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Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Posted by publickman (My Page) on
Sat, Dec 6, 08 at 18:28

My package from Diane arrived yesterday at work, and my co-worker was anxious to see what was inside. First was a note that said "Read this first", and so I did. It was pretty exciting for both of us as I unwrapped a beautiful Handwarmer Mug, which is supposed to be "right-handed", but I found it also works in my left hand. I used this mug this morning because it was quite chilly (55° outside) when I woke up, and we haven't yet lit the pilot for our heater. This is a very timely and appropriate gift, as I love to use mugs to warm my hands. It works very well, and the handle can be grasped in a number of different ways (in case the contents are too hot). This will get a lot of use because I love the colors, and my tea strainer fits perfectly inside. I have to say that I really needed a new mug because my old one is ugly and chipped, but I used it because it was the right shape. The new mug has an even better shape than my favorite old one, plus it was made by a local crafter in NY!

Next (or perhaps first) was a beautiful hand-made ceramic colander! I almost want to put a candle inside this bowl because it makes very nice patterns of light when held to a light source. I might also use it as a fruit bowl, but it might be a while before I use it as a colander. It's pretty enough just to be a centerpiece, and I'm a bit afraid of chipping it in the sink. I'm going to try a candle with it before anything else, I think. It would also make a nice orchid pot, when filled with bark. Anyway, I absolutely love it, and truly appreciate hand-made ceramics. The photo doesn't do it justice.

That takes care of ceramics and also the "choice" item. For paper, Diane selected a beautiful cookbook, written especially for people who frequent local farmers' markets, of which I am one. For inside pictures of the book, click on the link below. I'm especially happy that it has a number of fig recipes, and I plan to make several of those next summer during fig season. It's also nice that it has so many updated vegetable and fruit recipes along with many beautiful pictures. I'm always looking for new ways to dress up vegetables.

Diane also included something for my brother (and me), being seasonal and also as a "thank you" gift because I had sent to her in a previous swap. I have them hanging in my living room right now, and I love looking at them. She had her partner make these for us, and so they are extra special to me.

I think this was a beautiful way to end the swap, and you can't fault Diane for the delay, since she had to wait until I would be back from Texas to receive the package. I had to tell the guys in the warehouse to be on the lookout for this, since they are notoriously bad for delivering packages to the wrong people! This one was delivered to me without delay!

Thanks so much, Diane, for such a beautiful and thoughtful package. I'll think of you whenever I use these items, which will be often (that is, daily!). I'll keep you posted on how I use the colander!

Lars

Here is a link that might be useful: Package from Diane


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

What a beautiful box to end our swap. I am amazed at the clever designs potters create. That mug is wonderful and considering how cold it is here today, I wish i could slide my hands into it.

The colander is very pretty and Lars, you are quite smart to think of putting a candle in it. Very charming.

The cookbook is a great gift for you and for anyone who might enjoy farm markets.

The Christmas ornaments are a nice way to mark the season and you will remember this swap every year when you get them out.

Well done, Diane. Enjoy, Lars!


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

WOW...those are some fantabulous items! The pottery pieces are over the top..
so many people found such wonderful pottery to send around!!!!


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Exquisite! Every item is stunning. See, that was worth the wait.


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

What a wonderful mug, I know you will enjoy it.
Great cookbook, it will be interesting to hear what you make from it.
Lars, I have a very similar colander. I have had it for over 20 years and use it all the time. I'm sure you will enjoy it.

Very nice choices, Diane!

Nancy


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Well that was certainly worth waiting for. Of course I knew it would be. Diane always sends the best gifts.

Love the mug. And the Colander is beautiful. Looks like a Berry Colander. I bet there will be some great recipes in that cookbook.

And how special to get two Christmas Ornaments handmade by Diane.

Enjoy Lars.

Ann


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Ohhh...I love the pottery pieces! Cookbook looks wonderful, and the christmas ornaments are beautiful. What a beautiful last swap package! Great things come last. Diane you sent a fantastic package, and Lars I know you will enjoy all of it!

Shelley


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Very, very nice. Those pottery pieces are exquisite. I particularly love the mug - those blues are my favorite, so soothing.

Enjoy!

AM


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Totally worth the wait!! Wow, Diane, did you ever lay your hands on some great finds!! Lars, I know you'll enjoy each item in your swap. Love the cookbook, what a great idea!! And soooo beautiful.

And the pottery- the handwarmer mug is awesomely beautiful and functional and I love the colors in the colandar!!


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

I love the mug, it's a verynice shape and I really like the blue colors, they are so peaceful and soothing.

The colandar would make a very nice fruit basket and I would never have thought of putting a candle in it.

The cookbook? I'd love to see some recipes from that, so I'm looking forward to hearing how you like them.

What a great swap box, Lars. Diane sure did a great job.

Annie


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

A package perfect for you, Lars. I think Ann did well matching you two up.


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Glad everything arrived unbroken, Lars . I really enjoyed shopping for items that hopefully would be unique yet useful enough to fit your "style" .

Diane


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Wow, I just love pottery and that colander is way cool! I've never seen a hand-warmer mug, but it would sure be welcome here, right about now! LOL

That cookbook looks like it has some great recipes.

Enjoy, Lars!

Linda


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Yes! It certainly was worth the wait.

Love the mug and well, I just love it all.

Enjoy your goodies Lars.

Great job Diane!


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Wow! Love, love the pottery. That mug is beautiful and unique...a colander made out of pottery in new to me. The cookbook is perfect with all the fresh produce and markets you have available to you. Great swap box Diane!! Lars, I know you get a lot of use out those items for years to come..enjoy!

David


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

Wow. those pottery pieces are really unique. It looks like that cookbook is a good match for you too, Lars. I know Diane packs a great swap! enjoy,

janet


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

What a great box to bring this swap to an end.!

I love the mug and that colander is just gorgeous. I know you will really enjoy the cookbook Lars. How nice of Diane to included the two ornaments, very nice touch.

Great job Diane!


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RE: Craftyrn sends Craftybx!

I have been enjoying using the mug these cool mornings, and right now, the colander is being used as a fruit bowl and centerpiece for my dining table. It has oranges and limes in it from my yard. I haven't had time to use the cookbook yet, as my week-ends have been busy, but I'll get to that soon.

Thanks again, Diane!

Lars


 
 

 

 


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