What a winter it has been in Ontario. We have had record breaking arctic cold and several intense snowstorms. It is so cold, that it can be disheartening as you can feel it from head to toe so quickly. Moments of sunshine have been rare but so appreciated. Each glimmer of sunshine coming through the window causes me to pause and truly notice the warmth of the light. I am thankful to turn the calendar page and welcome February as I nurture thoughts of Spring. The Secret Garden book is on my reading table, ready for me to enjoy over the next couple of weeks. I think the book is perfect to read at this time of the year and it is filled with so many inspiring quotes that I jot down in my journal as I work on Italian Hand. Both the book and practicing Italian Hand are comforting and familiar when the days are so chilling. I have been thinking deeply about the work I return to that brings me so much joy and sense of peace.
I never get tired of working on these artistic hearts. They are such a joyful way to explore flourishes.
The heart will be explored in my Victorian Valentines, The Language of Flowers presentations for Ardington School. The lecture and demonstration for February 4th, sold out quickly, but we opened more seats for February 11th. If you are interested in the historic lecture that Martin Beek will present followed by a very Victorian design to explore with ink, gold and watercolour, you can register through Ardington. Preparing for this special class had me going through my treasure trove of Victorian scraps and ephemera. I love the abundant florals and the quirkiness of the sentiments in the designs. The Victorians loved intricate details which is why I find their designs so charming. 
With my deep love of 19th Century ornament and offhand flourishes as well as my fascination with historic Italian Hand and 18th Century English Roundhand, it occurred to me that I am very out of sync with my own times. And to be totally honest, I am unapologetically out of sync with my own times. I love analog skills. I love putting ink on paper slowly with a pen that needs to be dipped in ink. I love creating and displaying handmade lace no matter how long it takes to figure out the stitches or technique. I love researching and learning about calligraphic scripts and decorative ornament and finding ways to share it with others. I fail at keeping up with social media, or staying on top of the technology that is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. But I do try to encourage my dear students to take all the time they need to truly engage in the classes they sign up for. With the ever increasing availability of online courses, I am perpetually grateful and blessed by those who sign up for my courses and send me such kind notes of thanks. I will be offering a Masterclass in Italian Hand in March for The Gentle Penman. This is a slow savour class for those who want to nudge the nuances of Italian Hand while finding their own voice. It is a deep dive from one who is constantly making new discoveries with this beautiful and lighthearted script.
I have a lot to say and a lot to share with this special class.It is filled with insights I have gleaned over the years and discussed with my own mentors and teachers. Just like the flourishes, Italian Hand has captured my heart and soul. Registration info is at The Gentle Penman. This class will be kept very small so that I can interact fully with each student. If you are a little like me and feel a bit out of sync with these times, I urge you to nurture the things that have captured your heart and soul. Whether you are a musician, sculptor, painter, embroiderer, reader or calligraphic artist, pursue what brings you joy. Be yourself and do what you love! I will be there along side you, cheering you on and watching the joy it brings to others. 
