One of my favorite pastimes has always been writing lavishly illustrated fantasy stories contained in large decorated photo albums. The "illustrations" contained a huge array of junk store finds: an antique red ruffled nylon ladies' glove, an old "diamond" choker, lace doilies. These little finds were pasted to the album's pages and kept safe under their plastic covers. One summer a very special friend entered my life. So began work on a story book entitled Esmerelda the Gypsy Cat, which I would present to her at Christmas.

While involved in writing the story it occurred to me to try to breathe life into the main character. It was my first attempt at doll-making. The project took many months and was very exciting. Esmerelda is quite large. Her head is formed of papier mache'. A free form pattern for her body was cut from muslin which was then dyed grey. She is stuffed with many pairs of old panty hose. The fun part came when I was able to dress her. As it was difficult to make realistic shoes, I decided to take her to a childrens' clothing store to be fitted for a pair. Will never forget the day I walked into that store with Esmerelda concealed in a blanket and laid her on the counter.

And so began three years of doll-making. One to present each Christmas to this special friend, along with an illustrated story book. Each of my dolls is anatomically correct but ..... you will have to take my word for it.

PRESENTING: ESMERELDA THE GYPSY CAT, WITCH-HAZEL, and the LENNY DOLL WITH HORNS