A Little Announcement

Hello again. Today, I would like to make a little announcement. Some of you may know that I have already moved this art blog to this address recently. And I am moving it again to my web server blog before even starting to promote this blog :(
My new art blog addess is : http://blog.euphorianchic.com/.
Sorry for being hectic :D But this is one of my solutions to make my life less hectic and more organized....I hope...... I still keep this google account to say hello from time to time!

By the way, I have been doing some inner works recently, I am feeling pretty good. So, let me share the video that really suits my mood right now:-)

Singing In The Rain
Love, Yoshika

Free Giveaway at SandierPastures.com

Hello. My wall art and flower Room Illustration Prints are available at the lovely Dubai blog sandierpastures.com. In order to make it available internationally with free shipping, I had to keep the size small. But, the wall art would make a nice accent on a small wall space such as kitchen or bathroom. (It is varnished for durability.)
The blog owner Grace seems to have spent a great deal of time and created such a great giveaway entry for me. I really appreciate it! She is someone who went to an university in Japan and married Japanese man. She writes about her Dubai life there. If you are like me who has never been to Dubai, you would really enjoy her charming Dubai city tours with lots of photos and video:-)
The contest ends July 3rd. If you'd like to enter it, please visit SandierPastures.com and leave comments!


Golden Meadow 6"x6"


Set of 6 Flower Room Illustration PrintsLove, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne Illustration Series vol.11

"Queen Anne's Birthday"

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

この時期クイーンアンのバーデイ王国では沢山の鳥達が毎日誕生日を迎えます。しかし一人一人の誕生日を祝うのは難しいため、みんなのために、二週間のバースデイ祭りが行われます。

クイーンアンももちろんみんなと一緒に自分の誕生日を祝うのですが、やっぱり家族のみんなにとってはクイーンアンの誕生日は特別です。キングジェームスがいつもこっそり素敵なプレゼントを渡しているのを知っている子供達は今年はみんなで相談して特別なプレゼントを用意しました。

クイーンアンの子供達、アルキオネ、リゲル、セダール、マイアは　クイーンアンの誕生日の朝、バースデイ祭りに行く前にこっそりクイーンアンを呼び出しました。

「誕生日おめでとう！！お母さん！」
マイアはさっと空に舞い上がり、用意していた手作りのバースデイの旗をひらひらと空になびかせました。
目隠しをされていたクイーンアンは目の前のプレゼントを見てびっくり！
それはそれは見事な等身大のクイーンアンの自由の女神像が立っています。
リゲルの友達のとても才能のある彫刻家、きつつきのウッデイーに特別に作ってもらったのです。左手にはもちろんクイーンアンのレースの花、右手にはクイーンアンの大好きな本をもっています。
「まあ、まあ、なんて見事な彫刻でしょう。。。」
クイーンアンはみんなのやさしさと、彫刻の美しさにとても感動し、うっとりと彫刻を見つめました。
でも等身大の自分の姿を見るのもちょっと変な気分で、心の中ではちょっぴり、

「でもこれ、どこにおけばいいのかしら。。。。」
と思っていましたが、それはもちろん誰にも言いませんでした。

*******************************************
At this time of the year in the birdy kingdom, there are many birds who have their birthdays. For it is very difficult for them to celebrate their birthdays one by one, there is a Birthday Festival held for 2 weeks at Le pré d'Anges.

Every year, Queen Anne also celebrates her birthday at the Birthday Festival like everybody. She actually likes that way. However, for families of Queen Anne, it just doesn't seem enough for her, although everyone knew King James always prepares a special present for Queen Anne. So this year, Queen Anne's Children, Alcyone, Regel, Sedar, and Maia had a special plan.

It's finally the birthday of Queen Anne. In the morning before Queen Anne goes to the festival, Alcyone, Regel, Sedar and Maia all gathered under the Queen Anne's Castle tree, secretly brought their special present.

"1....2....3! Open your eyes!!"
Queen Anne who was lead to outside with her eyes closed slowly opened her eyes.
"Surprrrrise!! Happy Birthday! Mother!"
Said everyone all together. At the same time, Maia flew into the sky showing her handmade birthday flags to her.
"Oh...my my my....."
Queen Anne was indeed very surprised. There it was, a life-size Statue of Liberty Queen Anne version standing in front of her.
It was specially-made by Regel's talented sculptor friend, Woodpecker, Woody. The Queen Anne Statue is holding the flower of Queen Anne's Lace, and her favorite literature book.

"What a beautiful statue.... I have never seen anything like this...."
Queen Anne was so moved by kindness of her children and the beauty of the statue.
Looking at Queen Anne's happy face, all children are also very happy.

She of course meant every words she said about this great statue. However, it indeed feels a little funny looking at the life-size statue of herself. So, as if she was talking to the statue, or herself, she was also thinking...
"What am I going to do with you....."
But, of course she kept that to herself, and kept looking at the statue of her with amazement.


This illustration is available upon request:-)
Love, Yoshika

Sending You Happy Thoughts...

Today, I just want to share a little something that made my day a little more special.

There are actually many clovers growing on the sidewalks around this area. And this morning I went for my usual jogging (1/3 walking to be exact), I somehow felt like looking for 4 leaf clovers. And guess what....I found 2 of them. What I did was, whenever I felt like, I stopped, looked down for like 10 seconds or so...then, found nothing, and jogged again....And, after stopping like 3 times, I felt like changing the jogging route a little bit, and then again, stopped, looked down, looked around like 10 seconds or so.... then, there it was..... the lucky 4 leaf clover:-) And, about 1 foot away from there, there it was again, a little prettier 4 leaf clover! They were not even from the same root.
This is actually my third time 4th time picking lucky clovers. Last time was at least 3 years ago..... Anyway, since 4 leaf lucky clover is a part of Euphorian Chic's concept, I thought I would share it on my art blog:-) Hope you all have a Happy-go-lucky day!



And, today, Etsy picked my new flower room decor prints for FP!Thank you so much!

Love, Yoshika

Japan Day 2009

Actually I started to write this entry on May 31st which was Japan Day 2009. The huge Japanese event which includes, mini marathon, Japanese food samplings, music concert, Bonodori (Japanese traditional dance)...and more were held at Central Park.
Despite the decreased numbers of Japanese businessmen in New York, the event itself seems to be getting bigger and bigger. According to their website, the purpose of this event is to promote deeper understanding of Japanese culture and, to say "Thank you, New York!" It seems many American people visited this event last year as well. Which I think is very nice:-)))
This event was the third time this year. Last year, I was kind of busy preparing to go back to my country... So, I didn't know. The first year, I didn't know it at all. I think it used to be like a much smaller scaled street festival.... I have been to those a couple of times before. Since I haven't been to many Japanese events in New York, I thought I was going to go to this "Japan Day" this year...well, in my case, mostly for the purpose of Japanese food samplings, though....(It was free!) But there was a change of plan at the last minutes and I couldn't go. On the news that I saw on the next day, the event itself seemed a huge success and I was actually surprised with its scale. It's really a shame that I missed it.
So, instead of my photos or videos that I thought I was going to share on this blog, I was waiting to see someone else's nice YouTube videos to come out....
Well, unfortunately, I haven't found the one that really shows the whole thing of the event yet. But, I have managed to find a couple of good ones. What was funny to me the most was that there were many cosplayers (American people!) who wear costumes of some animation characters :-D As someone who grew up watching those Japanese animations, I really appreciate it!!

If you are interested in the event, you can visit the website http://japandaynyc.org/main/
There are some videos, including "how to do BonOdori" which is quite funny, actually.

Love, Yoshika

Behind The Scene Stories: Queen Anne's Children Part 2

As I said on the last behind the scene entry, today, I will briefly introduce Queen Anne's Children, Regel, Alcyone, Shedar, and Maia one by one.

Covert: If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

1. Alcyone -- Great Knight (still single)
Alcyone is the one who supposed to succeed father King James's throne. Although he was a sensitive, quite one in 3 brothers when he was a baby, the death of Atlas affected him greatly, and decided to become a strong knight. He has overcome his shyness, weakness by disciplines both physically and mentally. However, when he also realized his limit of physical strength as a bird knight, he saw the need of different approach for security, and decides to learn eastern spirituality from a mysterious traveler from East. As the result, he has mastered how to calm his mind even in a chaos, hones the sense of hearing in order to sense the existence of other animals within certain distance. This ability greatly decreased the death rate of new born babies from predators. King James is very impressed with the result, and now both Queen Anne and King James are learning Yoga and meditation.

2. Regel -- Great Artist/Entertainer (still single)
When King James found out that Shedar didn't seem to be a right candidate for the king, Regel was initially his first choice. However, Regel started to grow his passion for art and eventually decides to leave the castle for several years. It becomes great sadness and disappointment for King James and Queen Anne.
Regel returns to the castle as a grown up, skilled artist as well as entertainer. And he starts to contribute castle's social events, and also starts to help Queen Anne's summer school by teaching arts to children.

3. Shedar -- Great cook/Care Giver (in a relationship, Gay)
Since Shedar was the most active and fearless baby in 3 brothers, everyone was initially thinking he would be the perfect king after King James. However, from early days, he started to show interest in all house works that Queen Anne does, and especially enjoyed cooking with Queen Anne. And then eventually he started to prefer dressing like a girl and admits that he likes boys. It becomes shocking to both Queen Anne and King James. Queen Anne again almost blames herself for giving him a little bit girly name. However, through Shedar, they learns that there are many other gay birds like him in the kingdom, and decides to accept gay marriage openly. The new rule of gay birds participation at Queen Anne's Masquerade was actually set from Shedar's request of wanting to wear Queen Anne's Lace on himself as well. As a result, he met a perfect partner, costume designer, at the Masquerade, now happily in a relationship with him.

4. Maia -- Herbalist,/Nature Lover, healer (Engaged)
Since the day Maia was adopted to a family of Queen Anne and King James, she has been like the small sun of the family. Her smile put everybody at ease, everyone wanted to be around her. She was especially fond of being around a garden from early days. And after learning what happened to her real family, she starts to grow herbs and becomes a herbalist. She makes herbal teas, healing remedies and ointment for someone who is sick or got injuries.
As Maia grew up as a beautiful young lady, Queen Anne and King James were planning to introduce her a great young prince of the far forest. But instead, Maia falls in love with a gardener who is from a poor family, but makes the most beautiful gardens. Queen Anne and King James were both shocked. And specially King James didn't want to approve him. However, after Maia's first-and-ever-massive resistance, their marriage was finally approved. And now they are happily engaged. On the other hand, King James is practicing meditation to calm his nerves more than ever.

There are still a lot of dramas in the family of Queen Anne. But they are learning and growing together as a family and are all happy birds now.

To be continued....
*******************************************
That's all for behind the scene stories: Queen Anne's Children.
Next time, I will get back to the illustrations.

Love, Yoshika

New! Flower Room Illustration Prints

These are some of my flower line drawings digitally mixed with victorian pattern background with linen texture. It is simple, but looks great when it is matted and framed. It would be great chic accent for your contemporary room!

Available as set of 6, set of 3, or individually at my Etsy shop http://www.euphorianchic.etsy.com/ .






For Greeting cards, postcards, please visit
http://www.euphorianchicgift.com/

Love, Yoshika

Behind The Scene Stories: Queen Anne's Children Part 1

"Queen Anne's Children"

I mentioned one of Queen Anne's sons, Alcyone on my last volume of "Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne Illustration Series". So, apart from illustrations, today I will share a little stories behind the scene and'll talk about Queen Anne's Children.

Covert: If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

There are 3 beautiful sons, and one adapted daughter between Queen Anne and King James.
They are all living happily now. But, of course there were some difficult lessons in their life too. But, both Queen Anne and James know that even some misfortunes that they encountered were for them to be where they are right now. Here goes their stories...

A year after Queen Anne and King James got married, they got 4 children. Both Queen Anne and King James were so happy, and Queen Anne named them Regel, Alcyone, Shedar, and Atlas after the stars of her favorite constellations, Pleiades, Orion, and Cassiopeia. It was Queen Anne's prayer for each one of her children to shine like a star in their own light.
However, just like many other bird parents, they also encountered misfortune of losing one of their children, Atlas. It happened when they were about to start flying lessons. On the day of their first flying lessons, King James was suddenly called to visit the far forest due to some security issues. Although Queen Anne was little hesitant to do the lesson on her own, since some of the little ones were already trying to fly on their own, and it is indeed mom's job, they both agreed to do the lesson as it was initially planned.

As the lesson started, things were actually going smoothly in the begining. Queen Anne first flew down to the ground fluttering her wings to show the little ones an example, then waited for them to do the same under the tree. The first one who jumped was Shedar, the most active one, safely got to the ground. It was pretty good. And then, Regel followed. He was little bit short jumper, but, succeeded too. Alcyone and Atlas were hesitating for a while talking with each other which one go first. But, finally, Atlas pushed Alcyone's back, and Alcyone closed his eyes and jumped from the nest. Though he hit his face on the ground, he also passed the first lesson.
And right about time Atlas was trying to jump from the edge of the nest, it happened.
The large snake who was secretly hiding in the bush of the tree suddenly appeared from above. And using his long body, he soundlessly approached Atlas, and swallowed him in a matter of a second.
"Atlas!!"
Queen Anne's felt her heart got just frozen. She immediately darted up to the snake and attacked his head pecking real hard with her bill. But it was too late. The snake quickly turned away, coiling around his long body on high branches one by one, disappeared into the bushes.

This tragedy devastated both Queen Anne and King James. Queen Anne cried and cried day after day, blaming herself for her carelessness, and for not being able to save Atlas. King James also blamed himself for not being able to be there for his own children while he was taking care of the Kingdom first.
It was very hard time for both Queen Anne and King James. While going through grieving, they also had to face their own inadequecy and responsibility as leaders.
A year later, right about time things were finally getting back to normal between them, another great tradedy hit the neighbor couple who just got married and were trying to have children.
This time, the preditor was a hungry hawk. He attacked the nest right after the babies were hatched from eggs. Both parents fought to death to protect their babies, but in the end, the hawk was just too strong. Despite their brave fight, not only they both died from their injuries, but most of babies were also gone....there was only one survivor left on the broken nest. That was Maia.
Needless to say, this incident brought great sorrow to both Queen Anne and King James. At the same time, they felt great symathy as well as affection for this baby girl, and they decided to take her under their wings and adapted her as their dauther.

They bot felt it was meant. Not only the adoption brought healing to their past wound, cheerful Maia has truly become a joy of their life.

Fortunately, no major misfortune hit the family afterward, and children are all grown up now.

Next time, I will introduce little more about each one of Queen Anne's Children.

Love, Yoshika

Many Thank You-s For Recent Etsy Treasuries!!

Since I opened my etsy shop last year, making treasuries has been fun, even though I often don't fine time to keep up with all the treasury opportunities, and often miss the 333 or 222 timing....
And I no longer save all of the treasury picks or my own treasuries....But here is my little thank you for those who recently handpicked my works for their treasuries:-)There were many beautiful treasuries, but, this time, let me just share a couple that I really appreciated their themes. Please click the image to see the full size, so that you can see the seller's names too.

Orient Spring by Zygopsyche



"Let's Be Green" by BirdHaven


And here is the list of those who kindly handpicked my works for their treasuries.
Some of them did multiple times already, I really appreciate it! Many of them are like treasury experts. Their treasuries are absolutely beautiful and often make it to FP of Etsy:-)))) I am so flattered to be included there.


**Zygopsyche-- Animal faux fur plushie!! Very very cute!
**Birdhaven -- nature inspired cards & gifts plus lovely bakers twine. Adorable!!
**birribe -- Lovely one of a kind knitted accessories!!
**Sigmosaics -- Beautiful mosaic goods!! Great for home decor!!
**twolefthands -- lovely lovely handmade dolls!!!
**artdefleur -- Beautiful glass jewelries and cuff links!!
**primsbyandrea -- Very lovely mixed media artworks!!
**Intres -- Super cute felt houses and trees. Great for children's room!! Her items are currently on Etsy Gift guides as well. Please check them out!
http://www.etsy.com/gift-guides/children/59?&page=3

Thank you all very very much!
And today I would like to introduce some of the works from the sellers too.
I have mentioned their shops before on this blog. They both create lovely lovely treasuries, and they have brought me lots of visitors to my shop!

Munieca -- Lovely illustrations & paper craft jewelry!



As I said before on this blog, I love Andrea's works that are full of innocence. I especially love this lady butterfly series illustration:-)


Chicalessia -- beautiful handmade jewelry & unique velvet beads!



Among many beautiful handmade jewelries on Etsy, I think her jewelry is very elegant and sophisticated. This pink one is my favorite. She also sells very cute & unique bead supplies such as velvet beads, etc.

They are both members of Etsy in Spanish. So, Muchas Gracias, Andrea & Ana! :-)))

I guess that's all for today....

Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series vol.10

"Queen Anne's Messenger"

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

「いつものように、おねがいね。」

クイーンアンのメッセンジャーはそっとクイーンアンのレースの花を口に挟むと、クイーンアンに深々とおじぎをし、そして静かに、でも素早くさっとオレンジ色の空に向かって飛び立ちました。最初に得意のスピンを一回して、そして美しい夕日に向かって。

クイーンアンはメッセンジャーの見事なスピンを目で追った後、いつも彼がオレンジ色の小さな点になるまで見送ります。

こうやって、クイーンアンはいつもみんなにメッセージを送ります。時々メッセージを花に添える時もあれば、添えない時もあり、時にはドライフラワーのクイーンアンのレースの花を送る時もあります。

みんなにLe pré d'Angesに集まってもらいたい時は、メッセンジャーは３本のクイーンアンのレースの花を口に挟んで空で見事なスピンをみんなにメッセージが届くまで繰りかえすのです。

だから、クイーンアンのメッセンジャーは特別です。毎年クイーンアンのメッセンジャーは王国のなかで、早く飛ぶことができ、見事なスピン飛行のできるトップ５から、一羽だけ選ばれるとても優秀な鳥なのです。

クイーンアンのメッセンジャーはクイーンアンからの大きなクイーンアンのレースの花と一緒に、オレンジの空を急いでいました。今日クイーンアンは、スペシャルなメッセージをちょっと離れた森で、若いナイト達をトレーニングしているキングジェームスに送ったのです。息子のアルキオネも一緒です。クイーンアン自身もお城での雑用で一日中忙しかったのですが、もちろんみんなのことも忘れていません。

「この花が私の愛を届けてくれますように。。。」
クイーンアンは小さなお祈りを花に送ると、今回は手紙のメッセージはよしておこうと決めました。こんな穏やかな夏の日は、一厘の、美しいクイーンアンのレースの花だけで、十分クイーンアンの気持ちを伝えてくれる気がしたのです。
キングジェームスも、この美しいクイーンアンのレースの花を受け取れば、すぐクイーンアンの沢山の愛情を感じてくれることでしょう。。。。

********************************************
"The usual, please."
The Queen Anne's messenger picked up a Queen Anne's Lace flower, bowed deeply in front of Queen Anne. And then quietly but quickly, he flew out to the orange sky, first showing off one of his great flying spins, and disappeared into the beautiful sunset.
As usual, Queen Anne also looked up to the sky following her messenger's great spin with her eyes, and sent him off until he becomes a small orange dot.

This is her usual way to send special message to special someones. Sometimes, she adds a short message with Queen Anne's Lace flower, sometimes she sends it without, or sends a dry flower of Queen Anne's Lace instead of a fresh one...

When she wants everyone to gather at Le pré d'Anges, the messenger usually carries 3 Queen Anne's Lace flowers, and shows off his great flying spins in the sky for a while until everyone gets the message.

That's why her messenger is so special. Every year, the messenger is chosen from the 5 best birds in the kingdom who fly fastest and have the special skills of great flying spins.

The messenger was flying fast in the orange sky, carrying one large flower of Queen Anne's lace from Queen Anne. Today, Queen Anne sent a special message to King James who is working at a far forest for training the young night birds. One of their sons Alcyone is there too. Although she was also busy taking care of her errands at the castle all day, of course she hasn't forgotten about them.

"May the flower bring my love for them..."
After she sent the little prayer to the flower, she chose not to add any written message this time. On a peaceful day such as this, one beautiful Queen Anne's Lace would be a perfect message of Queen Anne's feelings.
King James would probably know exactly what she wants to say to him the moment he receives it.....


Title: Queen Anne's MessengerPrints are available at my Etsy shop: http://euphorianchic.etsy.com/ Cards, prints are at http://www.euphorinachicgift.com/

Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series vol.9

Gift From Queen Anne's Lace"

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

心地よいそよ風のふく、ある夏の日、ちょっと珍しいお客さんがクイーンアンを訪れました。
キングスバレーから来た泣いてばかりの小さなピンクのうさちゃんです。

まだ幼いうさちゃんはどうやら蝶々を追いかけているうちに道に迷ってしまったらしいのです。
キングスバレーは Le pré d'Anges(天使の草原)から２マイルほど南にいったところにあって、そこにはちいさなウサギ村があります。ですからこの小さなピンクのうさちゃんはそんな遠くから来たわけです。

クイーンアンの友達がクイーンアンのレースの花の下で泣いているうさちゃんをみつけてからも、うさちゃんはずっと泣いているのです。
そこでやってきたのがクイーンアン。

「私にいい考えがあるわ。」
クイーンアンは言いました。そして、ピンクのうさちゃんをもう一度クイーンアンのレースの花の下に連れて行き、一緒に根っこを引っ張ってくれるように頼みました。

「いち、。。。にの、。。。さん！！！」
クイーンアンのレースの根っこは土からぽっこり現れました。

「さあどうそ。私はお花、あなたには、根っこね。」
まだ泣き止まないピンクのうさちゃんは最初戸惑っていたようでしたが、おいしそうな根っこを見たとたん、涙もようやくひっこんで、ついにはにっこりと笑いました。この時期のクイーンアンのレースの根っこはまだやわらかくとてもおいしいので、クイーンアンはうさちゃんを元気つけためにあげようと思ったのです。

「お腹がすいていたでしょう。。。」
言うまでも無く、ピンクのうさちゃんはもぐもぐとおいしそうな音をたてながら、あっという間に根っこをたいらげてしまいました。

お腹が一杯になったうさちゃんはとてもうれしそう。これでまたお母さんのことを思い出すまでは泣かなくてすみそうです。
「そろそろ帰らなくちゃいけない頃ね。うさちゃんのお母さんはきっと心配しているわ。」
クイーンアンは思いました。まだうさちゃんがキングスバレーに帰るには太陽が沈むまで、十分の時間があります。

「さあさあ、そろそろおうちに帰りましょう。私が送っていってあげるから。今度は蝶々じゃなくて、わたしを追いかけてきてね。」
すっかり泣き止んだうさちゃんはクイーンアンの顔をじっと見ながら、２回こくこくとうなずきました。
クイーンアンはうさちゃんの家族へのお土産に、後二つクイーンアンのレースの根っこをあげ、二人はさっそくキングスバレーに向かって出発しました。

Le pré d'Anges（天使の草原）には南からの柔らかなそよ風が吹き、とても気持ちの良い午後です。キングスバレーに向かう二人の心は感謝の気持ちで一杯でした。

「クイーンアン、ほんとにどうもありがとう。。。」
ピンクのうさちゃんは心の中でずっと思っていました。

「クイーンアンのレース、今日はどうもありがとう。。。」
クイーンアンは心の中でずっと思っていました。
見渡す限りのクイーンアンのレースの見える、Le pré d'Anges（天使の草原）の上を飛びながら、今日"何かをしてあげれることの喜び"という贈り物をクイーンアンのレースからもらった事に対して、感謝の気持ちでいっぱいでした。

真っ白のクイーンアンのレースの花達は、初夏のそよ風のなかでやさしくゆれています。
「どういたしまして、クイーンアン。。。」

クイーンアンはクイーンアンのレースがそうささやいたような気がしました。

***************************************

On one breezy, sunny day of early summer, Queen Anne had a little unusual guest.
It was a pink bunny from Kings valley who doesn't seem to stop crying.

She is still a little girl, apparently she got lost while she was chasing a butterfly.

Kings valley is located at a couple of miles south from Le pré d'Anges. And there is a small rabbit village there. So, she really came a long way.

A friend of Queen Anne found her crying under the flowers of Queen Anne's Lace. And she has been crying ever since, non-stop.

That's where Queen Anne came to the rescue.

"I've got an idea."
Said Queen Anne. She took the little pink bunny to one of Queen Anne's Lace flowers again, and asked her to help pulling the root together.

"1,... 2,... 3!!!"

The root of Queen Anne's Lace popped out from the ground.

"Here you go, darling. I get the flowers, you get the root!"
The little pink bunny who was still crying seemed puzzled at first. But as soon as she saw the carrot root, her crying face finally cleared up, her smile also finally returned to her face.
The root of Queen Anne's lace of this time of the year is still so soft and so yummy. Queen Anne thought this would cheer her up at least a little bit.

"You must have been so hungry..."
Needless to say, the little pink bunny immediately started to make yummy noises with her big front teeth, and ate up the whole carrot in a matter of minutes!

Now, little Pink Bunny is full, looking content. Well, at least for a while until she remembers her mother again.
"It's time for her to go home. Her mother must be so worried...."
Thought Queen Anne. There is still plenty of time for her to make it to the Kings valley by sunset.
"I am going to send you home, darling. And, this time, follow ME, NOT a butterfly. Ok?"
Queen Anne gently said to little Pink bunny.
The little pink bunny who completely stopped crying looked Queen Anne's face, and nodded twice deeply.

After Queen Anne gave her a couple of more carrots as souvenirs for her family, they both headed toward the kings valley.

It was a nice afternoon, a breeze from south is gently blowing over Le pré d'Anges.
On the way back to Kings valley, both of their hearts were full of gratitude.
"Thank you so much, Queen Anne..."
Little Pink Bunny was thinking in her heart all the time.

"Thank you so much, Queen Anne's Lace..."
Queen Anne was thinking in her heart all the time...
Flying over Le pré d'Anges looking over the thousands of Queen Anne's lace, she was so grateful for the giving gift that she got from the flower today.
White flowers of Queen Anne's lace were gently waiving in a summer breeze.

"You're very welcome... Queen Anne..."

Queen Anne felt like Queen Anne's Lace just wispered the words back to her ears...

Title: Gift From Queen Anne's Lace
Prints will be available soon at my Etsy shop: www.euphorianchic.etsy.com. or http://www.euphorianchicgift.com/
Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series vol.8

"Queen Anne's Masquerade"

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

ついに今日は待ちに待った、クイーンアンの仮面舞踏会です。

夜が明けるとともに、みんな　Le pré d'Anges(天使の草原)に集まり始め、クイーンアンが朝の紅茶を終え着いたときには草原はもうみんなでにぎわっていました。

クイーンアンの舞踏会がこんなに人気が出たのには理由があります。

『クイーンアンの舞踏会』と呼ばれるように、この舞踏会は数年前にクイーンアンの提案によって生まれました。

クイーンアンはずっとそれまでもどうすれば国がもっと愛で一杯の場所になるか考えていたのです。そこで思いついたのがシンプルですがちょっと変わった舞踏会でした。それは独身の人も結婚している人も恋人がいる人もみんな最初は別々に一人で舞踏会にくる、そして、すべての女の子はクイーンアンのレースを身にまとうこという舞踏会です。

そうすることで、みんな同じように見えてしまうため、みんなそれぞれの特技などを披露して、お気に入りの人に気が付いてもらわなければいけないのです。だから特に、独身の人達は一生懸命です。そして、結婚している人や恋人がいる人たちは　冬の間別々に暮らした後、この舞踏会で相手のいいところをまた再発見してまた大好きになるのです。

ある人は　大好きな歌を披露します。
ある人は　ポエムを朗読します。
ある人は　得意なダンスステップを披露します。
ある人は　難しいスピン飛行を披露します。
そしてある人は　一生懸命面白い話をして、相手に気がついてもらおうとがんばるのです。

こうして毎年沢山のハッピーなカップル、（もちろんゲイのカップルも！）この舞踏会で生まれるのでした。実際、この舞踏会が始まってから、離婚率もぐっと減りました。クイーンアンにとってこんなにうれしいことはありません！

今となっては、シングルのみんなは　この舞踏会を　"マッチメーカー舞踏会"、カップルのみんなは、"愛を再び舞踏会"　などと呼ぶようになっています。

* * * * * * * *

楽しい舞踏会は一日中日が暮れるまで続きます。

クイーンアンもまた今日は大好きなクイーンアンのレースを身にまとい、お城の木の枝から、うれしそうに、みんなを見ています。クイーンアンはみんなが楽しそうにしているのがとってもうれしいのです

「そろそろ来る頃だと思うけど。。。。」

クイーンアンが待っているのはもちろん大好きなジェームスです。
クイーンアンもジェームスもほとんどの間みんなの世話をするのに忙しいのですが、舞踏会の終わりには必ず二人でダンスをします。

仮面の向こうで踊っているジェームスはなぜかいつもよりもずっとハンサムに見えて、クイーンアンはいつもそのダンスでジェームスがまた大好きになるのです。
その時の少女に戻った時のような気持ちはクイーンアン自身も不思議に思うくらい。

でも今ではみんなが言っています。それが、このクイーンアンの舞踏会の摩訶不思議だということを。。。

クイーンアンも実はそれがとても気に入っています。

ジェームスを今も待っているクイーンアンはついついそのマジカルなひと時を思い出し、言いました。
「あれがマジックだろうと無かろうと、どうかこの舞踏会が成功しますように、王国がより愛で一杯の場所になりますように。。。」
そうしてクイーンアンはいつものようにその祈りを空に向かってふっと送りました。
もちろん今回は少女のような笑顔とともに。。。。

**********************************
Finally, today is the day of long anticipated Queen Anne's Masquerade!

Everybody started to gather at Le pré d'Anges as soon as the day broke, and by the time Queen Anne arrived after her morning tea, the meadow was already packed with fun loving birds!

Actually there are reasons why Queen Anne's Masquerade has become so popular.
As it is called "Queen Anne's Masquerade", this masquerade was created by Queen Anne several years ago.

Queen Anne was thinking how she could help their birdy kingdom to be more loving place. So, she created a simple, but a kind of special masquerade, which is, all guests, both singles and couples, must show up without a date, and all girls must wear Queen Anne's Lace.

Since all girls, all boys are all look alike, especially for singles, they have to express their unique qualities in order to impress their ideal mate. And for couples, after spending winter apart, they often rediscover their good qualities, and fall in love with each other all over again.

Some sing their favorite songs,
some read their poetry,
some show of their dance steps,
some show of their spinning flying skills in the sky,
and, some simply try to impress their ideal mate with a nice talk with great sense of humor....

Many happy new couples (including gay couples) are born during this masquerade every year. Also, since this masquerade started several years ago, the divorce rate has been dramatically decreased. Queen Anne couldn't be happier about it!
And after its consecutive successful years, now some (singles) call it "Match-Maker Ball", some (couples) call it "Let's-Rekindle-Love Ball" or "Make-Up & Make-Out Ball."

Thus, the masquerade lasts all day long until the sunset.

Today, Queen Anne is also all dressed up with Queen Anne's Lace, watching over other birds from the branch of her castle tree. She is feeling very happy seeing everybody having a wonderful time.

"It's about time......"

The one that Queen Anne is waiting for is of course her beloved James.
Although both Queen Anne and King James are busy watching everybody most of times, at the end of the masquerade, they are always saving the last dance for each other. So, Queen Anne can not wait for the sunset.

While having the last dance with James who is behind a mask, somehow he looks much more handsome than usual. And she always falls in love with him all over again...

Queen Anne even wonders how or why she always feels like that during the dance. It is as if she returned to a little girl...

But, according to what others say, the similar thing seems to be happening to many of them at the masquerade.
And now everybody has started saying,

"That's the magic of Queen Anne's Masquerade..."

Queen Anne is actually loving it very much.

She was still waiting for the arrival of James remembering the magical moment again.
And she quietly said to herself a little prayer, and sent it to the sky as always.

"Whether it is a magic or not, may the masquerade be successful, may the kingdom be a more and more loving place...."

Of course.....this time, with a smile of young girl on her face....

Title: Queen Anne's Masquerade
Prints are available at http://www.euphorianchic.etsy.com/
or, http://www.euphorianchicgift.com/ for cards & stamps.

Love, Yoshika

Happy Mother's Day! (Poem)

Today is a mother's day..... So, happy mother's day to all moms in the world!!

Well, come to think of it, it is indeed a good thing to have a day to appreciate someone around you whom you might tend to take for granted everyday.

But in my case, to be honest, I didn't feel like celebrating this day for my own mother for a long time who is no longer in this world, though I think of her a lot on her death anniversary day, and still feel like celebrating her birthday every year.

But today, I felt like celebrating it for her for the first time in many years. And then, I felt like sharing this poem that I wrote for her several years ago. And while I was reading this poem, I noticed that I was still missing her terribly, but at the same time, was also reading it with much more peaceful state than before... which is a good thing I guess....:-)

Anyway, this is for you, Happy mother's day, お母さん！

***************************************

Mother

Smell of Marigold

Your beautiful orchid,

Marie Laurencin's picture book,

and Queen Elizabeth stamp collection...

With a heart of little girl,

you dreamed of the land of England.

Those are the things that remind me of your smile.

Standing in a summer breeze that brings salty air from the sea,

I close my eyes

And the same question keeps repeating in my head

Why couldn't I notice your pains?...

The pain behind your smile,

The pain behind your strength...

Being buried in my unresolved guilt

Your words keep repeating in my head.

"You have a gentle heart."

So, just tonight,

let me return to your little girl

Let me sleep in a blanket of your love.

So, tomorrow, I promise, I will be strong again.

Please, mother,

just tonight,

let me see you in my dream...

"Gentle Heart"
Water Color 2004

Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series, vol.7

"Wearing Queen Anne's Lace"

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read earlier entries of "About Queen Anne Illustration Series". This series is work in progress. So, you might see some changes or additions as the story goes.

「明日はいよいよ仮面舞踏会ね。。。」

クイーンアンが暖かい季節を過ごす北方の山では、木の芽はすくすくと育ち、木々の緑は日に日に色を濃くしています。そして、Le pré d'Anges（天使の草原）のクイーンアンのレースが花を開き始めるころ、あの有名なクイーンアンの仮面舞踏会が開かれるのです。

仮面舞踏会のルールは至ってシンプル。
"すべての女の子はクイーンアンのレースを身にまとうこと。”

これはもちろんクイーンアンも例外ではありません。

「明日の舞踏会が去年みたいに成功しますように。。。」
クイーンアンは空に向かってお祈りをしながら、摘んできたばかりの美しいクイーンアンのレースの花を試着してみました。


"Masquerade is tomorrow!"

On the Northern Mountain where Queen Anne spend warm seasons, the sprouts are already growing into branches, the greens of the mountains are turning darker and darker everyday.

And around the time when the flowers of Queen Anne's Lace at Le pré d'Anges start to bloom, the famous Queen Anne's Masquerade is held every year.

The rule is very simple.
Which is, "All girls must wear Queen Anne's Lace".

Of course, Queen Anne is no exception.

"May it be successful like last year....."

As Queen Anne sends out a little prayer to the sky, she tries on beautiful freshly-picked Queen Anne's Lace herself...



Title: Wearing Queen Anne's Lace
Print available at my Etsy shop: http://euphorianchic.etsy.com/
This image was also picked as Today's Best at Zazzle.comLove, Yoshika

Etsy Gift Guides

Yesterday, my Queen Anne series illustration sample sale listing was handpicked by Etsy staff and added to Etsy Gift Guides "Under $20.00". Thank you so much!
Please click the image to visit Gift Guides "Under $20.00" or visit Etsy Gift Guides to find great gifts for mother's day or other occations!



Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series vol.6

Under The Queen Anne's Lace

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read the stories behind Queen Anne and Queen Anne's lace illustration series, vol.1~3 first.

Ｕｎｄｅｒ　Ｔｈｅ　Ｑｕｅｅｎ　Ａｎｎｅ’ｓ　Ｌａｃｅ．．．
クイーンアンは今も覚えています。
あれは初夏のそよ風が心地よい、とてもきれいな夕暮れのこと。。。

美しいクイーンアンのレースの花に見守られながら、
二人は初めてのキスを交わしました。

「夕日が私の真っ赤な顔を隠してくれますように。。。」
クイーンアンは心の中で願っていました。

Queen Anne still remembers...
On a breezy day of early summer, being surrounded by beautiful flowers of Queen Anne's Lace,
King James kissed Queen Anne for the first time.

Queen Anne was secretly wishing the sunset would hide her blushed cheeks...

Title: Under The Queen Anne's Lace


"Under The Queen Anne's Lace" Eco Tote
It is available athttp://www.euphorianchic.etsy.com/
Print will be available soon.
Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series vol.5

Queen Anne's Sweet Memory

Covert: Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read the stories behind Queen Anne and Queen Anne's lace illustration series, vol.1~3 first.

クイーンアンが夏を過ごす北方の山には　Le pré d'Anges（天使の草原）と呼ばれるそれはそれは美しい草原があります。そこは夏になるとクイーンアンのレースの花で一杯になるのです。

　Le pré d'Anges　には　キングジェームスとクイーンアンの二人だけの秘密の場所があり、二人は若い頃よくみんなに内緒で会っていました。若きキングジェームスはいつも一番きれいなクイーンアンのレースの花を見つけてはそれをクイーンアンにプレゼントしました。クイーンアンにとって、それはベリーのように甘酸っぱい、大切な思い出です。

クイーンアンは、キングジェームスに会えない冬の間、寂しくなるといつもその楽しかった日々を思い出して、春までがんばろうと思うのです。

On the northern mountain where Queen Anne always spend summer, there is a beautiful place called "Le pré d'Anges". The meadow is filled with the flowers of Queen Anne's lace during summer.

Young Queen Anne and young King James used to have a secret place in the In Le pré d'Anges, where they would secretly spend time together. Young James would always pick the most beautiful Queen Anne's lace flower, and gave it to Queen Anne. For her, those days were as sweet as mountain berries, and it has been one of the most precious memories of her life.

During winter, while she can not see King James, Queen Anne gets lonely sometimes. But, this memory always puts smiles back on her face and gives her strength to wait for the spring.


Print available at my Etsy shop: http://www.euphorianchic.etsy.com

Love, Yoshika

Introducing Queen Anne and Queen Anne's Lace Illustration Series vol.4

Queen Anne's Hopeful Season!

Covert:
Narration is written in both Japanese and English (though they are slightly different and excuse me if there are English mistakes.) If you would like this entry to make more sense, please read the stories behind Queen Anne and Queen Anne's lace illustration series, vol.1~3 first.

「見いつけた！」
今年初めての芽を見つけたクイーンアンはうれしさを隠せません。

長くて寒い冬もようやく終わり、クイーンアンの待ち望んだ春がようやくやってきました.
クイーンアンの友達もうれしくて空でダンスをしています。

「もうすぐね。。。」
小さな芽達も、すくすく育ち、すぐに沢山の花を咲かせることでしょう。
クイーンアンの心の中も、もう、大好きなクイーンアンのレースの花でいっぱいです。

クイーンアンの心は少しどきどきしてきました。
何故なら、クイーンアンのレースの花が咲き始める頃、大好きなジェームスやみんなにまた会えるからです。

"Oh...finally!!"
Queen Anne couldn't contain her excitement when she found this year's first sprout on the ground.

After a long cold winter, spring has finally come!
The air is still cold, but the warmth of the sunlight surely shows the arrival of spring.
Queen Anne's friends also get excited, and started to dance in the sky as well.

"It will be soon..."
This small sprouts will grow bigger and bigger everyday, the meadow will be covered with all green, and soon, there will be a lot of flowers all around!
Queen Anne can not help imagining the blossom of her favorite flower, Queen Anne's Lace on her mind.

"See you soon..."
Queen Anne said to herself quietly.
Her face turned pink, and her heart also started to pound faster a little bit.

She can not wait to see the white flowers of Queen Anne's lace start to open up.

Do you want to know why?
Because that's when she will be able to see her beloved James and everyone once again....


Title: Queen Anne's Hopeful Season
Prints available at my Esty Shop: http://www.euphorianchic.etsy.com/ Love, Yoshika

Featured at Lotushaus.com!

My Kanji design prints were featured on very lovely style blog, Lotushaus.com! Thank you so much!
Pleaase visit here or click the image below to read it.
Joanna is a very talented artist -- organic lifestyle designer, stylist, cultural creative, event coordinator, aspiring floralista, ikebana practitioner. I especially loved her easter birdy centerpiece and her ikebana flower arrangement! Please visit her blog and her portofolio!

Design by joanna dyckhoffLove, Yoshika

Happy Earth Day!

Happy Earth Day to you all!

Love, Yoshika