Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays 2012 from Whimsical Woods

Merry Christmas from Whimsical Woods and the Gnomes

From our Whimsical Woods to your homes, a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. From our crew and little fellows here, we all thank you for your support in 2011. We appreciate your mail, photos and your orders for special log bird houses and custom gnome homes.

Our hope is to continue to spread the Gnome news and bring a little joy to those who can imagine and share with the family. Whimsical Woods will be spreading out to bigger craft shows in 2012. We’re hoping to be accepted to the Anacortes Arts Festival  and the Olympia Harbor Days. If we are accepted, we’ll let you all know and the dates. We’re looking now to branch out to spread the smiles. You never “gnome!”

Thank you all again. Please send us your feedback and your own photos so we can share the fun we’re having. (val@whimsicalwoods.net).

All is well. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Val & Nancy Jackson
Whimsical Woods
Port Angeles, WA

Three Wise Men Come!

Three Wise Men (Gnomes) at a Gnome Home

As the Christmas season approaches, we often hear the story of the Three Wise Men from afar who traveled to find a baby. It is possible the gnomes come from a Scandinavia heritage, which likely has a strong Christian base learned from their human neighbors. I haven’t read of any Christmas celebrations per say, but have read that the birth of a young gnome does bring in wise older clan members to celebrate the new birth. Perhaps they are guided by a friendly night owl with bright white neck feathers to be seen in the dark. Some special little gnomes do grow up to become king. Great respect is given to the gnome king and queen and they are recorded in the Great Book in a secret place deep in the woods.

Other than teasing trolls, a gnomes’ favorite past time is watching us humans and copying our habits and activities. No doubt, I think, somewhere here in the Whimsical Woods there is a small decorated Christmas tree soon to be surrounded with special woodlands gifts of food, tools and handcrafts. Maybe there is a Santa Gnome, pulled by a small flock of flying birds. What a sight that would be.

Three wise men come to see a new baby gnome on a special night in a nearby Whimsical Woods. You just never “gnome!”

All is well here in our Whimsical Woods.

"John Beer" Gnome Tractor

"John Beer" Tractor and Gnomes

These little people are so smart and observant - monkey see, monkey do! They must  be jealous of me on my John Deere tractor working the garden, fields and Whimsical Woods! It’s just like them to figure out how to copy me. Maybe now they’ll leave my berries and other garden goodies alone. I’ve never read of gnomes turning to internal combustion power, but that’s why we live here in Whimsical Woods. Next, I’ll find a gnome camper trailer that is strapped to the underside of a large Canadian Goose for the gnomes to vacation in!

If a gnome can build and drive a “John Beer” Tractor, no telling what’s next. I’ll say this, picking to build a John Deere (“John Beer”) was the best choice! I’ve heard a visit to the John Deere factory is worth the time and effort. Wonder if the gnomes somehow snuck in? I’ll keep my eyes open next Spring for the little fellows in our field where they may have planted. One possible surprise would be the use of bio-fuel to run the tractor. Likely they’ve come up with some simple formula, They know how to brew beer, ferment wine and now make bio-fuel!

Sounds like a good earth life to me. Oh, one last note. Fred Meyers stores have a lot of homeless gnomes who would like to be loaded into your car. :-) All is well.

Cooler Nights, Warmer Clothes

As we  move into winter, out comes the warmer clothes. That’s the same for the little forest gnomes also. Heavier jackets, pants and fun-lined boots. Gnomes use deer fur that collects on bob wire fences for making clothes, hats and boots. Likely also used for warm bedding and blankets. They also collect bird feathers from chickens and ducks. I’ve never seen or heard of gnomes wearing ear muffs to keep their big ears warm however. Their hearing is excellent, so maybe they don’t want to cover them up. The big leather waist belt is important to keep the body heat in as well as acting as a critical tool belt for their adventures at night. I have also never seen gloves on a gnome (illustration) but have to believe they have made them coming from Scandinavia. Same for a scarf or neck band - no record of them.

It’s too early for now yet here in Sequim, Washington, but the nights are getting a lot colder and wetter. Lots of fallen nuts and sunflower seeds for the gnomes’ delight. Best get the storage room filled before the snow! Firewood is plentiful and easy to find. Must be a busy time for our forest gnomes. Holidays ahead and good times for all.

http://www.whimsicalwoods.net accepts on line orders (via PayPal) and our gnome homes, bird houses, etc. make excellent and unique Christmas gifts for those hard to please, or special people in your life. Hint, hint!

All is well. See you at the Market.

The Gnome Top Hat

A Gnome Hat and a Gnome Home

As seen in some of our blog photos taken at our weekly Sequim Open Aire Market, my new large red gnome hat attracts joyful attention. A generous gift from another vendor, Ellen Lloyd, Olga's Yurt of Fiber, it always brings smiles and fun to those who place it on their head and always results in a photo-op!  What visitors must think when they return home having visited Sequim and had their picture taken with a scaled to fit red gnome hat!

Always worn by both male and female gnomes, their hats are only removed at bed time. Likely while bathing and seated at the dinner table, also (?). I’ve read a gnome does not feel like a gnome unless they have their hat on. Never a bare head. Child gnomes receive their first hats at a very early age and are taught to care and repair it for the rest of their life, which is 350 to 400 years! The importance of this hat in helping the gnome is numerous because it is pointed and hard, it can protect them from falling nuts, small branches, snow, rain and sometimes predator attacking birds and animals.

The tall red gnome hat is the signature of a proud gnome.

Winter Sequim Market: Winter schedule - every Saturday until Dec. 17 from 10 am to 2 pm in downtown Sequim on Cedar Street. Come on by and bring your camera. All in fun and all is well at Whimsical Woods.

BOO! - Guess Whoo!?

A gnome in disguise!

No good gnome would dress up in a costume and dare go out on Halloween. But if they did, it might be a very simple, yet “gnome-ish” looking appearance.My feelings are they would go door to door with a mug in their hand looking for adult libations from neighbors who want to share. I think gnomes don’t need a special occasion as they likely do it quite often. Does this sound like us? Adult trick-or-treaters with a glass in hand - I’ve heard of that!

Our local gnome agreed to pose for this picture. Hard to recognize him. You would never “gnome” who he was. ha ha

So, go forth and have a happy Halloween. Look out for these little guys. Say - anyone ever see a gnome Halloween costume for kids? Maybe someone will send me a photo so I can post it.

All is well here in Whimsical Woods.

Harvest Time

Harvest time for the gnomes

Gnomes in the garden

There is a touch of Fall here in Whimsical Woods. The days are getting shorter and the sound of migrating Canadian Geese are often heard above. To our little gnome friends’ delight, now is the time to fill their root cellars for the winter. We have a plentiful supply of potatoes, onions, beets, carrots, garlic, apples and beans. All are favored by the gnomes. As soon as the rain comes, the forest floor will be covered with large fresh mushrooms. As the gnomes don’t eat meat, they look to high protein garden foods and certain types of plants. Put out a little peanut butter a night and look what happens to it. That, along with suet, have got to be a big hit with those night hunters. They do not overlook bee honey either, which is a big treat for them. They use it in their cooking and for making a very popular fermented beverage. It stores very well for those long winter months.

Busy harvest times these days in Whimsical Woods garden. Winter is coming. Some say we are still waiting for summer, but that’s how it can be here in the Pacific Northwest. All is well in our woods.

Big Red Hat

Mary modeling our new gnome hat

We have a new red felt gnome hat! It was  made for me by Ellen and modeled very well by Mary who is the owner of a big gnome home. Needless to say, we have a lot of fun in our booth and have taken a number of pictures with our booth visitors. I’ll pass on a few more with, permission of course.

The Christmas holidays are fast approaching. Here at Whimsical Woods, we’re already busy making new bird houses and a new style of the popular suet feeders. Look for these to be added to our website, http://www.whimsicalwoods.net soon.

Speaking of winter, I’m often asked if the gnome homes and log bird houses take the winter weather. Here’s proof. Compliments of Mary and Bob. Add a little red hat and a big red Christmas bow and you are all decorated for the holidays. This picture could become a Gnome Christmas card!

The Sequim Open Aire Market will continue into December with reduced hours of 10 am to 2 pm every Saturday on Cedar Street in downtown Sequim. Come on down! Support our local artisans and enjoy the great food and produce. Be sure to stop by our booth and say hello.

All is well in Whimsical Woods. Keep smiling!

Nautical Gnome Home

Nautical Gnome Home

I have not read of gnomes making small boats for their travels. They much prefer to hitch a smoother ride on the back of large migrating birds. Having traveled hundreds of years ago to England, chances are they snuck onto a large sailing ship rather than try it alone. I don’t know if gnomes eat fish, but can imagine them smashing clams and mussels for a tasty meal. No doubt they live near the water’s edge and use those natural resources to construct their Nautical Gnome Homes.

This picture, from Karen, is a nautical style gnome home custom made for her local beach house location. I used sea glass, shells, driftwood and even made a gnome surf board! Where have you ever seen a gnome surf board? Look out O’Neill’s. Now, a gnome in a bathing suit holding a surf board would be something! Maybe I’ll make one and combine it with a gnome. Hang-ten little one.

Thank you Karen for sending us the photo. If you find a little pointed red hat sticking out of the sand, please let me know. :-)

All in fun and all is well. Surf’s up!

Gnomes + Hops = Beer!

A Gnome checking his Hops

Gnomes like beer!

Here is a family tradition that is handed down from generation to generation. It goes way back to 1200 A.D.  and the fine art and enjoyment of making beer. We know gnomes are from Scandinavia and central Europe where beer is like water. The yeast secrets are held within their clans and guarded. Add some fresh hops, barley, wheat, etc. and you have the makings of fine beer. Buried under an old tree stump you can imagine a little brewery turning out little wooden kegs of dark beer. Like wine, storage underground works just fine.

Any chance of celebration, out comes the little kegs to be shared and admired. Lots of friendly family competition I imagine.

Now, when our gnomes can’t tap into some leftover human beer, that’s a bonus! Given their size, it doesn’t take much to get them “happy.” Good times ahead at the next Berry Ball Game.

Hops are easy to grow here in Western Washington and make a tall climbing decorative cover for a garden arbor like grapes do. Combine the two and it is happy time for all.

With that, I’ll “hop” out of here. All is well.

Gnome, Where Are You?

A camouflaged Gnome!

At about 6 inches fully grown, an adult gnome is well camouflaged by the clothes they wear and by hiding in the natural surroundings. Most gnomes sleep all day and only come out at night when humans are not likely to see them. If they are out in daylight, I’d think they would try to blend in the best they can. A garden full of red flowers seems to be a perfect cover. Be it a hanging basket full of big red begonias, or a canopy of bright nasturtiums, you might just get lucky and spot one.

You seldom see historical figures of female gnomes in the stories. They almost never venture that far from their forest home like the men do. Their clothing colors are natural green and dark brown, which camouflages them very well.

Seen or not, many have sensed their presence, or so I’ve been told. Like when you feel someone is watching you, but you can’t tell for sure. They sit for hours watching us. Must be like a human TV show to them. Can’t say we don’t sit ourselves down and watch others! Now, that’s entertainment! See you all later as they say. All is well.

“Pan-da-Gnome-ium”

Okay, that’s a stretch, but I couldn’t pass it up. These gnomes found themselves standing in some vintage pans that I found in our woods. They act like wind chimes (or wind clunkers, bur a better name)  when we have strong winds.

These little people don’t pass up a new opportunity to investigate and have fun. Hanging not far from the ripening blackberries, could be a good resting spot for a snack or shelter from the sun or rain.

Gnomes do have excellent blacksmithing and pottery skills to make their own bowls and pots. Ceramics, glassblowing, metalworking, carpentry and cloth making are but a few of their many talents. When you live to be 400 years old, there is a lot of time to perfect these skills! A few old rusty bowls is nothing more than something to play or hide in. All in fun. Have you ever sat in the spinning tea cups at Disneyland? See, there you go! All is well.

Granddaughter Gnomet Meets Gnome

Okay yes, proud Grandpa with a picture of granddaughter meeting our garden gnome. You have to love the gnome hat and expression. Looks like they both are about the same size. Don’t know who was more excited, granddaughter Leah, or old Ole. He looks kind of frozen with excitement.

Note his beer mug is empty. Too much going on and to be caught out in the open during daylight is very unusual! If our readers have pictures of human and gnome encounters and would like to share them, please forward them to us. We’ll put them up for all to see.

I have a tall red hat on order. This should be something! More on that later.

"Gnome" More Squash!

If squash grew to human size, as it does for gnomes, we’d stand next to a surfboard-tall squash! That’s a lot of bread! I am hoping our little garden friends come to like squash, a lot, and soon. Seems they prefer the strawberries, but then, so do I! The Whimsical Garden has done well this year despite the cool start of summer.

We still have green tomatoes this year and it’s the end of August! Hoping for a hot Fall to ripen them. Being from British and Scandinavian backgrounds, gnomes must like fried green tomatoes. If you haven’t tried a few in a hot pan with a little olive oil, salt and pepper, give it a try. Our garden gnomes must be busy, because everything is growing well. They can have all they can carry away! Just don’t let the deer in anymore. We had our words about that last year.

Blackberries and Marionberries are ripening now - the very thing gnomes need for wine making. I even have two large hops vines loaded with hops for their beer. Gnomes, berries, hops - add a brew master and what could be better? Our little fellows have got to be very happy now. Let’s see what mischief this causes.

All is well

Gnomes Make You Smile!

What is it about gnomes that cause most people to smile when they see a little gnome or one of our gnome homes? What triggers this reaction? Happy thoughts and emotions. Visitors to our booth usually start to smile when the see the gnome homes and figures. I will say the reaction is 99% from females while the "grumpy old men" have no clue. There have been a few exceptions, however. “Old Cedar Log Gnome Village” was requested by a male homeowner!


Is it hidden in our youth? Many tell me family stories of their elders collecting gnomes and telling stories around the campfire years ago. Most have old family memories associated with these happy little people.

The reason may not be a single answer, but a variety of memories and associations that come out, somewhat uncontrollably on our faces. A big smile and deep breath. I appreciate and enjoy that something I do brings smiles to strangers faces.

Thank you for your reactions and smiles. We plan for a lot more. All is well when you smile!

No Place Like Gnome is back!

We are back! Our daughter’s wedding here at Whimsical Woods was a wonderful, colorful and home-centered event. Our focus for many months was the preparation, grooming and landscaping of our home and setting for the special event. That effort took us away from our gnome stories and whimsical fun. That is why you have not seen any new stories and pictures for some time. The story lines are now flowing and the little woodland gnomes here at Whimsical Woods certainly enjoyed the wedding and abundance of left over beer and wine!

I got the suggestion to have more big events here. Nice try. That was it. Now on with the stories and having fun. Glad to “gnome” we were missed!

Seattle Gnome Home Project

Whimsical Woods Gnome Homes in a Seattle Garden

Gnome Homes in a Garden setting

Thank you Terry and Sylvia from Seattle, for the photos of your new gnome village project. Excellent placement of the Whimsical Woods large gnome homes in and under the nearby foliage. The goal is to partially hide the gnome homes during the day and softly illuminate them at night with low voltage outdoor lighting. If you have a similar scene, try to plant a small fern or other tall, leafy plant in front of your ground-mounted light. As the wind blows the plant, it will rake the shadows over your gnome scene creating a very whimsical effect. Brings it alive!

I believe this project is not yet completed and there will be another gnome home added soon. Hopefully, Terry will send more photos that I can share.

Any questions on low voltage outdoor lighting, send me an email. It is amazing what new effects you can generate from your existing yard with a few up lights at the base of a tree, into a large rock, etc.

Come out to Sequim for the world famous Lavender Farm Faire July 15, 16, 17, 2011 which includes tours of many lavender farms. http://www.sequimlavenderfarms.org. We will have a booth at the Port Williamson Lavender Farm, a beautiful farm overlooking the Bay. Stop by and say hi. Bring your camera and spend the weekend! Enjoy!!

Mini Gnomes and Mini Homes!

Mini Gnome Home

All gnome homes, big or small, add charm and whimsy to almost any setting. This little gnome home is going into a terrarium setting in the lobby of a local assisted living home surrounded by little bridges and paths, etc. I’ll post a picture of the completed project soon. Compare this to my previous post of May 3 with large gnome homes on an old cedar stump.

The Sequim Open Aire Market (SOAM) http://www.sequimmarket.com has opened for our 15th Season. Sequim is rich in locally grown fresh farm produce and very gifted local artisans and crafters. If you are looking for a weekend getaway, come out to Sequim. Camp in one of the many local campgrounds, a B&B and be sure to visit the nearby Olympic National Park. Come by our market, find me, and introduce yourself!

The annual Lavender Festival is set for July 15, 16, 17 and is a special time here in Sequim. Many farms are open and full of beautiful blooming lavender, plus several street fairs. A fun family weekend!
Whimsical Woods will be at the Port Williams Lavender Farm on Port Williams Road in Sequim. You can take a shuttle bus from Carrie Black Park. It is a wonderful three day event. http://www.sequimlavenderfarms.org.

Spring is here, the garden is growing and I’m sure the gnomes are planning their summer activities and menus. That’s all for now. Think big or small - gnome homes for all, and all will be well!

North American Gnomes

Garden Gnome

Where do the gnomes live around the country, you might ask? I haven’t read of a single confirmed sighting by any two people simultaneously spotting one of our little fellows. I have seen a map showing a high concentration around all the Great Lakes, the very northeastern tip of Maine, and here in the Pacific Northwest. The climate and temperature zones are similar to the gnomes original roots in Central Europe.

We see the same type of dress, home styles and woodland behaviors that their great ancestors had. It has been reported that there is a large population in Canada, around Hudson Bay. With gnomes’ ability to hitch a ride on  migrating Canadian geese, it is not surprising to expect them in Northern USA, but I haven’t read of any gnomes in Arizona or Florida. They like short days and long winter nights. A gnome in flip-flops and sunglasses can only come from China or Disneyland, or maybe the Dollar Store at 50% off!  ha ha

Now, with our days at about 16 hours of light, I expect the gnomes to be well rested as they sleep during the day and are up working at night. Snails are very plentiful now, so for snail bait. Go for the little saucer of beer. The little guys love beer and when your gnomes are happy, it will be all is well for you and your family! Keep putting some bird seed out, especially black sunflower seeds. Happy campers. Beer and sunflower seeds. Sounds like a ball game.

Gnome Windows

Gnome Windows

You have seen Whimsical Woods’ gnome homes, gnome doors and now, gnome windows! Like the doors, these are designed to be attached to your favorite tree or stump to turn it into an imaginary gnome home. The windows I’ve seen advertised look plastic and certainly not made of woodland natural materials.  Place these windows along with our natural doors and you will have created the appearance a fine looking gnome home.

Low voltage, 12 vac outdoor landscape lighting can be an great addition. I suggest a couple of fixtures at about 10 watts each, placed about 15 feet back to provide a soft yellowish glow. I’ll be posting some night photos soon.of a gnome home installation I did.

No two windows are the same, so the character will come alive. I may try some other styles in the future. As for a door and window kit, give us a call or email. We can come up with a package arrangement and ship them out to you.

Spring is finally coming to the Pacific Northwest. The forest is waking up and lots of new life is about. Get out and get into your garden! All will be well.

Gnome Homes on a Big Old Cedar Stump

This woodland setting, here in the Pacific Northwest, is the perfect setting for an attractive gnome home placement. The property owner, Tom, saw a location off of his back deck and asked me to install a small village around a very old cedar stump. We decided to arrange three large gnome homes around the stump and up-light them with waterproof 12 VAC low voltage outdoor lighting. After a few sketches and the okay from Tom, I was off to make the three large gnome homes.

The project is now complete and turned out perfectly. A real eye catching transformation of an ordinary wooded setting. The pictures show the before and after to maybe stimulate your imagination. Enjoy, Tom and family! You have a one of a kind landscape.

A side note: When installing 12 VAC low voltage outdoor lighting, buy quality, waterproof fixtures from a trusted dealer rather than from a “box” store. A little more money, but built much better and will last longer. Weather will destroy cheap low cost fixtures. Some basic understanding and care installing outdoor lighting can change the whole landscape appearance. Nobody likes runway looking path lights, but you sure see a lot of them!

The Sequim Open Aire Market opens here in Sequim on Sat., May 14 from 9 am to 3 pm on Cedar Street, downtown Sequim. (We’re about 2.5 hrs. Northwest of Seattle). It would be a beautiful day tip up to the Olympic Peninsula. Come by the Market and look for us, Whimsical Woods. (No place like gnome!) :-) All is well when the gnomes are happy.

Ole-An-Sven’s New Granddaughter

Gnome Baby Leah

In our wonderland here, Whimsical Woods, we have a new granddaughter born in Dec. Her name is Leah. Here she is - dressed in the correct gnome outfit of pink clothing and a green gnome hat! Of course, she is very cute and you can see the natural gnome smile and big, bright eyes.

Even little gnome babies have excellent eyesight and hearing at an early age. The gnome children upbringing mainly falls on the mother and grandmothers. The fathers are out working and taking care of the forest animals. When they return at dawn, after a long night of work, they will play with the little ones telling stories, singing, laughing and maybe a knee horse ride. Then it is off the bed. As the gnome children grow up, they will be taught the various arts and drafts of home making. There is much to learn and they will spend about 1/3 of their life with their family, or about 100 years, before they marry and move out. A lot of time to learn!

We will post updates on little Leah’s progress over the summer. Grandmom Nancy is enjoying time now with gnome baby Leah. A very nice gnome hat also, I must say!

All is well. Frost last night again, but warmer days are ahead. More stories in May.

Gnome Greetings and Good-byes

In my excellent reference book, it is said gnomes express their greetings and good-byes by rubbing noses. Looks like they have big noses, so must be generations of rubbing those slightly pink noses. You usually see gnome likenesses with big smiles and rosy cheeks. Not much different than Santa Claus I think. We know they’re usually happy and smile all the time. It affects us and the forest animals the same way. These little people are deep thinkers and talk with various body gestures to add to their conversations. They can see other gnomes at a great distance and both know all is just fine.

When you see a gnome figure or a cute little gnome home, you smile without even “gnoming” it. :-) That’s a good thing. Adding a few special gnomes to your garden setting or kitchen window box should bring happiness. It’s a small visual time out!

April is almost here. The garden work is calling me. All is well.

Garden Gnome Home Installation

Shown here is a very well set large gnome home with a flat back up against a large fir tree. This was shipped to our new friend, Glenn, in the midwest. He wanted something different in his garden by a large old tree. He added some gnomes and ground cover and now has an attractive focal point in his yard. Note the fence corner. Well done Glenn and thank you for sending this photo back to Whimsical Woods. Looks great!!

“No place like Gnome!” All looks to be very well at Glenn’s house!

Gnome Mobile

Well, the gnomes made me do it! Why not give our broken state a little extra money for a specialized license plate? All in fun, of course. I now see people pass me and stare at me real hard. I guess they expect to see a little gnome driving. I sure don’t look like one though. I smile and wave back and off they go. We’ll add our website address on the back deck here shortly.

If Oscar winners can have a winner mobile, then our gnomes can have a Gnome Mobile! Sounds fair to me.

So, if you see us out and about, now you’ll know who we are. We often travel down to N. California on other business, so you may see us on Highway 5, 50 or in the San Francisco Bay Area, our old stomping grounds. Again, all in fun.

We haven’t seen the new Disney movie yet, “Gnomeo and Juliet” but maybe soon. Let me “gnome” what you think. :-)

More large gnome home photos coming. One recently purchased and installed by Glenn in the midwest, is very well done. Leprechauns and gnomes?? Well, both love lots of beer, so they probably get along just fine. That’s okay with me. All is well. Gnome Mobile over and out!

March Madness - Spring?

Gnomes in the Garden

The woodland gnomes look forward to the night time temperatures  climbing up to warmer Spring like temperatures. All are looking to say goodbye to winter and the snow! Very early vegetables are starting to pup up through the dirt. In a week or so, a few flowers may bloom. Fresh flower for the gnomes!

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we’re months away from even planting most vegetables. Still too wet and cold, but Spring fever is catching. Gnomes are somewhat dependent on us to plant and grow the vegetables. We accuse the moles of stealing our young plants, but it might just as well be a little gnome plucking a young plant for his family dinner. Plant some big fat radishes or carrots and watch. After a long and cold winter, the gnomes await Spring like we do. They look forward to getting into my garden just like I do. Don’t know if they like rhubarb, but I won’t  miss a few stalks.

I saw some robins, so the worms are starting to move about. I read that gnomes help the robins find the big worms. Must be a little game. Don’t think worms are on gnomes’ favorite food list, but then again, Mac and cheese isn’t either.

March-  in like a lion, out like a lamb. We’ll see. time to get outside and clean up the fallen branches. Spring will come and that’s good news for our little friends in the woods. All is well in our Whimsical Woods.

Gnome Homes - more, more!

Gnome home with skylight

Gnome home from apple stump

Gnome home with hollow core

I have been asked to show more pictures of the various gnome homes that I have made. No two are the same, but the similar likeness is there. These gnome homes are best set into a wooden area surrounded by large and small plants and perhaps other trees. Gnomes like their homes to be a little obscure and blended. Set out by themselves is not in keeping with their written nature. The gnome homes can be as tall or fat as you want, or both. You can get a small one to sit  over your kitchen sink, in a window box if you want. Make yourself a cute little gnome village to look at while doing the dishes.

For maximum affect at night, I would recommend 12 vac low wattage outdoor lighting with a soft spot focused on each home for the best whimsical look.

I am currently building a gnome village for a client with three gnome homes on and around a large old, overgrown cedar stump. I’ll share those pictures here in a month or so. It will be a very special feature to a wooded back yard.

So, more pictures it is. Next to gnome doors, I’ll be offering  whimsical gnome windows. Add a door and some windows to the base of a tree along with a few other forest finds, and you will have tuned your simple tree into an imaginary gnome home. Got to be fun and keep you smiling!

All must be well.

Winter Days Continue - Oh Nuts!

Spring is still a couple months away with long dark nights and short cloudy days. The weather doesn’t seem to bother our Whimsical Woods gnomes however, They continue about their daily chores and activities. Repairing their homes and wood gathering takes up a lot of their time.

There is always time for fun however. I imagine snowball throwing, sledding and hide and seek games. I also imagine gnomes help the animals find food and remind the squirrels where they hid their acorns and my bird seed. With a barn or two nearby, a group of gnomes can haul away a good amount of high priced horse or rabbit food in a single night. At home here, we put out a little tub of various nuts and they disappear very quickly. Gnomes do not seem to like citrus, but put out a strawberry and it is gone in no time! Not sure they eat it all, but like to share with the  small rodents and other creatures of the forest.

They are very responsible and loyal to those who help them. Hopefully, they have learned that from us over the centuries. That is a good thing.

With that, this is nuts! But likely to crack you up! Sorry. All is well.

Gnome Caps

Gnome Caps: Red for males and black for females

Male gnomes wear tall pointed red caps and female gnomes wear tall black caps. Other than the caps and the men's beards, the gnomes look very much alike in features. Females wear darker, camouflage colors than the men, while the male gnomes wear the brighter colors.

So, why the pointed caps? One might guess it is to protect gnomes from falling nuts, pinecones, rain or even airborne animals of prey. We also know, from earlier stories, that the caps help the gnomes locate each other in deep snow and for making tunnels under the snow. 

To a gnome, his/her cap is their identity, a reflection of ones self and presence. What an elder gnome must think when he sees young kids today with their caps on backwards! Gnomes takes very good care of their cap by cleaning it daily. It has to be just right, fit well and stand tall.

Should a stray cat come upon a gnome at night, the hat is sacrificed to the cat allowing a speedy escape. Gnomes receive their caps at a young age. Green for girls and red for the boys. With the soon to be movie release (Disney’s “Gnomeo and Juliet”), I’m sure this Fall you’ll see gnome hats in the stores. Maybe gnome hats will become as popular as the Mickey Mouse ears - who knows?

Maybe someone will make me a tall gnome cap. Maybe too much? All in fun of course. I get the point. :-) All is well.

Berryball Playoffs 2011

Gnome Berryball Playoffs 2011

Yes, gnomes play ball games. I’ve read they play a form of rugby. Kind of difficult with a tall pointed red hat, but they seem to enjoy getting wet and dirty. Berryball is like our soccer played by children and adult men. They use a fat rose hip or a fresh snow berry. There are neighborhood fans cheering on both sides. Lots of food cooked over their little fireplaces. Of course, beer and lots of it for both players and fans alike. It must be played in the early morning light, which is towards the end of their day. The little guys have very fast feet and carry lots of speed. That would be quite a sight to see! I wonder if they have little numbers on their backs? From what I can learn, they all look alike. Perhaps the numbers are attached to their tall hats.

Coming up is Berryball Sunday, Feb. 6. There will probably be many full little stomachs and
hangovers. One thing they may not have is Berryball commercials, but then again I don’t know for sure. I’ve heard the “Forest Fir Climbers” are favorites over the “Garden Grape Crushers.” Will advise. Win or loose, it would be a great event to watch. That’s where the extra snow berries have gone!

Enjoy the games and your friends. It all seems to be great fun. All will be well.

Gnomes and Birds

You will find gnomes and birds are the best of friends and, like best friends, depend on each other. A good gnome will always have a pocket full of dry bird seed to share. Probably very early morning as they meet at the first sign of daylight.

A gnome will also move  a forest log to expose fresh bugs or worms for their bird friends. Gnomes are said to be 7 - 10 times stronger than a man for their size. They love smashing dried poppy seed heads. What the birds don’t eat goes into bread making or likely a drink.

When gnomes need special transportation, they call upon a pheasant with a specially attached little basket around its neck. For long trips, we know they call upon geese which are used to flying long distances. Think of them as the 747 of gnome travel.  So, when it comes to helping friends, the gnomes take very good care of the birds and they return the favor. Not sure about chickens, but one can just see a chubby little gnome rolling away a few fresh eggs for breakfast! One egg would feed the whole family.

Spring is a long way away yet. The more bird seed the better for the birds and gnomes.

All is well in our forest here in the Pacific Northwest. Big weekend ahead. Gnomes Berry Ball Playoff. More on gnome games soon. Beer and Berry Ball. Sounds familiar!

GNOME DOORS

Gnome Door, Cedar

Gnome Door, Fir

When we see an artistic garden gate, or a large unique driveway entrance, we subconsciously wonder what is behind it as it  pulls our interest beyond the gate.

I feel the same way about gnome doors and the illusions they trigger in one’s imagination. That’s what I want to happen when you place a gnome door at the base of your favorite tree. I think the more whimsical and natural, and the more real gnome like the better. Plastic doors and windows made in China, just don’t stimulate my imagination.



If you do not have a natural gnome home, then I think you should find the best looking natural real wood door you can find. Let’s say you have a small grove of  trees outside your window.

Setting out a few well designed little doors with soft ground level 12 volt DC lighting at night will landscape your small grove into an imaginary gnome village. How fun! Can you see it in your mind now? Perfect! All will be very well. Need help? Let me “gnome” - ha ha

Gnome Homes

Gnome Home from Birch Log

Thatched Roof Gnome Home

Gnome Homes in a garden setting

From what I have read and heard, the gnome homes vary in appearance across the US and around the world. We  build special log woodland homes and very cute garden gnome homes for those who want to attract our little helpers. Just like bird houses, the use of all natural old logs and forest materials comes together as an attractive and inviting home. No plastic or paint!

Gnomes make various natural color dies for fabric, wood, ceramics, etc. Red for their hats, blue for the jacket and brown for their pants. One I use myself to color new wood to look old and gray is made from steel wool, rusty old nails and white distilled vinegar made up like a tea. You can use red wine too, but only if it went bad and you can’t drink it! A gnome isn’t going to waste wine for coloring.

Gnome home placement: somewhat hidden but yet visible. A grouping of three or more in a small village setting will always bring smiles to both gnomes and humans. I will include some pictures of new settings this Spring. Gnome homes bring goodness and happiness to all and that means all is well.

Oh Beer Me!

The origin of gnomes can been found in early Scandinavian folk lore going back to approximately 1200 A.D., I’ve come to learn. They migrated to Germany, Russia and most of Western Europe. With that migration, their love of beer is no surprise. They have mastered the art of beer making and no doubt continue to refine that to this day. The basic ingredients are easily found: wheat, rice, hops, barley, yeast, etc. They use what is available.

We planted hops here last year for their foliage and likely some of those hops were taking for beer making. Little did we know, but all to a good cause. Got to keep our little friends happy. If I ever find a small beer keg, I’ll be sure to provide a photo.

Gnomes also make berry wines and fruit drinks which they also consume in volume. Perhaps there is more to the name, “beer garden” - likely a lively spot in the middle of the night!

It all comes together as the gnomes have found a pleasant balance of hard work, hard play and family. Sounds like a very good mix to me. Come Spring, fill those snail tins in your garden with beer. You never know!

All is well. “Gulp” - ha ha ha

Winter Days and Long, Dark Nights

At this time of year here in the Pacific Northwest, we have about 8 hour of (rainy) daylight and 16 hours of darkness. Lots of indoor projects!

As we have read, our little gnomes are very skilled in crafts and building. Gnomes have learned to harness nature's energy to power various tools. They have been using the wind to grind corn and nuts, etc. The swaying breezes in a tall tree are cleverly harvested to drive saw mils for home building and furniture making using a series of pulleys and ropes. Likely all these pulleys, levers, brackets and gears are made inside over the long winters.

Our farmers also spend the off-season working on fixing equipment /Add to wood working, candle making, pottery, tool making. home repair and of course, more beer and they seem to fill in the time. Gnomes  use natural energy. As simplistic as they are ingenious! All is well.

Norman the Gnome Finds a Home!

Norman the Gnome is new to the Olympic Peninsula. He apparently ended up in our friend, Mary's car during a recent trip to Leavenworth, Washington. They just somehow latch onto good people, it seems. A very good omen I'm sure!

Norman needed a home, so with inputs from Mary, I went about constructing Norman's new gnome home out of a large old stump. Mary, husband Bob, and Norman, have selected the perfect spot to place the large gnome home. A little landscaping and positioning and indeed, Norman will have his new home complete.


We will post pictures of the housewarming events here when the big day happens. Norman will surely attract other local gnomes, and maybe a Mrs. Norman! Hard to tell now, but with this large custom home, there are bound to be a lot of new visitors coming to Mary and Bob's garden. Best set out some good bird seed and always a dish of  beer. Too cold for snails now, but I'll bet the beer will be gone in the morning.

New home, nuts and beer.  "Beer nuts." All is very well. Thank you Mary and Bob.