Winter’s small gifts

Posted by Tiffany on January 5th, 2011 Add your comment »

LOdelius_bullfinch1 photo: fromsthlm.com

I received the lovely card above from designer Lotta Odelius just before Christmas. Remember how much you loved her patterned ceramics back in August?

And to my delight there were more surprises inside! A collection of sweet little bullfinch gift tags – all regarding me with a healthy dose of wariness.

LOdelius_bullfinch2 photo: fromsthlm.com

Together they tell the story of the much-loved Swedish tradition of leaving food out for the birds during the North’s darkest winter months, and especially at Christmastime. That’s why sheaves of wheat grace so many Swedish Christmas decorations, it’s meant for the birds.

Though ironically, according to Lotta’s research, the wrong bird has become tied to the tradition. The dear little bullfinch that’s become such a popular motif of the season is actually one of the rarer visitors to Christmas sheafs and bird-feeders. They would rather feast on sunflower seeds and rowanberries any day.

Thanks Lotta for setting the record straight!

I just can’t help but wonder now if this little prezzie is a clue to the mysterious “paper products” you’ve been working so hard on and keeping under tight wraps.

Oh I hope so – I already can’t wait to see more!