I wrote this post 2 years ago and don’t know why it stayed in the drafts folder all that time. It was clearly written during a period of procrastination or when there was a gap in my work schedule, because it mentions cleaning my studio, which rarely happens. Right now, I’m engrossed in the process of working on a new children’s book, which you can follow here. It’s a calming break from earlier this fall when my Liberty and Justice exhibit caused a ruckus because of its political satire. So, let’s take a little detour and visit some small things around my studio!
— While cleaning up my studio, I came across the elephant pictured above. Her name is Savi and she is the main character in The Way Home, my first book. This attempt at an elephant wasn’t up to my standards (I think the bumpy trunk bothered me), so she never made it into an illustration. She’s been hanging out in my studio for 25 years. I took her picture and posted it on Instagram and Facebook.
Since then, I’ve found more small things to photograph and post. I’m holding some of them, so you can see the scale in relation to my hand. There’s Humpty Dumpty, 1 inch wee folk characters, a house and leaves that were used as spot illustrations in Pocketful of Posies. There’s a chipping sparrow that wasn’t included in the finished Birds of Beebe Woods. And at the end is a yellow telephone I made while in art school over 40 years ago.
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- chipping sparrow
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SALLEY MAVOR 
Your work always makes me smile. Thanks for sharing these little bits and pieces. They’re all delightful – even with bumpy trunks. ________________________________
The sparrow is gorgeous, and I like the elephant – reminds of the Saggy Baggy Elephant. 🙂
I used to love that book!
Funny,
Elies wrinkled nose is my favorite part!
She(?) is charming.
Very cool walk back in time.
Sally. We are owners of ‘Wise Old Owl’ and wonder if you would ever part with ‘Chirping Sparrow’ so that he could keep his friend company?
Oh my, Karen, the wise old owl must be lonely. Sorry to disapoint, but the sparrow feels at home here.
I love all your little creations. I do wool applique and am so impressed with your beautiful pieces and the wonderful embroidery that gives them such life. I have your book and it’s very inspiring.
Oh my … your “findings” are sooooo CUTE !
(that elephant is my favorite 😉 )
I absolutely charmed by your finds, I love to organize and find little treasures I’ve all but forgotten about.🤗
Wonderful little treasures. I like your color schemes.
Absolute delights every one of them.
Hi Salley,
Wonderful to see your treasure trove, especially the little elephant with the bumpy nose—there’s a story. I took him to represent Democrats and democracy with its bumpy nose(s). Also love the exquisite bird and telephone. Your creative mind never rests, and that’s a good thing.
See you soon.
Susan
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I loved the elephant and the bird
Hands down the Ellie is my favorite and his bumpy nose just make him cuter!
Omg I love that elephant!
Yes, every single one of ’em is a found treasure. They make me smile!
Just discovered the best fill for stand-up ornaments and etc. It’s ground walnut shells, it not only
is excellent for filling in the nooks and crannies, adds weight to the items. I found it at Petco in the
bird department, pet owners use it for lining the cages. Give it a try!!! You need to use a funnel.
These are all so sweet. Love the sparrow and the elephant.
Love your Creations… I have made many
Dolls… and used them in Shadow Boxes…
Of course I only have one left… it was one I did for my sister who has since passed away..
If possible I will take a photo and post it….
You are quite an inspiration for me!……🤗♥️