I Must Have Been Good...

Over the past week, the postman has been delivering the most wonderful surprises for me. I received a package with a familiar return address. Upon opening the wrapping from Michelle Palmer, I saw her enclosed gift note that told me the acorn trinkets were gifts from Marydon of The Blushing Rose!

My dear friend, Marydon. How thoughtful and generous of you to think of me at this time of year. Of course, you knew that Michelle's acorn charms would be perfect for me! I can't wait to create something beautiful with them. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
A couple of weeks ago, I sent a birthday package to Terri Gordon of Designs by Terri Gordon. I never expected anything in return, so you can imagine my glee upon receiving a box in the mail from her. What could it be?

I carefully tore open the box to find the black and white diamond wrapping paper. Inside was this handcrafted piece from her.
She made the cone filled with creamy shred, embellished with an amber crystal at the bottom and wrapped in beautiful paper. Then she attached a key, beads and ribbons...
...and this sweet image embellished with laces and mounted onto a tag. She attached a wire so that I can hang it to display and enjoy. I am awestruck by this lady's talent!

Terri, my friend. You really didn't need to reciprocate for the birthday package, but I'M SO GLAD YOU DID! I love your creation and will treasure it. It's already hanging in the studio!
Last, but certainly not least, one of my very first blogging friends, Christina Jackson of iCandy sent a sweet, tiny box that was a gift in itself! She took a checkers playing piece -
star facing up, and glued it to the top of the box. She also glued a soft ribbon to the box for a little sheen. Then, she tied the top with a primitive stripe fabric strip. I was happy with the box, I tell you, but I thought I'd better check inside - just in case.
Look at the adorable, pearly charms that she tucked inside! I'm going to hang these beribboned, acorn charms above my sewing machine where I can just admire them for a while. I know I'll think of something to create with them, but for now, I'll look at them and smile at the gift my friend sent to me this Christmas.

All of these friends took time from their holiday preparations to think of me, and I'm tremendously grateful for their care and generosity. Really, I must have been good this year. Someone call Santa...please!