Let's have some fungi lovin' fun!!
What a whirlwind week, phew! But, I had to stop in really quick and share something I made for you. I was going to wait until next week, but I just can't!! ;)
This is part of my thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and ideas with me, here at "A Fanciful Twist." I can't tell you how much that means to me (more than you can know). And so, since that very very sappy mushy over the top time of the year is coming (embracing the mood starting now), I figure it isn't too soon to start preparing.
I think you guessed what I am talking about right... YEP! Valentine's day! I have some ideas to share... But first, let me break down and give you your very own FREE Valentine set. From me to you. I looooooved making these.
If there is any time to go over the top with an idea, to the point of nutcakey, it is this time. So, I went FUNGI crrrazy. It's all about the fungi... Under the photo below is a link for you to get your own printable PDF version.
Click here to get a printable PDF file. The file looks a bit fuzzy on the screen, but prints more than crisp and lovely. I printed mine on heavy cardstock and they look yummmmy! I have made three sets for myself. I think it is good I am starting this soon in making them, or time would get away from me for certain.
Feel free to make as many copies as you would like, they are free for you to use. I think they are perfect for kids, for adults, for office sharing, for girls, for boys. "I Like You" boy's sweatshirt tells us he has been to a "shroom-fighters" concert, hee hee. I know, so silly, but fun right?
You will find terms like:
Here are how the ones I printed for myself look, cut-out... I like to use my scalloped scissors on some of them. But mostly, I just cut them out real simply, leaving a small white border around the shape.
I hope you enjoy them to pieces!! Happy early Valentine's day. I will also put a link in my sidebar, so you can get more easily, when you run out :)
A few more things to share... WE did the Mr. Lovee Thriftventure drawing!! I wanted to choose three people. But, since Mr. Lovee has to go out and search for the treasure himself, I could not very well ask him to do three. If I do that, he won't play with us anymore...
He chose the winner straight out of "Feed Me's" mouth ( yes, I am the nutcake who made this bowl)...
I looove this bowl. It is gross, but I looove it... Now, does that man-jewelry say Arizona, or what? Well, actually, we got it in Santa Fe. I wish it fit me!! But, it is tooo big. I know, Arizona-over-the-top-wacky-fab (in my opinion at least ;)!
Whose name did he pull???
SaraH, of HeartBreak Art! Yipppeeee!! Send me your addy and we will get you a sweeeet thriftventure. I can't waiiiit to see what Mr. Lovee chooses!! This could be very interesting!!
Before I go I want to share two little tid-bits... First of all, I found such a charming blog this week. Hoola Tallulah Well, she found me and then I found her back. Her blog is cute & crisp & colorful & funny & real & includes children and chickens, brambled goats and gardens & brocantes & yes, FRANCE. Oh and, she makes fairy-cakes and has geese in a lake by where she hangs her clothes to dry :) What? Yes, what can I say, fun fun! Can I have some fairy-cakes? (Tallulah 's photo below)
Also, I got the most lovely comment from a wonderful visitor. It will make you swoooooon! It has to do with the balloon wish post.
Here is a snippet of how it read: "I live in the middle of godforsaken Nowhere in Texas and have to drive 30 miles for the simplest groceries. So.... I spend a lot of time alone. I was walking in the woods last week and saw a deflated balloon in a tree deep off the path of my woods. I happily, knee-deep in chilly mud made my way to the stumpy little tree, and the pinkish-red balloon was just shreddy and ribbony. However, in my heart of hearts, I just KNEW it might be one of your balloons! Although it wasn't, it cheered me up just as much as if it HAD been one. It was just a bursted old bit of rubber, but I ambled out of the thicket with a lighter heart and humming a bit of something nice...maybe Mozart. Anyhoo---I had brambles in my hair, but the rest of my day felt more magical and full of possibilities....."
-Laura
Is that swooooooooooooney wonderful? My heart is so full, I am sooo touched. OH, you lovely people! I am so glad I joined the blogosphere. It is pure magic! What ever would I have done without you?
ps: I have a philosophy about Valentine's Day. You see, I don't think Valentine's day has to be about romantic love. I think it can be about passion for life. About giant boxes of chocolates and the love we have inside. The love for family and friends. The love for fresh air and good waves in life. There are sometimes, that I spend holidays like Valentine's day alone. Days that you would expect to share with friends or loves. But, I find, that when you are alone, and you take time to dress up and bake a giant heart shaped flourless chocolate cake (even dropping it off for a neighbor as a kind gesture), you actually live the day, and it becomes so much more meaningful. When I throw my Halloween witches party, it passes me by, because I am so busy getting ready for it. So, why not delve into a holiday like Valentine's day in a peacful way, on your own terms. What about loving yourself? What about a free indulge day. What about feeling good, instead of sad? I don't know, I am just saying... What about it? Who said that we have to be loved by "someone" on February 14th? Even if we have a beau, we should take time to love ourselves, and reflect on that very important love in our life. The person we see in the mirror...
I don't know, that is just me... See you soon!! xoxo
I learned long ago to love me on Valentine's Day and I still do even though I have a bf. I've already bought my Valentine to me... a beautiful original oil painting off Etsy. Yay!
Posted by: Karen Beth | January 24, 2008 at 08:59 PM
Oh it is all about the LOVE!!!!
Great Valentines, they are totally fun!(gi)
You and your thriftventure adventures are such a lift! You make people so happy with your posts and all. Have the best day, you!
xo
Posted by: Gillian @ Indigo Blue | January 24, 2008 at 09:16 PM
your bowl cracks me UP
Posted by: flutter | January 24, 2008 at 10:27 PM
OMG!! You just made my week!! I'm soooo excited!! I will be emailing you!!
Thanks for posting those Valentine's! They are super lovely & I can't wait to give one to my niece & nephew & husband! :)
THANK YOU!!!
And also...your bowl is the raddest!
Posted by: saraH | January 24, 2008 at 10:47 PM
SWEET post!!! I just found out today I'm out of BLACK ink and COLORED ink too! LOL These BEAUTY FULL Valentines will get me going SOONER to replace it for SURE!!! THANK YOU!!! for such SWEETNESS!!!
Posted by: Cinda Rae Oliverio | January 25, 2008 at 12:06 AM
Thank you for the valentines- they're gorgeous- I can't wait to print some out. Maybe the girls can give some to their friends xxxx.
Posted by: the pesky bombolino | January 25, 2008 at 01:25 AM
Thank you for the lovely valentines, they're wonderful! And that bowl is so funny :)
Posted by: sharon (glitterangel) | January 25, 2008 at 03:13 AM
Thanks for the yummy Valentines goodies, and for the mention, I am so excited to be featured on your beautiful blog, fankoo fankooo fnakoooooooo!
Posted by: Tallulah Maggs | January 25, 2008 at 03:44 AM
Oh Vanessa - you are a treasure! The adorable Valentines, the fabulous art, the heart-warming stories, your wonderful philosophy of caring and sharing - thank goodness you are YOU!xoxox
Posted by: Paris Parfait | January 25, 2008 at 03:48 AM
I was at my sister's house last week and she has a great view of the city. I could see a lone balloon flying high and I instantly thought of you. I wonder who lost the balloon - I hope they didn't cry and enjoyed that beautiful way it dipped along the sky. x
Posted by: Catherine | January 25, 2008 at 04:28 AM
Thank your for the valentines!!! They are beautiful!!! ... you rock .. don't ever change!!
Posted by: Jackie | January 25, 2008 at 05:04 AM
Thank you for the beautiful valentines!! My daughter is going to take them to school. She is a little artist too so she is inspired to make some of her own to go with yours! xo, suzy
Posted by: suzy | January 25, 2008 at 05:51 AM
Oh my, Vanessa!! Your little Valentines are just too sweet!! Mushroom valentines! Happy thought indeed! They make me smile. :)
I love your philosophy about Valentine's Day. Last year was the first time I ever "felt bad" about not being with *someone*. Before that, it had always been a day when Mom would treat us to a proper afternoon tea, and a big bar of Lindt chocolate by our breakfast in the morning! My "adjusted thinking" (aka not influenced by what the larger world says) is that VD is a time to just celebrate life and making yourself and others happy!!! I've come to love any excuse to celebrate and make a day truly *special*! And who doesn't love a day that glorifies my favorite color... PINK!!! :D Thank you for the little reminder that this day is sooo much more than what it is traditionally billed as. :)
May you have a very bright and happy Friday!!!
Posted by: Casey | January 25, 2008 at 06:40 AM
Eeep!! What a treat, indeed!! Your a magic PDF wizardess!! (I want to make a pretty PDF present for my sweets now!!) I must ask my computery husband the how to's!! ; ) I'm probably too daft to figure it out....alas!! ;)
What lively and vibrant man-jewelry Mr. Lovee is sporting there!! : )
Oh, it's such a dreamy spot here....I'm so thankful to be able to visit!! :)
Happy Earrrrly Valentines Day to You, Sweet lady! :)
Posted by: marjorie | January 25, 2008 at 06:45 AM
You rock our world! Love to you!
Posted by: Liberty Post Editor | January 25, 2008 at 07:15 AM
Thank you for the Valentines Miss Vanessa!! You are tooooooo SWEET!!!!!!!!!
Hugs!
Michelle
Posted by: Mosaic Queen | January 25, 2008 at 07:29 AM
First a big thank you for the lovely Valentine's Day giftees! It was so kind and wonderful of you to do this. The note about the balloon is so touching - what if it really was one of yours (I did mind zap my wish to you by the way :)). I am in 100% agreement with you on Valentine's Day. I always have seen it as a day for love of family and friends and not just a significant other. I give my family and friends fun little gifts for the holiday, even if it is a simple bag of handmade heart cookeis.
Hugs,
Karla
Posted by: Karla | January 25, 2008 at 08:27 AM
What a lovely story of the red balloon, just the thought of where they are...how far they traveled...wonderful!
Thank you for my lovely valentine gift!!! I will print them and spread the love.
x...x!
steph
Posted by: stephanie | January 25, 2008 at 11:27 AM
you do, in fact, rock my toadstool. it's true.
I think it's important to try to live every day as much as possible, to the fullest extent you are able.
Something Trina and I have thought about the last few years, is that holidays have kind of changed for us, because we try to just do special things on a regular basis, we try to have date nights every Friday, and we try to just get special little things for both of us or one for the other here and there as we have extra money, and just do little things to make days seems special, which otherwise would just be normal old days... and it has changed a bit how we look at holidays... like valentine's day. I mean, it's still fun to be able to get Trina something maybe a little bigger or more special than I might otherwise, but still, we go on dates almost every week, so it doesn't feel quite as out of character to do something special for the day, you know? But while maybe making the 12 or so holidays per year a little less stand-out, it means that every week we are building and connecting, and every Friday we have the chance to celebrate and do something fun that we don't do during the week, and often on Sundays we get to go thrift/vintage store shopping, and even though we may not be able to spend a lot of money on those things, it still makes those days different and special. Like it talks about in the little prince, that rites are very important, they are things that set apart one day from the rest - for the fox it is the village dances, when the men don't come hunting him, and he can walk around wherever he likes. In terms of relationships, it offers time to come a little closer to a person and share something with them (whether it's romantic or platonic).
It doesn't have to be with someone else either - you have a relationship with yourself as well, and to just set aside a day on a regular basis to go and do something that gives you joy can have the same effect, can help you get to know yourself, and can make that day special for you.
So, let's all go out there and LIVE. Make life full and special, not in a selfish way, but in simple ways that complement who you are. Besides, if you are full, you will have so much more to give away when others need it. Let's do it :)
Posted by: poetas | January 25, 2008 at 11:31 AM
yay for fungi love!!!!!!
i received your mushrooms and i love love love love them!
there will be some fungi love posted on my blog soon.
and those vday cards are adorable. i think i will give each one to my jordan. he will love them as much as me!
Posted by: risa | January 25, 2008 at 11:31 AM
OH, this is just the best post! LOVE the valentines! Whoooheeee! I can hardly wait to use them all! Over and over! Because I feel the same way about Valentine's Day. A few years ago miss tiffany taught me how fun it is to make it a day to show everyone how much you love them. And although it is fun to be romantic with hubby, I probably enjoy surprising everyone else in my life with Valentine's surprises more. I think it is because they aren't really expecting it! Oh, and you have to show us what mr lovee comes up with for the lucky winner! Hearts and kisses! Thanks bunches!
Posted by: michelle fitzgerald | January 25, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Thank you so much for the beautiful Valentine set. I can't wait to print them out. You are so generous and I love your blog and all of your magical creations!
Posted by: Sharon | January 25, 2008 at 12:14 PM
Oh V...those little cards are just lovely! I must go to my mother's and print them out...at once (well...after work anyway!) I have been tossing around ideas for my own cards in my head for some time...we will see what I come up with. Until then, I can gaze at yours!
I use to try to spend Valentine's Day with anyone who wanted to celebrate, in case they didn't want to be alone...and it's always been so very fun that way!
Posted by: sadira | January 25, 2008 at 12:18 PM
I LOVE the Valentines....thank you! And I loved the story of the red balloon, and Mr. Lovee's "man jewelry"...hey, when in Rome! ;-) And Miss Vanessa, I looove your bowl! Yeah, kinda gross, but that's what I like about it!
Congratulations SarahH! I have no doubt that the treasure that Mr. Lovee discovers especially for you will be absolutely fabulous (uh, yeah....no pressure there Mr. Lovee)!
Posted by: Nancy | January 25, 2008 at 01:43 PM
My daughter will just LOVE giving these to her friends on Valentine's Day. Me too! What a great gift from you to us. I must have missed the Mr. Lovee Thriftventure--bummer! For such an ugly bowl, it sure makes me smile. Congratulations, Sarah!
Posted by: RD | January 25, 2008 at 01:52 PM
Lovely Lovely LOVELY post! I am out of the bloggy loop but I love this post! Love that someone thought they had found your wishes! Love the valentines!!!!!!! Thank you!
Posted by: Jungle Dream Pagoda | January 25, 2008 at 02:04 PM
I agree with your philosophy about Valentine's Day. We should all use it as a time just to treat ourselves to something sweet. :)
Posted by: Marilyn | January 25, 2008 at 02:11 PM
So glad you sent out your Valentines early, and arranged it so I could get one :).
Posted by: pamelajane | January 25, 2008 at 02:45 PM
Hi I just flew in after reading your comment about the Snowflake Man over at Britt-Arnhild's. You awoke a childhood memory of seeing my first snowflake photo and all the wonder and beauty of it that I'd forgotten about until just now - thank you and I'm going to linger here in your enchanting wonderland for some time I think *!*
Posted by: Bimbimbie | January 25, 2008 at 02:59 PM
You are a sweetie.
.......I'm looking for red baloons. Do you think the one on its way to India might stop here.....
Posted by: Britt-Arnhild | January 25, 2008 at 03:01 PM
YOu always cheer me up...Thanks.
I don't think there is anyone sweeter!
Posted by: denise | January 25, 2008 at 04:00 PM
Thankoo!!!! You have so mush-room in your heart for all of us! ps: tell Faun Boy I said hi..he is such a deer!
Posted by: Pam Aries | January 25, 2008 at 05:05 PM
Great thoughts on Valentine's Day girlfriend! You have so many points of view and it really makes me think. Something I don't always do a whole lot of LOLOLOL. Thanks!
Posted by: Jill | January 25, 2008 at 06:38 PM
I am a sucker for toadstool as well..LOL! Thanks for sharing your adorable Valentines with us!
Sandy xox
Posted by: Sandy | January 25, 2008 at 07:05 PM
Vanessa, your a sweetie. Sharing your art. I am so with you on the valentines idea. Have a great weekend.
Posted by: Gina | January 25, 2008 at 07:39 PM
Hi Vanessa,
I love, love those cute Valentine's they are just so wonderful, how clever to use the mushrooms!!! Now why didn't I think of that? Humm I might have to do a version of my own! If you don't mind? Love it!!
Ellen
Posted by: ellen Crimi-Trente | January 25, 2008 at 08:03 PM
Happy Wonderful and Fungilious you are VV. What a great place visit Fanciful Land is!! Thanks for the fungi~Valentines. You and lovee!! You're the best! The very~fairy
BEST!!
xox
Constance
Posted by: rochambeau | January 25, 2008 at 08:29 PM
Vanessa,
Your outlook on life is so fresh and alive! You always make me smile and to see things in a totally new perspective.. That is your gift.. Save these ideas my sweets for the book you will write...It will be fabulous, as are you!
Jo-Anne
Posted by: Jo-Anne Coletti | January 25, 2008 at 08:34 PM
Hello All-
I was the lucky Texas recipient of the happy deflated balloon in the woods. I told Vanessa I'm a bit of a 'lurker' but that I vowed to be more present on her special blog. I'm not super social, but I want to start being more involved with such a special thing. This blog, and many others, are so genuinely touching. I live a very remote, isolated life, and have been truly missing the touch of other like-minded people. I always fear my day-to-day, trivial, 'little-bits-o-life' are inconsequential and of no interest to anyone else. Blogs like this reaffirm my belief in the joy of the small, happy moment. I think I've always been afraid of delving into the blog-o-sphere for fear of living in la-la-land. However, I've felt a deeper connection to some of these lovely visual images and heartfelt posts than I've experienced in years with the few people in my immediate life. So....sososo....I will stop hiding from being an 'internet'y person and start embracing this wealth of goodwill and charm and loveliness that awaits on the other end of my computer. Thanks, Miss Vansessa for putting yourself out there. I feel enriched, and will try to stop being so guarded in my own little shell of a life and start being more open to all you kind and glittery people out there. I just hope I can start to recognize your secret little shimmer when I meet you in real life. This blog is GOOD FOR ME!
Thanks everyone, OohLaLaura
Posted by: OohLaLaura | January 25, 2008 at 08:37 PM
Love the Valentines. I learned a long,long,long time ago to treat myself special on Valentines Day cause thats my birthday. But, I'm very blessed to have a family that aly
Posted by: Lisa-Vet | January 25, 2008 at 09:07 PM
Ok, let me finish, I'm new at this commenting stuf,,anywho....family that always takes care of me on my B-Day.. Nice to know Vanessa, you understand that it is a day to treat everyone special. Day of Love!!
Posted by: Lisa-Vet | January 25, 2008 at 09:12 PM
Ummm...can I just say? Mr. Lovee just needs to take that bracelet off and send it to me right away. LOL I didn't mean to upstage the Valentines. They are a wonderful gift but I am just really loving that bracelet!
Posted by: Betty @ She's Sew Pretty | January 25, 2008 at 10:32 PM
"You Rock my Toadstool?"..."Split a Shroom-Nog Sometime"?..."Feed Me"? Okay, I don't think anyone else out here could get away with those statements quite like you! Because of you, we now have fungal...er... I mean FUN-GAL infections!
D.
Posted by: Donna O. | January 26, 2008 at 08:33 AM
how loving of you...i will enjoy them much...blessings, rebecca
Posted by: Cre8Tiva | January 26, 2008 at 01:29 PM
how loving of you...i will enjoy them much...blessings, rebecca
Posted by: Cre8Tiva | January 26, 2008 at 01:29 PM
Just wanted to say, I love this post, your blog and your work. Stumbled here through hoola tallulah. Cheers!
Bari
Posted by: Bari | January 26, 2008 at 01:41 PM
awwww! You are TOO sweet...those cards are SO cute. And I love Sarah's story about your balloon - that must have made you feel all gushy! Here's sending you a bit, fat, gooey, drippy, pink-and-red-and-lacy valentine!! (a little early...)
Posted by: Black-Eyed Suzie | January 26, 2008 at 03:04 PM
ohhh what a wonderful post...Valentines day is so much fun but I make sure to share and expres love in my life everyday...thanks for the freebies - so sweet! you're just a clever gal you are!!
hey i loved the balloon story - thats so cool! they must be your balloons...they must be!!
Posted by: Anastasia | January 26, 2008 at 04:00 PM
valentines!
OH*MY*Goodness...
:-)
i CANNOT wait to download them
and print them
and snip, snip snip them out
and add little bits
of lacy stuff~N~things.
i have ~~Valentine's Month~~
over here at my house
because
why not, indeed....
Posted by: somepinkflowers | January 26, 2008 at 04:17 PM
Yup, yup, yup. Valentines for yourself. Vanessa, you are a brilliant, shining light, you know that don't you?
Posted by: Sonya | January 26, 2008 at 05:40 PM