybe?

Or...

... something unusual , colourful and absolutely useless ?

Hhmmm...

I think I could definitely take one of those hot air balloons at home.

Oh! LOOK!!

Strawberries dipped in white chocolate!!!

That would be a bit naughty!

In fact, I am starting to be a little hungry. Aren't you?

Where shall we eat?

Lets'a have a look around.

Oh! I love it here!!! The crowd, a big paëlla and someone is playing the violin in the corner.

I simply love the atmosphere.

Don't you?
...

After a lovely break, I think we ought to move on.

We have some dolls to deliver.

Let's pop to the shop!

My oh my! Are these giant dollies?

Bree and Louisa are sweet, funny and ever so creative young ladies.

I am in love with their Lolita looks.

If you ever want to adopt this style, Louisa makes incredible dresses and jewels right here!

Chit chat and giggles, the shop is crowded and everyone has a smile and is so friendly.

Time to play one last time with the dolls.

It is always a bit difficult to say goodbye.

I know the dolls are in good hands though.

Let's tiptoe out and let the dolls know a little bit more about the lovely store.

Soon they will be going to a loving family.

***

Back to the massive Victorian shopping mall.

You can learn a lot about the fascinating background of the place here.

Let's wander a bit in the past...

... and gently step back into the present..Modern or past, I do love the spirit of Covent Garden.

Time flies, it is time to part my dear friends.

I hope you've enjoyed the little tour.

There is soooooooooooooooooooo much to say about this place.

Maybe one day, if you have the chance to visit London, just give me a call and I will be more than happy to take you there as I once did with a dear blog friend and artist Deidra Doan. But this is another story...

4 sisters

2011-08-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there were 4 sisters who loved toy theatres.

Their names were Natasha, Louise, Claire and Kim.

Kim and Natsha were twins.

They decided to go for a trip to London as they heard there was a lovely shop where they could find their favourite toys. The shop was called Benjamin Pollocks Toyshop and was located in Covent Garden.

They wore their favourite dresses for the special occasion and also their favourite bonnets.
Natasha never wore hats as she found them itchy and thought it would hide her beautiful fair hair.

After a wonderful day spent in London, the 4 sisters had all come back with a treasure.

Louise, who was the eldest, chose a lovely toy thatre so she could play and tell stories to her younger sisters.

Claire, chose a treasure box decorated with her favourite puppet show "Punch and Judy".

Natasha, who loved bright colours, bought an Harlequin puppet. She would play with it and hang it in her bedroom.

Kim, who was only 12 minutes younger than Natasha, chose a carousel.

She just loved it so much!

But started having second thoughts when she looked at her twin's lovely puppet.

"Will you let me play with your puppet Natasha?"

"Of course Kim, we can share because that's what sisters are for."

***

Aaaaaaaaaah if only the whole world could get on as well as dolls do!

I am happy to present you these 4 new dolls initially made for a challenge on ADO .

Claire, Natasha and Louise will be exclusively found at Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop ( link in sidebar).

Little Kim will stay in my house. She just made my heart melt.

It was a real pleasure to make their little toys.

I hadn't made a mini theatre for so long!

The mini carousel comes from a lovely ETSY store called Open House Miniatures. I just fell in love wit the lovely creations there.

The dolls will be at Benjamin's Pollock Toyshop next week. I will share photos with you! Cannot wait to take photos there. The place is so inspiring!

*****

Much love to you all my dear friends!

Thanks and welcome to all the new followers.

It is a pleasure to have you here. I hope you will like it in my dolly universe.

*****

The Special Marionette Collection and Hermeline

2011-08-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

before I start, I would like to thank you all for your kind words, wonderful support and Rafael's special bear hug that I really enjoyed!

It means the world to me to know there are so many extraordinary people out there!

I am still on my giant life roller coster at the moment and am not sure am enjoying the ride so much...

Anyway, am still holding tight to my happy thoughts such as this one:

We are working on a great challenge with the members of ADO, the theme is "Marionettes".

As you know, I love toy theatres and anything that evolves around this universe so, I have decided to prepare not 1 but 4 dolls for this special event.
I know, it is rather ambitious but...am I so looking forward to presenting you this new collection.

In fact, 3 of the dolls are especially designed for one of my favourite shops in London:

Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop!

Here on the photo above, you can see my work in progress .

Below is a video I made a long time ago about the shop.

Also, I have now finished my sweet Hermeline and she is now looking for a home.

I really hesitated to add her to the shop as she looks so cute on the shelf with my little mice.

Moreover, I have chosen to use 2 of my favourite colours on this doll: red and green.

I think it works perfectly together!

It is a bit tricky to choose the right combination of colours sometimes but I find that children's books, museums or Nature itself can be great sources of inspiration.

And you? How do you make your colour choices?

News from the front

2011-07-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I am writing to you from a battlefield.

Things have been hectic lately.

There has been ups and downs, it was like beeing on a giant roller coster

BUT

I am still standing and have kept my head high.

How?

I have chosen not to live in fear, nor panic ( this is when disaster occurs) and focus on the positive things that are around me like:

* Doll making which is such a complex but very therapeutic activity.

* I have focused on cute things

*Funny things!

* The wonderful company of children who always bring sunshine with their ideas and giggles

* And also goOOOoOod things !!!

***

It has helped a lot, believe me.

And you know what?

In the end, I found PEACE.

So, if you feel like your life is a bit like a jumble ( I think it is English, isn't it?) well, as long as you can, try to focus hard on the positive things.

If you can't, talk to a friend, share your worries, you can even write to me!

Life is too short my dear friends.

Hope this will help some of you.

CARPE DIEM

PS: Have you noticed? I don't cough anymore!!!( giggles)

Love to all.

I am a mum!!!!

2011-07-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

...ok am actually a foster mum and...it is for pets but still, a mum is a mum...hmmm?

(cough!cough!cough)

So, let me introduce you to (cough!COUGH!cough) Taz.

As you can see on the picture below, he has some hearing problems . After 2 weeks with us , Taz feels totally at home.

This adorable dog is 14 , he has a heart condition and suffers from arthritus ( is it how to spell it???)

He is way too old to stay at the kennel of the rescue centre which is why we are fostering him.

Since he's been with us, he has been ( cough!!!!!COUGH!) very calm and hasn't bitten for ages ( sign of pain or just warnings). He even goes for little walks which are getting longer ( when it is not raining ).His fur is getting very shiny. His walk has improved as he has lost some weight ( more exercise....I should do the same...).

I absolutey love this mini one! He is a very sweet little thing.

Meanwhile, I have been catching up with doll making and custom orders.

(cough!)

This doll is available on my shop

This one , with the blue dress, is Bitha, a custom doll made for a very sweet doll collector who is happy to show her beautiful collection and her own artwork here. I have tried to make the doll look a bit like her.

I have also opened some workshops for the summer to boost children's creativity!

We are having so much ( cough! cough!COUGH! cough!!!) fun!!!

On another note, my health is improving but I still have this bad

cough.

But... am alive!!!

Always look on the bright side of life!

hu!hu!hu!hu ( this is supposed to be me whistling...)

Wonna hear the real stuff?

Ok, it is right here

Bye ( cough) for now!!!

I hope to hear from you all very soon.

To be 3

2011-07-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hi dear friends,

firts of all a MASSIVE thank you for all your lovely words. I am getting better and getting some energy.

Today, my little doll Aliénore and I have been invited to a birthday party.

Emma ( who is in the slideshow in the previous post) was celebrating her 3rd birthday.

The garden was like an absolute Wonderland. I thought I should share some of the photos taken today.

It is such a pleasure to take photos of children when they are having fun

I hope you will enjoy!

In fact, next year for my birthday, I will ask Emma's mum to organise my birthday party .

ooh...yes!!! That's a good plan...

(and I will wear a little pink tutu...SUPER great plan!!!!!!!!!!)

My little nurses and lost followers

2011-07-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

Am really not well at the moment . Have caught a bad chest cold after a short stay at hospital.I have lost my voice too...ah...well....fortunately, my whole army of mini nurses is with me.

It is soooooooooooooooo therapeutic to create things. Doll making really takes my mind to another place, but if I start to get grumpy ( yes it happens more than you can imagine!) and that I see no lovely image in my head, I just put the doll away and relax. I don't like to work if I don't feel happy.

Her are some dolls I have been working on lately for my Etsy or for custom orders.

This is Morella or "The Widow"

(inspired by the very talented Benjamin Lacombe)

I will try to work a bit more with this head shape in the future.

Below is my Marie-Antoinette. She is ALMOST finished.

And let me introduce you to Greta the little black & white doll who loves her Chanel shoes!

The photo below is a little doll I made for a customer whose favourite colour is eggplant!

I love her little profile with her round cheeks.

There is also something else that REALLY bugs me:

I have lost my followers!!

Well, not really LOST but, I cannot see you my dear friends!

I first thought it was a temporary thing but now it has almost been 2 months!

If you know what to do...

Mad Tea Party 2011

2011-06-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

Pssssssssssst!!!!!

I have a secret to share with you.
See these little girls?

What if I told you that they are about to have the strangest Tea time of their life?

One is going to feel like a giant and yet, she is only 3, the other one is going to discover a secret garden and the other two...are going to disappear before your very eyes!

Well...if you don't believe me, I have a way to proove that I am telling the absolute truth.

Wonna know?

Ok...

All you have to do is jump in the hole...

Yes!

Right down the rabbit's hole.

Ready?

One

Two

Three
.

*.+

*+.

FOLLOW THE RABBIT!!!!

+*+

..+

JUMP!!!!!!

*+.

.

And don't forget to say hello to all the other friends along this crazy Tea Party...errrrmm...

I meant, MAD Tea PArty.

Thank you to the lovely Vanessa of A Fanciful Twist to Host this delightful blog party

Cora embarks on board the ...Titanic

2011-06-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Southampton the 10th April 1912.

Cora's head is full of dreams.

She is going to the U.S.A for the very first time.

Her parents , who are already in Amrica, have sent her ticket .

The family is starting a brand new life on the new continent.

Cora was given a first class boarding pass. She is travelling with her tutor who has taken these two lovely pictures of her.

Cora proudly holds her first class boarding pass. She is travelling on board a brand new and magnificent ship: Titanic.

Cora will never see her parents again...

( You can see more of Cora who was made for the ADO challenge " Dolls of Yore " or adopt her here)

Solution to post comments: TADAAAAAAA!

2011-06-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

If like me, you are unable to post comments without turning in circles, or ending up commenting as "anonymous" here is a solution that was sent to me by my dolly friend Sarah Wallis .

And it works!

Try a different login procedure.
1. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".
2. Do not check "Remember me".
If that does not help, try again.1. Clear cache, cookies, and sessions (not just cache or cookies) - then restart the browser.
2. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".
3. Do not check "Remember me".
References:[1] Login To Blogger, Differently (Web)

Please share the news!

Thanks.
( well...this was a boring post but helpful, no?)

First copies signed and shipped already!

2011-06-02T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Yes.

It is here!!!

Ok, there has been some delays (grrrr), but now everything is ready.

I would like to thank all of you who already have ordered their copy. I am looking forward to hearing from your feedback now. :)

Feel free to send me your own reviews and they will be added to the website and on Amazon.
(This is me signing the first copies. he!he!)

(Having a little break in the garden)

Bliss and happiness?

ah..well...I guess so...I think I feel a bit tired and stressed at the moment.

So, the best therapy ever is going back to doll making.

YAY!

So, this is what I am working on at the moment:

(blurry pic ...sorry...)

Will show you more when I have finished.

Also, my sweet Aliénore has been super spoilt recently by Evelyn who's made an extraordinary portrait of my little doll.

Look at this!

Aliénore is over the moon!

Thank you so much Evelyn!!!

Also, I wanted to add one last thing:

I have had some trouble leaving comments on some blogs....if so, I usually try to contact you another way. So please, don't think I don't care, because I DO care a lot about you all.

Without you, I wouldn't be achieving all this.

TRAILER of the book (video)

2011-05-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen....(drum roll)....here is the trailer of the book!

The book will be ready to order on Friday (YAY!!!!!)

I will update this post once the copies are at home.

But now, here is the preview just for you.

Hope you like it.

Let's Show Our Working Space (to update with your own pics!)

2011-05-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

(Please, feel free to use the photo above if you wish to create a link to this post)

Today, I am happy to present my working space. Yes, the little corner from which I am writing this very moment..

What hit me recently, on Cyber Land is the similarities that some of us have in our displays or, the amount of objects we like to gather around us. Source of inspiration?

*****

Check by yourslef! You can see, Sylvie's place

or Evangelione's .

Vanessa's studio is a wonder!

*******

Shall we share our photos here?

Just send your photos to me and I will be happy to add them here with your link!

(It will also help me be patient before I receive...you know what...)

*******

Check out the extraordinary efforts of the very talented and ever so honest Casey who is doing her own version of "Clean House" ! at Casey's minis blog ( good luck, it took me 2 days to tidy up mine)

If you like The Doll& The Pea, here is where she creates her little marvels!(according to what Alicia has told me, I think this is a very unusual photo...just like mine!!!)

*****
17/05/11

I have to confess that I have had a big crush on this studio.

Check more at Rose Minuscule.

Below, see how Jan from The Hermit's Garden sorts out her paint and ribbons!

****************

18/05/11

Would you resist the explosion of colours of Christine's studio? Have you ever seen jars so neetly in line on a shelf?

Is this the key to the flawless work of an artist?

Christine shares magnificent pics of her working space here at Du Buh Du Designs

So, who's next?

Unless you have already planned to send a photo but it is taking a little longer than you thought to tidy up...I don't blame you.

By the way, our dear Casey has made tremendous progress since the last time.Check it out! it is HERE.

I am super impressed!

*******

22nd May 2011

Tadaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

This is the sort of studio that just makes my mind wonder. I just love the blue on the walls and all the minis on the shelves. Not to mention the captivating colours that surround Geneviève
I love busy shelves, wherever you look, there is something new to discover. I find it stimulating.

This is where Geneviève collects and creates her extraordinary minis. Just check at

Geneviève's Miniacollection and say hello to Nina and Lucie from me!

Giveaway for Aliénore's 2nd Birthday!!!

2011-05-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Do you remember Aliénore's birthday party last year?

Oh my..this was so much fun!

I don't tire of watching this again and again just check HERE if you haven't seen it yet)

This is when she started having a thing for fashion and not any sort, she likes Haute Couture...(great... maybe she thinks I am a wealthy doll mum or something...)

Well, this year, we have a drawing contest, everything is explained in French AND in English on AliénorE's Facebook page (you can click on the photo below)

If you don't have a Facebook page, feel free to send your drawings before the 21st ( when we will reveal our winner and PARTY!!!) directly to me.

What do you win?

1st prize is a custom made...ALIENORE!!!

2nd prize is a signed book of The Orphans of Sainte Cécile ( by the way, a CD is included with the book if you don't already know)

And

3rd prize is a set of Papillon Bleu UK postcards.

How to enter?

Any Facebook friend of Aliénore can post their drawing on Aliénore's page.

If you don't have a Facebook account, you can contact me directly here.

The drawing with the most "LIKEs" will win the first prize and so on .

It is open to adults AND children!

ET VOILA!

Good luck to everyone.

(sorry am still slow at visiting everyone back, trying my best though)

New stuffS , more stuffS and little book stuffS!

2011-05-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, I like to add an S to stuff when there are several! I still don't understand why stuff can never be stuffS...anyway...ZEES EEZ not Ze point I would like to discuss right now.

First, I have decided to make a fresh start with...me. I mean...pamper myself a little and stuffs like that. So, had a bit of a hair trim and went shopping. Found great stuffs!

As it felt good to have a bit of Spring clean etc, I chose to redesign my website with stuffS like ZEES

Also, I am happy to announce that the little book's proof has arrived!

Happy dance!

Still one or two things to edit and WOOSH!!!!!!!!!! The final product will be on its way!

In fact, there is still one ...OOOoooOOoooOPS!!! No I cannot tell you...you will discover once the book is out.

So, here is the proof.

I open a liiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiittle bit!

And a little bit more!!!

ZE rest EEZ a secret.

;-)

I wish you all a happy weekend my dear friends!

Sorry again if I didn't take time to visit everybody ... yet !

I will as soon as possible!

PS: Don't miss the drawing competition on Alienore's Facebook page!

It was a beautiful day for ...

2011-04-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

...a Royal Wedding!

(Oh my...it was like a fAiRy taLe)

Having a party!

Making new friends!

(Lady the "Wonder Dog" on the right was very intrigued)

(holding a smelly but EVER sooooooooooo cute ferret!)

Thank you to Alex Ashton for the pic with the falcon

( I just thought the falcon looked so much better though, my face was spoiling the pic.)

Enjoying the countryside.

Today was a nice day to be in England.

And you? How was your day?

Did she just "bandon" us?

2011-04-15T06:06:00.000-07:00

Snow White- Did she just bandon us in the forest?

Anne - You don't say "bandon"!!! it's Abandon!!

Snow White-Maybe but...what is going on?

Charlotte- I don't think she's abandoned us at all...look!

Sadie- Goodness me!!!! I think I know! Look!!! there is a blue carpet of bluebells around us!

I think I can feel what she is feeling right now! Oh yes... I can feel it...

Catherine-Feel what? feel whaaaaaaat???

Sadie- ...her heart is bursting with joy and she only wants to share it with us.

(Thank you my sweet Sadie, you are such a clever doll)

I hope you are all happy too my dear blog friends.

CARPE DIEM

London Book Fair and...MY FIRST BOOK!

2011-04-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

Here I was in the middle of Heaven...OoooOOOps! I mean... BOOKS !

Wondering what would be the best thing to do with my story.

I was diving in the middle of some of my favourite illustrations by Rebecca Dautremer when... I realised I wasn't on my own ... I decided to breake the ice... or did he?

"May I have a look at your beautiful book?" he asked.

"With pleasure!" I answered, "do you come here often?" (silly question)

Well, you see my dear friends,today I was at the London Book Fair and I have made delightful encounters like this one all day long.

You might want to know that I was there with something very special in my bag: my book!

It is finished ! At last!

I went to meet the printer, chose the paper, the size, asked lots of questions and came back with a bag full of catalogues.

Lots of lovely chats, cards given , hands shaken, it was a very exciting day!

The first copies are going to be self-published as Moochoo is also an independant publisher . It would be soooooooo stupid of me not to give it a go,don't you think?

Some of you might be interested to be the first to have a signed copy and I would be extremely honoured to keep one of the first on hold for you.

Please, just let me know by leaving a comment here or send me an e-mail so I will know how many will be printed for this first edition.

My heart is beating so fast with excitement !

I just want to believe something nice is happening.

Biiiiiig sigh...

Much love to you all.

PS: It's been taking me ages to visit everybody lately so please forgive me if I haven't come back to you yet.

PS bis: for those who haven't followed ( not always easy on blogland , I have some trouble following evryone too! ) you can have an extract HERE

Snow White

2011-04-08T03:16:00.000-07:00

Snow White was having a lovely day . Edward would be happy to see the house all neat and tidy when he would be back.

She had bought a fresh apple from a charming lady who was passing by.

She thought it was unusual to buy apples as it wasn't the season yet,but you can find everything all year long nowadays...

She went to the garden as it was such a magical day.

And yet...

THE END

Ah well...life goes on!

Snow White is looking for a home so if you think you can give her a good shelter and keep her away from nasty ladies selling dodgy apples you can go here.

Have a lovely day!

Achluophobia

2011-03-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Are you scAred in tHe daRk?

I am...

The night covers the day with her petticoat and black dress. With the night comes the darkness and with the dark begins the fear...

And you? what is your phobia?

3 Little Dolls In an Ocean of Daffodils

2011-03-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful sunny day and Tünde, Sadie and Charlotte decided to go for a little stroll through the fields.

There was a beautiful parc in a castle not very far and the little dolls enjoyed pretending they were the ladies of the place.

Spring was here for sure!

Tünde (who felt very special in her new romantic outfit ) was enjoying the old bench, then wanted to give a close look at the pink camelia that had entirely captured her heart.

Suddenly, she heard Sadie's voice shouting in the distance: "Hurry! Quick!!!Come and see!!!"

Tünde rushed accross the parc to see her friend sitting in a tree.

Sadie was fine.
She asked Tünde to climb up so she could have a better view.

And this is what the little dolls could see.

An ocean of Daffodils!

Charlotte , who had heard Sadie shout, arrived soon after and couldn't believe her eyes.

The view was taking her breath away.

The 3 little dolls layed in the moss amongst the flowers and silently enjoyed this peaceful moment where they felt they were making one with Nature.

We had to share this special moment with you, you see?

Hope you are all fine.
This post is for whoever needs a bit of sunshine.
Stay as long as you want, lay in the moss,it is so nice to have you here with us.

This heavenly place where the photos were taken is called Chiddingstone Castle. It is only 30 mins walk accross the fiels from my cottage.
You can see the website here.

Tünde is a travelling doll made by Laurence of FeltOOlala
Sadie is by Evelyn Santiago.

Ooooooooh before I forget!

I have now a set of postcards in my Boutique!

Love to you all!

Orphans of Sainte Cécile (little extracts) and thoughts

2011-03-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

15th February 1940
Solange and her sister are really nice. We all get on well at the orphanage. Their beds are beside mine in the dormitory.

15th April 1940
Dad, I miss you. Things have changed a little here and Mademoiselle Rochefort seems agitated. I know she is trying to hide something. Yesterday, I was very upset because she scribbled in a rush on a page of my journal and tore the page.

I have finished to write the story . Next I am translating and then, hopefully, it shouldn't be too long before I can hold the little book in my hands.

Meanwhile, all the events occuring in the world just remind me that every day counts.

Even when something difficult hits you, just try to focus on the positive side of things.

Easy to say but...I have been there.

If I hadn't done that, I wouldn't be blogging, I wouldn't be creating , I wouldn't know you.

Here is our guest!

2011-03-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

The dolls had waited so long that Anne and Mikiko left the house.

(In fact, they both got adopted! )

Sadie, Charlotte, Aliénore and Emily were still waiting for the guest though...

Tünde was her name.

Aliénore went upstairs in her bedroom to make sure everything would be nice and tidy for her. She also thought that she would definitely impress her with her extraordinary collection of beautiful toys and the lovely new "descente de lit" created by Geneviève especially for her.

(Merci Geneviève!!!! On adore le tapis!!!)

Meanwhile, downstairs in the parTEA room...

Still waiting...

2011-03-11T15:20:00.001-08:00

Mikiko has arrived to welcome the new guest.

She's also brought some paper hats!

New beds have been made and the dolls are very impressed by the new guest room!

The beds have been made in Texas by an extraordinary and very unusual family that you can see here . The place is called Shannon Ranch. ( How I wish I could visit right now!)

What is our guest doing?

Maybe she is taking her time because she is crossing the oceans on the back of an elephant?

A bit like this?

Maybe not...

TO BE CONTINUeD

Waiting

2011-03-04T02:49:00.000-08:00

Something exciting is happening in the dolls' house.

We are waiting for a special little guest.
Charlotte keeps on going out to see if the guest is here.

She has got a special welcome balloon for her.

Emily and Anne have organised a welcome tea party.

Anne has made some paper hats.
But we have been waiting for a while now and Anne is loosing patience.

Meanwhile, Charlotte has decided she would fly up in the sky. Maybe it will be easier to see the guest's arrival from a cloud!

Our guest in on her way.

She shouldn't be very far.

Just to give you a little clue: she is a Travelling Doll and she has come to spend a month with us to go through some Papillon Bleu UK transformation.

I will tell you a little more next time.

We are going to have 3 guest for the occasion in the dolls' house.

It will be fun and very girly.

Maybe a little like here:

Maybe not...

TO BE COnTINUeD

Mini special ladies

2011-02-27T02:05:00.001-08:00

Sometimes, I shrink my blog fellows!

yep!yep!

Whether it is for a birthday or a swap , it is fun to absorb a bit of their universe and convert it into a little doll!

Flo was nice to accept a swap and as a thank you I metamorphosed her into a cloth doll!

Her universe is so colourful and bubbly!

She blogs about our swap on her bLog here

AND
do you remember our sweet mini Vanessa who celebrated her birthday in our ParTEA Room?
She is leading a wonderful life in Arizona!
Wonna see?
Just click on the photo below and you will be transported to a whole new magical world.
WEEEEEEEEEEEEHEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

He is back!!!!

2011-02-24T10:47:00.001-08:00

Hey! Look who's returned from his very long holiday in France!!!! I thought for a little while that he had forgotten about good old England and the cottage.

He came back with delightful gifts made by "my" Jojo Caramel.

Isn't everything just adorable?

But most of all, Edward came back with a diploma!!!

He is now a Doctor in Fishing and Leisure!

Some in the house did not totally get what a Phd was about...

But then, Doctor Edward said he could no longer wait to go in the garden!

So I put on my special garden exploring gear and went outside with him.

He ran accross the garden! I'd never seen him so excited! It was as if he was attracted by something he couldn't resist!!!

And indeed, he'd smelt it.

He knew it was here.

Doctor Edward knew Spring was starting to show a bit of itself in a rather shy way, but still...a tiny piece of Spring was here.

CARPE DIEM

(Now, it is time for Edward and I to choose a little something to send to say thank you)

The little orphans

2011-02-19T14:38:00.000-08:00

Here they are those little orphans whose photos have been discovered in a very curious way.

From the left to the right:
Back row: Solange, Marie, Florence, Astrid
Front row: Gabrielle, Charlotte, Elisa

Marie doesn't regularly write in her little diary but what she has written is fascinating, sad and funny. She likes to draw and to take photos. As you can see on the photo below she needs to practise but, who doesn't? hmm?

( Ok, it will take me a little while to finish the actual story BUT not too long as I have just finished to make the dolls)

Aliénore and... a winner!

2011-02-17T09:33:00.001-08:00

Today, I heard Aliénore's voice calling from the garden.

She was so excited as she had found a beautiful puple crocus!

Then we spotted a yellow one!

Aliénore was over the moon!

But one of the best discoveries was the daffodils.

There is hope back in the garden my friends!

Also, today is ZE day when I reveal the winner of this OWOH event.

It has been a wonderful ride from blog to blog, discovering new universes, new people and new friends!

And OoooOh! Look!!! There are over 300 followers now!

Thank you to have joined my little universe.

OK, now...random generator...sorry I don't know how to copy and paste the image of the result BUT the number that came out was 109 which is

Digital Misfit !!!

Congratulations!

The little doll who loves to party and drink Tequila is flying to Canada!

Woohoo!

(You'd better behave girl!)

The Orphans of Sainte Cécile

2011-02-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

Dear blog friends during this very busy time of OWOH,

I am happy to discover new blogs and meet new blog friends.

As I promised, here is an extract of the diary found recently.

It is written in French so I thought I would translate it for you.

In fact, I am translating the whole journal and...

puting it into a book!

Woohoo!!!!!!!!!

It is time cosuming but I cannot wait to share with you the journal of Marie, little girl aged 9 in an Orphanage called Sainte Marie .

I won't tell toooOooOOooo much but I am excited to share the news with you as the idea of this story started here on Blogland.

"25th September 1939
The holidays are over, but Miss Rochefort is a very interesting Teacher. She is so nice that I even want to like mathematics!
Solange has become my best friend. Her bed is near mine in the dormitory. Solange has never known her father and says her mother use to work in a circus. One day, the magician made her disappear and since then she’s never reappeared! I don’t really know what to think..."

I would be extreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeemely happy to hear what you think.

Much love to you all dear blog friends!

OWOH 2011! Her we go!!!

2011-01-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

Hello dear blog friends, old and new.

Today has started our wonderful journey fot the 5th and last OWOH event hosted by Lisa Swifka.

What an amazing idea!

Now that you have landed on my little planet, I am going to tell you a little story and if you are kind enough to leave a comment here, you might even win one of the characters of the( very) short tale that begins right now...

there was a young girl who just loved to have fun!

But the only place where she could go to enjoy herself was the local fair where she use to buy some of her favourite treats.

She kept on dreaming that one day she could go to a bal.

A masquerade!

The sweet little thing didn't have a mask to go to such a grand party.

She was on her own wondering how she could go to a bal and maybe make new friends

all of a sudden a wonderful lady with a mask appeared near her .

The young girl asked if she could borrow the mask from her so she could go to the bal.

The lady ( who was a Fairy) made some magic and...

WOOHOO!!!

( yes this is a very modern tale)

a beautiful mask appeared !

The pretty girl and the beautiful Fairy became great friends and had lots of Tequila and had great fun at the bal !

OK...

My point is not that dolls just wanna have fun and drink Tequila , ok?

My point IS:

Do you want to win this little dolly with her brand new mask ?

Well ,just leave a comment here and I will draw a name on the 17th February!

Sooooooo easy!!!

For those who don't know me:

Here is a photo .

I am not sad on this photo, I am deeeeeeeeeeeeeep in my thoughts!

I am a doll artist, story teller and big daydreamer.

For those who know me:

Look! I have brushed my hair today! Yes, I do make efforts for very special occasions.

Teehee!

Don't forget to visit everybody by clicking here!

HAVE A HAPPY OWOH!

Update 18-02-11

Please do not comment anymore as this giveaway is finished now.

A Diary!!!

2011-01-26T14:34:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

today I have discovered a diary!!!

It seems that it belonged to a little girl whose name was Marie Dedieu.

I am so ...oh...I think there are no words to describe what I feel.

A photo has just fallen on the floor .

It feels like I know them...a bit like old friends that you find again...

I cannot wait to read all that is inside even though it seems that a little voice keeps on whispering " It's a secret!".

I have got to read it!

I have put a little red ribbon around it so no more photos can fall from the diary.

I will return to you as soon as I will know more.

Pyjama Day

2011-01-23T11:47:00.000-08:00

He!he! Hellooooooo there!

Yes! this is me...IN BED!

I've had the laziest Sunday ever!!! There was a laptop in the house... giving it back tomorrow though... :-(

So, I have decided to spend an absolute guilt free lazy Sunday in my pjs ! And you know what?

It was HEAVEN!

I have been busy busy like a bee lately.

I have had a busy week,visiting the animals at the rescue centre, doll making , photo taking, giving calls ( boring business stuff)...planning projects,

...OOoh I have even taken some great portraits of a good friend of mine: Angélique.

Isn't she pretty?

I think she is absolutely gorgeous!

I have also started teaching again.

So much pleasure to be back with mini ones again!

But today was an absolute lazy pjs day!

YES! This is me! shameless in my super not sexy outfit but OH Sooooooooooooooooo warm and comfy!

BLISS!

Does it happen to you too?
Well, it is Sunday anyway!

I have visited many blogs with great pleasure and

have let my mind wonder trying to think of what I will do with all the beautiful ribbons sent by my blog friend Sans.

I have a little idea though...

Oh what a wonderful day!

I hope you do take time to relax sometimes.

Please, tell me you do!

CARPE DIEM dear blog friends.

Orphans in a tree

2011-01-18T11:07:00.000-08:00

Do you like trees? Did you use to climb on top of the biggest branch when you were little?

This was one of my favourite games when I was a little girl!

So many good memories...

After days of rain, the sun has finally decided it was time to put an end to this endless hide and seek game.

So I decided to go out and take some photos of trees. Even in the Winter there is something so noble about them.

The rays of the sun looked like gold covering the bark.

It was magical!

Then the reflection of the sun seemed like little drops of silver shining in the light.The ground had so much to drink that it decided to spit out all that it couldn't swallow.

The field looked more like a swamp! And...

Wait!

Can you see?

There!!!

In the branches!!!!

Look!!! It looks like pieces of a photo.

ANOTHER PHOTO???

So I rushed back home to find out.

And this is what I found.

(yes..ha!ha! I am wearing a Yeti jumper!)

Big sigh...
another photo...

One of the little girls already appears on a photo previously found.
There are two names at the back:

Solange & Marie...
These are French names!

There is also a date:1940
I wonder how many more photos are out there?

It feels like Mother Nature is trying to tell me a little piece of History...

Valentine's Day & Jasmine

2011-01-17T09:00:00.001-08:00

Hello dear blog friends,

I hope you've been fine since the last time.

I have to confess that I have been busy making lots of dolls lately and I am having a wonderful time!

I have been working on Valentine's Day dolls!!

OOoooooooooooOOOOh!!! LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

These little sweeties are mainly available on custom orders and You can choose their hair colour!

I usually make 2 so people can decide which one they prefer.

I think it is always nice to have a choice.Don't you?

And this is the special Valentine's Day packaging!

Pink tissue paper, in French we call it Papier de Soie(= Silk paper), AND red velvet ribbon.

Isn't it romantic?

If you feel like adopting one, just have a look in the boutique!

I have also prepared a new doll for this month's challenge on ADO.

I have chosen to make a cat. I simply love them and spend hours cuddling them at the rescue centre. One of them is called Jasmin and she is extremely shy but we have become "good friends". She is all white.How I love her! In fact...I love them all!( and also the dogs AND the pigs)

This was a "work in progress" photo

See?

She is an angel!

A mother hen for all lost living creatures.

So far she has adopted a few mice, a puppy and here ...LOOK!

She has sheltered a little bird in her basket.

Awwwwwwww...

New photos discovered: Lotte

2011-01-10T05:21:00.001-08:00

During my walk today I found a little envelope in which were some photos.

It seems that an animal has dragged out the envelope from a hidden place .

The envelope was old and very dusty but the photos inside look as if they had been taken yesterday!

The envelope contained 4 photos of an adorable little girl.

Her name is written at the back: Lotte.
There is a date on this photo!

And a note on this one:
" Lotte is very stubborn. She just won't give a hand with cleaning up at the orphanage"

So these little girls come from an orphanage...

According to the date, I am afraid I cannot do much to help the little girl from the first photos previously found...

I wonder if I will find some more.

I have done some research but there was no orphanage in the area in 1941. Not in the village nor in the close town anyway.

LET THE PARTY BEGIN!!!

2011-01-03T03:33:00.000-08:00

AaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwWwww...is this cake for me?

Thank you ever so much Chloe!

(remember the sweet little story?

You can see the video here)

Candy floss, Barbapapa, Cotton Candy

so many words for this delicate sugary pink texture that melts in your mouth...

Biiiiiig sigh...

OK... NOW, let's talk about our ride!Are you ready to visit our blog fair?
Let me throw a bit of special glitter on you

( not to say magic dust...shhhhh...)
*.

.*
*+

*+
**
.*+..-

+_*+*+

_*_+

*.*

++
*

*.*.

*_*
*

*
Take a deeeeeeeeeeeeeep breath.

Let yourself go and count until 3.

Focus on the word "MUSIC" and you will be transported to our magic fair.

Here we go!!!!

Oh my...how I loved making and watching this!

Did you?

You have made it soooooooooooo special!

And if you didn't have time to prepare something, well all that matters is that you are here now!

Here are the wonderful Party Guests who have contributed to this post. Go visit them, each blog is worth a bite in a huge lollie!

A Pink Dreamer

The Quintessential Magpie

Winterlude

Geneviève's Miniacollection

FloWeRs & ARt

Artful Fairy Tales

La Casa Rossa

Doll Mum's Blog

Soul of a Doll Maker

Papier, Ciseaux, Cailloux...

Jasmoon Butterfly

Empress Wu Designs

FELTOOHLALA

Frosted Petunias

Evelyn's Wonderland ♥

Some of you have prepared lovely posts for the occasion too! Thank you ever so much!!!!

Just visit them so the party can last even longer!!!

Carousel Dreams
JOJO CARAMEL

Jasmoon Butterfly

( has done even more for the occasion!)

(if you wish to blog about Fairs, just let me know and I will add your link here)

CARPE DIEM my dear blog friends.

Time for me to go and celebrate with my family!

WEEPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE this is my last birthday starting with a 3!

A Spooky Discovery

2011-01-01T09:14:00.000-08:00

My heart was all light and breezy with the new year ( the dOll year) and my head was spinning with lots of ideas today. But then,during a walk I found a very strange place. I will share a bit more with you another day . On the floor I found these 2 photos...I thought I had to share it with you.

It seems that someone has left a message.

Who are these children?

What shall I do?

I am going to have to investigate...

So this is it: 2011 or dOll starts in a very odd way here at Papillon Bleu UK...

But do not worry, I will be back on the 3rd to celebrate our blog Fair in spite of the very obscur events.

A teaser of the Future

2010-12-29T14:46:00.000-08:00

Psssssst!

Look at this!

Can you see it too?

Yep! Yep!Each time I see 2011, all I see is the word doll!!!

Has my doll-making passion turned into an obsession?

is this A sigN?

Oh my... I hope the next year is going to bring us all wonderful surprises!

More blog friends, more extraordinary creative universes to discover.

I love Blogland!!!!

I wanted to write a kind of assessment of 2010 but though it could be way too boring and bitter so, I just want to focus on the unknown ( even though it is something rather tricky to do), the future.

Speaking of the future,the video for the birhday party is still in progress but looking good so far!

:))))))))

I cannot wait to show it to you.

Here, let's have some toffee apple to help us be patient

Also, some of you might already know that next year's OWOH edition will be the 5th but also the last.

Please do join in the fun! click on the image below to see all the details of the event.

This time , my giveaway will be a...

Oh, I let you finish the sentence, it is too easy!

OoooOOooh before I forget! let me show you something really adorable I received on Christmas Eve! This cute Jap'mini is so cute and tiny!!! I didn't take time to take a proper photo but you can see who has done this adorable dolly by clicking on the pic below!

(Merciiiiiiiiiii Gabrielle!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Désolée,

je n'ai pas pris le temps de faire une photo

alors je t'ai piqué la tienne! hu!hu!hu!)

Bye for now!

PS: I almost forgot to tell you that some dolls are on Sale in my shop! YAY!!!!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T05:41:00.001-08:00

New Elégantes, I AM A PRINCESS & Un p'tit mot en français

2010-12-17T08:40:00.000-08:00

Hello dear blog friends!

I will add at the end of this post something in French because there has been more French friends following this blog lately.Thanks to all!

I would like to say that I am in awe with all the photos I have received for the party! It is not too late to send more or join in the fun if you wish! Just check here.

I am ever so happy I got my mojo back! When I create, there are like butterflies tickling my stomach. Does it happen to you too? It is such a wonderful feeling.

Here is a teaser of what has been done so far.

This little one is ready for adoption here

I love her booties! And I think she does too because she cannot stop looking at them either!

Here she enjoyed a warm cup of mint tea.Hhhmmmmmmmm!!!!

I love this cutie with ginger hair. She is not completely finished. I am having some trouble with her boots. She might end up with no shoes at all! he!he!

Here is Miss Ice! She was made for a challenge for Art Dolls Only .

She found a loving home very quickly!

Maybe she is going to end up at the bottom of a Christmas tree?

Christmas is so near!

Oh! let me share with you a very special place! Not so long ago, I went there and I felt like I had entered a fairy tale.

OoooOoooh!
I felt like a princess in a palace.

I was wandering in this magical place, admiring the lights and the stars when...

...I looked up the stairs and saw my prince. Oh yes...sometimes I do want to believe in fairy tales.

Well , I have now decided that I AM a princess!

I hope you are all having a wonderful time preparing this end of the year.

Merci à vous , amis francophones qui passez par là. Je suis toujours ravie de lire vos messages en français . Vos commentaires me touchent et me font beaucoup rire parfois!

J'espère que vous voudrez bien me pardonner de ne pas traduire mes posts. La raison est simple: je déteste traduire.

Voilà...plus de secrets entre nous!

Le passage d'une langue à l'autre fait parfois perdre le caractère spontanné de ma pensée. Il y a énormément de choses que je peux exprimer dans une langue et pas dans l'autre .

Voilà, c'était un petit mot spécial pour vous qui faites toujours l'effort de me lire dans la langue de Shakespeare, mais celle de Molière restera toujours chère à mon coeur.

Voilà, j'espère pouvoir vous laisser une petite pensée particulière à la fin de mes posts dorénavent.

Veuillez pardonner également mon NORTOGRAF, l'anglais me fait perdre mon latin...hé!hé!hé!

Et patati et patata...tellement plus bavarde dans ma langue maternelle...

Allez, je vous laisse!

A bientôt!

Vanessa was our guest!

2010-12-13T12:03:00.000-08:00

It was Vanessa 's birthday and the dolls thought it would be nice if she could have a little party in the parTEA room. But to have access to this very special place, you have to be ... a doll.

So, with a bit of magic, fairy dust and many other ingredients which cannot be revealed here, we turned Vanessa into... a little doll!

The dolls were thrilled to bits to have her for this very special occasion!

Vanessa was looking everywhere ! She couldn't believe her eyes!

The dolls had made a cake with lots of whipped cream.There were also lollies and toffee apples!

Vanessa even went upstairs to visit Aliénore's bedroom and tried the very soft bed.

How happy she was to be a doll!

And yet, she couldn't stay.

Because you see, even if it was a magical dolly party in the heart of the old England...

...things weren't so great if not shared with her Mister Lovee!

And so Vanessa went back to her beautiful Arizona and promised she would give us some news!

Bye Vanessa!

We hope you had a lovely Birthday!!!

Found it!!!!

2010-12-10T04:48:00.000-08:00

First of all, I would like to thank you all for your wonderful words .

Once again you've proven how strong our network support is on Blogland and that blogging is deep, real, enriching, constructive , fun and full of wonderful people with generous hearts.

I am so proud to know you all.

Thank you!

I have followed ALL your advice: eaten chocolate , done some physical work cleared up the snow in the lane, walked dogs at the rescue centre ( I have just registered as a vonlonteer and it is one of the best things I have done ever!), read, watched films I loved ( even scary ones!), and have discovered new fascinating blogs.

Then, I started drawing, drawing, drawing...I just couldn't stop!

And a new little doll came to the world.

Then a second, and now a third is on her way.
The doll in the middle is the doll I am making for the Mini ADO challenge Jack Frost.

I have to say I am a bit nervous because these dolls are very different from what I have shown you before. They are closer to what I use to draw when I was a teenager when I use to buy Designers/Haute Couture magazines.

Discovering Andrew Yang's Kooklitas ( link in sidebar) just brought this memory back I guess.

I am having fun!

I have called this series: Les Elégantes.

What do you think?

Have I lost it?

2010-12-03T11:20:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have tried to scan my world with my Papillon Bleu eye, but nothing...

Ihave tried to make some minis for the birthday party and ...nothing....

I have tried to make a new doll ...but still nothing...

I cannot feel it...it is gone...

Oh my...

I have lost my creative mojo!!!

This afternoon I heard a happy voice singing.

It was this funny little soldier !

He was SO positive and full of energy.

"Have you stolen my mojo?"I asked him.

But he said no.

If I have lost it out there, I will go and get it! Whatever it takes , even in the deep deep snow, I will have to go and get back my mojo!.

WISH ME GOOD LUCK!

( seriously...does it ever happen to you? You want to do something but nothing seems to stimulate your mind...super mega big sigh...)

I will be back!

New animation! Need some advice

2010-11-17T10:53:00.000-08:00

Dear blog friends,

Could you please do me a favour?

I haven't had sound on my computer for a few weeks now ( oh my...it feels like dying sometimes...) but yet I have managed to add some music to this video.

The thing is, I have no clue of what it sounds like with the music!

Could you please let me know? I haven't put the volume too loud just in case...

I have several ideas about stories concerning my little Aliénore but, I wanted to ask if you are happy to see some more? I know what Aliénore is like but you, how do you perceive her?

Just wondering...

We have a winner...NO...2 !!!!

2010-11-12T11:41:00.000-08:00

It has been weeks of dolly making to prepare for Christmas.

Hard work but fun. And I've had the help of a lovely lady called Joyce so I could focus on other things such as the markets, the website and the workshops.

Some of these adorable Mini Susans will soon be available in my

ETSY Store to find a loving home.

As you can see, they all have a little lollipop.

They have all been to the fair !

Indeed, for my stall decoration I have chosen the same theme

as for my blog party, so you can have a teaser of what I am preparing for the event.

I would like to say that I have already received some photos from some participants and they look amazing!

Thank you !
I cannot wait to show them all and to see what the rest of you are working on.
If you want to join in it is still possible by clicking here

Here is the stall at my last market.

So now, all the dolls come with a little something they have got from the fair!

They have LolLies, candy floss and...no I cannot say too much. I don't want to spoil the surprise.

Oh!!! Speaking of candy floss, remember about the giveaway?

So, this is it, time to reveal who has won the little candy floss!

To be true, before doing the video I had to try my little box to see if only one paper would come out. And it worked ! So, I thought it would be fair to give another little candy floss to the first name that came out of the little box and here she is:

YAY! This is it! we have 2 winners!

Congratulations ladies!

Hope you are all having a lovely time.

Carpe Diem my dear friends.

A beautiful Papillon Bleu day ,a birthday, a gift and a giveaway!

2010-11-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

Aliénore and I have been very busy lately BUT, today we thought it would be nice to share a bit of time with you .

Do you want to spend a Papillon Bleu and Aliénore day?

OK!!!

Don't forget to bring a cardigan.

Come outside and breathe the beautiful Kentish air with us!

Lets dance and spin in the garden ...

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!
...until everything goes round and round and you no longer know where you are!

Let's rest for a little while until you can actually...

...get back on your feet.

Here is a little mini treat for Aliénore. She loves it!

Then, lets go back inside and work a little, shall we?

Oh!I think I heard the postman.

What is in the letter box today?

Oh my! A wonderful package from Julie ( My Curious Tea Party)

Such meticulous work in this tiny book! and the little painting!!!!

Thank you soooooooooo much Julie!

Those angels are just perfect for our parTea room, arent' they Aliénore?

Aliénore?

Have you seen her by any chance?

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HERE SHE IS!!!

Good Lord!!! She thinks she is an angel too!

Funny little doll!

Well, speaking of doll...there is still more to do .
lets go and work for an hour or two!

...

After sewing and painting, I think we need a little break.

It is the evening now.

Yes...time flies when you are busy like a little bee!

This is fun! I have put butterflies in my hair!

What did you choose to do?

I think the dolls are having a party behind me.

OooooooooooOooooooooh!!! How lovely!!!

Are we celebrating something specific dear dollies?

???

Ooooh it is Eleni's birthday very soon! of course!

You know Eleni, don't you? A pink Dreamer!

Don't forget to stop by her blog and wish her a happy birthday!

And...what is it that you are holding Aliénore?

A candy floss?

For...who?

A little gift for a blog friend!!!

What a great idea!

Well, if you want to win a mini candy floss for you or your favourite doll, just leave a comment here and we will draw a name in a week!

Oh...are you leaving now? well, we hope you've had a nice time with us.

Hope to see you soon! And don't forget to leave your comment if you want to win our mini candy floss!

Bye for now!

SURPRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIISE!!!

2010-10-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about it for months and months and here it is...what? well have a look here!

No music in this video but ENJOY!!!

I have trouble making her stand properly on her feet at the moment but, be sure you will know as soon as she does stand !!!

And don't forget to join in the party . Just click on the pic!

If you need ideas...

2010-10-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here is a bit of inspiration for the blog fair

If you still haven't registered just leave a message here and add this badge to your blog!

Hope it helps!

INVITATION TO MY BIRTHDAY PARTY!

2010-10-24T02:59:00.000-07:00

Hello dear blog friends! I hope you are all fine and that you are having delightful creative moments.

As I have previously mentioned, I would love to have a little ( or big!) birthday party with you!

There is nothing more that pleases me than sharing ideas with you and what was made with everybody's participation on the ALICE IN WONDERLAND or our french week an ALIENORE'S FIRST BIRTHDAY parties was so much fun!

So, I thought it could be nice if we all worked on another theme.

This time it will be to celebrate my birthday.

It is in January, at the very beginning of the year, but with Halloween, Christmas and our busy lives, I thought it would be nice to start thinking about it in advance.

It won't be difficult. The tricky part will be for me to put everything together.

I love fairs, carrousels, Luna parks and I thought it could be wonderful if we all prepared something around this topic.

Whether you make,miniatures, dolls , teddy bears, photos,digital art, collage, painting , write or even cook,

YOU ARE ALL WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE TO THIS BLOG PARTY.

Here is the badge I have prepared for you to link to this post if friends want to join in the fun.

HOW IT WORKS?

1) let me know here that you want to join in by leaving a comment on this post, and I will put your blog link in the sidebar.

2)prepare something ( or even if you already have old photos ) around the topic then send it via e-mail once ready.

3)Deadline will be 19th December ( the last Sunday before Xmas). It will give us all plenty of time to prepare something and do our Xmas shopping too!

4)On 3rd January 2011, I will reveal a film or photo story made with our photos. It will be a nice way to start the new year with you my dear blog friends and to celebrate my last birthday in my thirties...

Meanwhile, I am preparing lots of dollies for Victorian Christmas Market. Here is teaser of what I have done so far.

If you are on Facebook, don't forget to check Aliénore's page! There is a lot going on there too!

KEEP ON DREAMING!

In the parTEA room

2010-10-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hello dear blog friends! You know what? I have had a fantastic time building the new dolls' room that was used as a setting for the animation in the previous post. This very elegant room is bigger that Aliénore's bedroom. The ceiling is much higher which gives it the feeling of a "real " room. I have combined 1/12th and 1/6th scales.

Partially a tea room and also a party room, this room is called the parTEA room.

Aliénore's life has changed a little and I think it is time to take care of her education.

Let me introduce you to her new teachers.

This is Miss Fitt, drawing teacher. Not very funny lady.

On the left with short hair is Miss Turry. On the right is Mademoiselle Rochefort, who is going to teach music to Aliénore.

Miss Turry is going to teach the little doll lots of very interesting things that might help her in her future dolls' life. At the moment, she has started to give music lessons until Mademoiselle Rochefort has sorted her technical problem...

...she has no arms yet...

Halloween Party

2010-10-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

Hello dear friends! So...are you ready for our Halloween video?

OoooooooooOoOOOOooohhh....

SpOOOooookyyyyyyy!!!

Hope you will enjoy the show!

Do you want more?

Well click here to enter more spooky universes...

Mouah!hahhahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahaha!

Changing subject ( yes, it happens to me VERY often) my sweet Aliénore has just returned for a trip from France, feel free to check her Facebook page. I am still amazed to see the number of fans she's had in such a short time!

I think I might end up dying my hair blond!

OoOOh AND, as promised, I told you I would let you know about the next party here, well...if you remember how much fun we had with our Alice in Wonderland video HERE, well,wish to I would be happy to prepare another video with you for my birthday!

The theme will be...

Fairs, candy floss & pommes d'amour!!!!

ok, now, you can start thinking about it, next time I will let you know a bit more!

Keep on dreaming dear blog friends!!!

SOON!

2010-10-09T15:56:00.000-07:00

Dear blog friends, don't forget to visit on the 16th for the Halloween Party hosted by A Fanciful Twist.

You will discover our new SCARY MOVIE Ooooooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhh

AND our brand new dolls' room!

Also, I will reveal everything about my birthday party plans...

TO BE CONTINUED

More news

2010-10-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank all the lovely comments and very numerous encouragements received concerning my professional choices. Blogland provides a fantastic nework of support . Blogging has changed a lot into our lives, hasn't it? New friends, new universes, endless enchantement at each click of the mouse. Isn't our cyber life magical?

I would also like to thank and welcome all the new followers of Papillon Bleu UK. I hope my little world will help you relax and dream.

Some of you already know that I have just opened my new website, it is still under construction at the moment but feel free to have a look and let me know what you think.

The photo above is a teaser of the dolls I am working on at the moment.

Meanwhile, I have decided to introduce you to the new Pépettes I have in store at the moment. It was such a pleasure making those. They look like mini toddlers!

After I made this little video, I had "banana!banana!" in my head over and over again.

Let's see if it does the same to you.

And don't forget tp stop the music in the sidebar!

Keep on dreaming !

What is new? What's next?

2010-10-01T02:27:00.001-07:00

AliénorE has received an absolutely wonderful coat, hat and ...hand bag!!!She is soooo thrilled and cannot stop showing off!

The beautiful work was made by 2 other dolls. If you don't believe me you can meet them here

Also quick snap to let you see that there are somme Pépettes that will soon be ready to find a new home.

All last dolls have been adopted even before I had time to introduce them to you.Sorry...

But I took these photos before they went.

Am preparing the Halloween Blog Party hosted by A Fanciful Twist that will take place on the 16th October. I am sure that many of you are joining in! Aren't you?

I have also decided that my next birthday would be celebrated here on Blogland with my blog friends!

As it is in January, we will have plenty of time to discuss it. But there are so many events between now and January that I thought I should anticipate a little . Reckon?

Some of you have also asked if I was still working for the company I mentioned in previous posts.Well the answer is no. I use to love my job very much but sometimes it seems that some people can turn the most beautiful thing in a real nightmare. I will mention no more as it is not a nice story at all.

I have decided to spread my wings and this is what I do now!

I hope you are all happy my dear blog friends.

Do never ever give up your dreams and never EVER forget who you are.

Much love to you all

Practical Magic Blog Party

2010-09-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

I have had a great time making two little dolls for this blog party.

Well...yes! dolls! what did you expect from a doll maker after all?

So I made little Gillian and a little Sally.

I have made my own dolly interpretation of a scene I found enchanting.

I hope you will like it.

I wish you all a happy Practical Magic Blog Party!!!
Don't forget to pause the music in the sidebar before playing the video.

Thank you Anna and Justina for hosting such a delightful blog event.

I cannot wait to visit everyone!

I jump on my broom and whoooooooooosh!!! Here I come!!!!

Just click on the picture to visit all the other blog friends. Easy! hmm?

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