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The Legend of Paul Bunyan + Babe the Big Blue Ox This Monday we have a very interesting #MysteriousMichiganMondays and excerpt about “Saginaw Joe” of Saginaw Michigan! As well as some fun legends of Paul right here in Michigan!!! Welcome back, FairyFindrs , to the enchanted land of Marvelous Magical Miniatures ! As you all know very well by now, I'm a huge lover of fairy tales and folklore, and one of my earliest memories of being captivated by a fairy tale, was the story of Paul Bunyan & Babe the Big Blue Ox! I hope you have some time to sit down and enjoy this one, because its a long one and we go on a super deep-dive into the Life and Legend of Paul Bunyan and Babe, his best friend and trusty giant blue Ox. (Image Credit: Caleb Morris ) I remember going to see GIANT statues of Paul Bunyan + Babe , at Castle Rock in St. Ignace, Michigan with my family when me and my brother were little. We may have gone more than once, but I distinctly remember at least one time! I remember my brother and I were fighting the whole drive there, but once we got there, imaginations captivated by the magic and wonder of it all, any troubles we were having seemed to melt away. (I’ll upload a picture of my family at the Paul Bunya statue at Castle Rock one of these days when I find it!) Fun Facts About Paul: Being a lumberjack, Paul loved to chop down trees so he and Babe make their way across North America traveling, chopping, and exploring, leaving behind some of the most notable North American landmarks! Here's a few fun facts about our friend Paul: He was so big as a baby, he used Saginaw Bay as a bathtub, and later enlarged it into Lake Huron He was over 888lbs and taller than the tallest trees on Earth Paul and Babe were responsible for the deforestation of the area that would become North and South Dakota, for farming purposes Paul made Mount Hood by piling up stones to extinguish a campfire By Dragging his axe across the ground as he and Babe walked to Arizona, Paul creates the Grand Canyon Paul and Babe’s footprints in the wetlands of Minnesota filled with water and formed the 10,000 Lakes Paul and Babe dug several waterways, including the Missouri River and the Puget Sound, to ship his lumber With the heel of his boot, Paul dug Lake Michigan and Lake Superior as a watering hole for Babe the Ox For a shower, Paul created the Yellowstone National Park’s waterfalls Apparently the Mississippi River was created by accident when Babe fell over and dropped a bucket of water he was carrying One day while rough housing together, babe and Paul created a mess as they crumbled the ground beneath them, forming what we know now as the Grand Teton Mountain Range And when babe passed away, his burial mound became known as the Black Hills of South Dakota Here are a few more fun facts about Paul and Babe according to the Bemidji, MN tourist bureau. Paul Bunyan was 63 axe handles tall (according to Disney's Paul Bunyan cartoon theme song as well as folklore accounts) Paul Bunyan had a frying pan that covered an area of one acre, which was used to make pancakes. The cooks greased the pan by ice skating across the griddle with sides of bacon strapped to their skates. Babe was 42 axe handles wide from the tip of one horn to the tip of the other horn. It took a crow a day to fly from one Babe’s horn tips to the other. Babe could eat 30 bales of hay, wires and all, in a day. Paul Bunyan once trained giant 2,000 pound ants. Each ant could each do the work of 50 men. History: The folks of Bangor, Maine , claim the city as not only the birthplace of the lumber industry, but the birthplace of Paul Bunyan, as well. There, Paul Bunyan Day is celebrated on February 12th, the supposed date of his birth in 1834. However, the residents of Bemidji, Minnesota & Oscoda, Michigan also claim it was their town , that the larger-than-life lumberjack was born. Legend has it that Paul already weighed over 156 pounds, at the time of his birth, and it took 5 giant storks to carry him to his parents!! If baby Paul didn't get enough to eat, his stomach would grumble and cause earthquakes! When he was a baby, he played with an axe and saw like any other baby would with normal toys. For his first birthday, his father gave him Babe as a gift, and together they grew giant and strong. Oral Tradition- North American & Canadian Loggers: The legend of Paul and Babe go back in both American and Canadian folklore history, to a time where white British men were coming over to the Americas and settling on the land. Paul Bunyan may as well be the God of the Lumberjacks, and was most likely originated as a folk tale told among North American loggers as early as the 1880's in Wisconsin, Michigan, and the midwest, as well as spreading north to Canada too. In The Media: Literature: According to Wikipedia , the first known written mention of Paul Bunyan "was in March 17, 1893, issue of Gladwin County Record . Under the local news section for the area of Beaverton , it reads, "Paul Bunion [ sic ] is getting ready while the water is high to take his drive out." [11] This line was presumably an inside joke, as it appeared over fifteen years before any commercial use of the Paul Bunyan name. At the time, few of the general public would have known who Paul Bunyan was." A few years later in 1904, an uncredited 1904 editorial in the Duluth News Tribune which recounts the first Paul Bunyan story to be written down, the following is a quote from that newspaper: His pet joke and the one with which the green horn at the camp is sure to be tried, consists of a series of imaginative tales about the year Paul Bunyan lumbered in North Dakota . The great Paul is represented as getting out countless millions of timber in the year of the "blue snow". The men's shanty in his camp covered a half section, and the mess camp was a stupendous affair. The range on which an army of cookees prepared the beans and "red horse" was so long that when the cook wanted to grease it up for the purpose of baking the wheat cakes in the morning, they strapped two large hams to his feet and started him running up and down a half mile of black glistening stove top. [12] In 1906, the earliest printed and credited mention to Paul Bunyan was in a Michigan-based publication. “Round River” by James MacGillivray was published in “The Press” in Oscoda, Michigan, and goes on to tell several popular Paul Bunyan myths, legends, and stories. A few years later, James MacGillivray collaborated with a poet, Douglas Malloch, to expand on these folk tales and publish them in the American Lumberman magazine in 1914, presenting it to a much larger audience and helping to spread the Bunyan legend. (Please be forewarned if you go looking for these stories, some of them have extremely racist elements, referring to black folks both as "negros" and "coons" at times) Believe it or not, MacGillivray doesn't mention Babe, the giant Ox, at all. In fact, Babe wasn't a part of the Paul Bunyan story at all until later iterations of the story popularized by William B. Laughead in 1914. Fun fact: the earliest adaptations with Babe the Giant Ox shows him as Pink, not Blue. Advertisement: Paul Bunyan makes his appearance into the minds and imaginations of the American public through freelance writer, logger, and advertising manager, William B. Laughead, and his various books and research regarding the North American legend. It wasn't until Laughead's stories of Paul Bunyan, that Paul, Babe, and all of the other animals that Paul cares for became literal giants. In all the previous stories and folklore about Paul Bunyan, he wasn't towering above the trees; but standing around 7 feet tall, he was much taller and stronger than all of the other lumberjacks in camp. A face was never put to the name until 1914 when Red River Lumber Co. trademarked Paul's face as a logo because they were "doing jobs so big that they would need to call for Paul Bunyan" so the story goes. (Paul Bunyan walking with an axe over his shoulder and whistling. He is accompanied by Babe the Blue Ox who is carrying several people on his back. Image courtesy of the Wisconsin Historical Society and Wisconsin Historic Images) In 1912, a university student in Wisconsin, Miss Stewart, started collecting and writing down stories of Paul Bunyan from loggers in Wisconsin and Michigan. Her father was a logger, so she grew up around them and hearing stories and folklore about Paul her whole childhood, kind of like me. She became fascinated and wanted to prove his existence was more than just a taller than life folktale. Cartoons & Movies: In 1958, Disney released a 17 minute long short film by the name "Paul Bunyan" you can watch the full thing here on YouTube. Paul Bunyan's Family: Paul was found to have an estranged younger brother who went by "Cordwood Pete". He didn't like living in his brother's shadow, (metaphorically and physically) therefore, he left home and never returned, so he could make a name for himself without living up to the expectations and standards of his brother and what everyone else expected of him. He was found to be Paul Bunyan's younger brother one day, and the story goes that he confessed being related once others found out, and proceeded to say that he never got the chance to grow as a boy since Paul ate most of the food they both needed to grow, leaving Pete at only 4' 9" and under 100 pounds. He didn't let his size stop him though, he became known as one of the strongest and quickest lumberjacks around. Paul had a wife, Mrs. Bunyan, who was said to be one of the cooks at the logging camp run by Paul. They had a son named Jean. Paul's Pets: Babe the Blue Ox Benny The Little Blue Ox Lucy the Cow - not related to Babe or Benny, she didn't join the family until long after Babe and Benny. The Possible Real-Life Paul Bunyan: "Saginaw Joe" On Nov. 6, 2006, Michigan officially designated Oscoda as the “true birthplace of the legend of Paul Bunyan as first set in ink by James MacGillivray.” There were several folks who could have possibly been the OG Paul, but there is one man, Fabian "Saginaw Joe" Fournier , who many folklorists and historians have coined the "real Paul Bunyan". (Image: Fabian "Saginaw Joe" Fournier) Saginaw Joe was a super tall and strong French Canadian lumberjack, who was rumored to have two sets of teeth (which is consistent with what we know about the history of giants and how they usually contain two sets of teeth as well as 6 fingers and toes, and tower considerably taller than most other homo-sapiens), and stood over 7 feet tall. Joe was raised in Quebec, and after the Civil War, he moved right here to Michigan, Saginaw to be exact, to work in the huge logging operations that were here in the 1880's. After moving to Michigan, Joe quickly made a name for himself in Saginaw County, (which extended from Saginaw all the way up to Mackinac at that time) as an incredible, strong, and efficient logger! He continuously impressed his fellow lumberjacks with the humongous size of his hands, and his thumbs were said to be as long as his other fingers! It was rumored that he could cut down trees with just one swing of the axe! In the late 1800's, lumberjacks were beginning to clear out much of the old growth and ancient Michigan forests, and Joe was said to be one of the men on the crews working hard to cut down and produce lumber with Michigan's ancient trees! (Two loggers sit atop a massive eight-foot-wide stump in Falk Woods, in the Upper Peninsula, in 1907- Photo Courtesy Michigan Tech Archives) There have been others who have contested this theory, however, such as Michael Edmunds in his 2009 book, Out of the Northwoods: The Many Lives of Paul Bunyan , in which he argues that the legend and stories of Paul Bunyan are far more likely to predate the life of Saginaw Joe completely. The book recounts several first person accounts of meeting Paul Bunyan, along with the folklore stories, and telling the reader how the legend has changed and grown bigger and more magical with each passing year. So, what do you think, FairyFindrs , was Saginaw Joe the "Real Paul Bunyan"? Paul Bunyan Attractions + Tourist Destinations: Maine: Bangor: Bangor, Maine was the first place to claim that they were the rightful birthplace of Paul Bunyan, and it is the home of a 31 foot, 3,700 lb statue with a fiberglass and metal frame which has been hurricane-proofed to withstand 110 mph winds. According to RoadsideAmerica "The Chamber of Commerce sells copies of Bangor's official Bunyan song, "The Ballad of Paul Bunyan," by Joe Pickering, which garnered the 1997 Country Music Association's "Comedy Song of the Year" award." Michigan: Being a Michigan native, I grew up hearing about Paul Bunyan all the time! My parents were also born in Michigan, so the folklore history was something they both grew up hearing too, and they passed these North American folklore legends down to me and my brother, even taking us to see the GIANT statues of Paul and Babe at Castle Rock in St. Ignace, Michigan! There are several Paul Bunyan-themed tour destinations, many of them being in Michigan alone ! There are 5 Paul Bunyan statues in Michigan alone, and I've only ever seen one of them... guess I have some road tripping to do! Castle Rock- St. Ignace- Paul Bunyan & Babe Statues: Handcrafted by Calvin Tamlyn around 1958, Paul Bunyan and Babe statues were erected at the foot of Castle Rock (an ancient lookout of the Ojibway tribe , who called it “Pontiac’s Lookout”), becoming a tourist destination spot seen by Michiganders and others from out of state who came to see the Large Lumberjack for themselves. Sitting at 15 feet high, and 8 feet high, Paul and Babe at Castle Rock is arguably the most famous Michigan Paul Bunyan statue. Alpena, MI- "Kaiser Paul" Bunyan - Scrap Metal Art Sculpture There's a really cool (the best one in my opinion) 30 foot tall scrap metal "junk art" sculpture of Paul Bunyan aka Kaiser Paul , at Alpena Community College ( Address: 666 Johnson St., Alpena, MI ), made out of old Kaiser car parts after the company shut down. The parts were salvaged from junkyards around Detroit (see below). The sculpture was first used as a roadside attraction to lure guests from I-75 to the Paul Bunyan's Gas & Eat, but after it closed down in the 70's, the Statue was moved to a museum in Gaylord, MI. After the museum closed in the 1980's, the statue was then almost scrapped, but ended up being saved and refurbished by a realtor and moved to Grayling, MI. In 1999, the statue took its final resting place at Alpena Community College, where the school repainted him in the school's team colors of maroon and silver and become the mascot for The Lumberjacks. (Screenshots from RoadsideAmerica.com) Oscoda, Michigan: Paul Bunyan Statue: Oscoda claims to be the rightful birthplace of Paul Bunyan, stating that the "world's first Paul Bunyan story" came from an Oscoda Newspaper publication in 1906. They even have a 13' 4" tall Paul Bunyan statue erected at Furtaw Field, which is where they hold the an annual Paul Bunyan festival called Paul Bunyan Days Annual Festival . He was originally made out of papier-mâché for J.L. Hudson of Detroit for a Thanksgiving Day parade in 1971. After the parade, he was purchased for $50 and moved to Oscoda, MI, where he now stands tall. He was restored, reinforced with fiberglass, and repainted in 1983. (2023 Paul Bunyan Days Flier) Last year it was September 15 - 17, 2023 @ Furtaw Field that included a chainsaw carving competition & auction, a beard contest, food trucks, vendor booths, and a Carnival by Native Amusements! This sounds amazing and I'll definitely try to make it out next year, probably even have a vendor booth since its so affordable (WOW $40!!!) I've already been brainstorming some Paul Bunyan and Babe Custom Dolls as I write this blog post... hmmm 🧐 🤔 Ossineke: Located on U.S. 23, was the original site of the 1940's Paul and Babe statues, built by Paul N. Domke (also known for his Prehistoric Gardens Dinosaur Zoo with Jesus themes), that were built as a roadside attraction for Paul Bunyan’s Lookout. Manistique: Standing at 15 feet tall, the Manistieque Paul Bunyan was originally built in 1960 to commemorate the Manistique Centennial . The 43' tall plywood cutout was blown down in a storm and suffered irreparable damage in the early 1970s. It was later replaced with a 15-foot fiberglass statue, standing proudly in front of the Schoolcraft County Chamber of Commerce on U.S. 2. Minnesota: Akeley: Paul Bunyan legends state that the 10,000 Lakes in Minnesota were created by the footprints of Paul and Babe, and they ended up filling with water after the footprints were left behind. So, naturally, Minnesota will have tons of Paul Bunyan Tourist Attractions for you to check out. You can visit the World's Largest Paul Bunyan statue (pictured below), unveiled in 1985 during Paul Bunyan Days , in Akeley, MN, where folks can climb up into his giant hand for a photo op! You can also go visit the Akeley Paul Bunyan Historical Museum in the same town. (World's Largest Paul Bunyan Statue in Akeley, Minnesota - Photo by Galavant Girl ) Bemidji: In 1937, Paul and his Giant blue Ox made a debut at the winter carnival in Bemidji, Minnesota. Towering at 18 feet tall, Paul and Babe are settled in right in front of Lake Bemidji for a picturesque backdrop view! ( A statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox in Bemidji - Photo by Lisa Crayford) Brainerd: Since 1954, Paul has been gracing the town of Brainerd with his presence, but in 2002, he moved from the Paul Bunyan Center to Paul Bunyan Land , which is a 23 acre amusement park featuring 40 rides + attractions! Attractions include a 26 foot tall animatronic talking Paul Bunyan, a petting barn, and a Pioneer Village, along with amusement park rides! There's even a statue of Babe the giant blue Ox standing right outside the entrance to Paul Bunyan Land! ( A larger-than-life Babe the Blue Ox statue greets visitors at Paul Bunyan Land in Brainerd) Pequot Lakes: At just shy of 13 feet tall, short by Paul Bunyan standards, but expertly sculpted, nonetheless, stands a remarkable Bunyan statue in Pequot Lakes, MN . He was created by Josh Porter ( Avalon Studios ) commissioned by Rick and Leah Beyer (owners of the A-pine Restaurant ). The statue is made of a steel frame, with a foam and fiberglass exterior. (Paul Bunyan statue outside of A-Pine Restaurant in Jenkins, MN) Ten Top Bunyans Trees Of Mystery: Bunyan and Babe - Klamath, CA Exhausted Paul Bunyan - University Park, IL 25-Foot-Tall Paul Bunyan - Muncie, IN 31-Foot-Tall Paul Bunyan - Bangor, ME Paul Bunyan and Babe - Ossineke, MI Sitting Bunyan and Babe - St. Ignace, MI World's Largest Paul Bunyan - Akeley, MN World's First Bunyan and Babe - Bemidji, MN Giant Sitting, Talking Paul Bunyan - Brainerd, MN 31-Foot-Tall Paul Bunyan - Portland, OR Other Noble Bunyans Paul Bunyan, Formerly a Giant Tree - Three Rivers, CA Paul Bunyan and Babe - Westwood, CA Burger-Hoisting Bunyan Sign - Coeur d'Alene, ID Big Friend Bunyan with No Feet - St. Maries, ID Muffler Man Bunyan and Babe - Rumford, ME Kaiser Paul: Bunyan Made of Car Parts - Alpena, MI Paul Bunyan Statue - Manistique, MI Barrel Chested Bunyan - Oscoda, MI Big Sitting Bunyan - West Branch, MI Enchanted Forest Paul Bunyan - Old Forge, NY Paul Bunyan and Babe - Eau Claire, WI Paul Bunyan and Babe - Sayner, WI Paul Bunyan and Babe - Nitro, WV Paul Bunyan Day: The Holiday February 12th has been coined Paul Bunyan Day by the citizens of Bangor, Maine. Legend has it that Paul Bunyan was born in the forest just outside of Bangor, Maine on February 12, 1834. Gifted to the city by New York-based model-making company Messmore & Damon , a 31-foot statue of Paul Bunyan (pictured below) stands in front of the Cross Insurance Center, across the street from the Hollywood Casino, on Main Street. He was gifted to the city on the occasion of the 125th birthday of Bunyan. Conclusion: Paul Bunyan has been a figure well known throughout North American history and folklore, bringing a sense of wonder and imagination to all! Some folks throughout history have claimed stories like Paul Bunyan to be "fakelore" instead of American folklore, created by the industry to sell us on the whole "American Dream" and popularize the idea of deforestation and colonization of the Americas, and I really don't think they're wrong. What do you think? (Image: This huge statue of Paul Bunyan is one example of the way the stories once told in logging camps became part of tourist attractions in the mid-20th century, starting a debate among folklorists over whether Paul Bunyan was authentic "folklore" or really commercialized "fakelore." -FHS collection) If you want to support me and. the work, art, and businesses I support here on my self-hosted website you can check out my shop or Subscribe to one of my monthly Patreon tiers where you'll see early access of all my blogs, art, merch drops, and Patreon exclusive content!! Subscribe on Patreon under ADHDalex : https://www.patreon.com/ADHDalex ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the giants and Paul Bunyan bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Welcome back FairyFindrs ! Today..... is for the Griffin! Meet Petra the Griffen, She demanded to be seen and heard the whole time while compiling and writing this blog and all of the vast amounts of information in it! (Petra (Rock) the Griffen came about while preparing this blog, and directly inspired by things that I learned about the griffin. Drawn by me ADHDalex / Marvelous Magical Miniatures Nov 2024) Today for #MysteriousMichiganMondays we have a very special deep dive on the glorious, graceful, godly guardians, called Griffins (also spelled Griffon, Griffen, and Gryphon depending on who you ask). ( Griffin Statue by Ryan McCallister -- Half eagle, half lion. Made from steel, river rock, and blown glass (eyes). 6’ long x 5’ tall.) The Griffin is a chimera or hybrid beast of folklore , antiquity, mythology, and legend. I was extremely surprised to learn, unlike many other creatures or entities mentioned throughout history, the griffin doesn't really have an origin story, it's kind of just always been there throughout the entirety of human history. (From the Chimera(mythology) Wikipedia page) How the hell is the Griffin related to Michigan, you might ask? Well.... you'll have to read on to find out! (Griffin artwork ancient painting) Fun "Facts" about the Griffin! Griffins are monogamous and have only one mate for life. Once they have found a partner, even if the partner dies, the other griffin will remain alone for the remainder of their life. Griffin wings are said to shimmer in the sunlight, showing glimpses of its divine essence. Griffin feathers can cure blindness. Their talons were so large they were known to be turned into drinking cups. According to some mythologies, only female griffins have wings. Griffins carry precious stones that can heal wounds. Griffins are guardians of sacred portals and treasures of the gods. In the middle ages, counterfeit Griffin eggs and claws were sold; made from ibex horns, ostrich eggs, and possibly even fossilized dinosaur eggs. Griffin claws can detect poison by changing color. In medieval lore, Griffins were known to detect liars, judging between truth and justice The Griffin was the symbol of Old World Tartary / Tartaria (I'll let you jump down that rabbit hole if you'd like but its a very interesting alternative history theory about the erasure of an ancient advanced technology civilization with giants and griffins and other mythological beasts and creatures). (Tartary flag featuring a griffin-- their symbol of power and wisdom, as well as freedom of information and technology) Ancient Origins of the Griffin: World's Oldest Hybrid? Griffins are GIANT creatures, much bigger than a horse! They are found in ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Persian, Minoan, Greek, and Roman mythology and artwork! The Griffin is a hybrid animal with the characteristics and body of a lion and the head and front legs and talons of an eagle -- king of the beasts --and king of the air , making the griffin the king of all kings! (Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Griffin ) The earliest artwork known to feature the griffin comes from 3300 BC in ancient Egyptian artwork and ancient Mesopotamia , often referred to as the "cradle of civilization", which makes the griffin an ancient being, indeed. Here's a mega-thread on reddit showing various griffins in ancient Egypt . And there are even more pictures in a second thread by the same person, showcasing griffins, and their close relative, the sphinx, in ancient Egyptian art and sculptures! ( Source : A relief sculpture of an ancient Egyptian griffin and a sphinx together) (A griffin pictured at the tip of an ancient ceremonial axe) (An ancient Griffin relief sculpture/carving in between two snakes) (A giant Griffin trampling on the enemies of Egypt) ( https://mythologyworldwide.com/the-griffins-roots-in-mesopotamia-exploring-the-origins-of-the-beast/ ) From the earliest mentions in antiquity of the giant glorious Griffin, it has been known to guard sacred realms, massive treasures of the gods, and priceless possessions, even sometimes building their nests out of gold! ( As a griffon family prepares for their yearly migration to the Valley of Griffons, one lone egg remains unhatched. -- By Liang Fang on DeviantArt .) Griffins are fierce protectors of their young, and if you approach their nest, they will become defensive, sometimes even violent, depending on the intentions of the other party; this may be why we find a lot of the cautionary tales of griffins being dangerous. In fact, the Griffin has rarely been known to harm a human unless attacked first, however, there were a tribe of giant cyclops, who infiltrated their nests and stole their guarded treasures, likely harming them and their babies in the process, who wouldn't defend themselves in that situation? We will revisit this subject later on in the blog when speaking of griffins in ancient literature. According to legend, the greek god of the sun, Apollo, was known to have domesticated the griffin and ride it from his kingdom in Delphi and traveling to Hyperborea , as pictured below at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. ( Source : The greek god Apollo riding his griffin around his kingdom, playing his lyre) One legend tells of Alexander The Great , king of the Greek Empire in the fourth century BC, was obsessed with reaching the heavens, so he domesticated several griffins after chaining them to his throne and then training them to take him to the heavens, as seen below. ( Illustration of Alexander the Great’s Flying machine, consisting of a cage held aloft by 6 griffins. Originally published in The True History of the Good King Alexander , circa 1420.) The griffin was not only a creature believed to be real in ancient times, but also a symbol of strength and royalty used by ruling families, places of worship, and oftentimes even appearing in family crests or on shields and swords in Heraldry. (Catholic Griffin statues from Nothern Italy, made between 1150–1175; on display at the Cleveland Museum of Art ) According to the webpage for these griffin statues (that I'm most certainly going to go see with my girlfriend, Ammie, ASAP-- its only three hours away from me!!), they had dual meaning for the christian church: "Griffins are fabled creatures that have the characteristics of an eagle and a lion—combining watchfulness and courage. In Christian art, the dual nature of the griffin was often used to signify that of Christ himself: divine (bird) and human (animal). Griffins were often used as guardian figures in church sculpture and were placed in portals and choir screens. The creatures seen here, with their inward-turning heads, were certainly used for such a purpose. When viewed from the front, one griffin may be seen clutching the figure of a knight between its paws, while the other griffin holds a calf. Their original function was probably to support the columns of a porch in front of a church doorway." ( Source : A satyr, a griffin and an Arimaspus. Detail from an Attic red-figure calyx-krater, ca. 375–350 BC. From Eretria.) The Journal of Ancient Egyptian Interconnections released a paper written by Nicolas Wyatt of The University of Edinburgh on griffins, its a super interesting read! (From the paper written by Nicolas Wyatt Grasping the Griffin: Identifying and Characterizing the Griffin in Egyptian and West Semitic Tradition by The Journal of Ancient Egyptian Interconnections ) ( Source : The chief coin type of the Greek city state of Abdera was known as "the Griffon" because of the mythical animal depicted on it) (Source: https://mythus.fandom.com/wiki/Griffin ) Griffins in Ancient Literature A Greek man named Aristeas of Proconnesus was the first one to document the Griffin creature in writing, collecting the stories from local natives during his travels, of the infamous griffin! His original poems have been lost to time, but the stories have been passed on by his contemporaries, the playwright Aeschylus (ca. 460 BC), and later his contemporary, Herodotus the historian. [82] [83] Herodotus writes of the griffin warring with the one-eyed tribe of cyclops giants, called Arimaspians , over their hoards of gold which they stood guard. Herodotus, Histories 3. 116. 1 (trans. Godley) (Greek historian C5th B.C.) : "But in the north of Europe there is by far the most gold. In this matter again I cannot say with assurance how the gold is produced, but it is said that one-eyed men called Arimaspoi (Arimaspians) steal it from Grypes (Griffins). The most outlying lands, though, as they enclose and wholly surround all the rest of the world, are likely to have those things which we think the finest and the rarest." Ctesias , a Greek physician who lived in Persepolis . In approximately 400 BC. he wrote that Asian gold was hard to get because it was "in high mountains inhabited by griffins, a race of four-footed birds as large as wolves and with legs and claws like lions." Pliny the Elder was the first to claim that the griffins as had wings and long ears. [92] [93] [s] In one of the two passages, Pliny also located the "griffons" in Æthiopia . [93] According to Adrienne Mayor , Pliny also wrote, " griffins were said to lay eggs in burrows on the ground and these nests contained gold nuggets ". [94] Around the same time as Pliny the Elder, the sage Apollonious of Tyana travelled to Far Asia, and he added important new details regarding the griffin. In his biography, (AD 200), Apollonious reported that the rocks in the region of the griffins were 'flecked with drops of gold like sparks'. He mentioned griffins' strong beaks and said they were the size of lions. As for wings, he claimed that they were not true bird-wings but only webbed membranes that helped griffins make short hops when they fought. Source . All The Griffins! Breeds and Varieties of the Griffin There are several types of Griffins and griffin-like creatures including: Hippogriff and Opinicus , as well as wingless griffins such as Alce , Keythong , Hieracosphinx , and the Sphinx . In Assyria, the Lamassu is a griffin-like being that is a protective deity. It has the body of a lion or a bull, the wings of an eagle, and the head of a human. ( Lamassu , Neo-Assyrian Empire , c.  721–705 BC) Sumerian and Akkadian mythology talk of a demon named Anzû , who looks very much like a griffin. ( Ninurta with his thunderbolts pursues Anzû stealing the Tablet of Destinies from Enlil ' s sanctuary ( Austen Henry Layard Monuments of Nineveh, 2nd Series, 1853) Jewish mythology talks of the Ziz , which resembles Anzu, and is mentioned in the Bible in Psalms 50:11 and Psalms 80:13 "I know all the birds of the mountains and Zīz śāday [וְזִיז שָׂדַי] is mine" and Psalms 80:13 "The boar from the forest ravages it, and zīz śāday feeds on it", and these are often lost in translation from the Hebrew, [1] ( Clockwise from left: Behemoth (on earth), Ziz (in sky), and Leviathan (under sea). Another griffin-like creature is called the Minoan Genius . It was a legendary chimera of the Bronze Age, usually pictured with a lion's head or a hippopotamus head. The being was sometimes referred to as a demon, although it was a benign entity in Minoan religion . ( Cylinder seal and modern impression: Master of Animals between lions, griffins, Minoan genius. Thought to be from Cyprus ) In Hindu religion, there is a god named Garuda , who is half man and half bird and can transition between states. Sometimes he was shown in full bird form, sometimes anthropomorphic with human features mixed in. Some myths say Garuda was so massive he could block out the sun with his wing span! ( Balinese wooden statue of Vishnu riding Garuda, Purna Bhakti Pertiwi Museum , Jakarta , Indonesia .) The sphinx is a griffin-like chimera with a lion's body, wings of a bird, and a human head. It is shown in various artworks and statues through ancient history including Egypt, ancient Greece. In Greek mythology, the sphinx has the head of a woman and she would come to you with a riddle, and if you failed to solve the riddle, she would eat you! Contrastly, in Egyptian mythology, the sphinx was a man (or an androsphinx ) ( Source : An ivory from Tel Megiddo showing a king sitting on a throne which is supplicated by a sphinx-esque winged hybrid.) In ancient Persian mythology we have the Simurgh . According to Wikipedia : Simurgh are depicted in Iranian art as a winged creature in the shape of a bird, gigantic enough to carry off an elephant or a whale. It appears as a peacock with the head of a dog and the claws of a lion – sometimes, however, also with a human face. The Simurgh is inherently benevolent . [12] ( Simurgh returning to nest to Zal and its chicks (detail). —"Zal is Sighted by a Caravan" ( Tahmasp Shahnamah , fol. 62v), Sackler Gallery LTS1995.2.46) The mušḫuššu (𒈲𒍽; formerly also read as sirrušu or sirrush ) is a hybrid creature from ancient Mesopotamian mythology that has the front paws of a lion, the back talons of an eagle, a body of scales, and two horns protruding from its head, and the tongue of a snake. They are also pictured with wings. ( Mušḫuššu holding a gate post on a vase of Gudea c.  2100 BCE. Louvre Museum [1] ) Hippogriff / Hippogryph : Known as the only technically related to the griffin-hybrid with the body of a horse and the wings and head of an eagle, born of the union of a male griffin and a filly (a young female horse, especially one less than four years old.) The hippogryph was said to be easily tamed, unlike the griffin, who was far more stubborn. The hippogryph represents the power of love, since they are formed from the unlikely union of a griffin and a horse, which is typically their (the griffin's) source of food! ( Blessed Hippogriff by Leanna Crossan ) Opinicus : serpentine like body, the powerful clawed paws and muscular legs of a lion, the head, neck and wings of an eagle and the short tail of a camel. The were said to be born without wings which reportedly develop over the course of the creature's life. They have twins or triplets every time they give birth. Alce : One of the earliest mentioned forms of a wingless griffin, but instead of being a lion/eagle its a lion. body with a falcon head and talons on the front paws. The ancient Sythians, inhabitants just north of the Black Sea, depicted Alces in their artworks. (Artist: Anxious Fish Noises ) Keythong : Another wingless form of griffin which instead of wings, has spikes protruding from its body. According to some lore this would be the male form of a classic griffin, without wings. ( Keythong Griffin Artist: EvolutionsVoid on DeviantArt) Hieracosphinx : A wingless griffin with the body of a lion and the head of a hawk, depicted in ancient Egyptian artwork. ( Source : Wall relief of Horus at the temple of Edfu, Egypt) Sphinx : in ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian artwork, the sphinx is a hybrid being with the body of a lion and the head of a human. In Ancient Mesopotamia they had female heads and in Egypt they had male heads (or an androsphinx). ( Source : Attic red-figure pyxis , 2nd half of the 5th century BC. From Nola , Italy.) The Griffin in the Great Lake State And this is the part you have all been waiting for.... drumroll please ... how the hell does the griffin connect to Michigan? Well, in more than a few ways, actually! The earliest connection of the energy and essence of the griffin in Michigan was wayyyy back in the 1679 when a french fur trader named René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle built his might vessel, Le Griffon ! The 45-tonne ship was the first of its size to sail the Great Lakes! (A 17th Century Woodcut/Sketch of Le Griffon) Le Griffon set out on her maiden voyage on my birthday, in fact, the 7th of August, in the year of 1679! What a nice little synchronicity! She sailed the Great Lakes for a few months doing some trading. On the 18th of September, Le Griffon embarked on her return trip, and mysteriously VANISHED , never to be seen again, crew, pelts, and all. ( Source : Griffins relief sculpture on the ceilings of Cadillac Place in Downtown Detroit) At the Cadillac Place (the old General Motors Headquarters), was designed by famous Detroit architect, Albert Kahn , and built between 1919-1922 in Downtown Detroit. In 1923 it was opened as the second largest office building in the world! There are relief sculptures of the griffin and green man and lots of other mythological and magickal beings in the archway ceilings before entering the building! I'm going to go see them for myself ASAP since I'm not too far from Detroit, where I'm living right now. (Griffins shown on the architecture of Trinity Episcopal Church in Detroit. Also in Detroit, we have a gorgeous old church called Trinity Episcopal Church, built between 1890-1893 by architects George D. Mason and Zachariah Rice. The building features over two hundred sculptures, carvings, and architectural elements that include griffins, gargoyles, and demons, among other mythological creatures, as well as angels. I will be visiting both of these Detroit locations for myself very soon, and I will document the findings for you all first hand! The griffin has become a symbol of Detroit, most likely due to LaSalle's ship, Le Griffon, and its sudden disappearance, leaving an heir of mystery and magic around the spirit of. the Griffin. Another example of a really cool Griffin-like Chimera that you can visit in Detroit is the "Detroit Chimera Mural" one of the world's largest spray paint murals, featured on the side of the Russel Industrial Center. The mural features many symbols of Detroit and their sports teams! It's been one of my favorite murals for the better part of a decade! (The outlines and beginning of the Detroit Chimera Mural) ( Source : Twitch Photography- Detroit Chimera Mural) My own local highschool even has the Griffin as their mascot-- The Taylor High School Griffins! Michigan is also home to the Grand Rapids Griffins , a local hockey team! Michigan is also home to Griffin Claw Brewing Company , a Michigan based distillery and restaurant chain! In Royal Oak, there are luxury apartments called The Griffin Royal Oak , and they have a badass griffin mural in their lobby, created by local artist Jesse Kassel . I can't wait to go see this mural in person as well! (Griffin Mural by Jesse Kassel at The Griffin Royal Oak Luxury Apartments) The Griffin has inspired me since I was young, I remember having a griffin toy and it captivated me with its whimsy and wonder! The Griffin has been calling to me, and I hope I did them justice teaching you all about them in this deep dive! Thank you again, FairyFindr Fam, for joining me for another #MysteriousMichiganMondays and I hope you all have a marvelous magical day! So what was YOUR favorite griffin tidbit from today? If you want to support me and. the work, art, and businesses I support here on my self-hosted website you can check out my shop or Subscribe to one of my monthly Patreon tiers where you'll see early access of all my blogs, art, merch drops, and Patreon exclusive content!! Subscribe on Patreon under ADHDalex : https://www.patreon.com/ADHDalex ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the griffin bless you, Alex the FairyFindr // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Hello FairyFindrs! I hope this message finds you well and if not I’m sending you good vibes! As you all know I run this website and all this content out of pocket (about $40 a month for website storage and domain name) so I not only created a shop here on www.FairyFindr.net but I’ve also created a Patreon account! https://www.patreon.com/ADHDalex I haven’t created any paid tiers yet and I’m just getting used to the Patreon platform, but I’m very excited to get going with y'all and create a little community over there where I can get to know you guys more intimately and interact with y'all and include y'all in the creation and brainstorming processes as well as voting on blog idea polls and whatever else I may find fits the bill. I’ve also been taking a lot of time and effort to update the website and add new pages including my services and what I can offer you! Much love and magic to you all today, May the fairies be with you, ADHDalex the FairyFindr // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Hello FairyFindrs ! Welcome to the FairyFindr blog where you will learn about the history of miniature gardens, folkore, hear stories and see art from talented fairytale and magic inspired artists, gardeners, fairy garden architects, and more! This blog post will uncover the history of a world where imagination intertwines with nature, where miniature landscapes come alive with magical beings. You will learn about the origins of these lovely little landscapes that capture the imaginations of young and old alike! Miniature gardens and fairy gardens have captivated our hearts for centuries, allowing us to create whimsical realms in small-scale settings. Join me on a journey through time as we explore the fascinating history and timeline of these enchanting natural creations made by history’s miniaturist pioneers! Miniature Garden Origins: Ancient Egypt Miniature gardens originate as far back as ancient Egypt, circa 2009- 1998 BCE. Within the walls of Egyptian tombs, the concept of these tiny gardens first took root. Known as "funeral gardens," these miniature container garden models were left by loved ones in ancient tombs for the souls that have passed to continue to enjoy their gardens in the afterlife. You can read more about ancient Egyptian gardens here on Wikipedia. Penjing /Penzai/ Bonsai- A Brief History of Miniature Potted Trees (China- 600 AD) Bonsai trees are the oldest known potted miniature plant practice ever recorded throughout human history! They originate from ancient China. Read more about container gardening here . Here’s an excerpt from Bonsai Empire below explaining some deeper history of the practice of bonsais, container gardens, and miniature rockery landscape practices. Garden Gnomes- Germany’s First Fairy Gardens In the 19th century, Germany embraced the allure of miniature gardens with a magical twist. Garden gnomes began popping up in Europe as early as the 1600’s , and became quite popular in Germany by the mid to late 1800’s as their magical presence brought whimsy and wonder to the country. Unfortunately, WWII left many vintage German garden gnomes in ruins, making them extremely rare and valuable today! Read more about the history of vintage ceramic garden gnomes in this screenshot below. English Rockeries - Rock Garden Origins Across the English landscape, another facet of miniature garden artistry emerged during the 19th century—the rockeries. These intricate displays featured natural or artificial rock formations, often enhanced by small structures, figurines, and carefully chosen plants. While not explicitly tied to fairy themes, rockeries served as stepping stones towards the magical realms that would capture our collective imagination with today’s fairy gardens! The earliest documented “fairy garden” would be in 1847 in England when Sir Charles Isham’s wife banished his miniature German garden gnome figurines to the rockery garden after not wanting them in the house! Read more at this link . Pictured below is an image from Sir Charles Isham’s rockery featuring his little figurines in 1897. After his death, Sir Charles’ daughters removed all the gnomes as they were not too fond of them, however, during a renovation or the rockery, one remaining gnome was found, who is now named Lampy and preserved inside the estate to this day ! The Arts and Crafts Influence As the late 19th century transitioned into the early 20th century, the Arts and Crafts movement swept across Europe, bringing with it a rekindled interest in folklore and nature-inspired designs. Creators and authors such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Cicely Mary Barker embraced fairy themes in their works, stoking the flames of fascination for fairies, gnomes, elves and all the fae folk! A Global Phenomenon With the internet and social media platforms, fairy gardens have transcended borders, cultures, and languages throughout human history! Fairy garden enthusiasts and miniaturists alike, from every corner of the globe, came together to share their mini wonders, fueling a vibrant and supportive community. You can find a wide variety of communities that crossover between fairy gardens, gardeners, bonsai practitioners, miniaturists, doll artists, toy photographers and more! In my experience, I’ve found a huge community of toy and miniature photographers, artists, and fairy garden lovers on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest! (I’m thinking about checking out DeviantArt next!) From ancient Egypt’s funeral gardens and the ancient practice of Chinese bonsai, to the rockeries of Victorian England, and the whimsical garden gnomes of Germany; the history of miniature gardens and fairy gardens reveals a timeless enchantment. These miniature realms offer a space for creativity, imagination, and a connection to the natural world. As we conclude our exploration of the captivating history of miniature gardens and fairy gardens, we can't help but wonder about the future of these enchanting tiny worlds. The beauty of miniature fairy gardens and landscapes lies in their infinite potential for uniqueness and timelessness. Looking ahead, we envision a world where fairy gardens become even more personalized and tailored to individual stories and dreams. With advancements in technology, we may witness the integration of miniature automation, bringing movement and interactivity to these tiny realms. Imagine fairies fluttering their wings, miniature fountains and irrigation systems gushing with water, and tiny LED lights twinkling like stars in the garden at night. To make your fairy garden truly unique and timeless, consider incorporating elements that reflect your personal passions and interests. Whether it's a miniature replica of your favorite bookshop, your favorite childhood toy, a mini herb garden inspired by your love for cooking, or a whimsical miniature treehouse that evokes childhood memories, infuse your miniature world with fragments of your own story, and you’re bound to have a lifetime of stories to build in your very own fairy garden! Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials, textures, and plant varieties to create a harmonious blend of nature and imagination. Seek inspiration from literature, mythology, and cultural traditions to add depth and symbolism to your miniature garden. Remember, the most extraordinary fairy gardens are the ones that evoke emotions, tell stories, and transport us to a realm where dreams come alive. While we marvel at the history behind the wondrous hobby of miniature and fairy gardens, it is the future that holds the promise of even greater wonders. So, let your imagination fly, embrace the beauty of nature, and embark on a journey to create a miniature world that is uniquely yours. As you sculpt, plant, and arrange, remember that fairy gardens are not just whimsical decorations; they are portals to our imagination, connecting us to the magic that resides within our hearts. So, dear reader, why not embark on your own fairy garden journey? Unleash your creativity, let your imagination soar, and uncover the magic that lies within the tiny wonders of miniature fairy gardens. We hope you've enjoyed this magical stroll through fairy garden history, May your own fairy garden be a testament to the enduring allure of these miniature realms, reminding us that dreams can come alive in the palm of our hands. ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May The Fairies, Gnomes, and all the miniature garden dwellers Bless You, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

This cutie, Alvin The Alien Tree elf, sits upon an ornate metal chair in between two moss covered and towering tree branches atop an enchanted tree in the Town of Marvelous Magical Miniatures at the old house of FairyFindr owner, Alex! You can purchase prints of him here on my RedBubble shop ! ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the tree elf alien bless you! Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

🧚‍♂️🧚‍♀️✨🪴🌹🌸🌻🌵🌱👩‍🌾⛲️ In the marvelous and magical world of miniature gardens, there are few names more revered or influential as Anne Ashberry ! Welcome back FairyFindrs ! Today we will learn about Anne, who I've coined "The Fairy Godmother of Miniature Gardens"! Born as Hannah Annenberg, her Jewish family changed their names and surname to Ashberry to avoid anti-Semitic violence during WWII. Her name has also been misspelled or mis-reported as “Anne Ashbury”. Early Years: Born on March 9, 1894, Anne grew up with a natural affinity for both engineering and gardening. Her early exposure to these innate interests laid the foundation for her remarkable career as the pioneer of miniature container gardening! With her curious mind and keen eye for detail, she began exploring the world of miniature gardens, a realm that would become her enduring passion, after finding herself in a small living space craving the ability to nurture gardens once again. She began to build small miniature garden landscapes in her window sills that quickly bloomed into a business of making and selling miniature gardens and terrariums to others, especially disabled gardeners or those who also lived in small flats. Pioneering Works: Anne Ashbury's contributions to the world of miniature gardens were nothing short of groundbreaking. Through her books and articles, she shared her extensive knowledge and innovative ideas, inspiring countless garden and miniature enthusiasts and hobbyists to embark on building and creating their own miniature gardens! This one (below) I bought on amazon, a vintage 1970's copy of Miniature Gardens with drawings by her partner Creina Glegg. Stay tuned for my review on the book!! Her works became essential references for beginners and experienced gardeners alike, as she carefully detailed techniques, plant choices, and design principles. You can see more photos of her work and some excerpts from her book here and a few pictured below. Blending the Art Forms of Engineering and Gardening: What set Anne Ashberry apart was her ability to blend her engineering expertise with her love for gardening and her problem solving skills when she knew she wanted to garden but had very little space besides her window sills. She approached miniature garden design with a meticulous eye for structure and beauty, incorporating architectural elements that elevated the gardening artform creating what has formed into what we now know as fairy gardens or miniature gardens. Her attention to detail and precision in creating miniature landscapes were unparalleled, resulting in breathtaking container gardens, terrariums, and miniature landscapes that captivated the imaginations of everyone she met and anyone who had the opportunity to see her work with their own eyes! She even created a miniature garden for Queen Elizabeth II while she was still a princess (pictured below- bottom photo). The Growing Popularity of Anne Ashberry’s Miniature Landscapes in the 1950’s: As Anne’s career blossomed, she played a pivotal role in the transformation of miniature gardens into magical fairy gardens we know and love today. Anne thoroughly enjoyed more than just the design and building aspects of miniature gardening. So when her business started growing and she started experiencing difficulties in finding the right mini plants in the quantities that she required, she began propagating on her own, eventually opening her own nursery specializing in alpines and miniature conifers. In 1952 there was a mini-documentary made about Anne’s miniature gardens by Pathe News that further skyrocketed her into local fame as a miniaturist and the pioneer of a new frontier in miniature container gardening! Anne enjoyed further success in 1953 after having the opportunity to have her miniature gardens featured by a soap and perfume manufacturer, Cussons , in an advertising campaign in popular magazines like Tatler and Queen. Legacy and Influence: Anne Ashberry's legacy continues to inspire and guide miniature garden enthusiasts to this day. Her innovative techniques and imaginative designs have become the building blocks for countless miniature landscapes worldwide. The spirit of her work lives on through the gardens created by her admirers, each one a testament to her enduring influence. Anne Ashberry, who I have proudly named the “Fairy Godmother of Miniature Gardens”, left an inexplicable mark on this hobby. Through her engineering skills, gardening expertise, and boundless creativity and thinking outside-of-the-box -or inside the box I guess, she transformed the art of miniature gardens into a realm of magic and wonder. Her books and pioneering works have paved the way for generations of miniature gardeners to explore their imaginations and create their own whimsical and tiny worlds. As we tend to our own miniature gardens, we can't help but feel gratitude for Anne Ashberry’s lasting contributions and the enchantment she brought into our lives by being on the forefront of the miniature and fairy garden movement! I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the woman who founded and pioneered the ancient yet modern twist on container gardening and miniature world landscapes that have transformed into the fairy gardens of today. ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the fae bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Thank you again for joining me, FairyFindrs ! My absolute favourite thing in the world is to watch my moss and miniature plant transplants grow and thrive after I relocate them to the fairy garden! Don’t be afraid to transplant existing mini living and non-living items and natural resources to your fairy gardens! Make sure you gently transplant any mosses, lichens, miniature plants, flowers, weeds, or trees to your miniature gardens from your local neighborhood, local forests, your mom’s backyard, or your own backyard- like me! If you need advice on proper transplanting practices you can always ask Google or YouTube and get a pretty spot on answer- that’s what I usually do- unless I decide to wing it! Enjoy a few shots from my front yard fairy garden today! The transplants are absolutely thriving and I will never get enough of it! ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the fae bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Embracing the vast and unique art form of fairy gardens as a man while breaking down gender stereotypes and toxic masculinity when thinking about what I will or won’t enjoy as a hobby My Introduction to Miniatures and Fairy Gardens : Welcome back my FairyFindr Fam -- In a world often bound by societal expectations of gender norms and stereotypes, there exists a magical miniature realm of creativity that transcends these limitations. As a trans man who has found solitude and a sense of home and inspiration in the world of make believe, fairytales, nature and miniatures, I believe it's essential to share my perspective on how this hobby defies gender norms and how embracing it has enriched my life. My earliest memories of enjoying miniatures, building dioramas, making custom toys, and storytelling was as a kid, playing with all my broken toys and putting them together into new toys. In particular, I had a project in 6th grade to build a medieval castle 🏰 diorama and it was something I hyperfocused on and enjoyed the crap out of! I included toy horses and medieval soldiers at battle, breaking into the castle in an act of war! It was intense and amazing and from that point on I knew I loved making tiny scenes and storylines that would prevail today at almost 30 years of age! This blog post aims to celebrate the beauty of art, nature, storytelling, and the magic of miniatures while encouraging individuals of all genders, including men, boys, teen boys, and other trans masculine folks, to embrace this captivating tiny realm without hesitation or fear of rejection!! Discovering the Magic: Art knows no gender. When I first stumbled upon the enchanting world of miniatures and fairy gardens, I was captivated by the whimsy and beauty they offered. The intricate details and the opportunity to create an entire universe within a tiny space drew me in. Regardless of gender, the allure of creating miniature landscapes and embracing the magic of storytelling is a testament to the human desire for creativity and expression. Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Society often places limitations on what is considered "masculine" or "feminine," discouraging individuals from exploring interests and hobbies that fall outside these predefined boundaries. By breaking free from these constraints, we can embrace our authentic selves. As a trans man, I have come to understand that hobbies and passions do not determine our gender, femininity or masculinity. Embracing the art of fairy gardens and miniatures has allowed me to challenge societal expectations and embrace my true self without fear of judgment. Art never judges you. And through the storytelling aspect of the fairy garden hobby, I can create storylines and worlds that are better than our own, that are more open minded, accepting, and celebratory of unique differences. The Power of Nature and Creativity: Fairy gardens and miniatures provide a unique medium through which we can connect with the natural world and the imaginative world all at once! By incorporating elements of nature into our creations, we gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. This connection goes beyond gender, geographical location, time and space and enables us to explore our artistic talents while nurturing our love for the nature, play, and fairytales. Whether it's designing miniature forests, sculpting tiny water features, or arranging delicate flowers and mosses, the art of fairy gardens and miniature container gardening is a fulfilling and unique hobby that will bring smiles and memories for a lifetime, no matter who you are! Cultivating Storytelling and Imagination: Fairy gardens and miniatures go hand in hand with storytelling. Through these creations, we can build narratives and bring our imagination to life. The ability to tell short stories and write our own fairytales, create characters, and design entire worlds fosters creativity, problem-solving, and emotional expression, also fostering personal growth. By embracing this art form, we tap into our storytelling abilities and learn to communicate our thoughts and emotions in new and imaginative ways that doesn’t feel like hard work! Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion: By openly sharing my experience and passion for fairy gardens and miniatures as a man, and once a young boy, I can help pave the way for others like us to embrace this beautiful art form, regardless of their gender or background. I want to inspire and encourage men, young boys, teen boys, and trans masculine individuals to explore this hobby with an open mind! It creates a space where diversity and inclusion can thrive. It sends a powerful message that art, nature, and storytelling are for everyone, breaking down gender stereotypes and enriching the artistic, gardening, and male communities as a whole. Conclusion: As a trans man who has found solace, inspiration, and personal growth through fairy garden art and miniatures, I believe it is crucial to advocate for the breaking down of gender stereotypes within the creative realm. Embracing this hobby has not only allowed me to explore my artistic talents but has also challenged societal expectations and helped me become a better version of myself, a better man. Let us encourage individuals of all genders to explore the magic of miniatures, fairy gardens, and the beauty of art and nature, for it knows no boundaries and transcends any preconceived notions of what it means to "be a man." Together, let us celebrate creativity, diversity. What do you say, are you ready to be a Fairy Boy too? ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the fairy boys bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

(Top) Shot on my iPhone XR at my friend’s cottage up north! She had all sorts of mosses, lichens, bark and mushrooms that I brought home and planted in my fairy garden.. like this moss transplant being enjoyed by our Dino friend below 👇 (thriving in my fairy garden now) ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the moss fairies and dinosaurs bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Rehoming Gnomes while Traveling This June for 🌈 Pride Month, I wanted to show my lovely FairyFindr Fam some talented LGBTQ+ folks to watch, follow, and support! Today’s Pride Month Artist Spotlight post is highlighting Karl @gnomes.thatneedahome on Instagram, on my FairyFindr page (before it was taken down) and the name caught my eye! It turns out he makes tons of custom and hand-painted gnomes and leaves them around, for folks to take home and adopt, during his various travels! In this interview we will learn a bit more about Karl and showcase his various custom gnomes and experiences of joy brought to those who find the little gnome friends that he creates! (Karl working on painting a few different gnomes in his workshop studio) Hello Karl, thank you for joining the FairyFindr blog today as we discuss your hobby of repainting and rehoming gnome gents as you embark on your travels! Please tell us more about yourself, where you’re from, and how the FairyFindr audience can connect with you if they want to! Social links, website, etc Answer : Well to start I don't repaint gnomes. They are all handmade by me and my friend. We purchased latex moulds them from places off Etsy from Sweden, UK, Czech Repulic, etc. or made latex molds from figures we liked that we found online or in our travels. I think we have a few dozen molds now. We fill them with concrete and then after they cure we paint them. None have really ever come out the same. We just paint what we feel like. The pic with the person with the thumbs up is my friend Steve who does this with me. Then when we travel we leave them behind with a tag that notes that they should be taken home using a haiku. The tag says “I’m small, wear a hat. I’m the gnome you can take home, how would you like that?” with the instagram on the back - gnomes.thatneedahome This all started as my kid was finishing high school I had more free time and thought about what I wanted as a hobby. When I was in 7th grade I did a painting of a gnome (it was art class and the project was to take a small picture and make it larger and paint it how you liked) and always liked it. My mother made the frame for it and have it hanging in my home (I still have it and it's the profile pic for the instagram account). (Painting from 7th grade hanging in my house) I wanted a hobby that didn’t take up too much space in my home (ie I didn't want to start collecting spoons and then have a room full of spoons in a couple years). I like to travel and camp so the idea of leaving something behind would be fun. So now we make and paint gnomes and bring them with us when we travel and leave them behind to adventure on. So while I might paint and have a dozen finished ones at home when we go on a trip they are coming with us. It's nice when the people that find them send pictures of the gnomes in their new homes or on adventures with them. (A gnome that went to Chapman University in California) We want to bring a little joy and adventure to the world when people find something special and one of a kind in their travels. Before we leave them I will take pictures or silly videos of the gnomes playing in the place I am visiting. People have said to me I could sell them, but I have no interest in that , its more fun to leave them for people to find and have a unique experience. Maybe they will tell their friends and they will be on the look out for a gnome looking for a home. Can you share a memorable story of someone finding one of your gnome creations? Answer : I’ll share a few. Once when I was in Houston, Texas, I had a gnome with me on the table during lunch. The server noticed it and she the said she liked gnomes and showed me her gnome tattoo on her wrist (pictured below) and it had a blue hat like the one I had with me. I gave her the gnome and she was overjoyed. It was meant to me since her tattoo matched the gnome. How random?! Another time I visited the Barnes Foundation (a museum in Philadelphia, PA) and left a gnome there. The person that found it took it to her home town in New Hampshire and left it for someone else to find. The person who found him in the town was so happy and loves her gnome. We have left gnomes in Disney, Universal, the top of Mauna Kea in Hawaii, Yellowstone National Park, campgrounds, museums, wherever we travel and I like the joy they bring the people who find them. It's funny, but usually it's not the first person to notice the gnome that takes them home. Sometimes I will just leave it and walk away, sometimes I will watch for a little while. Usually a few people will notice it, read the card and still just leave it there. But they always find a home. (This gent has a whole new family with @madebyalig , Mauna Kea Visitor Center ) Tell me about what it’s like connecting to magic and folklore as a man and adult and the beauty of connecting to that part of yourself as an adult man. Answer : It's always nice to find a little magic in your day. Discovering a gnome and taking it home has never made anyone mad lol. What materials do you typically use to customize and makeover the gnomes? Answer : We have a wide variety of paints to choose from but we use various painting techniques, I have glitter and stones and paint to decorate them with. Just depends what I feel like as I am doing it. Sometimes I do ones on a theme for a while. I did ones with latin phrases on them, colleges, pride, Christmas (below) etc. just depends on my mood. (A gnome given to people we met while visiting Yellowstone around Christmas and they have sent pics of him in their travels and he's been all over Hawaii, Colorado, Arizona, Wyoming etc) How do you decide where to leave the gnomes? Is there a specific process or strategy behind it? Answer : Not really. I try to leave them in public spaces so people know they can take it home. I try for a place that isn’t super obvious because gnomes are little guys that you have to be aware of the details of your surroundings to be seen. (A gnome aboard the Hylcon -Galactic Star Cruiser at Disney) Have you ever received any feedback or messages from people who found your gnomes? If so, could you share some of your fave reactions by them? Answer : Yes, I’ve received many pictures from people that have found them and that always makes my day. Do you have a favorite gnome design or theme that you enjoy creating the most? Answer : Well, some of the designs are more cheeky than others. One gnome is naked lounging with a beer, he's a happy guy. But the one that everyone loves the most is a happy gnome who's in a bondage harness with his hands behind his back. I don’t leave this one in public obviously but many people have requested it and I made a couple for the heads of the prom committee one year and have sent a couple to followers I got to know on instagram who had found one of my other gnomes. (The Bondage Gnome: An all-time fave of most of Karl's gnome art fans!) (I don’t know who I gave this to, I was at at convention and they asked about the gnome while we were on the escalator and they said how much they liked it and just gave it to them) How long does it usually take you to customize and repaint a gnome? Answer : That depends. The smallest gnomes are 4-6” and I can paint that in about 45 min depending on how much I decide to embellish it. Other gnomes can weigh 5-7 pounds and be about 12-18” tall and are larger and have various clothes or parts that might be hours of work to complete. But I don't really notice, we will spend hours in our workshop painting and I don't notice the time and I’ll be working on a few at a time to give an area of one time to dry and pick up another to work on. (Karl's workshop studio made out of a shed in his backyard!) What challenges, if any, have you encountered during your gnome-making and leaving adventures? Answer : Getting the consistency of concrete right can really make a difference and we spend time using an old back massager to vibrate them to get as many air bubbles out so they have a nice smooth surface. When it comes to leaving, it's making sure no one sees me leave it so people don’t say “hey you forgot this” and unfortunately, once or twice an employee of the place I was visiting took it to what I assume was a lost and found. But I hope someone in the office likes the gnome and takes them home. Have you collaborated with other artists or gnome enthusiasts in your projects? Answer : Actually yes. Sometimes friends or others want an extra one for them to leave behind and be part of the fun. So below is the bondage gnome I made for you and one for your garden to the left. The other two are for you to find a place to leave behind in your travels. Have fun! OH MY GOD I'm honored and super stoked to receive such a thoughtful gift, thank you Karl! I can't wait to show you all where the gnomes end up in my home and fairy garden and two for me to leave behind for others, I can't wait! (4 gnomes gifted to Alex the FairyFindr by Karl @gnomes.thatneedahome ) (A gnome ignoring a Stormtrooper) Are there any specific locations or countries that you haven't visited yet but would love to leave your gnomes in the future? Answer : Anywhere I go really. What’s the furthest away one of your gnomes has traveled from where you left it? Answer : I left one in Yellowstone, which was picked up by a retired couple who took it all over as far as Hawaii and sent pictures from their travels. How do you come up with ideas for new gnome designs? Do you have any sources of inspiration? Answer : If we see something we like we will make it into a mold for the future. Recently we saw a gnome doctor bought it and made a mold from it. We made a few and when we go to the doctor we give one to the office and a couple to neighbors who are doctors. (description, place, design inspiration, who adopted them etc) Have you ever received any negative or controversial reactions to your gnome art or leaving them around in public spaces? How do you handle such situations? Answer : Not really. For instance, I don’t leave them in a museum but by the door or park outside. Gnomes make people happy. Sometimes when I’m taking a picture of it with art or outside or making a silly video people will ask questions and when they show an interest in it i just give it to them. (The Alexander McQueen exhibit at the LA County Museum of Modern Art. Who has the better hat game?) Are there any other forms of art or creative endeavors that you're involved in apart from gnome customization? Answer : Not really, maybe when I retire. Do you have any plans to expand your gnome-related activities or turn it into a larger project or social movement? Answer : Not really this makes me happy. But I have family members paint their own for home or paint and travel and leave them so that is fun. Are there any particular stories or incidents related to your gnome art that have had a profound impact on you? Answer : Just the many times people are so happy to find a gnome. Have you made any cool connections or friends through this hobby? Answer : A couple people I am still in contact with after they found a gnome and maybe I will get to meet them in person someday. (A gnome relaxing in Hawaii) Have you ever considered conducting workshops or teaching others how to customize gnomes? Answer : That might be fun. Maybe someday. My family and friends like to paint one when they visit. It's very calming and therapeutic. Are there any specific messages or emotions you aim to convey through your gnome creations? Answer : That a little adventure can be anywhere. How has your journey with gnome customization and leaving them around impacted your personal growth and outlook on life? Answer : It's fun to meet new people and bring a little joy into the world. ( A gnome lounging with a beer for a friend at Christmas who you can see was very happy to meet him ) Do you have any favorite travel destinations that hold a special place in your heart due to the gnome adventures you had there? Answer : I’ve left some while attending conventions. Once a follower realized i was there so I gave them a gnome. The following year i saw them and they made me feel like a rockstar when telling their friend their story of how they got the gnome in their home. The friend was excited so I game them the gnome i was holding and they were ecstatic. Have you ever encountered any unexpected challenges, obstacles, or lessons while leaving gnomes during your travels? Answer : Usually the TSA lol. Anytime I have one in my carry on I get extra screening. I’ve had to explain what a gnome is and assure them it wasn’t a weapon. When it's in my checked bag I often get a little card that says my bag had extra screening. I don’t mind. On a long trip I might take a dozen. I’m sure it looks odd going through a scanner. (A gnome visiting Pemaquid Point lighthouse in Maine) Are there any plans or initiatives you have in mind to involve more people in the joy of finding and creating gnomes? Answer : I’m not sure. I’m just enjoying myself for now, if it becomes too routine i’ll find a way to liven it up. Do you have any advice or tips for aspiring gnome artists or those interested in leaving their creative marks in unique ways? Answer : Enjoy yourself and do it for yourself. I don’t have a goal in mind like more followers, I just make them because it makes me happy. Sometimes I think my hobby is silly (and it is) but when it makes people happy it can’t be all that silly. (A few gnomes in the process of being painted in Karl’s workshop) Lastly, what are your future aspirations and dreams related to your gnome art? Where do you see yourself in the next few years in this hobby? Answer : I’ll just keep doing it because I like to travel. I sometimes call them reverse souvenirs. I bring stuff for other people to find and take home. Then if I want to bring something home I always have space because I leave with less than I came with. FairyFindrs, let's give Karl a big FairyFindr Fam welcome and go send him a little message to say Hi on Instagram , he loves connecting with other gnome enthusiasts! ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the gnomes bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

The Therapeutic Magic of Fairy Gardens and Miniatures 🧚‍♂️✨🌱🌻⛲️🏰🐉🌵🌻🦄🧞🐲🌹🌸🍄 Welcome back FairyFindrs ! This May for Mental Health Awareness Month , we'll explore the profound connection between mental health and the transformative and healing power of miniatures, fairy gardens, nature, and storytelling. Come along for a magic carpet ride and I’ll show you just how these enchanting worlds provide solace and respite, allowing individuals to alleviate anxiety, stress, and depression while navigating the tumultuous landscape of our modern world. ( Marvelous Magical Miniatures // Alex the FairyFindr building, pruning, photographing, and storytelling in their old fairy garden which has now moved to the new house) Step into the realm of the fae where a sense of serenity and creativity intertwine with nature. Learn how these imaginative landscapes offer a therapeutic escape, acting as a portal to a peaceful sanctuary amidst life's curveballs. Join me as I dive into the captivating storytelling aspect, unraveling the potential to uplift spirits and nurture a sense of hope and happiness. In the midst of Mental Health Awareness Month , it's crucial to uncover the therapeutic avenues that bring peace, comfort, and healing to our lives. Through the act of creation, storytelling, and embracing nature, we can begin to heal those parts of our hearts and minds that feel so out of control and mentally drained through play therapy, nature therapy, and imagination and creativity! ( Prints Available on my Redbubble Shop! A snow globe with a mighty wizard casting a spell of protection around himself as the dragon plots their attack- Ye Olde Town of Marvelous Magical Miniatures ) Life’s Never Ending Turmoil: Life's challenges often leave us feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and lost. However, within the intricate details of fairy gardens landscapes and miniature realms, a refuge awaits, in the land of pure imagination. If you give the hobby a try, you too can discover how these tiny havens can serve as gateways to tranquility, allowing you to disconnect from the chaos of the outside world and reconnect with your inner peace. Explore the profound benefits of immersing yourself in a world where imagination reigns supreme. (A shot of some mini yellow flowers 🌼 blooming in the small backyard fairy garden-The Land of Marvelous Magical Miniatures ) Healing through Creativity: Unleash your creativity as we uncover the therapeutic power of engaging with fairy gardens and miniatures. The simple act of designing, creating, building, planting, pruning, and continuing to care for these tiny living worlds truly establishes a sense of responsibility, connectivity, and peace in knowing you have full control of whatever happens in these worlds- your imagination is the only thing that limits you here! (Some transplanted moss, found natural materials and old rusty nails from redoing my roof recently, patiently waiting for their next life or art project- The Town of Marvelous Magical Miniatures ) The Power of Escapism: Amidst the ups and downs of everyday life, finding glimpses of happiness and peace is paramount. Through the wonderful world of fairy gardens and miniatures, the hobby can offer a unique form of escapism, transporting you to a magical realm where troubles fade away, even if just for a while. You will discover all of the ways in which these enchanting creations can become a conduit for your joy, igniting your imagination and rekindling a childlike sense of wonder. (Alex the FairyFindr setting up his miniature halloween display Halloween Night 2022) Using Miniatures to Cope With Depressive Episodes: Depression can cast a HUGE shadow over our lives, but miniatures and fairy gardens have the strength and power to illuminate even the darkest of depressive episodes. In my experience with ADHD, mood dysregulation, and manic and depressive cycles, the miniatures and fairy gardens have absolutely become my safe space, especially in such a scary and chaotic world (as well as our minds)! The act of building these miniature worlds becomes a source of hope and purpose. By designing and crafting scenes filled with beauty and joy, individuals can find solace and a renewed sense of enthusiasm. The imaginative escape offered by fairy gardens and miniatures allows us to temporarily step into a realm where positivity and magic prevail, offering a respite from the weight of depression. While nothing can replace the helpfulness that medications and therapeutic treatments available to us through modern science and psychology can have, fairy gardens have brought a new dimension and meaning to what it means for ME to find peace and joy in my life, even throughout the depressive episodes. Embracing the Calm: Fairytale Therapy Uncover the concept of fairy tale therapy and how it intertwines with the magic of fairy gardens and miniatures. Dive into the psychological benefits of engaging with whimsical narratives and characters, understanding how they can provide catharsis, perspective, and emotional release. Witness how storytelling becomes a tool for self-expression and a catalyst for personal growth. (My Buddha statue sitting with some antique concrete planters at my old house, he now resides among the front yard fairy garden at my new house!) Life's daily stresses can weigh heavily on our minds, but the art of making fairy gardens and miniatures offers a respite from the chaos. Engaging in this meditative craft allows us to focus our attention on the intricate details of creating miniature landscapes, redirecting our thoughts away from anxiety-inducing concerns. The process of carefully arranging elements and tending to the tiny inhabitants of these magical worlds can provide a sense of control and inner peace, promoting mindfulness and reducing anxiety. The Dance of Creativity: Igniting Inspiration and Storytelling Fairy gardens, miniatures, and dioramas are not just about arranging objects in a pleasing manner—they are gateways to boundless creativity and storytelling. As we construct these miniature realms, we tap into our inherent creative instincts. The process encourages us to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and explore different narratives. Whether it's imagining the lives of the miniature inhabitants or crafting intricate backstories, these creations become vessels for our unique tales and reflections, igniting a sense of purpose and inspiration. ( Alvin the Alien Fairy Boy and his bunny best friend pose for the cameras in our old fairy garden- You can buy prints of Alvin on my RedBubble Shop like on this cute totebag !) Inclusive Expression: Fairy Gardens for All The therapeutic benefits of fairy gardens and miniatures know no boundaries of gender, age, or background. It is a realm that welcomes everyone—men, women, and individuals from diverse communities—who seek solace, self-expression, and the joy of creation. The miniatures community is a tapestry woven with stories and experiences from every corner of the world, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. By embracing this inclusive art form, we connect with others who share our passions and embark on a collective journey of healing, self-care, and growth. (A multimedia drawing by Marvelous Magical Miniatures of a non-binary fairy perched atop a magic mushroom- Prints and Stickers of this design available on my RedBubble Shop) Conclusion: As Mental Health Awareness Month draws to a close, let us celebrate the therapeutic magic of fairy gardens and miniatures. Embrace the power of escapism, creativity, and storytelling as you navigate the complexities of anxiety, stress, and depression. Together, let's find serenity and creativity within the enchanting realms we create, reminding ourselves that amidst the chaos of the world, there is always a pathway to happiness and healing. (Nico the Ninja loves my miniatures and fairy gardens just as much as I do, we would have to agree to disagree on who loves them more) As we conclude our exploration of the mental health and self-care aspect of making fairy gardens, miniatures, and dioramas, we are reminded of the transformative power that these creations hold. Through their calming influence, ability to alleviate depressive episodes, and capacity to ignite creativity and storytelling, they offer a therapeutic escape and a source of immense joy. Regardless of our background or circumstances, we can find a source of inspiration in the enchanting world of miniatures. So, let us pick up our tiny tools and embark on a journey where our imaginations take flight, and our hearts find peace in the magic we create. ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the fae bless you, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures

Hello FairyFindr Fam ! A few weeks ago, I wrote a really good blog called " Fairy Boy " about being a guy who love the hobby of miniature fairy gardens and posted about it on r/FairyGardens on Reddit. It's gotten tons of good responses and several other guys commenting on it letting me know how much it meant to them!! This is why I started the blog, to connect with others in the hobby, and especially other men and boys who are into fairy gardens and miniatures! Some young guys who feel quite shy about their interest in the hobby, some are fathers and never would have imagined getting into the hobby if it weren't for the magic they saw come alive in their child's eyes, and even a young guy who got into the hobby with his grandmother before he moved away ( stay tuned for a interview with ReasonablyReliable on Reddit for an in depth conversation about the Fairy Gardens that he built with his Grandmother)!! If you're a guy (or know a guy) who loves miniatures and fairy gardens and want to share your story, whether its just with me, or in the blog, DON'T HESITATE-- I absolutely LOVE hearing other people's stories and will be super stoked to hear from you! Contact me either through the contact form here on our website, a DM on our Social Media platforms, or even by email at: FairyFindr@gmail.com If you have any photos of yourself or any men or boys you know working on fairy gardens use the hashtags #FairyFindr #boyswholovefairygardens and #menwholovefairygardens ... Follow Along with the Masculine Magic!! ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 ✨✨🧚‍♂️🧚‍♂️🍀🍀 Please leave a comment or message below and let us know how YOU  got started in your magical or fairy related artwork or creative avenues! We can’t wait to hear your stories!! If you want to be a part of the blog and do your own magical interview of your dreams. Please feel free to find all our links on our LinkTree  or connect on our FairyFindr Website , OR email me at FairyFindr@gmail.com   May the Fairy Boys Bless You, Alex the FairyFindr  // Marvelous Magical Miniatures