If you can’t beat them (the weather), join them (it).  Not an option today!  It’s very chilly, windy, and pouring rain.  I REALLY had my heart set on getting Alice’s photos taken today, so I got lucky and figured out how to use the weather to my advantage and get her photos taken.

I put Alice in the kitchen bay window, and because it’s not bright (at all) the photos came out fine.  I turned on all the warm kitchen lights, used a tripod, and used a board to block the glare on top of her head.  They’re a little darker than usual, but I think they’re cozy looking.

Alice, my Little Darling painted by Nelly Valentino, is thrilled to be able to show you her first Christmas ensemble, Christmas Caroler.  It’s a very traditional ensemble—even a little bit old-fashioned looking, which is a look I am in love with on her.

Alice’s elbow length sleeved dress is made with a tiny holly print in deep red, greens, and bits of metallic gold.  A deep red taffeta ribbon (with a brighter red edge) ties around the waist of the dress.  Tiny ecru English cotton Cluny lace peeks out at the hemline.

The natural colored lace cape is knit with lace weight baby alpaca/silk yarn for an extremely delicate piece.  It closes at the center front with a gold-filled bead and loop.  There are six full size panels on the cape; the right three panels each have a slightly different embroidery motif with the left three panels each mirroring its corresponding right panel

The vintage-styled headband hat is knit with a slightly heavier weight natural colored yarn (wool/angora). The embroidered motifs at each end mirror each other.  The headband ties under the chin on the right hand side.  The ties are different lengths so that when tied the tails are equal.

Alice’s accessories include a pair of red scarves in a deep red and a brighter red wool.  They have fringed ends.  The little sheet music is vintage looking with four different carols and a bookmark tied over the center fold.  A little gold glass ornament is tied with a matching embroidery thread loop.  The bracelet is made with garnet beads and 14k gold-filled beads.  A red shell heart charm dangles from the bracelet.  And underneath it all is a pair of red rayon Lycra® tights.

While out caroling, I’m sure all of the grandmas and moms will be pinching Alice’s cheeks and telling her what an adorable little girl she is.

Alice’s “Christmas Caroler” ensemble will be available tonight (October 26, 2016) at 7:00 pm, CST at cindyricedesigns.com.

Alice and I thank you for visiting with us today. 🙂 ❤