Yesterday as I was rushing out the door to pick up the kids from school, I stumbled in to 2 boxes waiting for me on the door step.  I had to endure the suspense because there was no time to open them until I got home.

My charms from the recent Chain Chain Chain swap arrived!  Laurel Steven of Charmsters hosted this one…and she warned us that the tags were just as wonderful as the chain links.  Just looking at all the charms together looked like one big colorful celebration.  Not only did I see great chain ideas, but I really enjoyed all of the stamped tags ribbons & fibers that were used.

Here’s a close up of one of my favorites – I got a kick out of the vintage photo  Keli Hansen used for the tag.  Just visited her blog for the first time and WOW…what a great studio tour she posted a few posts back!

And when I opened the second box…oh I enjoyed a few moments reflecting on the special treasures inside.  Kerry has generously offered to keep an eye out for vintage finds when she’s out on her estate sale treks…and does she ever have GOOD ones up there in NY!  She has an eye and knows exactly the kind of things I would hold dear.  The vintage ledgers are from 1909 and the early 20’s.  I really enjoy reading through the handwritten accounts  and seeing old fashioned names such as Bertha and Emma.  The old rosaries are rusted and some of the medals have an aged patina.  I’ve already added one of the mother of pearl medals to a necklace that I’m working on.  This box from my first online blogging friend sure made my day.  Actually, we go back to my pre-blogging days. 🙂

Now that school’s in session, the birthday party invites are going to start rolling in.  My 7 year old is going to his first party of the year tonight…laser tag.  That’s a new one for me but I tell you he’s excited and his big brother is jealous.  And speaking of which, my oldest son has a birthday around the corner himself…we’re busy planning his Magic theme party now.  Making over 30 invitations the old fashioned way may not have been the best idea, but my husband helped me and even overcame his fear of  glitter in the end.

Enjoy the rest of the week!