for me? (and a giveaway!)

Illustration by Racey Helps

Today I am feeling a bit like this lucky little hedgehog because two parcels just arrived in the mail and I have a third I have been waiting to share.

• • • • •

The first is from my sister Betsy. I keep trying to convince her to start a blog. Betsy finds THE GREATEST shops, introduced me to dècor magazines and like me, GASPs uncontrollably at pretty little things.



Betsy lives in NJ and we take turns sending each other cards and little presents.


Click to enlarge for detail

GASP! Betsy's enclosed prediction was correct: I LOVE this! It is painted in the softest shades with some metal showing through and just glittered all over. It's perfect.

• • • • •

Next is an Etsy purchase I made from Tami at Pink Butter Creme. Tami's blog and shops are sooooo pretty. I bought some of her hand-painted and glittered cupcake picks.



Look at her packaging! Cellophane + ribbon + millinery flowers =
S W O O N



Even a little wrapped thank-you magnet. What is better than that? I find that most online sellers, including myself, really strive to make every purchase feel like a present.

• • • • •

And finally, my sweetie pie friend Sharon over at My Life at Pansy Cottage & Garden and I decided to send each other some little gifts ... just because. Here is what I received from Sharon:




LOVE this!


Even cookies!



And one of Sharon's adorable aprons. I love the coordinating fabrics and small pocket, and the colors make me think of Baskin-Robbins!



It's not too late to enter Sharon's apron giveaway so hop on over to her blog and this could be you ...



but with a reversable apron.

xo