Surprises Galore

Today was an incredible day of surprises. First of all, I got Lurline's giveaway prize in the mail that I won. It was a really cute Dove Easter Basket which included a chocolate egg, a card, and a beautiful pack of charms. I will have to pop over to Lurline's site, which is at http://lurlineg.blogspot.com/ and say a big thank you to a really sweet lady.

Then, I got a wonderful surprise package from Nat, who is my April Star and good friend, whose blog can be found at http://notjustnat.blogspot.com/ She dyed some fabric and thread and sent them to me. The pic that I have included does not do them justice. I will use the thread for my crazy quilts, and the fabric, I will have to think of some special project where I can utilize the fabric . I also got a paper hanger figure from Nat, which is now hanging by my embroidery machine. It is so cute. Thanks so much!

Also, I received a lovely fabric postcard from my friend Leah. I used to live in Arizona and taught English on the Navajo Reservation in Monument Valley, and this card definitely reminded me of Arizona. Thank you for a lovely card...the machine free motion quilting was so pretty!

Also, a siggy arrived from Edda in Vestmannaeyjar, and I just loved the hen and the chick in the centre with the pretty embroidered flower. Thank you both!

Finally, in the midst of all these wonderful surprises, I finished my ribbed purple scarf, which I will wear with my darker purple jacket. I was happy to complete it, and it will keep me cozy and snug when the wind is blowing, which is often here.

I also received my itinerary for my quilt retreat at the Dunadry Hotel in Belfast, and there are wonderful activities planned, like workshops with Deb Karasik, a talk by her, meals included served in the Gallery Suite, and a drawing for a Brother Innovative 10 Sewing Machine. They will have a Patchwork shop set up in the Garden Room, and then a show and tell on Sunday. It will be such fun, and I am looking forward the event, which will be next weekend on April 24-26.

Last but not least, Dzintra and Nat met at Cafe Altenberg and toasted a drink to me, and Dzintra sent me an attachment of the pic. It can be seen on both of their blogs, but boy did that mean a lot to me!! Joe and I will visit Australia one day, so I can personally have that drink with them and give them both hugs.

Well, that was my day.....so many wonderful and exciting things happening!