Thank you Mary!

(A note about my blog header and background....I went out in search of a nice Fall-ish background today but this one followed me home. It is so cute I just can't replace it for a little while.  I'll do Fall-ish another day. Love the fat birds AquaPoppy!)
I have often written about the circle of friends I have embraced through blogging...women I have come to care a great deal for but most of whom I have never met.
Mary is one of those friends. Several years ago we were in the same swap group and traded Spring themed handmade items. Since that swap, Mary has written to me from time to time. She is a kind-hearted woman and always sends caring messages. I have never met Mary or have even seen a picture of her. I have encouraged her to blog and she does finally have a blog address but will take her time figuring out how it all works. We've all been there.
When I wrote about my recent health situation, Mary once again contacted me and sent words of encouragement. She also asked for my home address because she had something to send to me. In writing back and forth, we also decided to do a one-on-one swap. When our swap is completed I will, of course, share the photos with you because that's what bloggers do, right? For now, I want you to see what Mary made and sent to me.

A stationary kit including personalized note cards, little post-it note holder, postage stamp envelope, 2 binder clips trimmed with ribbon and a pen. Now, what is really cool is that Mary made the box that everything came in! It is a beautiful gift and a lovely presentation. Oh yes, she also included a family of muslin bears for crafting...I have to think of something clever to do with those.

I was so touched to receive this gift of friendship and her beautiful note.

Thank you Mary.

 Keep working on your blog and when you're ready I will share your address with my other blogging friends....the friends I've never met. You'll like them, too.

I wrote about meeting up with 2 blogging friends for the first time when my sister and I were in Mesa, Arizona in February. What a thrill it was to meet sweet Sandy of 521 Lake Street and my other dear friend who prefers to remain private. We had a wonderful afternoon together and I think back on that day often.

Well, on Wednesday night, I spoke on the phone with another long time blogging friend,

 Marie of Spun By Me. Marie and I have been blogging friends for almost 3 years I think and while we've never met in person...we plan to do that in the future! It was great to talk on the phone...we chatted and laughed just like good friends do.

 If you do not already know Sandy and Marie...take a moment to visit their blogs..you will  giggle at Marie's post today about her Father-In-Law and Sandy has a sweet post about her special Birthday boy!

Blogging friends...I love you all!

xoxo

Joyce