Birgit grew up in a home with strong Scandinavian influences. Her grandparents were Swedish and Norwegian with a little Dutch. The family carried on many "Old world" traditions which meant there were tomtes involved. As a child Birgit's best friend was her Down's Syndrome sister, Margit. They liked to play with Tomtes as part of their creative, imaginary life. It is Birgit's desire to pass down the traditions that were practiced in her family. The tomte stories share these traditions with a bit of humor and full of love. Using colored pencil drawings has been an enjoyable way to share characters and stories, as well as learning a new art form. Through storytelling and drawing, tomtes have once again come to life in Birgit's life.Dementia has affected several people in Birgit's life including her beloved Margit. Love has always been the connective tissue that keeps hope alive. In her other life, Birgit is a fiber artist with a strong connection to needlework rooted in Scandinavian techniques she learned from her mother, grandmothers and aunts. Her quilts have received national attention and traveled with international exhibits.She grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and now lives with her husband Jim (of Finnish descent) and her stash in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Together, they enjoy ethnic cooking, gardening, woodworking, art and music.Available on Birgit's website - tomtetimes.com- Heart hot pad is a free pattern to use with children. It is a free download from tomtetimes.com. - The border patterns and block designs in this book are original designs by Birgit. Many of these designs have been used in projects and are available on her website. - Complete pattern for Grandma's Quilt used in this book is available for purchase at birgitsdesigns.com - Fabric with the applique patterns, some of the illustrations, applique designs, and borders used in the book are available from spoonflower as whole units or as parts to applique on your quilt.For more information sign up for the "The Tomte Times Newsletter, Human Edition" - upcoming Tomte books and merchandise - Newsletters and information for Adults and Children- Tomte/Scandinavian events- Fun games and projects, etc. Follow Birgit on her website tomtetimes.com