random acts of crafty kindness

There has been a lot of love coming my way this birthday summer, some of it from wonderful fellow bloggers. I can't tell you how much this has moved me. I've even coined a little term for it as I talk about it with my husband. We've been calling it random acts of crafty kindness. I wanted to share some of the beauty that has appeared in my mailbox and point you in the direction of three very talented and generous friends. You may already know them... either way, go say "hi" if you have a moment. First up is Melissa from Tiny Happy. She has just returned to her home in New Zealand and sent me the above delicious package... just because! Just because she's wonderful! We share a similar love for simplicity, and she knew exactly how much I would appreciate her little treasures of thrifted goodness. That thick linen/burlap fabric is calling to me for something special. I had commented about it after she had discovered it at a flea market months and months ago. What overwhelming thoughtfulness to remember! Thank you, Melissa! x0

Next up is Margie, of Resurrection Fern. She sent me a birthday package that included such delicate beauty and even some treasures to share with my children (who met her last spring and adore her!). Inside that pretty little package of spoonflower fabric (a Margie and Geninne collaboration) was one of my favorite crocheted stones! You remembered, Margie. Thank you! xo
That sweet little woodland softie is a pocket friend my daughter and I like to share on walks... although it's been known to hide under her pillow at nap time.
The two pendants: a crocheted snail shell/ flower vessel and the beaded feather have both found happy places around all of our necks at different times throughout the summer. My son was very proud to wear that feather to his wilderness camp. Thanks from all of us!And then there is Julie, of el mundo de Julie en el mundo. We have been writing back and forth through e-mail since my blogging beginnings. I think of her as my rainbow half. Her vibrant, Argentinian home and creations always make me happy. She dares to use colors in ways I can only dream of. Julie quieted her usual palette long enough to make me a beautiful custom pair of natural linen Thai fisherman pants... just like her children's style. As a gift, she embroidered a surprise for me... I had discovered Julie through her embroidery so this was especially sweet and meaningful. Our cat, Hickory, appreciates lovely stitches, too. He couldn't stay away... I seriously took half a dozen shots before I realized it was time to include him! Julie and I have daughters the same age... and she couldn't resist tucking a rainbow in the mail for my girl! This picture is for you, Julie! She wears her hand-knit rainbow, EVERYWHERE.

( Incidentally, those fave boots are another random act of kindness... from Karen. See this post. )
What amazing women they each are!
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There are so many incredible connections we all are making using our computers. Reaching out beyond the screen, to send a little handmade surprise to one of our on-line friends, transcends the virtual relationship and makes it real... makes it tangible in new way. I'm hoping you'll join me in sending out your own random act of crafty kindness. I already know where my next bit of "love in the mail" will go... do you? I bet someone jumped into your mind right away that you'd enjoy surprising with a handmade gift. Go to it! Let's continue to bring the online craft revolution into our homes... but not just through the screen... lets fill up real mailboxes! I'm starting a flickr group called: well, what else... Random Acts of Crafty Kindness. Let's share what we're giving and receiving and celebrate these relationships!