You may remember that I organised a Christmas Stocking swap back in Oct/Nov. My partner was Glenda from Tulip Rose. So my parcel went off to Australia and another began its journey to the UK. Above is the lovely stocking that Glenda handmade for me and it is gorgeous! In pinks and creams crazy patchwork with delicate lace, ribbon, white heart buttons and some beading. With a white velvety backing. All hanging on a satin white ribbon, absolutely brilliant, just my style.

Also in the parcel was...

a beautiful calendar of Australia and the photos are stunning!...

This the Great Barrier Reef.

Also there was an Australian oven glove, very useful and I shall come back to the subject of cooking and kitchens after Christmas. Plus a lovely handmade card with a kind message inside.

Glenda made a very thoughtful and kind swap and her research on my blog enabled her to create a stocking that is very 'Me'.

Many thanks Glenda it will be hung up with joy every year and will make me think of a new blog friend from Australia.

I shall post what i sent once I have heard from Glenda that she has received it. I have emailed with no reply so I am getting a little anxious but hopefully my parcel has reached Glenda by now. I shall also feature some of the other entries where pictures have beens ent and I would like to add them to the decoration Flickr site that I started last year.

On another note I am off to Italy tomorrow to celebrate my 40th Birthday on 23rd December and Christmas. I shall take lots of photos and let you know what I got up to when I get back. I shall also be researching in Italy for inspiration for the theme to the Christmas Swap 2010.

Take care everyone

xx