Thursday 11 December 2008

Heartfelt Thanks and Creativity . . .

Hello!!!

Its so good to be back and to post pretty pictures and talk about nice things!!!!

First of all, I am trying to personally email all of you who left us beautiful and supportive comments and emails during my step-fathers illness and passing. If I miss you out (accidentally!!) please accept my heartfelt thanks. I found it of great comfort to know that there are so many kind and caring people out there in the world. It re-affirms the beauty found in blogging.


There is so much to catch you all up on, over the last few months I have ripped out gardens, re-done gardens, moved plants and given the downstairs area of the house a make-over. I'll save those photos for another post though.

Way back (I always start to talk about a swap like this), anyway, way back . . . I took part in Louise's Vintage Boudoir Swap and although it is very belated I would like to share it with you.

Here is what I sent Louise, I do like my wrapping but can't remember all of what I sent, white vintage pillowcases, vintage bag and gloves, rose pen, book . . . stuff . . .


and here is what she sent me, GORGEOUS!!!! Vintage hankies, crochet mats, beaded rose bag, one of her lavender sachets trimmed with vintage lace and button, a pair of her earrings, collage and gorgeous fan card. Isn't that the prettiest and most thoughtful selection of goodies ever!!!


Over the last few months I have been creating, most of which I can't show you yet because it is either not finished or gifts for people who might read this blog (MUM!!!) LOL . . .

I made this lavender heart for The Princess's teacher. Its made from a vintage New Zealand wool blanket and vintage embroidery. Its rustic looking but smells good!!!


I have lavender coming out of my ears, the garden is over grown with it, this harvest is from a couple of years ago, I am using it at the moment for crafting, the house smells divine . . .


My Mum organised a 12 Days of Christmas swap among friends and family in NZ and Australia. We start opening on Sunday, can't wait!!!

The gift I made is in the calico bag with the "Compliments of the Season" label sewn onto it.

I'll share my pressies with you daily once I start opening them!!!



To get me into the swing of blogging again and also to motivate me to finish decorating the house and the three Christmas trees we have that are still in a state of undress I am going to join Heather Pretty Petals, A Pretty Little Christmas blogging party.

Blogging parties are so much fun, so do join in if you can.


And with that, I'll leave you for now, but am back and blogging, oh it does feel good!!!

Take Care - Rachaelxo

19 comments:

12 Days of Christmas Swap said...

Of course I need a maid , yes it is good to be back blogging.

12 Days of Christmas Swap said...

Parcel number 3 looks good.Wonder what could be in there.Oh my god from virgin blogger to stalker.
Cheers Hazel

Lori said...

you got some lovely things for your swap, that beaded bag is really beautiful!!!

Victoria - Florence and Mary said...

So pleased to have you back and back showing us some wonderful things.

Victoria xx

Sherry said...

You've been missed but it is good to see you back and I'm glad you took the time for you. All that lavender looks so lovely!!!!

Jillian's Bella Rosa Antiques said...

So sorry to hear of your StepFather's passing...

Your goodies are wonderful..and I definitely love how you wrapped up the gifts you sent out.

Jillian

Natasha Burns said...

Great to have you back girly!!! Loving the swap goodies!

LiLi M. said...

Good to have you back in blogland, thanks for your email. The swap goodies are great. I admire your mum that she organised a swap, it brings joy to all participants. Have fun opening your packages!

Sugar Bear said...

Welcome back!
Karla

Aimz said...

Welcome back Rachael! Good to see you again.

bluemuf said...

Hi Rachael, nice to see you back blogging,

Hugs Karen

CatieAn said...

oh rachael
am so glad you are back to blogging. Now I have to shed my woes and resume as well!!
hugs
catie

Anonymous said...

Dear Rachael,

Welocme back! I ahve missed you and am glad you are feeling a a bit of holiday creativity flowing this season. Beautiful things happening here. Love the swap goodies!

Joyce said...

Rachael,
Thanks for your little note.
I hope that your family is getting through the loss of your Step Father. I know it is especially hard during the Holidays.
It is always good to be back on track and focused and doing something that you like to do.
Gives one "purpose."
Hang in there.....and Merry Christmas!
Joyce

Clare and Mike said...

So sorry to hear of your sad news, it doesn't make it any easier at this time of year.

Seeing all those lovely wrapped goodies has made me think about wrapping some presents up!

Clare x

Sandra Evertson said...

Love the little brown lavender heart!
Sandra Evertson

Bethany said...

So nice to see you back and blogging again, I agree :) Lovely photos of the pretties both given and received!! I'm scurrying arounf to finish up my decor too for the Christmas party at Heather's...can't wait to see eveyone's decor!! xo

Cape Cod Rambling Rose said...

It's so nice to have you back, Rachel! Blogging really does pull us all together! I'm glad you were pleased with our swap! =) Your 12 Days of Christmas gifts looks like they'll be so fun to open! I'm joining Heather's party, too - see you then! hugs!!!

Linda said...

Rachael....I have been catching up. I knew your step father had been very ill and was so sorry to read of his passing. You and your family have my deepest sympathies. Hugs, Linda