The Kindness of Strangers - who Turn into Friends

The Box of Delights

I don’t normally receive an intriguing “knock on the door” on Valentines’ Day – but this year, I did. Then, when I saw the carrier standing there with an enormous parcel, I assumed that it was a clothing order for Alec. It was only when I brought it inside, and saw my name on the label, that I knew that something special might be lurking inside.

Altered book pages

It all started a few weeks ago, when I mentioned here on the blog that I am preparing new courses and workshops, and that one of the things that I did was to run “Memory book” and “Memory Box” workshops. I mentioned how costly “art” papers and scrapbooking materials can be – and received in return some very welcome and helpful thoughts on how to create or discover inexpensive materials.

More pages from the delicious altered travel book

I also had a kind message from Rachel Scott – we have exchanged half a dozen emails over my last couple of years blogging, and she generously offered to send me some items from her own “stash” of scrapbooking and art journaling resources. I awaited an envelope, but, being under the influence of “elderbrain syndrome”, completely forgot about the offer within days – a lot of other “stuff” was invading my life and demanding priority attention at the time.

So when the parcel, which measures something like 18”x 15” x 4” and weighs a LOT, arrived, it was not until I saw Rachel’s signature on the paperwork that I put two and two together.

Papers from Rachel's "Ladies" collection

And when I opened the box? “I looked in and all around, saw wondrous things”

I’m still gasping. As I took all the items out this morning to take these photographs, I am enthralled by the art-making possibilities, but I am also amazed at Rachel’s generosity. “Thank you, thank you; thank you!!” seems all too little an expression of gratitude.

But I think there will be many other people who will also be touched by Rachel’s generosity - all the friends and clients who will attend my workshops.

"Travel" inspirations

I will put part of the materials to practical use, but I will also keep a selection of each sort of item (art papers, wallpaper borders, tags, tiles, embellishments, altered book) in the box, just as they are, to become a travelling exhibition of “what to use, how to use it, what to look out for” whenever I am giving a workshop or talk. The story of how the items came to me will always be told.

Tiles

In a few weeks time, I will be visiting the Cancer Care day centre at my local hospital to run just these sorts of workshops – be very sure that this box, and the story of how kindness and generosity have stretched their embracing arms across the Atlantic ocean to touch the hearts of many here in England, will go with me.

Thank you Rachel – your gift is deeply appreciated.

Comments

[Carolyn]

Wow Roz, what a generous gift box to receive and so many wonderful supplies I see there that you now have to work with and share with your art jurnaling group. ENJoY enjoy enjoy! Fun fun fun!

[Britt-Arnhild in Norway]

Amazing Roz. And an inspiration for me to start an altered book.

I have a little surprise for you in my blog today.......

[Elizabeth]

These books look fascinating!
I have also enjoyed your pictures of crocuses and snowdrops.
I miss England in the spring.
I'm sure your workshop will be much appreciated.
all best wishes.

[Imelda / GreenishLady]

That is a wonderful story to read. Thanks for sharing it, and letting us know of the generosity and kindness of Rachel.

[Terri]

I would love to see Rachel's work. Does she have a blog? Nice pieces of materials to use.

I need to take your course. I have tried doing this before and determined that I need help. Someday I will book a reservation in your class.

[Darla]

What a wonderful box of supplies you received Roz. As a practitioner of making Altered Books and other Altered Art I can see lots of inspiration there.

Darla