Judy Returns
This summer, Hannah named our resident bunny “Judy” based on the Zootopia movie. She was befuddled when I showed her this photo one morning back in June. Are they all Judy? I spotted as many as four Judys at a time in our yard. It was a banner...
First Snowfall
This morning was the season's first snow. It's perhaps the latest snowfall I can remember in the 17 years that we've lived Downeast. I delight in the first snow; I delight in almost every snow, even if I wish it away by March. Snow cover outside...
Maine Vintage Map Trees
This entry for WHRL's Christmas Tree Festival and Auction is a trio of minimalist vintage Maine Map Christmas Trees. A vintage map tree I spotted on Pinterest from Bombus in the UK inspired these designs. Paul cut three triangles of wood culled...
The Two Sides of Downeast Thunder Farm
The other morning I was visiting this little doe in the front yard. I stood on the porch talking to it and snapping pictures - Gidget oblivious of her for a bit. I returned inside and sat at my desk, unloading the deer pictures onto my computer,...
The Stealthy Northern Shrike
When the request for a Northern Shrike came in last week, I realized that I'd started the design for this fellow some time ago, but never finished the ornament. Here he is for your weekend crafting pleasure. Enjoy! Note: If you are reading this...
November in Maine
November in Maine.
The Enchanting Winter Woodland Owl Wreath
The Enchanting Winter Woodland Owl Wreath is my second entry for WHRL's 2021 Winter Tree Festival. Inspired by a wreath I spotted on Pinterest, I scoured the woods for some young trees with thumb-sized branches. Four lengths snipped 14" long were...
Maine Lobster Buoy Christmas Tree
With WHRL's Winter Tree Festival & Auction just a month away, I'm relieved to be ahead of the game and have my first entry finished.This summer, I spent many hours on my porch painting these little wooden lobster buoys. I strung the individual...
More Clever Creations with Downeast Thunder Farm Patterns
Here are some more ideas for creating with Downeast Thunder Farm birds and critters.Joyful Owl Wreaths My use of owls in wreaths began with a balsam wreath for Christmas with the Joyful Owl. She's designed with just her head and upper body to...
Christmas Mouse
Why a Christmas Mouse, you wonder? I have no idea, but it's been on my mind for a couple of years, and I've been in the designing groove now that the weather is cooling down. For this critter, I've used Silver Gray (mouse), Barnyard Red (scarf),...
Woodland Christmas Tree
Clearly, I'm gearing up for Christmas. Last weekend it was the Woodland Gnomes. This weekend it's this simple Woodland Christmas Tree. There are many ways you can create this. Use two coordinating green colors for the tree or use the same color...
Woodland Christmas Gnomes
Magical little nature spirits, gnomes have found a place in Christmas holiday traditions. While I'm not a fan of the garden gnome, I had lots of fun creating these felt versions. These woodland Christmas gnomes will make darling gift decorations or...
New Bird and Whale Felt Kits added to the SHOP
I have added ten felt pattern kits to the SHOP! They've been a long time coming. You'll find four recent bird designs, including the: American Redstart, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird, and Common Yellowthroat Warbler. And felt kits for six...
Autumn on Pigeon Hill
A glorious afternoon on Pigeon Hill. No further words are necessary.Other Pigeon Hill hikes:16 March 2020: Afternoon Tea on Pigeon Hill26 December 2018: The Day After Christmas on Pigeon Hill15 January 2018: Winter on Pigeon Hill12 June 2017:...
The Tiny Golden-crowned Kinglet
Cleaning the living room yesterday, I discovered this Golden-crowned Kinglet pattern that had slipped under the sofa. I designed it at some point but never crafted him. A gray Sunday morning was a good time to take him from paper to felt. Enjoy!...
Clever Creations with Downeast Thunder Farm Patterns
With the cooler weather setting in and the holidays coming, it seems like a natural time for handicrafts. I have fun designing my birds and critters, and I'm always delighted by the ways readers use the patterns in their projects. I thought I'd...
Gidget’s Grand Adventure: Taft Point
Hannah and I packed up Gidget and headed over to Taft Point on Flander's Bay yesterday. After a busy Saturday working, I needed the activity and fresh air. Storybook-style mushrooms lined the trail to the shore. Overcast skies loomed low over...
Farewell to Summer Joys
These first days of October are ones of coming to terms. That summer is over, and I must retire my sandals. That that the days of dipping my toes in the surf have passed. That my porch days are becoming a rarity. That the hummingbird who visited my...
Gray Skies
Gray skies. Low tide. Quiet solitude.
New Book and Note Cards Added to the Shop
I've added two new products to the SHOP this week!Update: November 6 Backyard Books 2: Felt Ornament Designs is available for ordering! There is also an accompanying felt pack. In stock now, this new six-pack of flower and pollinator note cards....
Shorebirds In A Fading Landscape
There's a certain melancholy when summer fades to fall. The marsh grasses in their golds and browns reframe the landscape. These late-season shorebirds lingered in a protected marsh pool during high tide. Their reflections muted on this foggy...
September Adventure at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
On Saturday, Hannah and I ventured to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. This visit is the latest in the season we've enjoyed together. Autumn is unveiling with trees beginning to turn and faded grasses rustling in the breeze. Much of the summer...
September Friday Beach Walk
The wonderful thing about Hannah teaching at the high school this semester is meeting for Friday beach walks. It's been a couple of weeks since we took the time, and it was a lovely September afternoon. The fog rolled in and out. Hannah's sea glass...
Late Summer Hummer
A late summer hummer to brighten up this gloomy, rainy day.
The Boundless Border Terrier
It's been a while since I've played with a dog pattern. Here's a scrappy little Border Terrier. They have so many variations in coloring that I've provided some options. The general shape of this pup can be modified to fit a variety of floppy-eared...
