First Craftster Swap

I have been working on several new items that I could not post b/c the person the items were for, reads this blog. I joined craftster.org years ago but just recently became active in the community. They offer different craft challenges and swaps with crafters from all over the world. I had this great lady from Fl named Maria and she is fab. The theme was "Back to Nature" Swap...basically natural items, organic, recycled items or whatever came to mind. I was so excited to send my items....I didn't take pictures. She is posting pics when she gets her package, but in the mean time I have posted the items she sent me. There are guidelines and so forth to the swaps, but too many to mention here. THANK YOU MARIA!!

Cute little handmade book...

beaded vine earrings...very talented

Handmade cards with a nature theme...

Bracelet with nature photographers and nature sketches...

Beautiful Handmade Journal...

Trivet made from fabric in natural retro colors to match my kitchen...very thoughtful.

Vermont Teddy Bears

Seriously? What is up with all of this advertising for the Vermont Teddy Bears as Valentine's Gifts. Yes, stuffed animals can be cute and yes I am sure they are made very well, but come on. Every time I see or hear about these bears..it makes me want to find out who are these people are that are paying $50 minimum to send their loved one a bear?? Let me repeat that...a bear? Not $5, $10, $15, but minumum $50... Oh...but you can add a personalized tattoo to the bear starting at $70. I just can't figure this out. What happened to flowers and poems? Oh well, guess if I start seeing people get bear delieveries on V-Day..I will know who buys them. Does anyone else find this crazy?