Category: Stories

The Copper Dragon of Nova Scotia

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In the South Upland of Nova Scotia, some folk whisper tales of a copper dragon, while others insist such mendacity is grossly exaggerated.

Instead, they argue, such outlandish yarns are merely the work of an eccentric – but wizened – old hermit by the name of Aillig*, most noted for his unusually stubborn crop of copper-coloured hair. His appearance is matched only by his peculiar taste for lamb when surrounded by water.

Finding him? is a bit of a game they laugh, at anyone foolish to press for more. No two fishermen will agree on which cove he sets his traps, or just where the lamb he boasts of, was pastured in.

No matter the tale, all agree that Aillig – should you cross paths – loves to describe in vivid detail, of how sheep once used to be important on the peninsula**. If you listen long enough, you’d almost believe he brought them over himself…

When pressed for his opinion about finding a copper dragon in these parts, he will look you dead in the eye. “So they tell me,” he winks and refuses to say more. The light glints off his hair and for split second you think… No. It’s not possible. It was just a trick of the light, you admonish yourself, reluctantly drawing your attention back to his boastful collection of 52 lighthouse figurines made by entirely different artists.

You think it might be time to beg your leave…

~~~~~

For more short stories and artwork, please consider supporting me at Patreon.

~~~~~

Footnotes:

*Ailig, origin:Scottish meaning: a person from a rocky location

** Sheep farming in Canada http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/sheep-farming/

Introducing the Remarkable Dragons of Canada

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What if I told you that dragons walked amongst us?

Some might call it crazy, or fanciful – a child’s tale even – but as any true believer will whisper over tankards of ale, dragons are predators, superior above all others; masters at blending into their surroundings.

2018: the year of the …dragon?

My goal for 2018 is to provide you with artwork and stories about [mostly] dragons… Dragons [and creatures] scattered across the whole of Canada; some found in the Canadian wilds, and yet others artfully posing as humans.

Shape-shifting dragons you say? Aye, the noble metallic dragons can do that! To compliment these stories, I intend to delve into the local cuisine of each area, so that you too, may dine like a dragon ;)

The Canadian Angle

For this lofty goal, I was inspired by the number of provinces and territories in my home country aligning closely with content from Wizards of the Coast’s 5th edition SRD. I intend to release thirteen different archetypes as they relate to our provinces and territories.

I’ve always wanted to blog about food, and the trifecta of passions seem perfect <3

Dragons: a Tentative Release Schedule

In order to squeeze a baker’s dozen into the year, I will be releasing focused content in approximate 4 week intervals. My goal is to have a finished drawing (or more) for every block. Sneak peaks will be released to Patreon first, then posted here. Finished product will become available for sale at Etsy. Throughout the four weeks, I intend to post inspired recipes for your enjoyment :)

Currently planned out:

  • Jan 1st – 28th / Nova Scotia / The Copper Dragon of Nova Scotia
    • Wine braised pork loin with cranberry and blueberry sauce
  • Jan 29th – Feb 18th / Newfoundland / Gold Dragons
  • and more to come…

Feel free to keep an eye on or bookmark this page! I will be updating it as recipes and entries come out. Drop a note and let me know if you’d like to see a monthly digest including recipes and freebies sent to your inbox! :D

Transposition

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I thought
I
saw you
from across the room

but
it turns out

he only had your
mannerisms.

that awkward wonder
of why he was here;
not sure if he should smile?

Fish out of water.

~~~~~

I saw Chris de Burgh in concert last week <3

It was fantastic, of course. ::grins from ear to ear:: In part, spending time with my best friend, but also in part, getting to hear Don’t pay the Ferryman live and up close! Just wow! He invited concert goers to come up front and dance at the end of the concert, and of course I left my phone with my purse at my seat! Still, it was amazing :)

Wish I had more stories to tell for you.

I feel very worn, and ground down with my day job, and it seems to seep into my spare time. I’ve been reading up a lot on, um, marketing? Passive income marketing, and it certainly sounds like the right idea, but when you look at it, it’s not really? Although it brings up the question… would writing an introductory art course (or book yeah?) on the basics of becoming successful at art, be a good idea?

I like the idea, but I worry I’ve spread myself too thin already. Too many ideas, not enough focus. I really need to stop chasing my tail…

Speaking of too many fingers in too many pies, I just ordered silicone moulds to make dragon eggs(!) Picture a wire wrapped egg with a little dragon inside, if you will. I am cautiously optimistic that I can make these, although it will be a 2-3 month wait for the supplies, sigh. It’s hard to complain when the price is right, though!

I signed up for a craft sale in a few days. I want to be excited but instead it’s causing anxiety… fingers crossed it nets me some interest in GelMoment? That would be very, very cool. I would absolutely adore it if I had a client, or two, or five. ;) Of course, it would be equally wonderful if I sold some jewelry as well.

Thursday I hope to visit my grandparents <3 They live out of town and I certainly don’t see them enough. Makes me very happy my girls get to meet them.

That is all my ramble for this morning.

Until later <3

Threadbreakers

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She ran her fingers across the tapestry lightly, the silk threads cool beneath the touch; the still images dancing to life in her mind’s eye.

This is a strong lifeline, she nodded absently, with practiced steps guiding her. Fabric slipped through her fingers, a small gap breaking the otherwise uninterrupted sensation.

Horses. A farm. This one will grow up to be a fine farmer…

Measured steps stopped suddenly. She frowned to herself. A suitor, coming to call… a fairy tale romance for all to see… First the cutting remarks behind closed doors, then the well placed beatings no one would find. Outwardly the perfect couple…

*SNAP*

The thread broken; harmony restored.

A self satisfied smirk graced her lips, albeit briefly.

“What are you doing over there?” patronized one of her two companions, “Ruining a beautiful tapestry.”

She sniffed in disdain, “Our job, and yours not to question.” Muttered oaths traveled further away as she stroked the silk lovingly, the magic thrumming happily now up her arm.

“You’re free, little bird,” she smiled to herself. “Fly, and show me what you can do…”