The Wonderhole

Every once in a while I meet someone who completely understands what I do. (Why do I collect old linen button bags, why do I save every scrap of ribbon paper, who really needs 200 boxes of old chenille snails??) A couple of weeks ago, in walked Carol Parks, and she got it. She didn't question anything, she just got it. She piled up the counter high with all sorts of bits and pieces and then announced she was having a fabulous party. I asked her if I could come and she said yes. So, last week, I went to Carol's fabulous party which was held at her North Hollywood home. Her home is part artist studio and part museum - an eclectic mix of everything Carol loves - all in shades of cranberry, blossom and coral. I was happy to see some friends, Pam Garrison and Amy Hanna - and met many new ones. I had such a good time that Carol invited me back the following week, to her annual Valentine soiree - as long as I could make up 36 Valentines to hand out at the Valentine swap. I set to work making up my Valentines, and Sofia and I went back to Carol's home yesterday afternoon. This time the party was even more festive. The table was set with an amazing array of tea sandwiches, scones, macarons from New Orleans and of course, champagne! The house and garden were lit up and sparkling. I think Pam said it best when she said she felt like we had fallen down the Wonderhole from Alice in Wonderland. When we finally did leave, with our shoe box stuffed with Valentines, our ladybug balloon corsages and a couple of takeout boxes of food, Sofia got into the car and said "Wow". That's all - just wow - and that pretty much sums up Carol Parks. Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention - you too can visit Carol's home and studio - she offers 3 day craft workshops with some of the most talented artists around. Spend a few days with Carol and you will find yourself and your creative spirit - just in case you lose it once in a while - like I do.