Are you Cinderella or the Queen?

It is our own attitudes that determine our station in life and has nothing to do with what anyone outside of us thinks. Who are you and which one of these sounds more like you? Are you Cinderella, often putting the needs of others before your own and allowing them to dictate your life purpose? Are you a princess or prince, worthy but still, somehow not quite good enough to have it all? Or, do you think like the queen/king you came forth into this life to be? You need neither a crown nor subjects but you are indeed the queen/king of your life. You are meant to live a joyful and abundant one.


I had an experience this week which made me realize just how powerful imagery can be. Please see the Playful in Pennsylvania post for a photographic journey into one of Bella Rosa's (TADS Doll No. 1) recent visits. Because this doll has my face on her, it had quite an effect to see myself staring back at me from the loving hands of a child. A woman about to give birth, took the time to knit a little dress entirely from ribbon for the doll. She also shared the journal with her art students so that they might know how other artists are sharing with the world. How priceless is this? I truly feel like a queen, rich in love and tender care.


Imagine you are the queen/king this month (and beyond). Walk like you have a cape and crown on and believe yourself worthy of every good thing. Say it silently to yourself throughout your day. Nobody has to know what you are doing and this exercise will go a long way in helping you shift how you think about yourself. Notice how this feels in your body and in your mind. Did your posture improve? Do you feel just a little more confident? Write or paint about the experience(s) in your journal.


This month is about turning yourself into the queens and kings you are. Make a muse with your face on it. Yes, it must be YOUR face. Putting a doll with your face in your journal surrounded by magazine clippings, pictures, notes or drawings that inspire you will be more powerful and effective than using a random piece of clip art.

Click the image to download the PDF file

I have included a template file for a paper doll and pouch similar to the one used in the TADS project. I want to hear about your experiences. Did something special happen that has never happened before? Blog about it. As an ongoing project, I'll be featuring participating members on The Artful Paper Doll home page who blog and submit photos of their journals on this topic as both an inspiration to others to take the first step and as a way for me to give something back to all of you.

Kitty whispers: *Be the Queen/King . . . You ARE the Queen/King . . . *

Traditional Beauty for a Paper Doll Classic

Several weeks ago I posted a free paper doll template for your use. I asked that anyone using it, point me to the images so that I could post here as inspiration to others.


Linda of Considerations posted this traditional tabbed outfit with all kinds of trimmings that fit beautifully into a hand made, organza bag.


Even traditional dolls can have dimension added to them with lace and feathers. This also makes a perfect swap idea for your groups. Send the doll with a dress and trimmings and let the recipient decide how to decorate it. Thank you Linda, for this timeless contribution.

William Charlebois Goes Digital with Dolls

A few days ago I posted a free paper doll template with the hope that anyone who used it would direct me to photographs of their work. One man has answered the call. Yes, you read that correctly.


Your paper dolls do not have to be elaborate to be beautiful. In fact, if you are good with digital manipulation, you could put something like this together. I am drawn to the vibrance and beauty in the colors of her corset and dress. In fact, when I look at this piece, I can't take my eyes off them. The choices could not have been more perfect. Visit William Charlebois at the Artful Paper Doll or Artella.

Free Paper Doll Template

Haha! It's about time I offered up a free paper doll template huh?! After all, it is all about the dolls here. Actually this template came from Debra Schoch over at Hop Hop Jingle Boo. I think it's just terrific. It has some great potential for some really arty paper doll looks not to mention that it's PINK!


You are free to download this (click the photo to enlarge to full size) and use in your own artwork. If you use this, please feel free to direct me to a photo of your work so that I can download it and totally exploit you here on my own blog. (tee hee :) Once you have downloaded your copy, get yourself on over to How Sweet the Sound and say hello to the lovely Beverly. She's got an entire list of places where yummy pink goodness can be found today.