Castillo and the cartoon coat...

 For as long as I can remember, more often that not, the very thing that Queen Michelle and I,long for most to add to our wardrobe, in nowhere to be found in stores.

Fellow contrarians we take our inspiration from everywhere - photographs,books,illustrations, old magazines, people in the street. All of which means, that it can be tricky to actually realise our notions in the real word. I think that's why charity shops are so vital to us, they are the one place a treasure might pop up or we can find an approximation of whatever notion is in our head.

I realised this again last week, when I was looking at this wonderful illustration by the very talented Ani Castillo 

I want this coat.

Or a coat exactly like it.

A flowing swing coat with a massive shawl collar and hood that will swaddle me in comfort and happiness.

I love her work although I don't know very much about her, other than the fact that she is an illustrator, cartoonist, and a photographer,living in Ontario, Canada ( if anyone has any more information about Ani and her work please drop me an email ).

There seems to be a genuine portrayal in lots of her work, of that most glorious sensation of being hugged tightly. Of being squeezed and protected in a loving embrace.

I want to be wrapped in hug like that.

Hugging has been proven to have health benefits, indeed studies have shown that hugs increase levels of oxytocin, and reduce blood pressure.

I have a serious hug deficet just now. They say that ideally humans should be hugged for at least eight times each day for optimal good mental health. It's no wonder I feel so crap right now!

I think I may treat myself to one of Ani's prints for Christmas. I just need to decide which one.

Her etsy store is closed for 2 weeks but make sure you bookmark it and pop back then, That's exactly what I'm going to do.

Now where did I leave my teddy bear, I need to hug it out with someone....

Queen Marie

x