An Unexpected Treat...

Yesterday, the delightful Kathy Van Kleeck stopped by for a quick visit. It is always nice to see her. I love her sense of humor and admire her talents. Kathy came by bearing gifts! Ever since my last trip down to Asheville, I was thinking of a way to get one of her pieces. I adore their heartfelt sentiments and all the tiny personal touches that go into her jewelry.

Above is a picture of the piece she made just for me! Aren't the luckiest kid on the block? It's hand-braided silk with a blessing rolled up on the side with amethyst and cyanite and a hand-stamped fine silver charm.

The charm reads, "Simplicity Always". If you've ever received correspondence from me, then you know that this is how I sign my letters. I've signed all my letters and emails like this for over a decade. It's a mantra I like to live by and doesn't necessarily mean exactly what it overtly implies. To me, "simplicity" is like a state of grace – it's not necessarily simple or easy, but done in a manner which seems effortless and natural. A tight-rope walker makes it seem so easy to balance on a thin wire, but we all know it takes a great deal of concentration and effort not to come tumbling off. It is my affirmation to live gracefully and with purpose each day – each moment.