The Gnomes have Returned!

As an avid nature, folklore and garden lover, two publications fell into my hands in the late 1970's and early 1980's which I still have today.  The first book was "Gnomes" which was published by Harry N. Abrams, Inc, written by Wil Huygen and brilliantly illustrated by Dutch artist, Rien Poortvliet.  It explains in great detail every aspect of a Gnome's life, environment, talents, language, legends and more.  This book is now a hard to find collector's item, but does pop up every now and then on auction sites and E-Bay.  I suspect that it will someday be re-printed!

I also own a well worn copy of The Gnomes Book of Christmas Crafts by Carol Endler Sterbenz which is still available in hardcover version today and filled with dozens of gnome-inspired Christmas decorations and crafting projects. 

I recently visited Frankenmuth, MI, a friendly German inspired community that successfully blends old world charm with modern trends.  Frankenmuth is also home to Bronners Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store.  My heart soared as Christmas gnome decorations were clearly displayed all about the town this year, another indicator that these delightful characters are clearly a trend that will continued for another several years or so.  There are gnomes all cleverly decked out in plaid, buffalo checks, fuzzy hats, glittery apparel, candy striped arms and legs, big booted feet and fuzzy white beards.  Go shopping anywhere online this season and you'll find a wide variety of gnome characters and styles to warm your heart and inspire your imagination. 

The best thing about gnome characters is that they will hibernate after the holidays and then reappear in the Spring gardens to help the flowers bloom.  As a designer and crafters, I've been fortunate to observe "new" trends that have emerged and updated versions of past trends.  Most will fade out over time and then reappear years later with a generational twist.  This is how gnomes, elves, fairies and pixies fell into my heart where they will remain forever!  ENJOY