‘Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend.

It was back to the grindstone today, and a trip to the DMV no less!    With the famous waiting required to renew a driver’s license, my little guy started to get restless.  In the end I got so desperate to keep him entertained (he had already gone through most of the contents of my purse and even threw my passport behind the counter!), that I reluctantly grabbed a bag of Halloween candy to occupy him.  There’s a new Raisinette fan in the world today.

For some strange reason I Googled Raisinettes, and the first thing I found was this recipe.  How timely…a fudge wreath with chocolate covered raisins (who knew?).

Back to the title of my post…. I spent some time reflecting on some of the good things in life, and thought I’d share 5 recent ones that made me smile.

1.  The weather this weekend was incredible!   While on a walk, my son found this big pile of leaves and couldn’t resist!  I was lucky to have my camera with me.

Ah, to be 5!

A successful landing!

2.  A nice day trip to Harper’s Ferry.  The kids started working towards a Ranger badge that is available there so we plan to return again soon!

The crew in Harper's Ferry, WV...a city rich with American History

3.  A new pair of earrings!  I have such little time to create these days, so I’m happy to complete the tiniest project.  These will head to my Etsy shop soon.

Crystal and annealed steel wire earrings w/ sterling earwires

4.  Participating in a fun Art Exchange.  I received this beautiful polymer clay pendant by Jennifer at Jen Judd Rocks! This shade of red is so vibrant and cheerful.

Jen Judd Rocks! handmade focal

5.  My online friends make me smile!  This gift from sweet Sharon of Livewire Jewelry was so much fun to open.  I was so amazed to finally see one of her ATCs in person.  It is so detailed and beautiful.  And look at these dangly earrings…complete with my birthstone.  Thank you, Sharito!

Beautiful creations by Sharon B.

Have a great afternoon…and thank you so much for stopping by (that makes me smile too!).

Have a great weekend!

Look at these beautiful handmade earrings!  This is the surprise I received in the mail as part of Leslie’s fun Thanksgiving Treasures earring exchange.  Leslie of Bei Mondi coordinated a fantastic “secret santa” style earring exchange.  We were able to give some input as far as color/style/length preferences.    I was in for a real treat when I opened my box and found these perfect go-with-everything earrings!  These sweet earrings by Barbara Lewis have the best handmade bead caps.  Thank you Barbara!!

I wanted to thank everyone for stopping by and sending all of those b-day wishes my way.  You all (new friends and “old”) sure made my birthday soooo memorable.  I thought I’d share just a few birthday goodies .  I am so spoiled by your friendship.

A box full of beautiful vintage lace from dearest Madeline

Antique mother of pearl and detailed sterling silver baby rattle from Kerry

Victorian velvet album from Randy....oh, I've been searching for one of these for some time!

I’m off  to tag along on a Kindergarten field trip…should be a great day for outdoor pictures.  Have a great day, friends!