Spreading Out The Joy

Remember yesterday when I said "it is the season of surprises"? Well, today, another HUGE surprise arrived (I am feeling VERY spoiled!). While I was out running errands before the blizzard is in full swing, my dear friend Mary left the most amazing surprise box at my front door! I have been feeling quite under the weather with another (or maybe the same) head cold and was having quite a rough day - only to come home and find this over-the-top surprise. Mary and I both have hectic schedules and haven't had a chance to get together this holiday season - but that sure didn't stop her from sharing the Christmas love! I arrived home to find a great plastic storage box (which will now be a home for in-progress quilt blocks) filled - yes, filled with small wrapped packages. Now those of you who know me or follow my blog, are aware I absolutely adore tiny packages - in fact, stockings have always been my favorite, as my mother would wrap everything when she filled mine - to me there is so much excitement in seeing an array of small wrapped presents. Although I thought momentarily about opening a gift a day...or saving these packages until Christmas, the little girl in me had to open all of them immediately (and there was A LOT to open)!

Mary actually stitched me "The Queen Bee" by JBW Designs - which is perfect! Many of my friends call me "B"...and honey bees have a special place in my heart, as my grandfather was a beekeeper - she knows all this and cross stitched this design especially for me...a truly touching piece. Plus, she knows how much I love to sew, quilt, and create and is letting me decide how to finish it - which is a gift in itself - I already have a ton of ideas!

This fun surprise box was filled with things I love (a TON of thought went into it!) - fabrics, tea, miniature rick rack, ornaments, a journal, a book, stationery, and multiple other treats...to be honest, I am overwhelmed....she must have started collecting items months ago...

I have always said I have the most thoughtful and giving friends - they just "get me"...my quirks, my hectic schedule, and my control freak perfectionist personality. I truly feel like a little kid this Christmas - I don't ever remember a year where there were so many treats and surprises. I am truly thankful for my many blessings.

I hope you are receiving an abundance of surprises this holiday season...and have the chance to celebrate the great gift of friendship...