Incoming: South Korea

Excuse my poor attempt at blocking out personal information, and check out this beautiful parcel from Hyein!

Are you squealing? Because I certainly was. How cute is the envelope on the left?!? It might be the most adorable thing that I own, hands down.

I also thought it was fascinating that Hyein and I both have the same pink washi tape that she used on the smaller envelope. It sounds ridiculous because globalization and all, but washi tape isn't as readily available in Saudi Arabia -- Knowing that someone all the way in Korea who was a complete stranger until now has the exact same one just blows my mind!

Hyein has been into mail art for over ten years, and it definitely shows. Who puts so much effort into the back of an envelope?!? When I die, I'd like to be cremated with these, please. Because that's not creepy at all.

These stunning postcards (and kitty sticky notes!!) were wrapped up in a gorgeous piece of lace. I love the postcards so much, they give off such a calm, vintage vibe!

The charming kitty envelope held so many treasures, starting with a long letter that Hyein painstakingly decorated. Each page was so different, yet it all tied together perfectly.

When Hyein first contacted me, I was immediately intrigued by how intelligent she seemed. Her letter only proved this further; Introduction letters can be incredibly daunting, yet each paragraph flowed with ease, as she detailed her background, interests, and aspirations in a fun, quirky manner.

She also included some delightful stickers and a whimsical tag. They are so different, and I just love how the colors pop! I think I need to move to Korea, because if this is any indication of what you can find there, then I think I've found heaven.

She also shared some Skin Food goodies and Orchid Green Tea. Yes, Orchid tea actually exists, and I had no idea until now. I love orchids!!

The smaller envelope held these kick-ass bracelets, which truly surprised me. After I graduated from college, I tried to incorporate more color into my wardrobe...which worked for a couple of years, until I realized that I really missed the simplicity (and dare I say, edge) of black. In my pursuit to regain said edge, I went in search of similar bracelets, and found absolutely nothing. Talk about serendipity -- these bracelets are a Godsend for my sartorial urges, and I'm so, so appreciative!

Hyein and I had agreed on a blind swap so that our parcels wouldn't be influenced by anything other than what little we knew about each other, and the results were incredible! We seem to share a lot of similarities, and we both agreed that we immediately clicked.

Hyein, thank you so much for your amazing parcel!! I am still blown away by how well you seemed to figure me out, and your mail art skills are absolutely inspiring! Every time I look at what you've sent me, I have a strong urge to embark on a creative project (or ten). I feel truly lucky to have exchanged mail with you, and I look forward to many more lovely interactions with you!

Incoming: Sweden

Lotte's parcel was the second to arrive during my happiest mail week, and I still can't get over how delightful it was! Check out this beautiful handmade envelope...

...which opened to reveal a perfectly rustic parcel! It's totally normal for your mouth to water at the sight of such beautiful paper, right? I mean, surely this happens to other people too? People make this with their hands, you guys. I kind of want to go out and buy Lotte a pair of gloves to ensure that those magical hands of hers are protected forever.

This picture is really more of a reminder for me because as we all know by now, I am clueless when it comes to packaging, and this seemed really clever!

Tucked inside was a bounty of ethereal goodies!

This beautiful customized matchbox immediately caught my eye, and I spent a few minutes just running my fingers over it, taking in all its beauty and texture! As I opened it and curiously inspected the contents, I felt a rush of joy and wonder. Inside were some lovely shells that Lotte found at a beach in Thailand, some gorgeous dried lavender, a little feather from her garden, and a cute little note describing the contents! To say that this little box is one of the most magical things I own is an understatement -- every time I pick it up and look through it, I feel like Alice in Wonderland!

Lotte must have read my mind, because in keeping with the Alice in Wonderland theme, she included some lovely Rose Wisdom tea in stunning packaging, complete with a delightful "Drink Me" tag! I am slightly obsessed with roses, so the flavor was especially perfect!

She also made me some delightfully rustic tags that I can't wait to use, and was kind enough to share some of her washi tape with me! Washi tape really is the best invention ever.

She's really got the mystical vibe down to perfection, check out these enchanting paper goods! I must confess that I rushed through the picture-taking process because I just couldn't wait to stick these goodies on my wall!

I really can't get over how well she's figured me out -- I burst out laughing when I saw these cards because they really speak to me. I have a hard time shutting my brain up when I craft because I just cannot get over this need to make everything perfect. If I'm not happy with something, I tear it up and throw it away, which only serves to make me feel worse. These cards will definitely serve as a good reminder to just do my best and have fun, without worrying about the results!

Lotte also sent me this stunning purse; how vibrant is that beautiful shade of red!? It's perfect for storing my luggage keys when I travel, and will help me remember her beautiful soul wherever I go!

If her creative brilliance wasn't apparent enough, here's a piece of information that will make your jaw drop: Lotte recently had an accident, and as a result she has to be careful not to strain her left arm. Seriously guys, if I were in her position, I would probably make a half-hearted finger painting and call it a day; I can't even produce such beauty as it is! 

Lotte, I am immensely grateful for all the effort that you've put into this marvelous parcel, thank you so much!! I am still overwhelmed by your talent and generosity, and I took an immediate liking to you from the moment you contacted me. You are such a kindhearted person and I feel truly lucky to have exchanged mail with you!

p.s. To see what I sent Lotte, click here. Her accident has actually made her more inclined to do creative things and write letters, so if you ever have an opportunity to exchange mail with her, definitely go for it!