Friday, January 8, 2010

art in my mailbox

The most beautiful and extraordinary piece of mail arrived yesterday.

But before I get to that, I should mention that this is an amazing technological time in which we live. I have a group of wonderful friends across the US, even the world, whom I've never met, yet they are the most supportive, creative, hands-on blogging mamas. I may never meet some, or most, of them in person, but they are intricately woven into the fabric of my life and encourage and inspire me in so many ways.

Similarly, social networking tools, like Facebook, have done the same thing with people who used to be a daily part of my life. I love seeing where my high school and college friends are now and the lives they've built for themselves. Even more than that, I love seeing a glimpse into my husband's past life, "meeting" his friends from college and his early career days. One friend of his in particular (actually, I think they weren't very good friends back in their college days, although they had the same circle of friends) reconnected with him over Facebook and then started following my blog. She and I would have conversations over his status updates, and we soon became friends ourselves. I have never met Jodi in person, but I can tell you this, she's an amazing mother, artist and friend.

About that beautiful and extraordinary package that appeared in our mailbox, this stunning card which she made, then wrote a lovely note inside.


And that was just the beginning.

Out of a lovely brown organza bag, appeared this gift. A place to record our cherished memories and important dates. There were pictures of our family, meaningful quotes, and bits of beautiful color and texture everywhere.






I know my pictures don't do it justice, and as Paul says, you can't get it's full effect without feeling it anyway. But trust me, this will be a cherished piece of art in our house.


See more of Jodi's incredible work here and here. Thanks again, Jodi! We truly love our gift and are honored that you would share your art with us in this way. :)


10 comments:

  1. Oh Joy...your words bring tears to my eyes! Yes, it is true, Paul and I weren't the best of friends in college, however, life takes you in interesting directions. Becoming an adult is a wonderful thing and I consider myself lucky to have "met" Paul once again. Little did I know that I would have the added bonus of meeting you and your "art family" as well! Your creativity inspires me and I look forward to your blog each and every day!

    Thank you again for your kind words and thank you to Paul for introducing us! You too are an amazing mother, artist and friend! Enjoy the book and I look forward to seeing more of YOUR beautiful creations. :)

    Jodi

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  2. you sound a little better today. hopeful, even if still worried and not fully rested. hugs to you and what a beautiful gift.
    nicola
    http://whichname.blogspot.com

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  3. Oh Joy, how very precious and beautiful, such a treasure...
    Warmly
    Linda

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  4. Holy cow!!! That is am amazing, GORGEOUS expression of friendship! And I love your new banner too, i want to reach in and take some bread!
    :)

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  5. Holy cow!!! That is am amazing, GORGEOUS expression of friendship! And I love your new banner too, i want to reach in and take some bread!
    :)

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  6. what a very special gift...and definitely have to agree about the amazing way technology can be used to create community and nurture friendship...thanks for your sweet words on so wabi sabi.
    blessings~

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  7. What a lovely and special gift.

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  8. that is so, so lovely. what a great gift!

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  9. What an amazing piece of mail!!!!

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  10. This is one of the most amazing pieces of art I have seen in a long time... so beautiful! Enjoy your lovely treasure!

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