Celebrating Jane Austen’s birthday today with ribbon roses…

Random Bits of Fascination Posted on by

Celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday with me! I thought I’d share something out of the archives today: an old-fashioned craft, similar to something she herself might have done to trim her own garments or accessories–Ribbon Roses.       Recently had the pleasure of doing these at a bridal shower we hosted for my future daughter-in-law. I got to teach  the ladies how to fold the roses and we spent a lovely afternoon chatting and crafting our roses. Even better, they … Continue reading →

Christmas fun: Old Fashioned Parlor Games

Random Bits of Fascination Posted on by

What to do with company that comes for Christmas? What about some old fashioned parlor games? I love the holiday season, especially because it means I can have friends and family over. Occasionally, boredom can strike though and I find myself scrambling for something fun to do. With long winter nights with only candlelight to see by and fireplaces for warmth, those who lived in the regency era confronted the boredom issue regularly. No wonder … Continue reading →

Deleted Scene: On the Nature of Fairy Dragons

Random Bits of Fascination Posted on by

How about a deleted scene from Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon. On the Nature of Fairy Dragons. Late in the evening, Elizabeth made her way back upstairs to her room. She pulled the door closed and turned the lock. The candle she carried cast just enough light to make shadows dance along the walls. April did not like so many unpredictable shadows, though. So, Elizabeth lit three candles from the one she carried and placed that … Continue reading →

Sharing the Love of Austen

Random Bits of Fascination Posted on by

My favorite opportunity for sharing the love of Austen so far. In the past five years  I’ve been writing, I’ve had a lot of really wonderful ‘Austen-adventures.‘ I’ve met a lot of wonderful friends. Traveled, attended conferences, spoken, costumed and learned to dance. Even better, my wonderful, if more-than-just-slightly-crazy, family has come along for the ride with me. Not even kicking and screaming mind you, but all in for the fun of it. This week, … Continue reading →

Giving Thanks

Random Bits of Fascination Posted on by

In the midst of all the challenges 2016 has presented, there has been so much to be thankful for. I think Jane Austen sums it up so well. Give us a thankful sense of the blessings in which we live, of the many comforts of our lot, that we may not deserve to lose them by discontent or indifference.~Jane Austen

Continue reading →