Swap Bag Received!

Today I received my swap bag in the mail, and I absolutely love it! Joanna did a fabulous job, and I can't wait to use it and show it off! It has a double pocket inside plus a magnetic closure (a very good idea for this bag). Joanna also generously included extra fabric and trims, Japanese incense, a coin purse, and a recipe for strawberry shortcake. I am one lucky gal! Also, I wanted to maintain the element of surprise so I couldn't mention this before, but my swap partner, Ellie, received her bag on Monday. Coincidentally, she lives near some relatives I have in Wisconsin. It is such a small world... Definitely check out both swappers' blogs--there are sure some talented and artistic women out there!

Receiving my swap bag was perfect timing today as it is my birthday. I had a very peaceful and quiet day. We had dinner with my parents last night at one of my favorite New Mexican restaurants, I talked to some special relatives today, and of course there were a few presents. :) My favorite was a necklace from my husband. He bought it at the local craft fair over the weekend, and it's just perfect. I love handmade gifts--they're so unique and special. This is NOT the best angle of me, but I wanted to get a shot in of the necklace:

Thank you for all of your comments on my "mother guilt" post. Even my "little" brother left a sweet and helpful comment! I am feeling much better about it all. I think that happens sometimes--the highs and lows of motherhood. I know that I love my son, I'm not perfect, and I'm doing the best I can. I don't believe there's much more I can do than that. I'm also trying not to obsess over the news, but I'm trying to make small changes in my life for the better. That helps me as well becuase then I don't feel so helpless.

Now I'm off to share some cake and wine with my husband and watch The Milagro Beanfield War (and excellent movie!).