The 2001 collection contains several pieces named in honor of a very special young artisan, Elaine's granddaughter Caitlyn. Caity's Dollhouse, Caity's Snowman, and Caitlynn Dances With Snowy are especially dear to Elaine's heart. "And", laughs Elaine, "Caity has claimed Country At Heart (see cover) for herself as well." In fact, the Snow Children line includes a series of "country" pieces that are finished with a special flecked mica, which creates an "antique" look as opposed to the freshly fallen "snowy" look of the others. Country At Heart is a limited edition of 100.

Family continues to be an important theme in Elaine's work as can be witnessed in Angel Michael, Thomas, Christopher, Beth, Jacob, Gabe … ornaments all designed to honor loved ones. Two charity figures, Angel of Faith and Angel of Peace, were inspired by her father's struggle with cancer. A portion of the proceeds from each design will benefit both a Dayton area hospice and the Hipple Cancer Research facility in Kettering, Ohio. A third ornament, Angel of Hope, will help benefit breast cancer research.

Although Elaine has spent many years as a successful artist, attracting such notable collectors as Christopher Radko and Bill Rhodes (Billy Bunny), her career has now taken off into an unexpected new and diverse direction. The wide exposure she will receive as a result of her partnership with Department 56 is likely to focus a special Christmas spotlight on Elaine's other creative energies and, before long, many more collectors will want to begin families of their own … families of Snow Children that is!

Images Supplied by author Connie Porcher