Card is printed and will be sent soon

 Well. I have gotten the card from the printer and we are busy sending our holiday wishes  to all on our list.

This year's card captures our wildlife. We spend many of our hours when we can just observing our woodland friends. It is always a pleasant day when some unexpected critter arrives and entertains us.

The elves of course represent our grand children, now all young adults. I started the elves when there was only Isadore and have added the others as they arrived. Amelia, Owen, Eleanore, Ruby and Yasmin all creating the incredible fantastic six. The Santa appeared as a gift from my children and soon became the model for all the Santa's in each card.

I remember the first holiday card was a block print of our home at  Basler Farm in black and white. Then I discovered the ability to use color ditto masters and created the card of Santa holding a tray of dirt with a can of peas. The message was Peas on Earth. Than with introduction of photocopiers I began to draw 8.5 by 11 inch drawings in black line ink. Copying them in black and white and then hand coloring them. This was often a family activity. The themes changed with the events of our family during the year of their creation. Welcoming an exchange student, packing to move, and decorating the new home are just a few of past themes.

Then, as I do now, I switched to doing drawings 18 x 24 inchdrawings in pen and ink with colored pencil painting. Once they were completed a photo is shot and passed to the printer for the publication process. Now i try to create story themes, Baking, sending packages, making candy are some of those story drawings.

This year's card was extremely difficult to create. The life altering direction of country created some anxiety in my psyche.  There is a political reference if you can find it. Devastated by the grim outcome and distasteful election of of a lying bully crook I added my thoughts of staying positive and vocal as we move forward. Never give up the fight for the rights of all!

So whatever your race, creed, gender, or religion look forward to a brighter future through your own perseverance in speech and actions.

Happy Holiday for 2024