"Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Let your heart be light
From now on,
our troubles will be out of sight

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Make the Yule-tide gay,
From now on,
our troubles will be miles away.

Here we are as in olden days,
Happy golden days of yore.
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more.

Through the years
We all will be together,
If the Fates allow
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.
And have yourself A merry little Christmas now."
...written by Hugh Martin


My favorite Christmas song....I share it with all of you. I hope the Spirit is flowing strong in your heart. I love this time of year! Like a child, I still wish for a 'white Christmas'....smile when I see a 'Santa'....gaze in awe at the wonderful lights as I drive through neighborhoods...and hope for Peace with every thought of what Christmas is truly about.

The season has found me busy this year, so many orders, so much to do, but then again, so much to be thankful for. I am blessed with so many great friends who are such a strong part of my life and heart. My family is wonderful, a true blessing. My mother is now physically absent at our gatherings, but still felt so strongly. She always found a way of making Christmas the absolute best...memories that will never be forgotten, lessons still being passed along. Each memory is a building block to creating our individual character, our soul.

I hope this Christmas brings each child a happy memory. We all sometimes forget what the slightest gift, the smallest gesture, the most innocent touch of kindness can do to a child's heart. I remember one year at Christmas, all of my countless cousins were gathered by my Grandparents' tree awaiting the "presents". Sitting in the front was an unwrapped, child's blender that with batteries actually worked! All of my girl cousins just knew it was "hers", and the excitement was wild. I sat quietly, knowing it was not mine, I usually got slippers. As the gifts were passed out, paper tossed wildly, my Aunt Eva stepped over to me handing me the 'Blender'. She looked me sternly in the eye and said this was for me, so I could start helping my mom in the kitchen and learn to cook as good as she did. My cousins were so jealous, but I was thrilled more than anyone would ever know. Today, I love cooking. Thank you Aunt Eva!

We receive gifts to the soul daily, but Christmas is so special. I send everyone a thank you for all you have given me and the hope for each child, old and young to have a Blessed and Merry Christmas.

"The merry family gatherings - the old, the very young; the strangely lovely way they harmonize in carols sung. For Christmas is tradition time - traditions that recall the precious memories down the years, the sameness of them all."
- Helen Lowrie Marshall

Christmas is upon us....trees are glistening, front doors are adorned in beautiful wreaths, floors show the remnants of wrapping paper and families and friends are rushing, laughing, smiling and preparing! Christmas is here!

We all have our ways of celebrating Christmas, our "traditions". A few weeks ago, my oldest was home and I was amazed at her recollection of our holidays past. She recalled how we began our season, Thanksgiving weekend and followed it through to the end. I was jolted into a glimpse of past, but also realized how some of our "traditions" have changed. What once had been a solid performance, new Christmas pajamas the day after Thanksgiving, sugar cookie making the first Saturday in December, St. Nick's Day abundant with goodies, the "mouse" moving each day to that one BIG day....oh so many "traditions", have been changed, tweaked, or simply set aside.

I have been thinking about traditions, and the celebration of the Holidays. Where did our traditions go? Growing up, the first Saturday always found my mom and me at my Grandmother's house making the infamous "Springerle" cookie. The process was endless, the result a hard, powdery, anise flavored delicacy that many would say, "yuck"! Yet every year, the same routine, the same schedule. This time of year the slightest sniff of anise and I am engulfed in those memories, the tradition.

I look around my home and see various old decorations still surviving, new additions sprinkled amongst, past Christmas photos of smiles, cards of greetings finding my mailbox and a warmth finds my soul. Our Christmas Traditions are not the actual "act", but the result, the bond, the meaning. I would have to have the Springerele recipe in front of me to make them, but I remember Grandma's laugh like yesterday, my mother covered in flour and Perry Como belting out some Christmas cheer.

Today I find my own kitchen counter filled with tins of cookies and fudge galore. Families and friends are busy making plans to celebrate. My days are spent searching for the special gift or perfect way to say "Merry Christmas". True, some of my "traditions" have changed, at least it would appear, but looking deeper, seeing my girls snicker as they shove that cookie quickly into their mouth, slowly pass by the tree to see the name on that gift, hang onto that old ornament one more year, or share one of their memories, I know my holiday traditions are still living strong. Christmas Traditions....remembering old memories, making new memories, and being with family.

I have been making so many new pieces for the season, but wanted to share my newest idea...note cards. I have transferred the paintings I do on silk to card stock...a great little way to send a unique message to all or perhaps a good place to write down those old memories, to preserve them, to share forgotten ways of yesterday...

Enjoy this beautiful Christmas Season!

"Saying thank you is more than good manners. It is good spirituality."

Alfred Painter



With Thanksgiving upon us, and the door is opening to welcome in the Christmas Season, I feel so blessed to be surrounded by wonderful friends, family and God. As a child, Thanksgiving was a time to visit all my cousins and relatives, to eat delicious foods, and to be out of school. Pilgrims, Indians and stories of the First Thanksgiving engulfed my school days' lessons. With each growing year, those lessons of long ago bring me new meaning, new appreciation, new spirit.

A symbol we all recognize with Thanksgiving is the "Cornucopia", the horn of plenty. I take time this year and look deep inside my own "Cornucopia" and see so many blessings, so much harvest, so much love, hope and belief. I am blessed with a beautiful, loving, strong family, a pillar to always keep me going. I have friends that surround me with love, humor and strength. I see my dreams, my hopes, all supported and within reach. I am thankful.

It is funny how God changes our life, helps us gain strength, and most importantly, guides us to new paths. About eight months ago, I met a lady that immediately I knew our spirits were connected. Deborah Gall is an artist and a gallery owner, but more importantly her inner spirit is strong, kind, and one of hope.

Most of November I spent preparing for the Trunk Show at Abide Studio in Franklin, TN. If you have not visited this quaint little gallery, beautiful little shop, then you must put it on your to do list. The show was great! Sales were good, traffic unbelievable, exposure fantastic, but most of all, a new friend quickly became a good friend. I cannot thank Deborah enough for support, help, kindness and friendship.

I am so thankful this season. Happy Thanksgiving!

"but Mom...look how cute she/he/she is! You know you want her/him/her! Mom! You love dogs...we promise we will take care of them..."
Holland and Fielder Walblay


"Hey...where's mom going??" (Poofy)
"I don't know,she has been very busy lately! And I don't like it when she is so busy...no time to hold me!! (Petey)
"Such whiners!! She is getting ready for her Trunk Show! That's why she made us model these sweaters...I love my sweater, it has a hood! (Daisy)
"You are just old...I don't like all this action going on, I am suppose to be played with!" (Poofy)
"Well Princess won't even come out from under the bed!" (Petey)
"I'll say it again, don't worry, mom will be back, and probably bring home treats! I'm taking a nap." (Daisy)
"Well we are staying right under her feet! We want to help if she is bringing back treats!" (Poofy& Petey)

Yes, my dogs are big helpers this week! My latest designs..."Doggie T-shirts", some are hooded, some just plain, all painted with a design on the back!! A fun stocking stuffer for your nearest and dearest! Let's face it, our kids bring home, and we make them ours...one way or another.

I will be at Abide Studio tomorrow 2-5 and again Sat afternoon. Stop in and visit this week or contact me for a custom "doggie t-shirt"!

Doggie T-shirts......$12

"Neckties satisfy modern man's desire to dress in art."

Harry Anderson


We all have our thoughts of what makes a man unique, desirable, sexy. My opinion...a sexy man is confident, strong, powerful, he takes care of himself, but does not profess his vanity. He does not need the admiration of numerous women to boost his power, he knows what he wants and settles for nothing less, even in his search for a mate. This man shows his individuality not only in his stance, but his appearance. He loves being an original. This man can just walk down the street in a basic shirt, but make a bold statement with a flash of color in his tie.

I worked for awhile in the furnishing department of Rodes Rapier before completing my master degree. One of my biggest lessons learned there was how a man's personality, his flair, his soul is often limited or constricted by fashion. There is one place a man can open the window though....his tie. Through neck wear a man can show a taste of who he is deep within. The necktie can be a reflection of the man's soul.

In less than 48 hours the Trunk Show will be in progress. I have numerous hand-painted neckties for any man who loves showing his originality. Most are made of Charmeuse, a few of Jacquard Silk. Colors that are rich and vibrant with illusions of calm, relaxing places to be seen flow through the silk. I do suggest, due to the bias cutting and lining, that my ties be dry-cleaned rather than hand washed...just keeps them looking their best!!

See you Wednesday!

Neck wear prices begin at $50.

"Celebrate the happiness that friends are always giving, make every day a holiday and celebrate just living!"...Amanda Bradley


It is time to top the Holiday shopping! Don't you hate showing up for those Holiday parties only to see your outfit on someone else?? Or everyone is wearing the "in" color?? Make a grand statement or entrance with a unique and original work of art!

I have been working non-stop on several new design of tops. I have blousan tunics of100% silk crepe that are soft, draping and figure hiding perfections! They have a drawstring waistline that allows a comforting "drop-over", a seductive v-neck, bell sleeves with elastic at the wrist and all are painted in various colors to guarantee a wardrobe match!

A newer style to try is the cap sleeve tunic of 100% Charmeuse. These are one size fits all and can be belted, left alone, worn under jackets, or a year round deal in the warmer months! I love these!

As always, I still produce my shells, a tank style , and camisoles, in 100% Charmeuse, both are the perfect, can't go wrong with, piece!

The Trunk Show is just four days away! I hope you can make it in, but if you can't contact me or www.deborahgall.com for more details on any of my items!

Make the Holidays spectacular...wear something original!


A few samples...

Icy Waters............$70 (camisole, size M)
Holiday Fiesta........$65 (blousan tunic, size L)
Cranberry Cocktail....$65 (size L)
Caribbean Waters......$65 (size M)
Rubies................$70 (size M)

Shells priced at $75
Cap Sleeve Tunics priced at $60

"The secret of fashion is to surprise and never to disappoint."
Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton


The scarf....the statement! I love scarves! A scarf is the easiest way to update an outfit, add a touch of color, texture or femininity. When shopping for others, the scarf is the best idea to give! I find a scarf to be a wonderful form of self-expression and flair reflection of the wearer.

Between the upcoming Holiday season, and the Trunk Show next week, I have been busy creating, styling, and designing lots of variations of scarves. Here are just a few samples to be seen next week!

Included in the selection is my favorite, Chiffon scarves. My sizes range 22" x 90" to 18" x 72". This year I have several color choices, some that are fairly solid in color with bits of metallic splashed through or a touch of a design to an edge. When wrapped around the neck the look is amazing and the softness of the chiffon perfect. I have a few that I "over-dyed" with a touch of opaque colors resulting in an amazing iridescent color blend.

Of course, I still carry the famous, never failing Charmeuse scarves. My favorite size, 22" x 90" or 18 x 72. I have several varieties to choose from, most with a festive watercolor effect.

To compliment the season, I have included this year a few Silk Cut Velvets! Truly lovely pieces that hold their hues incredibly. The added fringe makes these around 76".

Last, I am venturing into a new look. Using 100% Habotai Silk, cut a generous 45" x 108", this scarf has endless possibilities. Lightweight enough to be worn as a typical scarf, generous enough to wear on those lovely tropical vacations as a wrap, or, stay truly on top of the "in crowd" and you have the perfect yoga scarf for meditation. They are so unique!! The colors shimmer, and the feel is remarkable.

Come see everything next week!! I am sure you will find lots you want for gifts...and maybe something for yourself! Plus, I will be taking orders if that special color scheme isn't found! Remember, Abide Studio, Nov 18 - 21, for more information contact me or www.deborahgall.com

Scarves....the fashion staple! prices range $40 - $60

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful."
Albert Schweitzer



I realize I have not been staying in touch lately, but my time has not been wasted! I am preparing for a Trunk Show next week, Nov 18 - 21 at Abide Studio in Franklin, TN! Abide Studio is a lovely gallery located in The Factory right in the heart of the town. Deborah Gall, the owner of this amazing little shop, is also a very talented artist herself! Her inspirational pieces have been captivating people from here to India!

To prepare, I am trying a few new ideas! As most ladies know, we love our bags, our handbags, our purses, our clutches, etc! I decided to try a new twist on the handbag/evening bag. These are 100% silk, a soft, rich black charmeuse. They have a zipper closure with interior pocket. The strap is a durable cord that can easily be adjusted to the desired length! The 7" x 8" size is perfect for those evening outs or just a little addition to the outfit! Each have been adorned slightly with a selected design painted in opaque colors.

The bags will be at the show next week, and I am also taking orders if anyone wishes to "custom the look". I personally will be there Wednesday afternoon and back on Saturday. I hope you stop by and see me!

"Peace"
"Night of Jazz"
"Merlot"...................... $40 each

For more information on Abide Studio www.deborahgall.com