adorable dragon

by Bill Tiepelman

Neon Hatchling of the Deepwoods

The Deepwoods wasn’t the kind of place you wandered into by accident. Thick fog clung to ancient trees, the air hummed with the whispers of unseen creatures, and anyone foolish enough to enter often stumbled back out with missing socks or memories—or both. Yet, here stood Gary, socks firmly intact but entirely unsure how he got there. “Right,” Gary muttered, adjusting his satchel. He wasn’t an adventurer, despite the suspiciously adventurous trench coat he wore. He was an accountant. A mediocre one at that. Yet for reasons he couldn’t explain, Gary had woken up that morning with a very specific goal in mind: find the Neon Hatchling. He didn’t know what a Neon Hatchling was, why he needed one, or why his coffee had tasted like regret earlier that day, but the urge was undeniable. So here he was, trudging through mossy undergrowth, fending off the occasional glowing moth the size of a dinner plate, and questioning his life choices. The First Clue Gary’s first breakthrough came when he tripped over a gnome. “Watch it!” the gnome barked, rubbing its pointy hat, which now bore a dent in the shape of Gary’s shoe. The gnome was no taller than a fire hydrant, but its scowl could curdle milk. “Sorry!” Gary stammered. “I didn’t see you there. Uh... any chance you’ve seen a Neon Hatchling?” The gnome squinted at him. “What’s it worth to ya?” Gary rifled through his satchel. “I’ve got... a slightly melted granola bar?” The gnome snatched it greedily. “Fine. Follow the glowing ferns until you hear the sound of giggling. If you survive that, you might find your precious Hatchling.” “Giggling?” Gary asked, but the gnome was already halfway up a tree, cackling like a maniac. The Giggling Problem The glowing ferns were easy enough to find—they looked like someone had spilled neon paint across the forest floor. The giggling, however, was less charming. It wasn’t the warm, bubbly kind of giggling you’d hear at a comedy club. No, this was the “I know your browser history” kind of giggling, and it was coming from everywhere at once. “This is fine,” Gary said to no one in particular, clutching his satchel like a lifeline. He inched forward, trying to ignore the giggles, which now sounded suspiciously like they were mocking his haircut. “You’re just hearing things. That’s all. Deepwoods acoustics. Totally normal.” Then a voice, sharp and sweet, cut through the giggles. “Oh, relax. You’re not going to die... probably.” Gary froze. “Who’s there?” From the shadows stepped a woman dressed in iridescent robes that shimmered like oil on water. Her eyes gleamed with mischief, and she carried a staff topped with what appeared to be a glowing marshmallow. “Name’s Zyla. You’re here for the Neon Hatchling, aren’t you?” Gary nodded, mostly because words had failed him. He wasn’t sure if it was her aura of power or the fact that she smelled faintly of freshly baked cookies. Either way, he wasn’t about to argue. Meeting the Hatchling Zyla led him deeper into the forest, past bioluminescent ponds and a tree that tried to sell Gary a timeshare. Finally, they reached a clearing bathed in soft, glowing light. At its center sat the Neon Hatchling. It was... adorable. About the size of a small dog, the dragonet’s scales shimmered with every color of the rainbow, its wings glowed faintly, and its wide eyes sparkled with curiosity. It let out a tiny chirp, which Gary’s brain immediately translated as, “Hi! Will you be my best friend forever?” Gary’s heart melted. “This is it? This is the Neon Hatchling?” Zyla smirked. “What were you expecting, a fire-breathing monster?” “Honestly? Yes.” Gary crouched down to get a better look at the creature. The Hatchling tilted its head, then pounced on his satchel, rummaging through it with surprising dexterity. “Hey!” Gary protested as the Hatchling triumphantly pulled out a bag of cheese puffs. “That’s my lunch!” The dragonet ignored him, tearing into the bag with gusto. Zyla laughed. “Congratulations. You’ve been chosen by the Neon Hatchling.” “Chosen for what?” Gary asked warily, watching as the dragonet began juggling cheese puffs with its tail. Zyla’s expression turned serious. “The Hatchling is a creature of immense power. It will bring you great fortune... or great chaos. Possibly both. It depends on how much caffeine you’ve had.” The Catch Before Gary could process this, a deafening roar shook the clearing. From the shadows emerged a massive dragon, its scales dark as midnight and its eyes glowing like twin suns. “Ah,” Zyla said, taking a step back. “I forgot to mention the mother.” “What do you mean, the mother?!” Gary yelped as the larger dragon fixed its gaze on him. The Neon Hatchling chirped innocently, clutching its stolen cheese puffs. The mother dragon roared again, and Gary did the only sensible thing: he ran. The End...? Somehow, against all odds, Gary survived. He wasn’t sure how he managed it—there had been a lot of screaming, some questionable tree climbing, and a brief stint where he pretended to be a rock. But when he finally stumbled out of the Deepwoods, the Neon Hatchling was perched on his shoulder, snacking on the last of his cheese puffs. “This is fine,” Gary muttered, though he wasn’t entirely convinced. As he trudged back toward civilization, the Hatchling chirped happily, its tail flicking in time with his steps. Gary sighed. He still didn’t know why he’d been compelled to find the Hatchling, but one thing was clear: life was about to get a lot more interesting.     Bring the Magic Home! The adventure doesn’t have to end here. Add a touch of Deepwoods whimsy to your space with products featuring the Neon Hatchling: Tapestry: Neon Hatchling of the Deepwoods Canvas Print: Neon Hatchling of the Deepwoods Puzzle: Neon Hatchling of the Deepwoods Fleece Blanket: Neon Hatchling of the Deepwoods Bring this magical moment to life and keep the charm of the Deepwoods alive in your home!

by Bill Tiepelman

The Elf and the Dragon's Meeting

Deep in the Enchanted Forest, where the toadstools were as large as wagon wheels and just as sturdy, an elf named Lila stumbled into a peculiar predicament. At only two hundred years old—a mere adolescent by elven standards—Lila was tasked with gathering herbs for the village apothecary. Of course, she'd immediately gotten distracted by the sight of an enormous glowing mushroom and decided it would make the perfect spot for a nap. Who could blame her? Sunlight filtered through the canopy in golden streams, and the forest smelled like fresh moss and adventure. Naturally, her basket of herbs was still empty. As she climbed the mushroom like a drunk squirrel—there were no stairs, after all—she muttered, “Why doesn’t anyone ever build steps for these oversized fungi? If we can enchant pots to stir themselves, we can install a railing or two!” Huffing and puffing, she finally reached the top and sprawled out across the mushroom's cap, arms spread wide. She closed her eyes, reveling in the forest's hum of life. And then she heard it. A raspy, gravelly voice said, “Excuse me, this is my mushroom.” Lila sat bolt upright, her heart pounding. Standing before her was a small dragon. Well, "small" was relative—it was about the size of a large dog, but with shimmering blue-green scales, wings that looked like they’d been stolen from a stained-glass window, and an expression that could only be described as unimpressed. “Your mushroom?” Lila asked, cocking an eyebrow. “Since when do dragons care about mushrooms?” “Since always,” the dragon said, puffing out its chest. “This mushroom is mine. I’ve been guarding it for weeks. Do you know how many squirrels try to pee on it daily? It’s a full-time job!” Lila stifled a laugh but failed miserably. “A dragon. Guarding a mushroom. What’s next? A goblin knitting scarves?” “Laugh all you want, elf,” the dragon snapped, its sapphire eyes narrowing. “This is no ordinary mushroom. It’s a Toadstool of Luminescence. Extremely rare. Extremely magical. And it doesn’t appreciate your sweaty elf butt all over it.” “Oh, forgive me, your Mushroom Majesty,” Lila said, standing up and mock-bowing. “I had no idea I was sitting on the throne of fungal greatness. Please, go ahead and—what do you even do with it? Eat it? Wear it? Propose marriage to it?” The dragon sighed, pinching the bridge of its snout with its claw, as if trying to ward off an impending headache. “Clearly, you’re too immature to understand the finer points of mycology.” “Clearly,” Lila replied with a smirk. “So, what happens now? Do we duel for the mushroom? I’m warning you—I’ve been in at least two tavern brawls, and I only lost one of them because someone threw a barstool at my face.” The dragon tilted its head, genuinely intrigued. “You’re... quite odd for an elf. Most of your kind would have apologized by now. Or tried to sell me herbal tea.” “I’m not most elves,” Lila said with a grin. “And you’re not most dragons. Most of them would’ve eaten me by now, not given me a lecture on mushroom conservation.” They stared at each other for a moment, the tension hanging in the air like an overripe peach. Then the dragon snorted. Not a fiery snort—more of a laughing one. “You’re funny,” it admitted grudgingly. “Annoying, but funny.” “Thanks,” Lila said. “So, what’s your name, oh mighty fungus protector?” “Torvik,” the dragon said, straightening up. “And yours, oh sweaty elf invader?” “Lila. Nice to meet you, Torvik. So, what does a dragon do for fun around here? Besides yelling at squirrels?” Torvik grinned, showing off a set of teeth that could probably shred steel. “Well, there is one thing. You’re good at climbing mushrooms, yes?” “I’m basically an expert now,” Lila said, gesturing grandly at the mushroom they were perched on. “Excellent. Because the next mushroom over has been taken over by a particularly nasty family of raccoons, and they’ve been stealing my food stash. Think you can help me scare them off?” Lila’s face lit up. “Oh, I thought you’d never ask. But fair warning—I’m terrible at being intimidating. I once tried to shoo a possum out of my garden and ended up giving it my lunch.” “Perfect,” Torvik said, his wings flaring dramatically. “This is going to be hilarious.” And so, the elf and the dragon set off on their first adventure together. There was laughter, chaos, and yes, a raccoon uprising that would go down in forest history as “The Great Mushroom Skirmish.” But that’s a tale for another time. For now, suffice it to say that Lila and Torvik found in each other something they hadn’t expected: a friend who appreciated the absurdity of life as much as they did. And maybe, just maybe, the Toadstool of Luminescence really was magical. Because if a snarky dragon and a sassy elf could share a mushroom without killing each other, anything was possible.     For those captivated by the whimsical charm of “The Elf and the Dragon’s Meeting,” you can bring this enchanting tale to life in your own space. From the radiant glow of the Toadstool of Luminescence to the playful banter of Lila and Torvik, these moments are now available as stunning art products: Tapestries: Transform any wall into a magical forest scene. Canvas Prints: Perfect for showcasing the intricate details of the dragon and the glowing forest. Puzzles: Piece together the magic and relive the story, one detail at a time. Stickers: Add a touch of whimsy to your daily life with these delightful designs. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or simply a fan of the fantastical, these products allow you to carry a piece of the Enchanted Forest into your world. Explore more at our shop and let the magic inspire you.

by Bill Tiepelman

Azure Eyes of the Celestial Dragon

In a galaxy not too far away, on a planet called Luminaris—a place that looked like an interstellar disco ball on acid—there hatched a peculiar baby dragon. His name? Glitterwing the Fourth. Not because there were three dragons before him (there weren’t), but because his mother, Queen Frostmaw the Shimmering, had a flair for drama and thought numbers made things sound royal. Glitterwing, however, had other opinions. He liked his nickname better: Steve. Steve's Grand Entrance Steve’s birth wasn’t exactly a serene, mystical moment. He cracked out of his egg with all the grace of a squirrel on caffeine, flailing his tiny limbs, his metallic scales catching the light like a disco ball having an existential crisis. His first words weren’t poetic, either. They were something along the lines of, “Ugh, this light is awful, and what is that smell?!” From the moment he hatched, Steve had one glaringly unique feature: his impossibly large, strikingly blue eyes. While most dragon hatchlings looked like a mix between a kitten and a medieval weapon, Steve looked like a giant plush toy with an attitude problem. He immediately became the center of attention in the dragon kingdom, which, as you can imagine, annoyed him to no end. “Can we all stop gawking like I’m the last pastry at the buffet? I’m just a dragon, not a fireworks display.” Destined for Greatness? Nah, Just Hungry. The elders of the dragon council, a group of ancient reptiles who spent most of their time arguing about whose hoard was shinier, declared that Steve was destined for greatness. “His scales glitter like the stars, and his eyes pierce the soul!” they proclaimed. Steve, however, had other plans. “Cool story, Grandpa, but does greatness come with snacks? Because I’m starving.” Steve quickly developed a reputation for his biting wit and his insatiable appetite. While most dragons his age were practicing fire breathing, Steve was perfecting the art of sarcastic commentary. “Oh, look, another fire-breathing competition. How original. Why don’t we try something new, like, I don’t know, competitive napping?” The Misadventures Begin Steve’s snarky attitude didn’t exactly make him popular with his peers. One particularly jealous dragonling, Blaze, challenged him to a duel. “Prepare to meet your doom, Glitterwing!” Blaze roared. Steve didn’t even flinch. “Okay, but can we schedule this after lunch? I have priorities.” When the duel finally happened, Steve won—not with strength, but by making Blaze laugh so hard he fell over and rolled into a pile of mud. “See? Humor is the real weapon,” Steve said, polishing his claws nonchalantly. Despite his reluctance, Steve’s fame grew. Adventurers from distant lands came to see the "Celestial Dragon" with the sapphire eyes. Steve found this both flattering and exhausting. “Great, another group of humans pointing sticks at me and calling them ‘weapons.’ Can someone at least bring me a sandwich this time?” The Day Steve Saved the Kingdom (Accidentally) Steve’s most famous misadventure occurred when a rival kingdom sent a group of knights to steal the dragons' treasures. While the other dragons were busy preparing for battle, Steve was busy eating his weight in moonberries. The knights stormed into the dragon cave, only to find Steve lounging on a pile of gold. “Oh, look, more tin cans. What do you guys want? Directions to the nearest McDragon’s?” The knights, thinking Steve’s enormous eyes and shimmering scales were some sort of godly warning, panicked. One knight screamed, “It’s the divine dragon of doom!” and fled. The others followed, tripping over each other in their haste. Steve blinked, confused. “Wait, that worked? Huh. Maybe I am destined for greatness. Or maybe they just didn’t want to deal with a dragon who looks like he hasn’t slept in weeks.” The Legend Lives On These days, Steve spends his time napping on his hoard (which mostly consists of shiny rocks and discarded armor) and coming up with increasingly sarcastic remarks for nosy adventurers. He’s still the talk of the kingdom, much to his annoyance. “I’m not a hero,” he insists. “I’m just a dragon who happens to look fabulous.” But deep down, Steve enjoys the attention—just a little. After all, who wouldn’t want to be a glittering icon with piercing azure eyes and a knack for making knights wet their pants?     Bring Steve Home: Celestial Dragon-Inspired Products Can't get enough of Steve's snarky charm and shimmering brilliance? Now, you can bring a piece of his celestial magic into your own home with these exclusive products: Dragon Tapestry: Adorn your walls with Steve’s radiant glory, perfect for transforming any room into a mystical lair. Canvas Print: A high-quality art piece showcasing Steve’s celestial aura, ideal for dragon lovers and fantasy enthusiasts. Throw Pillow: Cozy up with Steve’s enchanting presence, a whimsical addition to your living space. Dragon Puzzle: Piece together Steve’s mesmerizing features with this fun and challenging puzzle, perfect for quiet evenings or dragon-loving gatherings. Embrace the magic of the celestial dragon and let Steve’s legacy light up your life—one sparkling scale at a time.

by Bill Tiepelman

Twinkle Scales and Holiday Tales

Snow had blanketed the forest in a thick, sparkling cover, the kind of snow that made you question every life decision leading up to a trek through it. In the middle of this wintry scene stood Marla, bundled in layers of wool and bad choices, staring at the most unexpected sight she had encountered all year: a tiny dragon, glittering like a Pinterest project gone wrong, sitting under a Christmas tree. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” Marla muttered, tugging her scarf tighter against the biting wind. She had signed up for a peaceful winter hike, not whatever this magical nonsense was. The dragon, no larger than a house cat, looked up from its task of adorning the tree with ornaments. Its scales shimmered in hues of emerald, sapphire, and gold, reflecting the candlelight like an overachieving disco ball. With a dramatic flick of its tail, it placed a final ornament—a suspiciously gaudy one that looked like it belonged in the clearance bin—on a frosted branch and gave Marla a slow blink. That was when she noticed the tiny antlers on its head, as if someone had tried to cross a dragon with a reindeer. “Oh great, a magical creature with holiday cheer,” Marla said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Just what I needed to make this hike even weirder.” The dragon tilted its head and chirped—a sound somewhere between a kitten's meow and a squeaky door hinge. Then it picked up a crimson ornament, waddled toward her on its tiny clawed feet, and dropped the bauble at her boots. It looked up expectantly, wings fluttering slightly, as if to say, “Well? Are you going to help or just stand there being all grumpy?” Marla sighed. She wasn’t exactly known for her love of the holidays. Every December, she battled through the chaos of last-minute gift shopping, office parties that could only be endured with copious amounts of spiked eggnog, and her family’s annual “passive-aggressive charades” night. But this… this was something else entirely. And as much as she wanted to turn around and head back to the safety of her Netflix queue, the dragon’s big, watery eyes made her hesitate. “Fine,” she said, bending down to pick up the ornament. “But if this turns into some kind of weird Hallmark movie moment, I’m out.” The dragon chirped again, clearly pleased, and scampered back to the tree. Marla followed, grumbling under her breath about how her therapist was going to have a field day with this story. As she hung the ornament on an empty branch, she noticed the tree wasn’t just decorated with the usual tinsel and baubles. Among the branches were tiny golden scrolls, clusters of mistletoe that shimmered as if dusted with real stardust, and candles that burned without melting. It was, frankly, absurd. “You’ve really committed to this theme, huh?” Marla said, glancing at the dragon. “What’s next, a tiny Santa suit?” The dragon huffed, a puff of glittering smoke escaping its nostrils, and went back to rummaging through a pile of ornaments that had mysteriously appeared out of nowhere. It pulled out a miniature star, which Marla suspected was made of actual gold, and handed it to her. She placed it on the tree’s highest branch, earning a delighted trill from her new festive companion. “So, what’s the deal?” she asked, crossing her arms. “Are you some kind of Christmas mascot? An elf’s side hustle? Or am I hallucinating because I skipped breakfast?” The dragon didn’t answer, obviously, but it did do a little twirl that sent a flurry of snowflakes into the air. Marla couldn’t help but chuckle. “Alright, fine. I guess you’re kind of cute, in a ‘magical chaos’ sort of way.” As they continued decorating, Marla felt her initial irritation melting away. There was something oddly therapeutic about hanging ornaments with a glittery dragon who had no concept of personal space but an undeniable enthusiasm for holiday aesthetics. By the time they finished, the tree looked like it belonged in a fantasy novel—or at least on the cover of a very expensive holiday card. “Okay,” Marla said, stepping back to admire their work. “Not bad for an impromptu partnership. But don’t expect me to—” Her words were cut off by the sound of jingling bells. She turned to see the dragon holding a string of tiny sleigh bells in its mouth, looking entirely too pleased with itself. Before she could protest, it launched into a clumsy but enthusiastic dance, shaking the bells and twirling around the tree. Marla laughed, a genuine, belly-deep laugh that she hadn’t experienced in months. “Alright, alright, you win,” she said, wiping a tear from her eye. “I’ll admit it—this is kind of fun.” As the sun dipped below the horizon, the tree began to glow softly, its ornaments casting a warm, magical light across the snowy clearing. Marla sat down next to the dragon, who curled up at her side with a contented chirp. For the first time in a long time, she felt a sense of peace—and maybe even a little holiday spirit. “You know,” she said, stroking the dragon’s shimmering scales, “I might actually survive Christmas this year. But if you tell anyone I got all sentimental over a magical dragon, I’ll deny it. Got it?” The dragon snorted, sending another puff of glittering smoke into the air, and closed its eyes. Marla leaned back, watching the stars emerge one by one in the winter sky, and let herself smile. Maybe, just maybe, this holiday season wouldn’t be so bad after all.     Bring the Magic Home If you fell in love with this whimsical tale, why not bring a touch of the magic into your own home? "Twinkle Scales and Holiday Tales" is now available as a variety of stunning products to suit any space or occasion. Choose from the following options: Tapestries – Perfect for transforming any wall into a festive winter wonderland. Canvas Prints – Add an elegant touch to your décor with this magical scene. Puzzles – Bring some holiday cheer to family game night with this enchanting dragon design. Greeting Cards – Send a touch of whimsy and warmth to your loved ones this season. Explore these and more at our shop and celebrate the magic of the season in style!

by Bill Tiepelman

Dragon Dreams Beneath the Tinsel

Christmas in Bramblebush Hollow was always an affair of great tradition, heartwarming cheer, and the occasional bout of barely-restrained chaos. This year, however, things took an unexpected turn when the town’s holiday spirit was set ablaze—quite literally—thanks to a pint-sized, fire-breathing dragon named Gingersnap. Gingersnap wasn’t supposed to hatch until spring, but apparently, someone forgot to inform the egg. It had been a charming gift from the Wizard Wilfred, who had neglected to mention that "keep it at room temperature" also meant "don’t leave it near the fireplace." Thus, on December 1st, the egg cracked open to reveal a tiny, jewel-toned dragon with wings like stained glass and a temperament as fiery as his breath. The Tinsel Incident It all began innocently enough. Agnes Buttercrumb, the town's unofficial holiday coordinator and resident gossip, had invited Gingersnap to "help" decorate the town square’s Christmas tree. How could she resist? With those wide, adorable eyes and shimmering scales, Gingersnap looked like a Hallmark card brought to life—an asset to any festive tableau. Unfortunately, Gingersnap misunderstood the assignment. Instead of "hanging" the tinsel, he ate it. To be fair, it did look delicious—like shiny spaghetti. When Agnes tried to retrieve the garland from his tiny, razor-sharp jaws, Gingersnap let out a hiccup of fiery disapproval, which promptly set the lower branches of the tree ablaze. “This is fine,” Agnes muttered through gritted teeth as the townsfolk scrambled to extinguish the flames. “Everything’s fine. It’s… rustic.” She patted the smoldering tree with a twitchy smile and hastily draped a few half-melted candy canes over the scorched branches. “Adds character, don’t you think?” Mulled Wine and Mayhem As the days passed, Gingersnap’s antics escalated. During the annual mulled wine tasting, he discovered that cinnamon made his nose tingle in a particularly amusing way. One sneeze later, the tasting pavilion was reduced to ashes, and the mayor was seen chasing the dragon through the town square with a ladle, shouting, “This is not covered in the bylaws!” The town blacksmith, Roger Ironpants, took a more practical approach. “He’s just a wee dragon,” he reasoned while fitting Gingersnap with a tiny iron muzzle. “If we can’t stop the fire, we can at least contain it.” But Gingersnap, ever the escape artist, promptly chewed through the muzzle and used it as a chew toy. Then came the caroling incident. Oh, the caroling incident. Silent Night? Not a Chance On Christmas Eve, the town gathered in the square for their traditional candlelit caroling. The scene was picture-perfect: fresh snow blanketed the ground, lanterns cast a warm glow, and the choir’s harmonies filled the air. Gingersnap, perched atop the charred remains of the Christmas tree, seemed to be behaving for once, his head cocked curiously as he listened to the music. But then, someone hit a high note. A really high note. The kind of note that makes dogs howl and, apparently, dragons lose their tiny little minds. With a shriek of enthusiasm, Gingersnap joined in, his piercing dragon screeches drowning out the choir and shattering half the ornaments in a fifty-foot radius. To make matters worse, he punctuated each screech with a celebratory burst of flame, igniting several songbooks and at least one unfortunate choir member’s scarf. “SILENT NIGHT, YOU LITTLE MONSTER!” bellowed Agnes as she hurled a snowball at Gingersnap, who promptly mistook it for a game and started flinging snowballs back—with his tail. Chaos ensued. By the end of the evening, the town square looked less like a winter wonderland and more like the aftermath of a particularly rowdy medieval siege. The Morning After On Christmas morning, the townsfolk gathered in what was left of the square to assess the damage. The tree was a charred skeleton. The mulled wine was gone. Half the decorations were singed beyond recognition. And yet, as they looked at the tiny dragon curled up beneath the scorched tree, snoring softly with a contented little smile on his face, they couldn’t help but laugh. “Well,” said Roger Ironpants, “at least he’s festive.” “And he didn’t eat the mayor,” Agnes added, her tone grudgingly optimistic. “It’s a Christmas miracle,” someone muttered, and the crowd erupted into laughter. The Legend of Gingersnap From that day forward, Gingersnap became a beloved—if somewhat chaotic—part of Bramblebush Hollow’s Christmas traditions. Each year, the townsfolk hung fireproof ornaments, brewed extra mulled wine, and made sure to stockpile plenty of shiny, dragon-friendly snacks. And every Christmas Eve, as Gingersnap perched atop the town’s fireproofed tree, belting out his dragon version of “Jingle Bells,” the townsfolk would raise their glasses and toast to the most memorable holiday mascot they’d ever had. Because, as Agnes Buttercrumb put it best, “Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without a little fire and brimstone.” And for Gingersnap, nestled beneath the tinsel, it was perfect.     Bring Gingersnap Home for the Holidays! Love the tale of Gingersnap, the mischievous Christmas dragon? Now you can add a touch of whimsical holiday magic to your own home! Explore these delightful products featuring "Dragon Dreams Beneath the Tinsel": Tapestry: Transform your walls with this stunning, vibrant depiction of Gingersnap. Canvas Print: Add a festive centerpiece to your holiday décor with a high-quality canvas print. Jigsaw Puzzle: Piece together the magic with this fun and challenging holiday puzzle. Greeting Card: Share the joy of Gingersnap with friends and family through this charming card. Don’t miss your chance to bring a little fire-breathing cheer to your festivities this season. Shop the collection now!

by Bill Tiepelman

The Dragon of the Christmas Grove

Long before Santa Claus got fat, and elves unionized for better candy-cane breaks, there was another story of Christmas magic—a legend buried deep in the frosted forests and whispered only on the longest, coldest nights. The Beginning of the End… Or Something Like That Once upon a decidedly hungover December morning, the world almost ended. See, humans—being humans—accidentally broke Christmas. Someone tried summoning a "Yuletide Spirit" with one too many Pinterest-y candles, a dash of clove, and a Latin incantation they absolutely mispronounced. Instead of a cozy Hallmark miracle, the spell ripped open a glowing crack in the universe and out popped a dragon. Not a metaphorical dragon. Not a cute, cartoon dragon you’d knit sweaters for. Oh no. This dragon was glorious and also mildly ticked off. Its scales gleamed a vicious green and red—so festive it looked like it should sit on top of a tree. Instead, it perched atop the shattered remnants of its giant ornament-egg and said, in a deep, gravelly voice: “WHO. SUMMONED. ME?” The forest fell silent. Even the squirrels paused mid-nut. Somewhere, a snowman fainted. Unfortunately, the answer was: nobody. Like most human problems, the summoning had been a group effort involving Karen from HR’s holiday party antics and Greg’s terrible idea of making a “pagan bonfire moment.” “Ugh,” the dragon said, looking around with eyes that flickered like Christmas lights on the fritz. “What century is this? Why does everything smell like peppermint and regret?” Enter: A Hero (Sort Of) This is where Marvin comes in. Marvin was not brave. He was not handsome. He was not even particularly sober. He was just a guy who’d wandered into the woods after his cousins roasted his ugly Christmas sweater. Marvin, clutching his half-empty eggnog, stumbled upon the dragon. “Whoa,” Marvin said. “That’s… that’s a big lizard.” “Excuse me?” said the dragon, its wings flaring dramatically. Marvin squinted up at it, swaying a little. “Are you, like, a metaphor for capitalism?” “I AM CALDERYX, DESTROYER OF WORLDS!” the dragon roared, snowflakes swirling wildly around it. “...AND POSSIBLY A HOLIDAY MIRACLE, IF YOU PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT.” Marvin frowned, thinking hard. “So… you’re here to ruin Christmas?” “Oh no,” Caldyrex replied. “I’m here to fix it. Humanity has clearly forgotten how to celebrate properly. You’ve turned it into cheap sweaters, lukewarm fruitcake, and terrible carols sung in high-pitched nasal tones.” Marvin blinked. “I mean, yeah. That tracks.” The Dragon’s Christmas Reform Plan What followed was the weirdest Christmas Eve of all time. With Marvin as his reluctant wingman, Caldyrex instituted his Great Christmas Overhaul, or as Marvin called it, “Festivus for the Damned.” Step 1: Ban the song “Feliz Navidad” after its third repeat. Step 2: Melt every fruitcake into a gooey lava pit for good measure. Step 3: Replace fake Christmas cheer with something better. “What’s better?” Marvin asked, confused. Caldyrex exhaled a plume of fire that ignited a nearby pine tree into a blazing spectacle of light and shadow. “Chaos. And also real joy. Have you ever seen someone open an unexpected gift and scream ‘HOW DID YOU KNOW?’ That’s Christmas, Marvin. THAT'S MAGIC.” Marvin couldn’t argue with that. The Surprise Ending At midnight, Caldyrex declared his mission complete. People across the village woke up to find mysterious, personalized gifts on their porches. Karen from HR got noise-cancelling headphones. Greg got a Latin dictionary and a restraining order from all bonfires. And Marvin? Marvin woke up in his living room to a brand-new sweater—one that said “The Dragon’s Favorite Human.” He smiled, despite himself. As for Caldyrex, the dragon slipped back into his ornament-egg with a satisfied sigh. “Until next year, Marvin,” he said, disappearing into a burst of golden light. “Keep the magic alive.” Marvin raised his eggnog in salute. “Merry Christmas, big guy.” The Moral of the Legend Every Christmas since, the legend of Caldyrex has spread in hushed, slightly tipsy tones. If your holiday feels too predictable—if you’ve heard “Jingle Bell Rock” one time too many—keep an eye out for a shimmering ornament that seems to hum with its own warmth. Because sometimes, Christmas magic isn’t soft and twinkly. Sometimes, it’s a dragon that yells at you to do better. And honestly, we probably deserve it.    Bring the Legend Home If you’ve fallen in love with the story of Caldyrex, The Dragon of the Christmas Grove, you can bring a little magic (and snarky holiday cheer) into your home. Explore these featured products inspired by the legendary scene: Tapestry: Transform your walls with the glow and grandeur of the Christmas Dragon. Canvas Print: A stunning masterpiece to capture the magic year-round. Puzzle: Piece together the legend one glowing scale at a time. Greeting Card: Send a little holiday chaos with a dragon-approved message. Celebrate the season with a twist of magic and a dash of fire. Caldyrex would approve.

by Bill Tiepelman

A Dragon's First Breath

There are few things more awe-inspiring than the birth of a legend. But legends, much like dragons, rarely come into the world quietly. The egg sat atop a pedestal of stone, its surface a masterpiece of ornate carvings that seemed less the work of time and more of an artisan with a penchant for beauty and whimsy. Vines of delicate flowers and swirls wrapped around the shell, as though nature itself had decided to protect the treasure within. The room was silent, save for the faint hum of magic that pulsed in the air—an ancient rhythm, slow and steady, as though the world itself was holding its breath. Then it happened. A crack. It started as a whisper of sound, the faintest of clicks, as a single hairline fracture split the surface of the egg. From the fracture, a soft, golden light began to seep out, illuminating the chamber in a warm, ethereal glow. The crack widened, and then, with a sudden burst of force, a claw—tiny, yet unmistakably sharp—pierced through the shell. “Well, it’s about time,” muttered a voice from the shadows. The speaker, an ancient wizard with a beard that had seen too many years and a robe that had seen too few washes, stepped closer to the egg. “Three centuries of waiting, and you decide to make your entrance while I’m mid-breakfast. Typical dragon timing.” The dragon paid no attention to the wizard’s grumbles. Its focus was singular and instinctual—freedom. Another claw broke through the shell, followed by a delicate snout covered in shimmering pink and white scales. With a final push, the dragonling emerged, wings unfurling in a spray of golden dust. It blinked once, twice, its eyes wide and filled with the kind of wonder only the truly newborn can possess. “Ah, there you are,” the wizard said, his tone softening despite himself. “A little smaller than I expected, but I suppose even dragons have to start somewhere.” He squinted at the dragon, who was now inspecting its surroundings with a mixture of curiosity and mild disdain, as though unimpressed by the wizard’s décor. “Don’t look at me like that. You’re lucky you hatched here and not in some bandit’s den. This place has history!” The dragon sneezed, and a small puff of smoke escaped its nostrils. The wizard took a hasty step back. “Right, no need to start with the fire. We’ll get to that later,” he muttered, waving the smoke away. “Let’s see, you’ll need a name. Something grand, something that strikes fear into the hearts of your enemies—or at least makes the villagers less likely to throw rocks at you. How about… Flameheart?” The dragon tilted its head, unimpressed. “Alright, fine. Too cliché. What about… Blossom?” The dragon snorted, and a tiny ember landed dangerously close to the wizard’s robe. “Alright, alright! No need to be dramatic. How about Auriel? A bit of elegance, a touch of mystery. Yes, you look like an Auriel.” Auriel, as though considering the name, stretched its wings wide. They glimmered in the golden light, a tapestry of soft hues that seemed to shift and shimmer with every movement. For a moment, even the wizard was struck silent. The dragon, barely the size of a housecat, somehow commanded the room with the presence of something far greater. It was as though the universe itself had paused to acknowledge this small but significant life. “You’ll do great things,” the wizard said softly, his voice filled with a rare sincerity. “But not today. Today, you eat, you sleep, and you figure out how to fly without breaking everything in sight.” As if in agreement, Auriel let out a tiny roar—a sound that was equal parts adorable and pitifully small. The wizard chuckled, a deep, hearty laugh that echoed through the chamber. For the first time in centuries, he felt hope. Not the fleeting kind that comes and goes with a passing thought, but the deep, unshakable kind that settles in the bones and refuses to leave. “Come on then,” the wizard said, turning toward the doorway. “Let’s get you some food. And for the love of magic, try not to set anything on fire.” The dragon trotted after him, its steps light but full of purpose. Behind them, the shattered egg lay forgotten, its ornate shell a silent testament to the beginning of something extraordinary. As they left the chamber, a golden light lingered in the air, as though the magic itself knew that this was no ordinary day. Legends, after all, are not born; they are made. But every legend begins somewhere. And for Auriel, it began here, with a crack, a breath, and the promise of a world yet to be conquered.    Bring "A Dragon's First Breath" Into Your Home Capture the magic and wonder of Auriel's journey with stunning products that showcase this enchanting artwork. Whether you're looking to decorate your home or carry a piece of fantasy with you, we've got you covered: Tapestry - Transform your walls with the majestic glow of this magical dragon. Canvas Print - Bring the legend to life with a premium-quality canvas that exudes elegance. Throw Pillow - Add a touch of mythical charm to your living space with this cozy, decorative piece. Tote Bag - Carry the magic with you wherever you go with this stylish and durable tote bag. Each item is crafted with care and designed to bring the story of "A Dragon's First Breath" to life in your everyday world. Explore these products and more at Unfocussed Shop.

by Bill Tiepelman

Blossoms of Friendship in the Dragon's Meadow

In a hidden valley where the air shimmered with the golden hues of perpetual spring, there lived a dragon unlike any other. Pyrelle, as he was called, was not the fearsome kind of dragon that haunted the stories of old. Instead, his scales were adorned with blossoms, and his deep, amber eyes held a warmth that calmed even the wildest hearts. The villagers at the edge of the valley revered him as a protector, though few had ever seen him up close. Fewer still had ever dared to approach him. That was, until Lily stumbled into his meadow. An Unlikely Meeting Lily was a spirited child of seven, with curls as wild as the dandelions that swayed in the meadows surrounding her small village. She had an uncanny knack for wandering into places she wasn’t supposed to go, her pockets always stuffed with petals and rocks she deemed “special.” Her latest adventure had taken her farther than she intended, her tiny boots crunching through fields of vibrant pink and purple blooms that seemed to whisper in the breeze. And then, she saw him. Pyrelle lay stretched out beneath a tree that sparkled with crystalline blossoms, his massive body curled protectively around its roots. His scales shimmered with an iridescent glow, each one seemingly etched with delicate floral patterns. His eyes opened as Lily froze mid-step, a single flower clasped tightly in her tiny hand. “You’re… you’re real,” she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper. The dragon tilted his head, an amused rumble vibrating in his throat. “And you are quite bold for someone so small,” he replied, his voice deep but gentle, like the murmur of a distant storm. A Blossoming Friendship Lily’s initial fear melted as quickly as it had come. She took a hesitant step forward, then another, her eyes wide with wonder. “You’re beautiful,” she said, her words tumbling out with the innocent sincerity only a child could muster. “Do you like flowers? I found this one by the stream. It’s my favorite.” To her surprise, Pyrelle lowered his head, his enormous nostrils flaring as he sniffed the tiny bloom in her hand. “A purple petunia,” he mused. “Rare in these parts. You have a good eye.” Her face lit up with a smile so radiant it rivaled the sun. “You know flowers?” “I’ve lived among them for centuries,” Pyrelle said, his voice tinged with quiet pride. “They keep me company when the world outside grows too loud.” From that day on, Lily became a regular visitor to Pyrelle’s meadow. The villagers, though uneasy at first, soon realized the dragon meant her no harm. In fact, her presence seemed to soften him even more. Together, Lily and Pyrelle explored the valley’s hidden corners, discovering flowers that only bloomed in moonlight, streams that sparkled like liquid silver, and trees that hummed softly when touched. The Guardian’s Lesson One day, as they sat by a pond filled with lilies so white they seemed to glow, Lily asked, “Why do you stay here, Pyrelle? Don’t you get lonely?” The dragon sighed, his breath rippling the pond’s surface. “I have seen the outside world, Lily. Its noise, its chaos. It is a place where people fear what they don’t understand. Here, I am safe. Here, I am at peace.” Lily frowned, plucking a blade of grass and twirling it between her fingers. “But maybe if they knew you, they wouldn’t be afraid.” Pyrelle chuckled softly. “Perhaps. But fear is a stubborn thing, little one. It takes more than a dragon’s beauty to undo it.” She looked up at him, her eyes shining with determination. “I’m not afraid. And if I’m not, maybe others won’t be either.” Shared Laughter Their conversation was interrupted by the loud croak of a toad that had leapt onto Pyrelle’s tail. Lily burst into laughter, the sound echoing across the meadow. “Even the toads aren’t scared of you!” she said between giggles. Pyrelle turned his head to inspect the small creature, who seemed entirely unbothered by the towering dragon. “Perhaps they have better sense than people,” he said, a sly smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. A Bond Forever Over time, Lily’s visits began to change not only Pyrelle but also the villagers. They saw the way she returned from the valley, her hands filled with flowers and her stories brimming with joy. Slowly, curiosity replaced fear, and one by one, they ventured into the meadow—not to confront the dragon, but to thank him for watching over them. Pyrelle, though still wary, allowed their approach. He even began to enjoy the company, especially when the children joined Lily in her adventures. Together, they turned his meadow into a sanctuary of laughter, learning, and love. The Heart of the Meadow Years later, long after Lily had grown, she returned to the valley with her own child, a little girl with the same wild curls and wonder-filled eyes. Pyrelle was there, as she knew he would be, his scales as radiant as ever. He greeted her with a soft rumble, his gaze warm with recognition. “Welcome home, Lily,” he said. And as her daughter ran to meet the great dragon, laughing as Lily once had, the meadow bloomed brighter than ever, a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the beauty of understanding the unknown.    Bring "Blossoms of Friendship in the Dragon's Meadow" Into Your World Celebrate the heartwarming story of Pyrelle and Lily with these beautifully crafted products. Each piece captures the magic and charm of their friendship, perfect for those who cherish stories of connection and wonder: Cross-Stitch Pattern – Immerse yourself in the magic with this intricate design, perfect for stitchers who love combining storytelling and art. Tapestry – Transform your space with this vibrant and enchanting fabric piece, showcasing the beauty of the meadow and its unique bond. Throw Pillow – Add a cozy and magical touch to your home with this beautifully designed pillow, perfect for any room. Puzzle – Piece together the warmth and beauty of Pyrelle and Lily’s story with this delightful and engaging puzzle.

by Bill Tiepelman

The Littlest Flame: A Dragon's Heartwarming Beginnings

In the vast kingdom of Elderwyn, home to towering castles, enchanted forests, and creatures of legend, something extraordinary happened one quiet morning. No, it wasn’t the usual kind of extraordinary—the kind with knights rescuing maidens or wizards hurling fireballs. This was different. This was the day that a very small, very adorable dragon decided to make its debut. Meet Smidge. And yes, that’s exactly what he was—a smidge of a dragon, no bigger than a loaf of bread. But don’t let the size fool you. Smidge had big dreams, despite being born in the smallest egg of the clutch. His brothers and sisters had all hatched into impressive little fire-breathers, already causing minor property damage to the local village (a rite of passage for any dragon, really). Smidge, however, had yet to produce more than a puff of smoke and some particularly aggressive hiccups. “You’ll get there, Smidge,” his mother, a glorious red-scaled dragon named Seraphina, would say in her deep, echoing voice. “It just takes time.” Smidge wasn’t so sure. While his siblings were off practicing their flame control, he was busy... well, trying not to trip over his own feet. His legs seemed too long for his body, his wings flapped more like a startled chicken’s than anything majestic, and his fire? Let’s just say no marshmallows were getting roasted any time soon. The Quest for Fire (And Not Burning Himself in the Process) Determined to prove himself, Smidge set off on a mission. It wasn’t a typical “slay the knight, hoard the treasure” kind of mission. No, Smidge had something much simpler in mind: learn to breathe fire without sneezing. It was a modest goal, but you had to start somewhere. He waddled out of the cave early one morning, waving goodbye to his siblings, who were busy setting a small forest on fire (totally accidental, of course). Smidge’s journey was one of discovery. He needed to find a quiet spot, away from distractions, where he could really focus on his fire-breathing technique. “Ah, here we go,” Smidge muttered, stumbling upon a clearing in the forest. It was peaceful, with the sun filtering through the trees, birds chirping, and most importantly, nothing that could accidentally catch fire—except maybe a few shrubs, but sacrifices had to be made. Smidge squared his little shoulders, took a deep breath, and... poof. A tiny puff of smoke escaped his nostrils. Well, it was better than last time, when nothing but a few weak sparks fizzled out. He puffed his chest out, feeling rather proud. “Alright, let’s go again,” he said, this time putting every bit of effort he had into it. He inhaled deeply, focused, and—achoo! The sneeze came out of nowhere, and with it, a burst of flame that wasn’t quite forward-facing. Instead, the flames engulfed his own tail. “Yow!” Smidge yelped, hopping in circles, frantically patting out the flames with his tiny claws. After a few minutes of awkward tail-chasing, the fire was out, but his pride had taken a hit. “That,” he muttered, “could have gone better.” Making Friends (or, How Not to Burn Bridges) Despite the hiccups (and sneezes), Smidge wasn’t about to give up. He just needed a bit of help—some guidance. And so, he set off deeper into the forest, hoping to find someone who might teach him the ancient art of dragon fire-breathing. What he found instead... was Barry. Barry was a troll. Not the menacing, bridge-guarding kind of troll, though. No, Barry was more of a “tree-hugging, amateur painter” kind of troll. He stood about 12 feet tall, with moss growing on his back and a pair of reading glasses perched precariously on the end of his bulbous nose. “Hi!” Smidge chirped, looking up at the towering troll. “I’m Smidge. Can you help me learn to breathe fire?” Barry squinted down at the tiny dragon, one mossy eyebrow raised. “Fire, you say? Hm. Not really my specialty, kid. I’m more into watercolors.” He gestured to a nearby easel, where an interpretive painting of what Smidge assumed was a tree stood. It mostly looked like a blob with branches. “Oh,” Smidge said, his tiny wings drooping. “Well... thanks anyway.” Barry sighed, scratching his head. “Look, kid, I may not know much about fire-breathing, but I do know about practice. That’s what painting is, really. Practice. You just gotta keep at it. Eventually, you’ll figure it out.” Smidge tilted his head, considering the troll’s advice. “Practice, huh? That’s it?” “Yep,” Barry replied with a shrug. “And, uh, maybe don’t set yourself on fire next time.” Smidge couldn’t help but laugh. “Yeah, I’ll try not to.” The Littlest Flame Ignites With Barry’s advice echoing in his head, Smidge returned to his clearing and tried again. Days passed, and though his flames were still small and sputtering, they were growing. He only set his tail on fire twice more, and there were no major forest fires—just a few smoking bushes. One evening, as the sun began to set, Smidge felt different. He had been practicing all day, and though he was tired, something inside him felt ready. He stood tall (well, as tall as a baby dragon could), focused on the horizon, and took the deepest breath yet. Flame surged from his mouth, a beautiful, controlled stream of fire that lit up the sky in shades of gold and red. Smidge blinked in surprise. Had he just... done it? “I DID IT!” he shouted, hopping up and down in excitement. “I’M A REAL DRAGON!” At that moment, his mother appeared, her massive wings casting a shadow over the clearing. “I knew you could do it,” she said proudly, watching her littlest flame with a smile. “You just needed to find your spark.” The Future of the Littlest Flame And so, with his newfound fire-breathing ability, Smidge became a legend in his own right—not for his size, but for his heart. He wasn’t the biggest or the most powerful dragon in Elderwyn, but he was certainly the most determined. And that, as any dragon will tell you, is the secret to greatness. As for Barry, well, he continued painting his abstract masterpieces. Smidge, now a proud fire-breathing dragon, made sure to stop by every now and then to check in on his favorite troll, usually offering him a little flame to dry his watercolors. Because that’s what friends are for—helping each other, whether with flames, brushes, or a little bit of encouragement. Smidge might have started as the littlest flame, but he knew one thing for sure: the world was about to see just how bright even the smallest dragon could shine.    Bring a Piece of Smidge's World Home If the heartwarming adventures of Smidge, the littlest flame, brightened your day, why not bring a bit of that joy into your own space? Whether you’re looking for something whimsical to decorate your home or a playful gift for someone special, we’ve got just the right items to capture Smidge’s charm. The Littlest Flame Puzzle – Piece together the adorable world of Smidge, one puzzle piece at a time. It’s the perfect way to relax while celebrating the little dragon who lights up our hearts. The Littlest Flame Tote Bag – Carry a bit of Smidge’s playful spirit with you wherever you go. This tote is perfect for your everyday essentials, and it comes with an extra dash of dragon-sized cuteness! The Littlest Flame Tapestry – Transform your space with this vibrant tapestry featuring Smidge, the little dragon with a big heart. Perfect for adding a whimsical touch to any room! The Littlest Flame Metal Print – Elevate your decor with this stunning metal print. Smidge’s colorful world will shine beautifully on your walls, capturing the spirit of adventure and fun. Each product brings Smidge’s delightful story to life, making it easy to keep his uplifting energy around you. Whether it's a puzzle for a quiet afternoon or a tote bag for your daily adventures, Smidge is ready to brighten your world. Explore more at Unfocussed Shop!