What did I do to deserve this?

Recently, Phinner and I negotiated another trade. I am always up for an exchange with Phin. Everything she touches is unique, creative and one-of-a-kind.

She offered to make me an accordian-style fold-out photo album. In exchange she wanted a pair of knitted socks. I had seen some samples of her work, so, I leapt at the opportunity, picking up my needles immediately.

Yesterday, our exchange was complete when I found a little package at my doorstep. Antsy with anticipation, I ripped open the box to find safely surrounded by little paper rosettes not one, not two, but three surprises! Surely, I didn't deserve all this!
I immediately dug out the carefully constructed photo album. It was tied so sweetly with a striped ribbon which complimented all of the colors used. Blue, brown, yellow, green, gray, orange. What an awesome color combination. A little birdhouse was an extra little added and sweet, detail on the front. When I unfolded the creation, I noticed that each one had that special little touch that made it uniquely Phinner-esque. Even the back had a handcrafted little paper flower. I can't wait to pick out photographs to tuck inside each page. I'm amazed at its orginality and its engineering.

Next I pulled out a painted and beaded box. I had so wanted one ever since I spied another one she created and posted on Nudge-Nudge. The one she created for me is red and sports a Modigliani stickler. The subject of the art is a demure and mysterious lady. The red beads and paint compliment the sticker. It's a gorgeous mix of media. It's such a sweet little box. I am so thrilled that I have one of my own and am so grateful that she created it for me.

Inside my pretty red box, is the coolest little pin that she got in San Antonio recently. It depicts a little couple complete with hats, braids and little shoes. So very cute, so very tiny and so very neat.

Once again, Phin has outdone herself. If only I could have one ounce of her creativity, one look through those eyes that can envision something so beautiful and hands that can bring it all to life.