wishes do come true

You're not going to believe what we found on the ground while walking the dogs this weekend...really...

a wish released nearly four months ago via balloon:

It seems this message chose to hang out in a nearby tree, rather than fly away, and, after a few days of heavy rain last week, fall to the ground with the shower of leaves.

Isn't it poignant that with heavy storms comes unanticipated beauty?

To the friend who released this wish, may the same joy that has replaced the sadness in my heart, fill yours.

Learn more about the balloon release here.

revisiting bees and trees

Here's another 'better late than never post'. You may remember that waaaaay back in July I mentioned that Addie and I were working on the design of a nature-inspired wedding reception. Well the party has come and gone, but thankfully, with the wonderfulness of Sara Harper's lovely photos, the memories are preserved, and can be shared here. Have a look!

Congratulations to Claire and Patrick - the beautiful couple whose love was honored this day! I'd like to also mention that if awards were given to clients [perhaps Addie and I can start a movement] these two would receive one in each of the following categories 'Most Helpful', 'Most Thoughtful' and 'Most Organized'! Cheers Claire and Patrick!

See more of Sara's fantastic photos here.

excuse my french

Last month I collaborated with some friends [who I'll share more about in the future!] and my sister to create a special birthday party for my niece Wren. The cosmopolitan girl she is, Wren wanted a Paris-inspired party. We were happy to oblige, with a special hand-written invitation:

a fabulous outdoor boutique

all the jewels a girl could ask for

a fashion show like no other

and sweet treats at an outdoor cafe.

When all was said and done, despite a sweltering heat wave in Paris, I think Wren and company had an excellent afternoon.

And based on this kind note from the guest of honor, I consider it a job well done!

the after party

Thank you all for visiting with me this week! Enjoy the weekend!

some are silver and the others gold

You may remember a while back I warned that I can't be cushy all the time...well, forgive me because today I'm not cushy, I'm gushy.

[Cue the somber music...a little R.E.M. might be appropriate.]

If you've been reading between the lines of my sketchbook, you probably know that this has been a trying year for me. I've had several difficult blows, some I've openly shared here [i.e. job loss] and some I've dealt with privately. Throughout this struggle there have been so many people who have surrounded me with love. So many! In fact, at the beginning of these trials, I'd describe myself as only having one or two close friends...now I feel so very different.

Of course, Edgar is my number one supporter---I can't imagine life without him.

He's constantly around to make me laugh when I'm on the point of tears, reassure me when I feel like there is no hope in sight and sing with me when times are good. He's the best partner I could ask for.

And then there is Addie.

Simply put, Addie is my best friend--and one of the kindest, most selfless people I know. She's empathetic and optimistic, a great listener and a thoughtful advice giver. On top of all this, she is so, so creative and fun....and did I mention clever? This is why it was no surprise when Addie suggested ending this difficult year with a party. A party she would throw.

I've already shared photos from the balloon release, but there was much more to the festivities, in many parts thanks to Addie---but also to the many new and renewed friends I've opened myself up to in the last year. Here, have a glimpse.

And cheers to you as well. Thank you for being one of my friends. We may not live in the same town, or even on the same continent, but your kind words and visits mean so much to me! Here's to more happy times ahead!

See more photos from the party...including lots of mustaches here.

[all photos by Tim Robison]

come fly with us

With each balloon, a wish floats into the sky.
[all photos by Tim Robison]

close to home and far away

Luckily for Edgar and me, one balloon made it no further than our own backyard.

I have to admit, I'm feeling a bit like Charlie Bucket today, all warm and fuzzy inside as golden tickets that have fallen from the sky begin to make their appearances.

We had a third balloon find today [if you count Edgar and I as the second and 'The Brits' as the first]. This balloon made it all the way to Cary [a little over an hour east of Greensboro!] where Chip Miller was running near his house. Chip writes:

"When I found the balloon off the road approx. 15 ft. I knew right away there was a message to be found. I was right.

This is the second such balloon in 2 years I have found with the first being sent from a church in Charlotte. The first wish I made upon finding this balloon was for both of my deceased grandparents, Joe and Flo Wilms… for them to have found peace and the hope they know I am thinking about them and hoping they are watching over me. They were fantastic grandparents and were very active and supportive for both myself and my sister growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio. Unfortunately, I don’t have any pictures of them electronically to share.

The second wish I made was for the person that signed it and his baby he mentioned, “A HUGE smile on my baby’s face”…Matt J., that they both have a wonderful happy long life together.

Thank you so much for sending this message (to me). There is a reason I found it and I hope to make the most of it by sharing your meaningful message. Thanks."

And thank you Chip, for sharing this with us.