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I am in the middle of spring magazine deadlines and packaging parcels.
(A proper blog post will follow)
In case everyone was wondering if I had drowned in bubble wrap?
(almost)
Or maybe, did she accidentally mummy tape herself, and no one has tried looking for her?
Yes yes, I survived all that ;)
At 1 a.m. I realized, there would be another year that we have not sent out holiday cards.
Are you as bad as me?
Do the holidays get away from you before you can even send a greeting card?
Ugh, I am the worst at that.
Soo, I got one of those second wind things you can get at those crazy after midnight hours...
And, I whipped up some silly Christmas doodle cards to send out.
My little familia!
I know, one of my legs looks wonky, haha!
Have you ever wondered why himself and I call each other Lovee and Dovee?
It's funny, ever since I started using the term lovee, so many of my friends use it too.
I think it's addicting ;)
L o v e e.
Here's the thing...
There is a silly story as to how the pet names began, and it isn't because we are so disgustingly romantic.
That would be ridiculous, I know.
If you know ML, he has a crazy sense of humor and whips out the sailor speak all the time.
Do sailors really say lots of bad words?
(me thinks probably not)
Anyhow, there was this business man who helped me in the office when I went into real estate at 25, named John. Teaching me the ropes, etc.
He would always call me Lovee.
At that time I had also just met ML in the same office, and we were having a magical getting to know each other time.
I thought it was sooo hilarious and silly to be called lovee, that I started calling ML, Loveeeeee, to be funny.
(he knew John too, so it was an inside joke)
I would say it in a proper British accent, Oh Lovee, where art thou?
And eventually, he would respond in an accent also, calling me Dovee.
Over time I just became Dove.
Now, 13 years later, I am always Dove this and Dove that.
He became Mister Lovee because that is all I have ever called him from almost the moment I met him - plus I have a hard time calling certain people by their real names.
I have no clue why.
Lovee is who he is to me, and nothing else.
I could never ever call him by his name to his face.
It's too foreign to me.
In fact, it would be beyond weird for him to call me Vanessa to my face.
When I hear him refer to me to others as Vanessa, I cringe.
It's too weird.
Eventually, a few other people would call us Lovee and Dovee too.
It just stuck without intention all those years ago.
And that is how that came to be.
Anywhooooo.
I thought, there is no way I can get a Christmas card to all of you, some of my dearest pals.
So, I decided to share it here with you.
I know this is borderline rude...
I should get a bunch of stamps and addresses.
But it's a printable size, if you'd like to print your Christmas card from us 4.
(click on it, let the screen open, and when it gets smaller on the next screen click it again to make it bigger and printable)
I know, totally improper, but it's a way for me to share it easier.
It's still heartfelt.
I promise.
Imagine if everyone started sending you a printable holiday card in email??
Here's a card, print it if you want?
Pinnacle of technology madness, it would be :)
Do you have pet names with loved ones?
What are they?
How did it happen?
Looooove, V
ps: Although Miles is always love love love for anyone, while he is off sleeping somewhere on his back by 10 p.m., little Matty is still following me around. When I stay up really late he cuddles in no matter where I am. Here he is with me packaging at 2 a.m.
If he can't find me he freaks out.
He won't move without his mama.
This poor furry kid, only trusts and loves me.
My little foxling.
Curious boy.
If you give Miles a treat he hogs it down no matter what it is.
If you give Matty a treat he takes it and spits it out to inspect it first.
Kim of Gerushia's New World (one of our beloved sponsors), is having a sale the 23rd-26th
And bonus...
She is also giving away a $50 gift certificate to her shop.
Right here, right now, just leave a comment to enter.
Can you believe it?
A giveaway, plus a sale, which you can apply to your gift certificate if you win.
Wooo hooo!
ps: Thanksgiving wrap-up...
Miles Birthday. Loved his big horse.
Awesome eats.
I cooked so much, and my friend brought some fresh/raw homemade cran-orange relish, homemade lemon meringue pie (with her own lemons) and salad.
There was...
Turkey that fell off the bone, brown sugar candied yams, mashed potatoes, stuffing chock full of delicious veggies, green bean casserole, oven baked croissants, fresh cranberry orange rind relish, herb vinaigrette salad, 5 pies (lemon meringue, traditional pumpkin, pumpkin cheesecake), dessert wine, and so much more I can't recall now.
What did you munch???
Are you so tired today?
Phew.
Full full full bellies.
Refreshing pomegranate seeds after a long night of fun.
Would you say there are fairies spreading fairy dust in all sorts of venues? Like, let's seeeeee, ummm... Hotels maybe?
Remember when you were at that nice hotel and stole (I mean, borrowed forever) a lovely hard cover book that talked about local and statewide delights? All those nice glossy pages?? I have a collection of San Diego ones myself ;) Even one from Santa Fe & I think I have one from New York too...
Well, you can imagine my surprise, when a certain LA based art director contacted me from the creative hub of such books. Nah, I thought. It ain't for real, it just is not. Must be a scam. They must want to bill me for all the books I have collected from hotel to hotel... Yep, that must be it.
But this certain art director, I'll call him Mister M, seemed very serious. He had a list of all my photos and creations he liked. He wanted them, to use. To use, asked I? Hmmmm, what's it gonna cost me? Asks me ;)
Now that I look back on it, he must have thought I was a certified nutcake. I sounded like that kid in home alone, asking oodles of questions, and the guy he is asking questions to, is like, "get lost kid..."
So, I pondered and pondered. And finally, went for it. I didn't understand how they wanted to use my photos, but I obliged. Maybe they would just scatter them around I thought? So, I got all FTP savvy, and got ready to upload my photos to their server. Although, I think I e-mailed them in the end. Either way, I sent them off and that was that...
I didn't let it enter my mind again. Until I got an e-mail from the delightful Miss L (Editor-in-chief from the Scottsdale branch). Who informed me that, the photos were for an article about art and craft in the Arizona Guidebook. (by the way, Mr. M and Miss L, were beyond super delightful to work with)
OH me oh my, says I ;) There really must be fairies!
Miss L asks for my address to send a copy when the 2009 book comes out, and I go one with my day to day activities for a couple of months ;) Like, saving Mister Lovee from well, himself really (ya, I didn't tell you about how he set himself on fire and was covered in it from head to toe all over the back of his robe did I? Umm yep, that is his version of making breakfast, teppanyaki show style I guess - oh and ps, don't turn on the stove when you have threads hanging off the cuff of your robe), and quail eggs from the dog, and bunnies from the dog, and puppies from the dog...
And, and and... Somewhere in there I get in some painting and creating, and squeezing limequats... Hey, speaking of fairies, seems I am like the fairy of our dirt parcel to Mister Lovee and the creatures, or maybe, the creatures here see me more as a Garden Gnome? Who knows...
Anyhow, fast forward to Tuesday. Off I go a merrily skipping along in 3 night gowns and 4 crooked crowns, in the dirt, and check my mailbox. Only to find a parcel so lovely, I squeal. Mister Lovee is driving down the driveway towards me as he is leaving for the office, and I throw myself on his car, I roll over it, and wonder if I should roll in the dirt too?
I skip and squeal, and exclaim, "I want to roll in the dirt!!" Of course, if there was grass, I would opt for that, but since there is only dirt, you get the picture...
So, I am overreacting, because this is what I see when I rip open Miss L's lovely packaging and open the book to the smack center...
WHAT? I never, not ever, not in a million years, expected THIS!
Wholey Guacamole, it's my BABIES!! What, who, where?? Oh goodness me, I must roll in the dirt out of glee!
There are a couple of snippets of my verbage throughout, and even an plug for wonderful magnificent Etsy!!
And, really, all I have to say for today is that, I am tickled to no end, but the one thing that really comes to mind is this...
I believe! I believe in magic and working hard, and holding on to your dreams. I believe in love and life, and even through loss, I believe in the enchantment of memories and heart strings and hope and SMILES...
In my late teens and early twenties, lots of people I met in the world, tried to break me down. Tried to hurt my soul, tried to tell me what I did or what I made, wasn't good, just to be mean. Sometimes I fell, and cried, and got incredibly hurt, but I always got up, and kept holding on to art and creatures and ideas. I learned how to nix the negative out of my life. I built my life around art, made all my life's decisions with art in mind. Art saves me, little faces save me. So, when I see my creatures in a little book as such I smile, and it fills my soul with such bursting joy.
In my humble way, I say, we should try to never let go of our dreams.
And above all, we should smile & believe...
My little dream in life has always been, peace in my soul, slices of happiness, health for my family, not too much worry, and a little space to make things that I enjoy, and perhaps others might enjoy too... I clasp my hands tight in prayer before I go to bed. I repeat my little dream like a mantra, I give huge thanks...
Today, I am sending all the fairies in my neck of the woods your way... Let me know if they arrive ;)
♥ , V
ps: So, if you read a few paragraphs above, I eluded to Misters Lovee's fire incident (it happened last year). Can I just tell you what he did? Please don't tell him I am outing him here like this. So, there he is making a simple dish called, Oatmeal a la fireball. I am sitting at the computer, where I can see into the kitchen. All of a sudden, I notice the entire back of his robe is bright orange with a blue glow over the top, and flames around his neck. And I scream, LOVEE YOU ARE ON FIRE!! YOU ARE ON FIRE!!! He looks at me, puzzled, wide eyed. Then realizes what I am saying, and rips off his robe. Luckily, it was when he had that long ponytail last year, and so, he just lost a bit off the bottom... He had some threads hanging off the terry cloth robe, that I guess caught on fire, and traveled up the back of his robe, from top to bottom. I guess Ralph Lauren doesn't believe in fire resistant night garb?
Anyhow, do you concur, Mister Lovee will be the death of me via heart stopping freak out? ;)
Please tell me your plus one gives you scares too? Poor Mister Lovee, he isn't that bad. 3 stresses a year is okay. But only three ;)
pss: Did you watch Marley and Me? Oh goodness, I cried so hard last night, my heart felt like it was cracking. Off I go to hug my pooch til she begs me to leave her alone.
I may be slow, but I am one greatful girl. You see, all of you who participated in the swap have indulged my treasure seeking, greedy girl side, way beyond imagineable. You all seem to know me so well. Am I that obvious? hehehe.
( The little girl above is part of last nights small shop update.)
There are treasures still trickling in (from the swap). And, others I have been so slow at sharing. Please do not ever think I am not outrageously appreciative. You all can not imagine how your gifts have made me smile! Whiskers I tell ya!! Whiskers!! They fill my spaces and are dear to my heart.
I will continue to share the swap treats. Several today, actually. First I must thank the amazing and wonderful Desiree of Daisy in lala land. There is some kind of amazing magic that exudes from her. I can feel it....
This is one of her creations. She was so kind, gifts for me, the pup & Mr. Lovee. ( The pup has her ball, she wouldn't let me photograph it!!!)
Thank you Miss Desiree! You are so kind!!!! Your creatures are more than lovely!!!
The next treat is from my dear Gilfling Designs. Such a talented woman. Her images are captivating. Am I lucky or what????? Thank you Miss Gillian!!! She has a shop too!!
The next treat is from, Amanda Button, of Pandora's Button Box. She has been so kind to me, it is unbelievable. She has filled my world with little fairy treasures and amazing music. A few months ago I received the most charming little fairy nest! And now this. I must say, there is nothing like a "naughty fairy." Thank you darling Amanda!!
And, the last gift I will share for today... Last, but so not least! Is from the wonderful, Pulp Sushi. She sent me so many little treasures! Look at all of this!! What fun! Thank you Miss Marilyn!!! Oh, and she keeps the most fab blogs!!! You must visit her!!! Welcome and thank you!!!
Now, this is for all of you who gave Mr. Lovee so much Birthday love. Like he really needed his ego boosted, NOT! But, that's okay, he is a Lovee, and you all think so too??? Yikes!!! hehehehhe. So, he says thank you! He has a treat for you....
(ps: He is an amazing thrifter. Finds fab shirts and such. He is not replaceable!! Don't you just love a man who thrifts? With or without you??? Bringing home little piano's and debonair attire? Well, I for one, do!! Although he has been known to bring home a brand new Armani jacket or two, in colors such as teal or violet or Canary yellow...)
As for your treat.....He has decided he has to go out and get a better one, as you all were so nice to him.... So, all I can say is...
I have been working diligently on a few things all week. I wanted to get some new friends in the shop. You see, I will be out of town for just a couple of days. I am going to a two night + one morning, veiled event.
Three Part Post: (Long post, but I want to make-up for a few days away)
First, let me share some crrreatures that are in the shop. Part 1:
When I start a drawing, I never really know what I am going to get. Some characters get chucked into the air, little bits of paper falling all around... Others get to live, no matter how strange they are...
The prints, print so beautifully. I have said this before, but it took so many printers and paper combos to get such a nice print. It was a frustrating process, to say the least. But now, I am so pleased, I could dance... I am having such a wonderful time with these illustrations. I enjoy drawing them so very much.
Funny how so many of the characters yearn for dessert. You see, until last year, I was never a dessert person. I also, was not a child who ever ate cake or ice-cream, declining the sweets, even at birthday parties. I had never craved a cookie or a piece of pie in my life. That was just not for me.
Curiously, one day last year, I woke up early, and I wanted one of those beautifully delicious Parisian desserts. Ever since, I have enjoyed such delicacies. Strange. Does anyone know why this is? Is there some phenomena where you get older and become a Cake-Eater?
So, I am going to an out of town veiled event. No, I won't be in a a veil.... It is a two night & one morning, wedding. Is that long?? It could be fun? I will certainly bring back some news + photographs... However, preparing for such an event, means I need to arrange my attire...
Off I drove to my in town home, in search of the proper garments... Dino joined me on the small errand voyage.
The search began...
A vintage Cele Peterson Gown??? Afterall, the wedding is in an old fantastic hotel...Umm. I just don't know...
I know! What about, black, black, or black? Yes!!! Black will do... I just picked up 16 black pieces at the dry cleaners, one is bound to work... Too bad I don't have that first girl's party dress (first illustration above).
Can she go in my place??? That metallic teal bag might be out, but, her earrings make up for it??? I could always borrow her tiara???
Time to pack. I ask, "Mr. Lovee, can I bring my trunk?" Mr. Lovee responds "No, but you can ride in the car's trunk..." Very funny Mister....
Well, I guess I am going... House-sitter gets here in 2 hours... All I can say to the bride and groom is the following - as stated at the top of one of my favorite old pieces...hee hee, hee?
Part 3:
I won't speak much, because this treasure speaks for itself. It is an incredible treat from the swap. It is from the wonderful Crust Station. Thank you so much! The wrapping alone was enough to make me scream with delight!!! I love it all!! It was such an incredible treat! Too lucky, I am!! xxxooo
Are you speechless at this swap gift? I AM! I feel so lucky, I don't know what to do with myself!!! It is better than a Birthday!
So, there you have it. I am off for a couple of days, but I will be reading from afar. Behave while I am away...But do share if you are naughty!!! See you Monday, bright and early!!
What was the most tricky way you ever got out of doing something or going somewhere???
I am keeping busy in the studio, but I decided to peek out and share a bit...As, my sharing cup runneth over, and my greedy self just adores such goodness. Yes, I can be greedy. But not for fancy cars or big houses, none of that silly stuff, quite frankly that stuff stresses me out. But, what I am greedy for are treasures, and finds, and rotting furniture and frames that I get to drag home...Of course, I am greedy for art too, but that is another story, for another day.
Today I am talking about mailbox love. You know, this is when your mailbox loves you so much it houses tons of parcels for you at one time. This was my mailbox on Monday afternoon...
Only, I am going to show it in spurts because I will ruin it if I show it all at once. WAIT!! Is that a sound I hear??? The mail-girl is here? I must run and be right back...I have an extra special purchase on its way!!!!!
It is her it is!! She is already across the street, and while I was getting my shoes on, I could see her hovering at my mailbox. Can you even imagine what she must think when she delivers all those parcels to me? She must die inside of curiosity! What a tough job. If I were a mail-person, I would have to restrain for fear of jail, but I sure would like to carry a big box of tape, and just peek in everyones packages and then re-tape....
Oh, faint, swoon, joy too much! My heart...It is here. I can't wait...Opening, and, yep, my Black Apple Originals! I can not describe how amazing they are in person. I guess I really did talk a bit about my art greed today after-all...
Aren't the new pieces a spectac addition to my little BlackApple girl above??? Can't wait to re-organize my wall...Dino, my artist friend, always says that 3 pieces makes you a collector (from the same artist that is). I also have an original conjoined twins silhouette. Love it too!
Oh, I also just put some treats in the shop, some greeting cards...I got a few more treats up my sleeve here in the very near future...Sneaky Sneaky....
Before I go to "Swap Treats" that are still trickling in, (please never stop)! I have to tell you about the best movie!!! It is called "Fur." Have you seen it? I totally enjoyed it. Circus freaks, which I adore, not freaks to me at all actually... Nudist colonies, A bit scary to me, but only if I have to wander nude myself... And, a bit of keys and Rabbit Holes!!!! All in the name of a fictional account on the beginnings of how Diane Arbus began her strange photography evolution....LOVED it! Here are some tid-bits, taken from my television with my camera, can I go to jail for this? Or pay huge fines???? YIKES!!!
Anyhow, I have to say, I really think the movie was not that far fetched....It could have happened, I mean, stranger things have....Even though it is fictional...I did some research...Not that fictional in my opinion...
Just watch it, you might like it. If you like strange movies that is...Which I enjoy quite much...
Okay, so let's get to the parcel love from the swap ( I know, it is great, still from the Trader Joe's re-usable bags). Just a few for today, like I said. So, here we go...
Look who came in a package for me, T.
Do you people know me or what? Miss Tricia sent this Canadian article about Tori Amos, huge brownie points. Not to mention a lovely embroidery, with yes, my favorite, shoes, and the logo...Thank you bundles Miss Tricia! I ate the candies faster than anything. Well, Mr. Lovee helped, and you know??? They are so much better than M&M's. M&M's should be ashamed, tastin' the way they do!!! PS, if you can find a way to make me a pair of shoes that look like this one, I would be extra happy in life. heeheeee
Look who was on the backside of this article. Funny, Alanis! So weird!!!
Miss Cindy sent the cutest little creations for my cocktail hour...Plus some daintily beaded ear jewels, to name a few. Thank you Miss Cindy!! All that hard work! psst, that photograph of your cocktail jewels is wonderful! The colors!!!
Miss Wende's package entranced me with the most cleansing scent for starters, plus, I am adoring the little plaque!!!I love it! Are the other folks in the boonies on the coast of Oregon jealous of your bag yet???? Can't wait to hang this little treasure!
I think if I share one more I will put you in overload...Okay, Okay, one more....
I just love it, it is the most soothing print, I love your work Popwheel gal! And, By the way, Miss Jennifer, I adore your business card!!! The scratch and sniff stickers, I couldn't get enough!!! It is soo funny, I just automatically scratched and sniffed!!!
Well, Ain't it too much for one girl?? I am so delighted and happy! Too kind, too fun, too nice!!! And, I didn't even show it all! You can't imagine what it has been like, opening all of these! It has made my stressful life so very very wonderful!!!! xxxooooo
Where does a girl, who feels so lucky and grateful, begin to express the magnitude of such feelings? The kindness so many of you have shown me has been undescribeable. It goes way beyond this swap, which by the way, has wonderfully floored me. Your generosity leaves me without words. I know how busy everyone is, and how we all have real lives outside of this blogging world...Yet, you take the time...And for that, I thank you so very much.
(I had already posted this blog post last night, when this morning, I read the most tragic story. I too, type through tears. Details Below.)
The seasons have definitely changed. While at my home in town, the air conditioning keeps the house nice and frozen in the 100 degree weather. Yes we hit 100 today. In the country home, it is a whole other story. Mr. Lovee got on the roof a couple weeks ago and did the cooler thing (commonly known as a "swamp cooler"). Which means that it is wavy hair season, as the swamp cooler adds humidity to the air.
Please share your stories of what happens to your hair in the humidity. I want to hear it, so I don't feel so alone...I used to hate humidity as a teenager, as Arizonans have a weird hatred towards moisture(although we pray for rain??). Now as an adult, I don't mind my wild untamed waves so much...
So, I know you guys are going to begin to get annoyed at me. But I have to tell you. I received another package today. And it was good. FUN - Good.
I must confess, I really worry what is to become of me, that sorrowful day when the packages stop coming. I am becoming so spoiled. But, the parcels have been arriving at a time when I really needed them. My real world and work and all was getting a bit much.
I have to say, your generosity has been incredible. I never expected so much parcel love! I can not say Thank You enough.
Today's treasure came from Emma. A kind wonderful soul who lost her apartment in a fire a few months back. She has been waiting patiently to get her living space back. It will be fixed up extra nice for her. But in the meantime, the poor dear has all of her belongings in storage. I can not imagine how she must feel. Big Hug to you sweetie.
Having an energy boosting lozenge, Hmm, interesting. Oh, these stickers are fab, did you make them Emma?? Oo, I love them!!
Isn't this so much FUN!! Unraveling and unraveling.....Oooo, look , a wee package...
OH!!! I love it!!! A Key, on a chain!!! Oh, Emma, that packaging was so clever. I just love it!! Thank you!!!!!
Do you see what I mean? You gals have spoiled me, and I am loving every minute of it. From this day to this day, to now....Oh, I feel so greedy....But, oh so happy!!
I know lately I have been so "me me me." But, I promise to get back to the whole reason for this blog, very soon. Do we even remember the reason? ART. Speaking of art, I just placed another Jennifer Kerr order, and my mother's days gifts are here. Only they are sealed. I don't know how I will part with them. I will photograph them when the Queen bee opens them...They came from my darling Stiletto Heights and from Thompson Designs, her checkbook covers are wonderful, I ordered one for myself also. Check them out!!!!
If for some reason, I don't get to see you before Sunday, Happy Mother's Day! Even if your baby has outgrown the buggy, he or she will always be, your baby....XXO, Vanessa
Update May 11,2007 11a.m..
This morning I was reading Pam Garrison's blog. I read a story that shook me to the core. Many of you have read this story, but I have to say, everytime I read about it, I feel so much pain for the family. Lori and Chris Coble lost their three children last week in a car accident. If you are not aware of the incident, newspaper article here and here. I have been in tears all moring. I can not imagine the pain Lori must be in, I am not a mother, but the thought. Just the idea of it shatters my heart. As I went to comment at Pam's I saw a link left by Risa, the ParTea Planner to a tribute site at Life to Motion. I decided that, even though I do not personally know the Coble's, and I am all the way in Arizona, I want to share my thoughts and prayers.
Risa said the following on her blog "Should you find it in your heart, please tie two pink and one blue ribbon on your tree in remembrance of these lil' angels. Thank you."
So, in memory of those three little angels and through my tears and heartache for the family, I did tie ribbons around my tree. One blue, two pink. Little birds fluttered around me and chirped, wondering what I was doing...I offer my deepest sympathy and prayer for the Coble family...words can never say enough...
Early Morning Sounds. The sound of my daily freshly squeezed grapefruit juice on its way. "Oh no!" she thinks, "I am not ready to get up yet, I must, put a lock on that inside door..." She hears the following words..."Ohhhh Doveeeee, you have treasures..." Well, little does he know, I saw those treasures yesterday late afternoon...Yep, in the BIG huge mailbox...
But, I saved them in the mailbox to savor them to death this morning instead. You see, I am the impatient sort. However, I am finding boundaires work for me sometimes. As in, "You can not have your packages until the A.M. as you will enjoy them more." I might sulk away, but I do in fact savor them more....
So, this morning, it was clear that you all have made me feel like a total Queen. A sleepy, can't show my whole morning face Queen. But, a Queen, nonetheless...Mr. Lovee said, "Stop putting on the sad Queen face." And I kept responding "Just take one of my head." And he said, "It doesn't make you real enough if I just take your head" And I said, "Take the darn thing or I'll show you real...." Of course, enforcing my Queen skills, of the sleepiest, grouchiest, thankful-est kind (okay, maybe I didn't say that, but I thought it!!hee hee)....I kept moving, hence the blurry picture...(crown, previously owned, purchased here)
And, here are all of the treasures, after every savory minute of opening them...Delving into all of the notes...Admiring them, and feeling so overwhelmed that I could just cry like a baby ~ out of happiness of course!!!
Miss Sadira, Foolsewoode, I can not express my adoration for her creations, and creative poem skills. The fact that she was willing to part with actual old pages from an Alice in Wonderland book, just floors me. But, I am glad she did, as I have new art to put on my walls. I love them!!!!
Sadira's handwriting is scrumptious. She should get a big A for all subjects due to lovely penmanship(I can't spell). THANK you miss darling girl!!!! I can not express my adoration for the words that emerged with your creativity of blocking...LOVE IT!!!(it is also,squeel, double sided art!)Thank you!!
Miss Natash Burns, and her oh so lovely cards. I think I might need that dress on the one card, if I ever throw myself a wedding. Of course, I have wedding paranoia, so it would be a wedding for myself, to myself. Mr. Lovee could come of course...But, he would have to be, My umm, best man?? Hee hee.
Oh, I need the sake in the one card too (are you all wondering what the "sake" is? Well, it is my pre-fixed typo for cake. But I left it, because SAKE, is really what I'm going to need if I ever plan to make it down any aisle in a gown...and lots of it). Miss Natasha, do you think you could whip them up in the real for me? We would need that carousel for the guests....And the flowers for my thing-a-ma-bob brides walk down the aisle with...Do they still do that??? We can have a pretend wedding...And I want you Natasha, to be my wedding stuff creator.. K?
Thank you for the lovely cards!!!!!
So, if we are in the wedding mood, Gosh, this is too weird,but if we are...Then I have the perfect shoes to wear. I LOVE THEM!!!!!! Okay, let's swap the wedding idea for a Gala Ball instead...
So, I still have the perfect shoes from Shabby In The City!! Along with a boxfull of treasures! Some wonderful seeds, as I love to grow things, and there is even a treasure for my date, who by the way, is in heaven. I think he thinks all these gifts are for him! Well, I do share with him alot, so, he is lucky...You will see below.
Perfect fit. I feel like Cinderella. Oh, ya, I guess you gals get to see that my Easter basket is still around...I told you, I am a big kid. I can not escape it!
See here is the treasure from Miss Shabbitta for Mr. L. I put it in Mr. Lovee's room, on his gentleman's chest...Will he find it???? (he kinda caught me...He was like "What are you doing in here? Are you snooping?? What are you up to??? sheesh....)
Oh yes, he did find it alright!!
He is tooooo happy about the whole thing!!!! Thank you!!!! We love them alll!!! You are too too kind!!!!!
Yet another one of those days when you think, "I can't possibly get any luckier." And then, you open a package that, makes you realize, "I can get luckier, I can I can" Miss Beeutiffle sent, yes, I know, delicious, and so exciting!! All the way from New Zealand, which I can't express the feel of this New Zealand wool! A "Needle Felting Kit." I have been wanting to do this for oh so long, as Miss Black Apple inspired me sooooo! And, I thought, where to begin??? Well, here is the first step, all planned out for me!!! Mr. Lovee was in love with all the wool.
Here he is, stealing it...(just kidding, I won't let him)
Thank you Miss Beeutiffle! So thoughtful of you! And all the way from New Zealand! LUCKY me!!!
Mr. Lovee indulged in all your swap gifts...See below.
I have to say, I think I am getting the better end of the swap. You all are being so generous and thoughtful! I am so greatful to know all of you! This is just incredible!!!!
I think I'll put my crown on one more time, then off to work...
This leaf. It is lovely, but it is not alive. It makes me smile, but it will never grow. I can treasure it and hold it in the palm of my hand...But...
I know that you really are out there, reading this post right now? I know that the lovely lovely comments I receive are not merely a manifestation of my imagination, right?
But, sometimes, it all seems so surreal. Typed words, Images, Comments, E-mails...Is it really you? Are you really out there in the flesh???
YES! You are! Phew! I was getting worried about myself. You do know, my brother calls me Sybil. So, you must understand why I might doubt that you aren't just fairy friends dancing around in my head...
But then we have, Proof + Parcels. That combination gives me more happiness than love-notes from what's his face in 4th grade...
The proof in parcels started with a walk to the mailbox today...Passed the Sphinx cactus, and the dog-who thinks she is a pig as she loves to roll in mud. Then, passed another blooming cactus, which dances in the garden with Cinderella & a Pecan tree...
What a life....
Is that a nest in the works I spy?
How could the following parcel find not make someone swoon over the moon???
Some I ordered, but more were the treasures that are trickling in from the giveaway/swap!
First, a lovely Ratmusque poster, which I had forgotten I ordered! So, I was extra delighted at my forgotten purchase!
Miss Karla Nathan (Karla, oops sorry,silly me got confused!!!) sent the loveliest cards!!!! Which she made...How sweet and charming!!!! Can't wait to use one...Oh, maybe I can't part with any???Thank you!!!
I think Miss Tiffany is hinting at some purple action!!! She makes the most wonderful love-boxes, of which I was the most grateful recipient in a giveaway at her blog a few months ago!!!Miss Tiff, purple is way tooo much fun! My Mom's fave color!!! Thank you!!!
And, talk about making me walk on clouds! Look at this! Miss Kelly! I was so surprised, so was Mr. Lovee! My first real wearable item with my blog and shop name!!! Yippee!!! Thank you!!!
Just when I thought things could not get any better, I open a box from Miss Michelle!!! And what do I find??? Pure treasures runneth over! I did a little jig and skip and squeezed my new friend tight! And then saw he had a little tale!!! And of course, Salvador had to put on the scarf, which is fab! And the tote? Sweet as pie!! Thank you!!!
So, you heard how I didn't think things could get better???Well, right now I am dancing around like a lunatic!! Mr. Lovee wants it! Well, maybe for the mandolin??? Oh NEVER, I can't part!!! Miss Rodrigivitz Style, your creation is wonderful! Thank you so much!!!
So, you see, there is proof that you all really are out there! What a relief! But, then, what about Mr. Frog who lives in my room, has he really been talking to me??? You know, the prince thing and all??
Pssst.... Do not tell anyone I was here. I am incognito as I am working diligently on....(click on any picture to enlarge)
Getting all those parcels delivered to you giveaway/swap gals. I have my magic Schwinn all loaded up for the delivery. We will float amongst the clouds in the rays of the moonlight, making sure these lovelies get into all of your mailboxes...Kinda like Santa, only, the female version. And, I don't have a beard, I don't think so at least? And, I am 5' 2" and not as rotund...I do have a cackle, instead of a chuckle...And, I have a bike instead of a sleigh. Okay, Okay, maybe not quite like Santa.. hee hee...Use your imagination.
There has been soo much magic around here today. This morning before I left a bird amuzed me by visiting the frog birdfeeder I made.
Then, this afternoon, I was frolicking, when a teeny little hummingbird landed on the chandelier hanging from "My love Tree." Can you spot it???
Then I looked in the mailbox and there was this wonderful postcard.
I had forgotten that I had visited Ana Bagayan, where I found a little postcard giveaway. I signed up, never ever thinking one would come to me...Guess what? It did! Yippee!
Now to the topic of Melancholy. I know this does not go with this post at all, but I was wondering??? Do anyone of you ever feel melancholic over missing times in the past? I know we all miss and have memories. But, I am talking about places and simplicity. Really, in the form of places like, Woolworth(s)? I have been thinking about this so very much. I remember being a kid and being so excited to go downtown in the tiny town I grew up in. We would go down and visit Woolworth and Kress. Always finding little treasures?? And, as I get older, those memories are so hard to grasp. I think I was about 6 - 8 when the amazing Woolworth's store closed. When I was a teenager, the building, still in tact, became a shop selling fake designer stuff...Strange...
There is my little Woolworth's tribute. You know, I googled Woolworth's and I found that the name still exists in some places??? But, is it still a 5 and dime store??
Off, I go. Please inspire me to finish packaging up the last of the 30 totes :)
I just adore parcels. Did I tell you I love receiving parcels? I love receiving them so much that the two I received last night I saved for this morning. I love them so much that I spend hours packing up parcels for other little munchkins. This morning, when I sat down at my little tattered white table with my tattered yellow bus school chair, I devoured each moment with these lovely lovely parcels...
Oh my goodness...Are there treats??? What is that I see??? "Pigeon, is that you???" Let's dump it out and see??? It is it is, it is my treat from the most talented and adorable Wee Foxling?? Yes it is, A Small Fox In a Big World undoubtedly. May I add caring and kind-hearted to the mix of this Foxling Girl? Of course I may. I had to Leave Henry behind, and I am so so sorry Henry. But Miss Pigeon, the teeny pink fluffy owl, has a new home!!! Is she a Pigmy Owl? You know those are endangered in Az. I have to submit info. about that as disclosure to my clients in the Real Estate World!! Can you believe it?
Oh goodness, what is all this lovely stuff with this Parcel???!!! Yippee!!! Oh, Hello little Pigeon. I love you so!!! I can see you in there...How was your flight???
My little sweet Pigeon is adorable isn't she? Come here little Pigeon, let me take care of you. Oops, I have paint on my hands. That must be from the frames I am painting for my wonderful AshleyG prints.
I am so glad that when you adopt you get chocolates instead of stitches...Thank you Miss Foxling. But, don't worry, I won't eat them. I will be good, I will save them as gifts for Valentine's Day...devilishly grinning, hee hee hee. Maybe I'll need to have my lips stitched so I don't eat them. Singing in my best Madonna voice from the early nineties, "You abandoned me, 'will' power don't live here anymore, just a vacancy...lalalalala"
Well, maybe just one. I really have not had breakfast you know. And I am doing this funny diet from a lovely little Prescott friend. Just chocolate and coffee. All day. All you want. And then maybe a multi-vitamin. So my teeth don't rot. You know those darn teeth. Oh, my, gobble, they are so, mmm, my, gobble, my so tasty, Oh maybe I'll just have another???
Oh Goodness. Did I get carried away with the chocolates?? Oh no, no ( straightening my dress, I mean my nightgown which I am still wearing late in the morning, I mean early in the morning, yes, early) I did not. Pigeon, what have you done??? Did you eat all of those???
Now why does Pigeon look so sad? It is not My fault that she ate all of those. People should just take responsibility for themselves....Aye aye aye. I guess she'll have to seek professional help next, do you know any good Owl shrinks?? Am I cut out for this?? Parenting??? hee. Okay, Let's try putting Pigeon in a lovely branch. Maybe her personality will flourish amongst the beauties??? (ps: Pigeon has a lovely demeanor, it is not her fault she lives with, well, a nut-cake? now).
Pigeon seems to be doing well, hanging around the lovely branch. Now, let's get back to the Parcels!!! The next one is one I longed for with great anticipation. It took so long to get here (well, I guess not that long, like 3 weeks), and Karena was so patient with my worried inquiries. But they are here, and well worth the wait!! By the way, there was a big neon sticker on the Parcel that said it was held up in customs for security reasons, or something like that...It is here now though, and that is all I care about, MagicJelly treasures! Thank you Karena!!!
Her work is fabulous. You know what I find with Etsy purchases? I have had some really great quality pieces sent to me with such attention to detail! Bravo! So, here they are.. Ta-da!!!
I think these works are so intriguing and wonderful!!! A perfect addition to my bedroom away from my main home. They will live happy here at the loftish space home.
I spent the evening making up my own packages for some treasured folks I have met here. I hope that I will have enough time and love to put this into many packages that I hope many of you will receive from me. There is a special someone who has been waiting for a special something in a place that starts with an "E," for way too long. The problem is, everytime I thought I would send it, I had a little addition. She will get it in a few days though, and I think it has been worth the wait!!!!!... I even did a little extra crocheting...Look away Miss "R," look away.
Then another little friend who I have had more fun creating a little package for who finds herself in a curious blue dress, it was all part of a bribery I promised to help with, will receive something marvelous soon!!! That parcel went out today!!!! keep a watchful eye!!! And, I wish I had a camera there when these get opened!!! I wish to pieces!!!
Well, I am off. I have been sitting in this space for way too long. Sometimes it feels like days. I will be at the pottery Studio all day Tomorrow, and then helping Mr. Dino D'Taos move on Friday. Just 3 -1/2 minutes away from me by car. My toosh is sore from sitting... Do you get tired from sitting too long at the computer...My bones hurt!! A sign, time to go outside and play!!!
I am so addicted to this discovery(above edible), they call it chocolate covered honeycomb. But it is like puffed carmelized honey covered in chocolate, I choose the dark chocolate. The inside melts in your mouth. You must try it!!! Oh wait, what is that sound? a car, a truck? a bird? a plane????
Wait what???No, this is too Ironic, down my never visited street? Now, during Parcel post writing??? Yes, it is, it is, it is!!! A UPS man!!! I am running out, in the cold, in my nightgown... Off I go...They actaully visit the boonies? and my street at the studio??? YAY!!!! I am leaving bye, bye, see you soon!!! All you wonderful lovelies!!!!
Oh no!! he is leaving, wait, come back, come back Jack, come back, wait Jack, come back, please Jack, please (why did that just sound like a line from Titanic?). He is gone. No no no. That means no more parcels for me for today. Is his name Jack? Whatever...
Good-bye, adios!!! I am in the cold, in the yard, standing in the dirt, barefoot. Time to paint!!!What fun!!!
Pss. if you get this far...you should know, this whole post started with me dreaming about Gerard Depardieu and his description of how he met Bronte (Andy McDowell, spelling? ) in Greencard...Parcels, she was carrying all of these parcels.....
♥ ABOUT ♥
Hello, my name is Vanessa Valencia and I am an artist living in a lovely part of Arizona. I make all kinds of art, from painting to clay sculpting. I love tending my gardens and cuddling my dogs. This blog is about art, lifestyle, gardening, cooking, crafting & every single little magical thing in between ♥
