I've been blogging for a year now (I missed my first anniversary, it was while I was ill in September) and the process has brought about some developments and changes for me.
One of these has been the unexpected delight of making new friends.
Not just I make a nice comment on your blog, you make a nice comment on mine virtual acquaintances - I mean proper meeting-in-the-flesh, Skyping, hilarious emailing, gift-exchanging, you-really-get-me friends.
Yesterday I went off to the vintage blogging centre of the UK, Walsall, to catch up with my dear friends Vix and Clare, and meet Em and Dee for the first time.
If you get the chance to meet up with other bloggers, do it - they don't disappoint!
It may sound like a cliche, but after you've "met" through blogging, meeting for real is just like catching up with someone you already know. It felt as though I had known Dee and Em for ages, they are engaging and funny and kind and chatty, everything you want in a pal!
Second to None, rapidly becoming the most famous vintage shop in the country, never disappoints either.
Dee was so dedicated to rummaging among the handbags , she risked life and limb up on the steps, while Clare and Vix worked their way through the day dresses, and Em found an armful of vintage goodies to try on.
Style Chameleon Vix - a Sergeant Pepper gold and purple velvet coat one minute, a 1960s turban-style hat the next!
Coffees, curry, vintage and charity shopping, all accompanied by lots of chat and lots of laughs - sounds good, doesn't it?
It was!
I really enjoyed our visit to Walsall's art gallery too.
Yes, but is it art, darling?
Damien Hirst's Away from the Flock, a lamb suspended in a case of formaldehyde, made me feel sad; the Stonehenge-inspired installation made me feel non-plussed; and many of the paintings and sculptures made me feel delighted and inspired.
It was fabulous to meet up with these gorgeous, friendly, funny women, and many thanks to darling Vix for hosting yet another Walsall-based outing! You can see her account of our day here.
And what did I buy?
This rather delicious 1960s paisley dress with a cute keyhole neck.
Groovy, baby!
Yeah, I came over a bit hippy-dippy chick... You can see where Littlest gets her face-pulling inspiration!
1960s dress - Second to None, Walsall
Cape - flea market
Beret - gift
Boots - Ebay
Brooch, flower and lurex tights - charity shopped
And while I'm on the subject of fabulous blogger friends, look what the wonderfully talented Joni has made for me!
EEK! I've been immortalised as a Calligram!
Joni, you are amazing, I'm so honoured and delighted, I can't tell you!
See what I mean about blogging buddies? They are bloody brilliant!
Hair cut and root retouch for me tomorrow, about time...
Have a great weekend, whatever you're up to!
xxx
