We won't see many of the classic signs of Fall... no frost, no gold and crimson forests. There won't be many leaves falling in our yard. Around here, the clues that the season is changing are more subtle, or overtly commercial. No falling leaves, but gifts and tokens of kindness are falling all over. Blogger friends can take the chill out of any day. I was certainly warmed to the core when I found a little package from "Nikkipolani," a blog where gardens, photography and good cooking come together for inspiration and gratitude. Out of the blue... two books and scrumptious, healing lip balm were delivered to me. Surprise!
I wasn't going to share this, but the lip balm could not have come in a more timely fashion, because my lip needs healing. I was multi-tasking, and having only two hands, I employed my lips to hold the package of 3M Clear Mounting Squares I was using to hang a picture. When my hands were free I reached for the little pack of stickies and found that my lip was sticking to the package's own adhesive seal. No problem... I tugged slightly and YOW! my lip was stripped! The seal came away with a line of skin from my lower lip, and left it swollen and bleeding. It hurt, but I was still laughing, because it was so dorky.
Thank you so much for sharing these cheering and warm gifts with me. I think I will post some of the "Quilting" quotes. The little books are dear, and my coconut cream lip balm is making my lip, and ego, feel much better.
Tracy sent me a pair of earrings she made, and they make me happy to wear... I just love feeling like Norway is a little closer, and that I have a friend there too. Tracy you are a gem. Your craftsmanship and creativity deserve a standing ovation, and then you add your generosity and those kind words and hugs you send to everyone, and I feel amazed, grateful to know you, inspired to spread hugs too. How did I get so lucky to know you? And when I am overwhelmed with joyful tears I will reach for one of the tissues you sent, all hugged in the quilted holder... it's pretty, warm and thoughtful, just like you.
I know someone that I exchange favors with, who has become a friend, a very generous friend. Our sons go to school together, so we can help each other quite often. She and her son took (better) care of our cats while we were away. I think the cats must miss the lavish attention they get when we leave! Some days I give her son rides to and from school. I am happy to help her, and I cannot convince her that it's not a problem. She adds gifts to her thanks, like a gas card and flowers from her garden and homemade jam. Homemade strawberry jam! Now, we've brought them thank you gifts too, because it's such a relief to know our kitties are happy and safe while we are traveling, but I don't know if our gifts can compare with the sweetness of strawberry jam. Julie, you are too sweet!