Back in January I opened an invitation to the 5th Handmade Joy Exchange. I hosted the first one in 2012 and three more after that. Each one was such fun. It was great to get to know some new people, to facilitate new friendships and to help spread joy around the world.

This time I had 19 people join from 12 US states and 4 other countries (India, France, UK and Italy)! Some were people who had participated in the other exchanges and some were new. I matched people up randomly and there were serendipitous pairings. Laura who is from Italy but now lives in the UK (and recently became a British citizen!!) was matched with Christina in Italy. My mom (who’s participated in each of the five Joy Exchanges) was matched with Kelly who lives a few minutes walk from where my parents lived over 40 years ago. Joy at work!

It was wonderful to hear from the participants as they received their packages. So much thought went into the crafting and art making.

I was sad to hear that one package went astray, but I’m hopeful that it will eventually find its way to where it’s going.

Painting, sewing crochet, paper craft, book making… such creativity!

Want to see?

From top left to right (top to bottom): Prerna, Laurie, Sarah, Sonia, Tracey, Chris, Stephanie, Cristina, Kelly, Tara

From top left to right (top to bottom): Sharon, Karen, Angela, Ida, Carol, Laura, Margaret, Caron, Cynthia (not pictured)

Read a bit more about the Exchange from the participants’ point of view in these blog posts:

Karen from Sew and Sow Life

Cristina from Nature and Paint

Laura from It Is Forbidden to be Bored

Thank you to each of you who participated! And for those of you who didn’t, maybe you’re feeling inspired you to send someone a surprise in the mail? Even just an unexpected postcard will spread a little joy. The world always needs more joy.