special deliveries

Jenn dropped by on Monday to deliver her gifts. She had a beautifully wrapped present, and then, as an apology because it wasn't handmade, she also brought a bag of toffee crunch Hershey's kisses and a box of homemade caramels! (and her homemade caramels are SO good...) Completely unnecessary, of course, but greatly appreciated nonetheless.

On Tuesday (I think), Hannah brought by this bag of books I had lent her awhile ago. It was exciting to look through, as I couldn't remember what books they were. It turns out I love them! (Books in general, but some of these ones are particular favorites.) It's always fun to pass on beloved books to a friend and discover that they like them as well.

I found a note in the bag saying that Mya had given one of the books a bath, so Hannah bought me a replacement copy, and she also enclosed a gift card to Barnes & Noble! So sweet. Again, completely unnecessary but greatly appreciated. (so funny that the back she brought the books in is one from my mom's store in Pennsylvania!)

Yesterday, Amy H. came over to help me finish up the project she's been helping me with. I believe this brings her total time helping me to about 5 hours, all with little Alex vying for her attention. I was touched that she would do this -- for me, the gift of time represents a great sacrifice. I am always, always overwhelmed by acts of service.

A card Jill sent me while on her trip to California. She was musing about the possibility of too much family togetherness, and I had to laugh out loud. Jill has such a talent for writing great notes, and that was some serious planning ahead to have a photo card with her -- I enjoyed it even better than a postcard.

Natasha sent me a card with another card inside: apparently she had sent me the pink card in Paris -- timed to arrive just before I did, so as to have good mail awaiting me. It never arrived in Paris, and she received it back just recently! (In case you're wondering, that is about a 7-month turnaround time. France!) I was impressed with her thoughtfulness and tickled by the fact that she still sent it me here.

A characterically prompt thank you card from Hannah for the little birthday gift I gave her. She is always unbelievably prompt!

A terrible picture of a cute card that Jill sent to thank me for giving her a pie-making tutorial. I always feel blessed when Jill documents a part of my life, because it is almost always something that I wouldn't think to document myself (and she takes such great photos!). I am a big fan of her photo cards. I always think, "I should do that, too", but that would mean I'd have to actually have prints of my photos, ha!

Barb made me this sign, based on something she had read on my blog. So clever! I am hanging this in plain view so I can remember it. Also, check out those amazingly cool Canadian stamps -- those are a work of art in and of themselves, and I can't bear to throw them away.

Thank you, one and all!