From Jean to Erin

I was so excited to receive the these earrings and soap from Jean to remind me that spring is, indeed, on its way.  The soap smells like when the sun warms a field of flowers.  I asked Jean how she made it and this is what she said:

"I actually cheated a little with the soap making - I didn't make it from scratch.  I bought a base from this website:  www.brambleberry.com.  You then melt the soap down in a double-boiler, and add what you want to it.  In this case, I added honey, a drop each of red and blue food coloring, oatmeal (that I ran through a food processor first), and essential oils.  Then I put it in a mold and let it 'cure' overnight.

It's super easy to do this way.  If you know anyone with a lot of allergies who still wants something that smells good, it's a great way to make your own fancy soap without a lot of work, and you have total control of what goes into it."

It doesn't seem like cheating to me.

From Hannie to Erin

I've been meaning to get pictures of these up, but its taken me awhile because I want to get better photos... but these show my sons excitement so well.  The day I got Hannie's package was one of those shitty days where nothing goes well and coming home to a box of hand-sewn finger puppets representing my family was just the thing to turn it around.  They still make me smile every time I see them.

From Iris to Erin

Iris sent me four of these almost mod snow flakes that she made from bead and wire.  They go with my house perfectly and sat on my picture ledge through Christmas.

From Erin to Kailin

From Patricia to Olivia

This lovely drawing-under-resin was sent to me in October by Patricia.  It is a beautiful rendition of a sun salutation and will bring a point of focus to my yoga practice.  Thanks, Patricia!

From Roseanne to Olivia

Rosanne sent me this lovely beaded bracelet in December.  We used to work together, and I always admired her handmade jewelry.  I am so happy to have my very own "Rosanne" piece!

From Iris to Hannie

Hannie said:

Attached are a few pictures from my crafting penpal Iris Lu. I've actually known Iris since I was about 7 years old and it was definitely a surprise to have her as my penpal. She made a beautiful pot and I was happy to receive one of her signature cards.