I Have a Problem with Paris

Hello all,
 I have definitely slowed my buying of stationery.  I did this because my skills at making stationery have improved and because I have so much that I really do not need any more till I use up some more of my stash!  But a few items did slip through over the last few months and I thought I'd share them with you!
Anybody who has read my blog for awhile knows that I have a small thing for Paris and French themed stationery.  Paris items are actually very easy to come by so here are the newer additions to the collection.

These are in a music box.

I especially love the envelopes.

A surprise 3 pack!  The envelopes (not pictured) are also very pretty.


I hope you all enjoyed my purchases!  And this finds you all happy and mailing lots!
See you in the mail!
-b

Duck Tape Goes Vogue

Hello all,
This post is dedicated to the closet Red Green fans out there.  (You know who you are,ay.  So don't deny it, ay)
I was looking around Staples the other day for some pens and I ran into this display of contact sheets and roll tape in a blaze of colors!  Duck tape has decided to reinvent itself and has come up with this line of fashionable tape. 

Perfect to finish envelopes and packages.  Not shown here but of interest to many folks is Hello Kitty tape.  I opted not to buy it because they wanted more money for it. 
And remember, if the postal workers don't find your mail handsome, they ought to at least find it handy and duck taped!
Have a Great Day at Possum Lodge!
-b

This Week In the Mail

Hello all,
I know many have a voyeuristic tendencies and love to see what's going on in others' lives.  I know this because my highest traffic always comes from the board pictures I post.  So here is this weeks mail.  What makes it up- things I have recieved from postcrossing or responded to.  So if you see yours, you have a letter in the mail!

Some points of interest- the top left corner- 3 of those postcards are being used as stationery from Malyss who lives in that section of the world.  Malyss has a blog that is a visual tour of the French Riveria.  I love to stop by and look at her world!  Postcards as stationery is also an interesting idea for those looking to exchange culture with others around the world. 
I hope this finds you all enjoying mail and sending lots!
-b

Today's Errands

Hello all!
Thanks for the well wishes!  I was out and about today picking up a few items at the local grocery store when what did I run into . . . stationery!  I have been so good about not buying new stationery items and trying to use up some of the massive amounts of stationery that I already own, but one look at the kitten with the rubber duckies, and I was smitten.

from papyrus

My local grocery store is also my main place to pick up postcards for postcrossing and other exchanges.  Although, the puzzled looks I get at checkout make me wonder, am I am the only one buying them?

Also on the errands for today, I stopped in to check my P.O. Box.  While there, I ran into my favorite postal clerk.  We chat a lot about my hobby.  She informed me today of the new stamps out since the last time I saw her, and of course, I had to buy a few sheets of each.

There's something to be said for a smaller town post office.  It's kind of like the sitcom Cheers "Where everybody knows your name!" and how to get you to spend a few bucks! 
And finally I had to stop in at work for a quick meeting.  When to my surprise, I find a stack of paper on my desk.  I don't know about you guys, but I am a dumping ground for all things stationery.  I don't really mind and even encourage it!  With me the items will have a good home till they find their way to others in letters or as presents.

The top 3 packs are paper and the bottom 3 are 3 blank cards with 3 envelopes per pack.

Everybody at work knows about my hobby, because I typically send my outgoing mail from there.  My coworkers love to look at the envelopes and on a very rare occasion,  add a few touches if they think the envelopes need a little extra something!
Well that's my day of errands.  Now I am home and still coughing.  I think the next step is a cup of tea and some rest!
Hope this finds you all busy, but not too busy to enjoy the simple pleasures.
-b

Let's Discuss ATC's

When I began my mail journey, I foolishly started it off with a blog!  I jumped right in, head over heels, and then spread my wings to sites like postcrossing and send something.  The world of mail and mailart has been filled with wonderful delights and wonderful people!  Although I probably should have looked around before jumping in, what's done is done and my experiences have been worth it.  But there is so much i still don't know and haven't found yet. 
So now with trepidation, I am toeing the waters and thinking of trying my hand at ATC's. (Artist Trading Cards for the other uninitiated)  I saw the write up on the Sandbook.net e-zine about them and have seen several posts asking to trade on SendSomething.net
I found a great guide and gallery at Cedarseed that laid out many options.
But before I dive in, I'd like to pick your brains for tips and suggestions on your experiences. 
A) I know they are 2.5 by 3.5 Inches- the size of a standard playing card and were originally supposed to be sent or traded like baseball cards. 
B) Anything goes?  or so it seems, at least as long as some handiwork is evident?
C) Recommendations on trading?  Positive versus Negative Experiences
D) Anything you think I should REALLY know before I embark on yet another adventure?

Thanks and I hope this finds you all happy and healthy (by the way the coughing has slowed!  Recovery is around the corner!)
-b

some fabric inspired cards by Liberty Fabrics