I have been blogging off and on since 2012 and have loved the friendships I have made. I also love the imaginative ways bloggers come up with to make those friendships more tangible, like blog link-ups and swaps. Some of my best friends I have met through blog swaps or bloggers gatherings. So when I started joining a few tea related link-ups, I discovered the lovely blog The Enchanted Rose and its lovely writer, Stephanie. Her blog is beautiful and truly speaks to my taste. While reading her blog, I discovered that she has been hosting a tea cup and mug exchange for the past 12 years! How is that for commitment to sharing tangible beauty and friendships? The best part is that it is no limited to bloggers. I decided to join in the fun.
I received a lovely parcel from Carlie Jacobs in Colorado and I loved all the lovelies she sent me. I received a beautiful Noritake teacup in ‘Greebrier’ pattern that is just my style. I love soft colors and flowers, and this teacup was perfect. I also received a box of Earl Grey tea from Twinings (one of my favorites), a lovely set of cards in a rose motif (which is perfect because I am a big fan of cottage gardens and English roses), and the loveliest handwritten note. She sounds like one of those people who you wish lived closer because you just know she is a gentle person... and we definitely need more gentleness in the world. Thank you kindly, Carlie!
For sending, I was paired with Nina (by the way, this is my favorite name-- it was fate) from Texas. Collenna does not have a blog but based on her likes (and a bit of Pinterest stalking :)) I was able to get an idea about what she liked. I was a bit nervous picking items for the person I was sending too because you want them to really like it. Funny story—I was so excited to send the parcel to her that I forgot to include my hand written note to her! Thankfuly, I was able to send her an email. From her email—she really loved the items I sent. Here is the photo she emailed me of her items.
In the parcel I included a Roya Albert "Cheeky Pink" teacup and saucer, one of my favorite teas from Harney & Sons-- Paris, which is so special, a set of tea spoons. and a lovely set of Thank You notes that just went beautifully with the theme-- feminine and lovely.
This was so much fun and I cannot wait to join again next year. Now off to see what the other participants are sharing. I also want to thank Stephanie for being an amazing host. She kept us informed and checked on us, and I appreciated that. Thank you, Stephanie!
May be sharing these beauties with these awesome ladies: Share Your Cup, Home Sweet Home, Garden Like Link-Up, Home and Garden Thursday, Vintage Charm, Tea In The Garden