My granddaughter Emilea and I made this tissue paper wreath together when she was eleven years old. She was on the outer edge of childhood. Skilled but still interested. Nevertheless, it was too tedious a project to finish on her own, so when she lost interest I finished it off and added the tiny paper roses.
Not long after, the family moved to the Pacific Northwest and we have yet to visit them there. Somehow the wreath has never been put away. It decorated my shop all year long with the lit trees I also kept up year 'round.
Last year it graced the shop window during the holidays.
It's the sort of thing that is best appreciated up close, and this season I have it near my desk in the snuggery where I can see it often.
Our current overcast days give it extra drama with the subtle back lighting.
And it's a bit ethereal and dreamy on a dark day.
I first made a tissue wreath from a coat hanger and paper when I was in the fourth grade. Then again the first year of marriage when casting about for frugal ways to celebrate. That one lasted years and turned a gorgeous ivory like some bottle-brush trees do.
My desk lamp is also perfect for Christmas, and stays out out all year. When lit, the shade has a beautiful silhouette of the decoupaged leaves.
The base is also decoupaged and decorated with gold leaf from the inside of the glass. It's one of my favorite works of art. I rescued it from Goodwill a few years ago for about seven dollars I think.
There's also a new magnifying glass on my desk. I look for a new one this time each year. (I want one next to every chair!) For some reason they are more prevalent at Christmas. (Well they make good gifts!)
Maybe you spotted this one at Potterybarn. There's a matching letter opener. And check out that fabulous crown motif!
It's trite but true to say how much I love the traditions of Christmas. Old and new. Store bought and handmade. Nostalgic and heartwarming. And it could be said that I never quite put them away. . . .
And it's so nice to be sharing them with you!
I hope you're enjoying the season.
Ciao! for now!
Jacqueline
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It's a cool, rainy day here and this post warmed my spirits. Your beautiful thoughts flow so easily. I like that and can imagine what sweet memories this wreath brings to mind. Enjoy the season! ~ Sarah
ReplyDeleteBeautiful memories - lovely post.
ReplyDeleteLiz @ Shortbread & Ginger
I wish you a warm , gentle season that will create new unforgetable memories and experiences . I like the white angelic wreath and all that love behind it .
ReplyDeleteMemories daily of a beautiful time & share. I love that you keep it out to enjoy ...
ReplyDeleteHave a beautiful week ~
TTFN ~
Hugs,
Marydon
PS Drop by for our GIVEAWAY
That is a most beautiful lamp and shade! I think the things from our past hang around near to our hearts! :D
ReplyDeleteI just love that you keep that wreath out all year long...it must bring back a lot of sweet remembrances. Hope you had a good weekend :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful wreath the two of you created.. I am glad you are enjoying it year round. The handle on your magnifying glass is glorious! Have a great week..
ReplyDeleteWanda
Gorgeous! Magnifying glasses always make me think of Santa checking his list twice!
ReplyDeleteYour wreath seems just right in the snuggery. The lamp was a steal.
ReplyDeleteThis post is beautiful, Jacqueline! How lovely that your and your granddaughter made this wreath together. It makes it all the sweeter!
ReplyDeleteIt's a beautiful wreath.
ReplyDeleteElna
What a sweet story! Grand kids are the best!
ReplyDeletetot
I've seen all the coffee filter wreaths but not a tissue paper one? is it easy?? can you tell how you did it?? I really like it's softness better than the other look.
ReplyDeletethanks and blessings
barbara jean
Thanks for sharing this. The wreath will be one that I try in red and white.Why ...the coffee filter wreath didn't work for me it just never came together:( If this doesn't work I will be forced to buy from and etsy.(insert sad blogger)Anyhoo everythings beautiful!
ReplyDelete