Family history across the seas

A couple of months ago, tempted by Julie from Anglers Rest, I signed up for the Faith, Hope and Charity Swap 2012. Bloggers who put their hands up to join in were matched up by FHC Queen Lakota so that you got a blogger gift twin from somewhere else, possibly with different interests from yours. I was twinned with Alison from The Fat Dormouse and View from the Teapot.  We share a love of cats so that certainly made it easy to find some common ground, as well as presents 🙂 The rules were simple: three to five gifts, at least one hand-crafted and one with a Jubilee theme to celebrate QEII’s Jubilee. One or all should be pre-loved or second hand but the total value had to be under £12 (thank heavens for a good exchange rate!).

My gift arrived while I was interstate with family commitments and by the time I got home I’d almost forgotten what was awaiting me. It was such a lovely surprise! So much so I forgot to photograph my gifts before I started unwrapping.

Alison had sent me these gorgeous hand-crafted gifts all of which I love.  She sells cards and does calligraphy at the local markets in France and I can see why they’re successful. I received four cards themed with “friendship”, “love”, and “for you”.

The Jubilee items were a flower brooch made from red, white and blue felt and a similar magnet. The crafted bookmark also had a jubilee theme and given my addiction to books will get a work-out.

The last item in my gift pack was a hand-painted photo frame which now hosts a photo of my grandchildren.

I’m glad I sent Alison a typed letter with my gifts as her hand-written letter has such beautiful script I’d have been embarrassed otherwise.

It’s been great fun to source gifts for Alison and to receive her thoughtful presents. I’d recommend the pleasure of this swap to other bloggers when it comes around again.