Finding a Friend

What fun to be browsing a copy of Artful Blogging and find a friend.

(Jenni and Lily)

You know how sometimes, upon first meeting, you know someone will be your friend for a long time?

I first found Jenni three years ago when Barb and I stepped into The Vintage Flea, a shop she owned with business partner and friend, Valerie.  I walked in the door, saw a painting of Jenni's, and knew I wanted to own it someday.
And I knew I would like the artist.

 (the Vintage Flea--worth the drive)

(Lovely Morning by Jenni Horne)

After chatting with Jenni and Valerie for only a few minutes, it struck me how much their friendship was like mine with Barb.  

It wasn't until our second or third meeting that Jenni said we remind them of them.  

We laughed and told them we wondered how long it would take them to realize that.

(Jenni and Valerie)

Jennie paints a friend called Mattie, and all of Mattie's friends which make up Mattie's Social Circle.  

I smile when I hang my Mattie ornament on the tree every Christmas. 

And I think of my friend.

(Mattie graces my ornament)

Hop on over and visit Jenni.  You will find a friend in her.

(Jenni Horne)

While you are at it, look at our friend Valerie's art and read about her shopgirl life.  

The Vintage Flea has been my favorite stop for three years now.
It really is the best and like no other. 

In it I am always creatively inspired.

And I always find something special to take home.

(Misty Morning by Valerie Kay Dumas)

 

(Valerie Kay Dumas)

And, news recently in, Jenni is also featured in the current issue of Somerset Life:

(Somerset Life, Winter 2010)

(My Heart is Full Necklace by Jenni Horne).

And check Etsy for some of Jenni's prints, jewelry and stuff.

Now, tell me about when you first recognized a friend.