Fairy Tales Divine

From "The Giant Who Had No Heart In His Body", Illustration by Kay Nielsen

If you've ever received a gift 

that literally stopped you in your tracks, 

rendered you speechless, caused you to tear up, 

and most important, had you treasuring that gift for ever more,

then you already know how I felt upon receiving this 

Christmas gift two years ago from my very dear friend, Tracy. 

This reprinting of fifteen Scandinavian fairy tales was originally 

published in 1914, illustrated by the Danish artist Kay Nielsen. 

As you can see, even by my amateur photo above, Kay Nielsen's 

Art Deco-inspired illustrations are something to behold. 

Curling up with these fairy tales, ginger tea and a soft 

hand knit blanket transports me to a wonderful other world.

I'm pretty sure Tracy would be pleased to hear that.

 I'm currently reading these fairy tales and a few others

 as more than a lovely way to pass chilly winter evenings - 

it's all leading up to the highly anticipated online class, 

The Magic of Myth, led by Elizabeth Duvivier,

the founder of Squam Art Workshops.

The course is sold out, so I feel fortunate to 

be taking part in the whole experience. These next six weeks

hold the promise of discovery, creativity and growth,

and I'm ready! 

What treasured gift(s) have you received?

 I'd love to hear.