Four Happy Things Swap

I know many Bloggers and members of Forums such as Ravelry regularly participate in "swaps". Several times I've considered joining in but it wasn't until BoboBun decided to celebrate her 4th  Blog Anniversary with a "Four Happy Things" swap that I decided to take the plunge.

I have to say it was a lot of fun! I said I didn't mind pairing with someone overseas and Lisa matched me up with Jan of  'Softies Place' blog - good job Lisa! We exchanged emails and got to know each other before we selected our items.  We agreed on a date to post our parcels (I was 2 days late!) and our parcels have now been received.  Do you want a peek at mine?

Ooh look at those beautifully wrapped gifts! The contents were equally as lovely

There was a really sweet pottery robin (Jan knows I am nuts about birds!), a stunning "Handwarmer Mug", created by Bob & Corina Neher (perfect for a warming cup of tea these snowy mornings), three fabulous Knitpro rainbow coloured wooden crochet hooks (I know I am going to love using these beautiful hooks) and some delicious "Pixies" by Fannie May (I have to admit the box is looking a little empty now ..... where is an embarrassed smiley when you need one?)

Thank you so much Jan, I hope you like your "Four Happy Things" as much as I love mine.

So have I enjoyed the experience?  I certainly have, I love my gifts but the best thing about the swap has been getting to know my swap partner, my new friend, Jan.

Thank you for all your good wishes and congratulations on my last post.  Emie is still on a feeding tube but doing really well and her Mum and Dad were hoping to take her home today. This is the Ripple Blanket I made for her.

I hope to see her wrapped in it very soon.

No bird photos today but 'our' pheasants are still visiting, Three females on the patio the other day. I also spotted a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker on the Fatball feeder.  The Long Tailed Tits have learnt how to feed on the peanut feeders and our little gang visit every day.  This long winter must have wreaked havoc on wildlife.  I have only seen one honey bee (hives nearby) and no others. Usually the Hellebores are alive with their buzzing, not this year.  Where is Spring?

It is too cold to do much work in the garden but look what DH dug up last week? Amazing how well they survived without any protection.

Finally a warm welcome to my latest follower "Attachment Mummy".

I'll be back later in the week with a report on my meeting with Ed Miliband, it went very well indeed.

Have a good week and keep warm!

Carol xx