As the new year begins I've found myself reflecting on 2008, and one of the things that struck me was how blessed I've been to increasingly become part of such a vibrant community of paper crafting women. admittedly life often feels like overwhelming chaos as I juggle work projects, clients, and motherhood, and i tend to lose sight of the joy that all of these relationships bring me. But this year i'm determined to take more time to appreciate each of these inspiring friends and clients and all that they do to enrich my life. Three such friends created thoughtful handmade gifts that touched me so deeply i feel compelled to share them.
With firsthand knowledge of my weakness for cupcakes, bling, and all things pink,
Lori set about creating the most precious birthday "cupcake" i've ever seen. I cannot imagine the hours that went into creating each and every perfect detail. words, and even photos, cannot do it justice. And as if the creation itself wasn't darling enough, it actually opens to reveal a keepsake box!
You could say
Natalie and I bonded over bookbinding. At one point in life i dreamed of being a full time bookbinder, so when i met Natalie and discovered that she actually teaches bookbinding classes at
BYU i was beyond impressed (and a little bit jealous!). Natalie is in demand (her talents extend far beyond bookbinding!), she's got a full time job with
pcLayers on top of her teaching schedule, freelance work, 3+ blogs, and
expecting her first child in just two months, so the mere fact that she went to so much effort and thought to create something special makes me weepy just to consider. In creating the sweet little notebook pictured below she even used patterned papers that were
designed by me. could she be any more thoughtful? amazing.
Last, but not least, my dear friend
Becky (a fellow tennis nut!) created this stunning "glisten" banner. The handwork and details that she put into the design are incredible, and again i cannot fathom the time and effort this must have taken. I adore seeing it and found it the perfect home in my entryway. Becky made "glisten" become the theme for the entire holiday season, and i'm so reluctant to say goodbye that if you stop by my house you'll see that her gorgeous creation is still gracing my entry!
i am awestruck by the thoughtfulness of each of these gifts. These creative genius's inspire me to want to be a better artist, friend, mother, and wife. i hope i can rise to the challenge this year. Below is a little gift of my own creation, a freebie digital Quick Page! actual size is 8x8, and features the word "glisten" of course! enjoy, and happy new year. xoxo.