Books to Publish in 2011 and Metal Doll Book

Another year has come. This year, I have a poetry Chapbook coming out, and the Doll Bibliography. Though it's been delayed, I hope the metal doll book will be out soon. We have some great examples to photograph and re-photograph. This will be the year I will try to find an agent, and get the web museum up and running.

Lectures this year on dolls include Historical Women and Dolls for AAUW and Barbie for the German Center. These will include displays,handouts, and show and tell.

Recent finds this weekend include a treasure trove of old and vintage store stock from a regional hobby store. These doll heads, parts, and eyes, beautiful antique dolls eyes, date from the mid seventies and earlier! I also found pattern books, and a needlepoint set for a doll house. Also, from our local artisan Bethany Lowe, a tiny all bisque antique doll inspired ornament. From eBay, a Hilda/Kaiser Baby type by Kestner in need of some repair, but overall in great shape, and an artists' Bru head for my body.

Recent book: Barbara Streisand has a book on design filled with gorgeous photos of her antique dolls. One, a Jumeau Triste artists doll, was dressed by an old friend of mine I used to visti in Carmel, Michael Canadas. It is a small world. I am asking for this book for Christmas. Also, I recommend Flanagan's Dolls by Warren Adler, discussing Bonnie Babe, Jumeau, and and AT as part of a mystery plot on antique dolls. I think he also wrote The War of the Roses. Deb Baker has another book out, and I can't wait to read it. Monical Ferris also has a new mystery, as does Patricia Cornwell, with my beloved Dr. Scarpetta.

The kindle we received for Christmas is a great way to sample books. There are some classic doll books on it, and many great novels. I still love my books, though.

Please read my blog on greening for more resolutions and ideas, and a few recipes. There are also doll and craft related items and photos there.

In memory of Edie, I must write a few words. She is a dear friend of a friend who passed away this week, much too soon, of cancer. Edie taught in Cambodia and Thailand, and I met her at my close friend Rosemary's in California. She was a sweet, caring girl, and the world is an emptier place without her. I still wear the head bands she brought from Thailand, handmade by children at her school. I used to joke with Rosemary and her that they were trying to send me to work for the Khmer Rouge. May she Rest in Peace, surrounded by angels.