A Special Birthday Gift

The first time I came across the blog Everything Vintage I felt a real connection with the author.  Her 'out there' humor, ability to tell a story & her beautiful pictures had me coming back to visit everyday.  The first time I got one of her hilarious comments I knew we'd be friends forever.  When my family traveled to Mississippi in April, we planned a detour so I could meet my Cajun sister Jodie in the flesh.  We spent the whole day together laughing, telling stories, & shopping.  She took me to her sacred 5 & 10, & treated my kids & hubby like family.  She charmed us all, & we left loving her sweet self.

When I saw a box marked Eunice Louisiana, at my door on Saturday I tore into it like a kid at Christmas.  Inside was this amazing hanging pocket collage. I couldn't believe it, I've wanted to try one myself but couldn't work up the nerve.  Jodie said this was the first time she's ever made anything like this....EVER.  I'm not sure I buy it....

She used all of the colors I love so much, creams black, rich Victorian tones. When I look at it, I see Jodie everywhere. See the green buckle at the top of this pocket?  It's from a pair of her cargo pants! Anyone who's hung with this crazy girl knows her standard issue uniform is a pair of crocs, a baseball cap & some olive drab cargo pants!

She found all of the old sheet music online, & transferred it on fabric.  I love the different textures going on. The colors in this trim remind me of her gorgeous home.

The collage hangs from an old purse handle. We found them here, during my visit.  The little velvet rosettes, yeah she makes them! She selected each sheet of music for the message in it's title.

This is the back, it's as beautiful as the front! I've made a few tattered collages myself & never thought of embellishing the back. I think it's wonderful.  See the Creole Lover's Song?  That's her, & the Fleur De Les on the rosette... very French Creole.

I wasn't the only benefactor of her generosity.  Aunt Jodie sent a treat for the kids too. Five minutes later they were hanging from the rafters, high on sugar.  Thanks Jodie! LOL

I love my birthday gift so much. Not only is it totally cool & unique, it was made specially for me by a dear friend. It's hanging in my studio, next to the collage Julia made for me. 

Now my 2 blog friends can 'hang' together! 

 I will cherish it forever Jodie, love ya girl!

Tomorrow morning is my big oral surgery.  I'm dreading it. Last week was very hard having 3 appointments in a row & I haven't really felt myself since.  Of course it will all be worth it in the end.

  I feel pretty self indulgent worrying about my teeth when some of my friends are facing so much worse. 

My prayers go out to Joanna, she is such an amazing woman & has dealt with so much heartbreak these past few years. Hang in there sweetie! 

And my dear friend Ann is also going through a tough time, please remember her in your prayers. 

These talented artists create the most incredible work, & much of it influenced by the challenges they face.  Writing this I was reminded of a quote I love.

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life. -Pablo Picasso