In a flash the day is over...

...My birthday that is, the day passed quickly and moved right into the Independence Day holiday, I remember back in my 20's when I threw birthday parties that lasted from the first to the 4th, people came and went all day long, what a blast. I don't think I have the stamina for one of those blow outs today but I did have a great day.
Even enjoyed some birthday cake...

and received some lovely gifts, the ones I'm posting I bought for myself, yes I tend to do that, this one will get lots of use starting this week when I pack for a short trip.

An ebay seller was having a one day sale of Vera Bradley items and I bought this roomy tote bag, I needed a new tote to replace the one I lug my towel, sunscreen and other things to the pool and beach.

very roomy inside with a zippered pocket and a key fob attached, plus two outside pockets on the sides. I love Vera Bradley prints, they are always bright and colorful and just suits the items.  I bought one in each color and several friends should be getting them shortly.

The other gift to myself is the lovely printed friendship fabric panel and coordinating floral print from Connecting Threads. I see more mug rugs in my future.

Friendship Panel

coordinating fabric

The most special items came via the US Mail by very talented people I am lucky to have in my life. These handcrafted cards are so beautiful I had to share them with you.

From Jackie the blue is so vibrant I think of calm waters and sunny skies when I look at it.

From Marina the garden themed card just pops out, I now have an idea of how I can use all the paper embellishments I purchased ages ago.

From Gloria, this one says to me let's take a stroll down the path of friendship, these cards mean so much to me, when you take time from your day to handcraft a card or note I feel special and very fortunate to count you among my friends.

This lovely note card from Diane is breathtaking, when held in my hands I can see each and every detail of the bird.  I need to remember to post photos more often of the handcrafted cards I receive, since I shut down my debs letters blog and then purged this blog after the Hacker attack I seem to have lost my bloggers heart, in time though it will come back and posting these lovely cards and notes is one way to jump back in.

I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July and are safe and enjoying the many fruits of summer. The way this month seems to be moving it will be autumn before we know it.