I have this bloggy friend, Gabbi.  Perhaps you’ve heard of her?  Of Retro Ranch Renovation fame?  I thought so. 

(definitely used that picture without permission.)  (Hiiiiiii, Pete!)

Back in October, she posted about some art work she had made for her bedroom.  And it spoke to me.  And I needed one for myself.  I emailed her and pitifully begged and offered her dollars for one of my own.  Sweet girl graciously agreed to make me one, but would NOT accept any form of payment.  So I said fine!  Imma send you something back (which I still have not done) (though I do have a plan) (and good intentions).

And that’s where this comedy of errors begins.  She sent me a message letting me know that my priceless piece was on it’s way!  She double checked my mailing address since she knew we were moving.  We lived in small town America, so we had a PO Box.  One we planned to keep until the dust had settled at the new place.  I confirmed and waited.  And got a message that a ne’er-do-well with good intentions had taped the package for her…. right over all her stamps…. so it was returned.

I got another message that the package was on it’s way again.  I sent a virtual high five, checked the mail, and waited.  Got a slip in the box telling me a package had arrived and I needed to claim it.  Arrived at post office during business hours to gather my prize.  And learned that there are definite down sides to living in small town America!  The post office marm happened to live across the street from us.  She’d noticed that we’d moved out, and TOOK THE LIBERTY OF CLOSING OUR PO BOX AND RETURNING ALL OUR MAIL TO THE SENDERS.  No biggie.  I was only waiting on final bills and important loan documents.  Whatev.

Poor Gabbi.  I regretfully informed her it was on it’s way back to New Jersey again.  To which she responded “NOOOOOOO”!!!

Finally, finally, my package arrived.  I was walking in the front door of my parents house informing my mom I’d worn a pair of her shoes that day when I saw it sitting on the table and screamed.  And straight murdered that package.

It was wrapped in a bow and had the sweetest note attached to it. 

I may or may not have teared up a little.

Isn’t that great?!  I love the sentiment, the stain, and the placement.  It was everything I’d ever hoped it would be!  And look – it’s husband approved!

It’s the first thing we have gotten just especially for the new house, and It’s already really special to me.  You guys, if you’re going to beg a gift off someone, might I suggest Gabbi?  She won’t accept any payment – not even in the form of stamps after multiple mailing attempts – she obviously does great work, AND this beaut came with hanging dealie attachments already on the back.

Girl’s got class.

Thanks, Gabs.