Artella's Mystery Muse 2006!
Leave Your Mystery Musings Here!

The early dark
and shorter
days
make each
single light
more
important.
Any spark
stands out...
the Muse has
easy work
on such a
canvas.

Have something to say to your Muse or Musee, or a story to share about your participation in the Mystery Muse 2006 project? Share it here! Feel free to fill out any of the fields below that you'd like - and return with more comments as often as you'd like! Responses will be updated regularly, so bookmark the page to come back and read others' comments!

Questions about your Mystery Muse Assignment? Contact Fred at Fred@ArtellaLand.com

Click here to see the Musings that have been posted!
(Most recent musings are posted at the top.)

Leave a message for your Muse: I was so in awe of the beautiful hand crafted art piece I received I forgot to keep the envelope...so I want to say thanks! If you sent a mixed media piece with Joy in the middle of it! I just wanted you to know it has created Joy in my life!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I was so worried that my art wouldn't be good enough for my muse-ee! I hope you enjoyed your memory box as much as I enjoyed making it for you!

Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you to H. Buysse (the only ID I found). The mug holder was beautiful. The artistic creativity that went into it is awesome. Such detail and beauty. I appreciate your time and artistic talent in sharing this with me. Wishing you a healthy, happy and artful New Year. ~~Renee Cassese

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It added much to my husband's and my holiday season. We did so enjoy the doing, selecting and the receiving of season's joy and gifting too.
Leave a message for your Muse: My muse the generous and skilled Leslie Miller created the most inspiring and beautiful work of wall art for me that brightens these long snowy days for my husband and me. She made the most wonderful and extremely creative Winter Soltice art work piece. I am soooo lucky to have had her as my muse!!!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I enjoyed working on my musee's art and gifting her was fun too. Hugs to my muse-ee, ~~Lani
Other comments: I also really appreciate Fred's riding herd on this stampede of creativity. Thanks Fred.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? The Mystery Muse offered a little serendipity for me and Rachel Lacy, an Artella member who lives about 40 miles from me. Rachel saw my name and location on the Musings page and asked Fred to forward her email address to me, telling me where she lives and asking me to respond. I joyfully answered. Turns out she comes to the doctor in my little 'burb. We live on opposite sides of Little Rock. She's farther along than I in doing collage, and she has shared some of her secrets with me. It's nice to have a soul sister nearby. Thanks, Fred and Mystery Muse, for helping us make this connection that we would never have made otherwise. ~~Vicki Fewell, Sherwood, AR

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I enjoyed the spirit of giving a secret, surprise gift for someone during the time of the year when things can be challenging.
Leave a message for your Muse: To JULIE in HUNTINGTON, WV: Thank you so much for the beautiful jeweled clay wall hanging. It's a lovely reminder every time someone comes to visit me that we all have secret muses out there, waiting to inspire us just by being.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: To SUSAN in SEBRING, FL: I appreciated receiving your thank you note. Your 'tree goddess' mug was a little pinch pot project that was a demonstration during one of my clay classes.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It was a risk that I really wanted to take, to put a little of my very new creative self "out there". I loved thinking about it, and creating it. My only disappointment was that I have not received anything from my muse, nor any feedback from my muse-ee. So, feeling a bit deflated, but I may do this again and hope for a different experience.

Leave a message for your Muse: Thank You Rita B from The Netherlands! I loved the wonderful poem you mailed - thank you for being my Muse! ~~Rebecca in California.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was such a great experience. Not just to get a mystery gift from someone but to participate and connect with other creative people. It was quite an experience to receive such generosity from someone I didn't even know!
Leave a message for your Muse: Roxanne, as you'll have seen from my email I did get your parcel - and it took my breath away. I was so touched by how much care you put into it - the glittery filling was just enchanting - and I am looking forward to wearing the earrings as a reminder to carry my creativity with me wherever I go!
Other comments: Thanks for organizing this, folks - and for the website. Happy New Year to you, too!

Leave a message for your Muse: To Libby of Random Art Designs -- I received your most wonderful package today -- Thank you so much for the hand decorated and stamped goddess purse as well as the collaged canvas shrine. They are both so beautiful and full of symbology. And there was a petite knitted turquoise hat. So fine. How could you know that I absolutely love those color combinations? Many Happy Solstices and New Year beginnings, ~~Patti

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I enjoy the thought that I am sharing with another artist who will understand the spirit behind the creation.
Leave a message for your Muse: Alas...nothing yet. Maybe for Valentine's day??
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Bo, I hope you enjoyed the photo album.
Other comments: Fred I really appreciate your organizing such a thing and will participate again in the hope of a true exchange. ~~Colleen in MI

Leave a message for your Muse: FANCY FAIRIES FLIGHT...Thank you Kathryn Fuller for the cute little fairy ornaments all nestled into their little fairy house. I thought the container was the gift and was then surprised to find three little fairies sleeping inside. Although I suppose they're probably for Christmas, I plan to let them flutter year round in my craft area. I will enjoy them for years to come. THANK YOU :~) from another Kathryn (I sure hope you check these postings because your e-mail address vanished from my computer :~/)
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I really had fun making the sterling and brass folk star necklace for Karen in the Lone Star State ~ though I'm rather new to the art of metalsmithing, it's quickly becoming a passion!! Thank you for letting me know it arrived safely and that you've already had an opportunity to wear it :~D
Other comments: I look forward to the next gifting event!!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I participated last spring and had such great fun that I wanted to do it again. It is fun thinking and then creating!
Leave a message for your Muse: I have not received anything yet, hope nothing got lost in the mail.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Mary R. in Wisconsin, glad you liked the little wallet/coin purses and the cup holder. Hope they are holding your valuables while you travel abroad! ~~JoAnn H. from MI
Other comments: Great idea and I plan on doing it again. It is so much fun!

Other comments: Would Vicki Fewell in Sherwood, AR contact me? I'm Rachel Lacy in Benton, AR. rclacy@wmconnect.com

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Arrived home from holiday today to find buried amongst the heap of envelopes and junk mail an exciting, soft squashy parcel from my Muse-ee Amber. Thank you, I love it!

Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you Terri Takacs (I hope I spelled that correctly!?) I received your package on Sat. What a cute towel. I love polka dots and pink/green is a favorite too! Also, the handmade pin cushion is so great! I don't have one and I love to sew, so it is a perfect gift! I got a new sewing machine for Christmas and I'll keep it close by! Thanks so much for your thoughtfulness! ~~Teresa Stebbins
Other comments: Once again, Thanks to Fred for his work in making all this possible! Such a fun exchange.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was my first year to participate. I was a rewarding experience - especially working on my project - It was different to have a designated recipient that was not someone I knew.
Leave a message for your Muse: Michelle Miller Allen SP was my Muse - What a wonderful job she did on the flute case she sent me. It had great beauty and much spirituality! Thanks
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Sarita Inch was my Mystery Muse-ee and as I created the Spirit Doll which I sent her, "Queen of Winter" I tried to visualize Sarita's love of outdoors and put the spirit of that into the doll.
Other comments: I will participate again next year and tell some of my friends about the Mystery Muse-ee.

Leave a message for your Muse: Ana Lopez-Vera of California - Thank you so much for your lovely Christmas card and fabric ornament! And thank you too for including some of that Christmas fabric as well. All your creative gifts are very much appreciated! Cheers ~~Heather from Australia
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Maggie G of California - Thanks for the unexpected thank you card! Glad you loved the ATC and necklace. Cheers ~~Heather from Australia

Leave a message for your Muse: Carol Anderson - It's amazing that you took so much time to make my surprise gifts. Thank you so much! How did you ever know that the fabric pin exactly matches a new jacket that I just received, too!?!?! It is the perfect finishing touch! Thank you so much for your talent & time. Have the best of new years in all ways. ~~Pat in TN

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I very much enjoyed making a gift for an artist "out there" unknown to me. I fussed and worried if she would like what I made, if the colors and materials were the right ones, and such. During this time when consumerism is so predominant, I like giving something made by hand, and know that it will be appreciated.
Leave a message for your Muse: I haven't heard from her/him yet!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Maude in MO -- I'm glad you liked the art doll!
Other comments: I look forward to Sprites of Spring and hope that I can participate again!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I love thoughtful 'gift giving' for absolutely no reason at all, unlike the responsibility and often unfun pressure with a Holiday or Birthday. Giving to a stranger allows me that same fullfillment. Since my gifts usually include art of some form, this Muse naturally fed my personal desires.
Leave a message for your Muse: I received a lovely handmade beaded bracelet from Lori Scena. This bracelet wraps several times around the wrist. I especially like this because I have small wrists and any bangle type bracelet usually falls off. This bracelet adapts to the wrist size. I also am crazy about vintage gloves - again since they are made small and are awesome to wear as an accessory. I have several pairs and wear them with everything. They look stunning with the bracelet! :-)
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I won't say the person I sent my gift too, as she probably just received it and I don't wish to ruin the element of surprise. My gift was created for her studio. I took 3 folders designed with Anna Griffin papers that I love. Old timey flowers in shades of black with touches of color. I altered them and added titles of "Vintage Photo's" "Bits & Pieces" & "Old Papers" and then added ephemera inside - example real and copied photos. I, again, surround myself with art even in my workspace, and have a file drawer of cool file folders to house my materials.
Other comments: Looking forward to the next muse! Happy New Year Everyone! ~~LunaC/Atlanta

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was a great opportunity to share and stretch. Creating a gift for a specific person, and not knowing the person is good exercise! And FUN.
Leave a message for your Muse: Lani, the artwork is wonderful, and I am looking forward to doing something creative with the kit. This was a special gift because I was in NM when you sent it to me in CA!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: usan, I am so glad you like the postcards, and I agree, I rarely send them, but I love giving them
Other comments: This was really fun, and I will do it again. Thanks Fred and Marney.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This project gave me, a novice, my first chance to indulge myself totally in creating something new. It was a blast! There is nothing I'd rather do than continue to play in this wonderful world of art and fun.
Leave a message for your Muse: Jennifer of Prescott, Ontario, thanks again for the lovely and useful enhancements...awesome.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Amanda, I am hoping your gift arrives next week...and that you like it fine.
Other comments: Did you say there is another exchange coming up in the spring, folks? Also a special hiya to my new art-friend and mentor, at W-S, whom I met through Artella. ~~Kit in Canada, Jan 5/07

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It was fun to make something for and make connection with a creative stranger, who turned out to be a delightful art teacher in Colorado. It was also nice to anticipate what I would receive from my Mystery Muse, who didn't identify herself or give me a way to contact her to say "thank you," so I did it through a posting here. ~~Vicki Fewell, Sherwood, AR
Leave a message for your Muse: My Muse didn't send me her name or email address, but she lives in Springfield, OR, and she sent me some clever little magnets that I will enjoy using. Thank you to my Mystery Muse. ~~Vicki Fewell, Sherwood, AR

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This is my first time. I hope to share more of myself, and continue w/these exchanges. Such fun!! ~~Dawn Gerhardt, Alanson MI. USA
Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you Gena, [from France] I just opened your package. I LOVE the JOURNAL you made just for me. Each page w/a surprise, and very thoughtfully planned out. The extras are a very nice touch. Just wonderful!! I hope to hear from you again soon. Amazing how two strangers can connect thru our art w/out ever meeting. I will enjoy very much what you have created. I've yet decided what I'm going to use it for.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I'm just now getting my piece off to BA due family issues and illness over the holidays. I hope it will be an encouragement to her for a creative '07 as Dorit's is to me.
Leave a message for your Muse: Dorit, The horses running free will remind me of the spirit of creativity.

Leave a message for your Muse: Lauri Griffin, thank you so much for the wonderful wishing wand and your beautiful cards. I am so inspired. I can't find your email address but would like to find out more about what you write and who you are! Again, thank you so much! ~~Laurie C.

Leave a message for your Muse: Charlotte L. in Carthage, MO, you are a most generous Muse. Thank you for the beautiful beaded necklace. I loved it and put it on as soon as I saw it. The leaf pendant is definitely a draw for creative energy. Your muse-ee in CA.who wishes you also a great year full of creativity and joy.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? EVERYTHING! SO VERY LONELY HERE IN THE UK. LOVE TO SWAP SO AS TO ENLARGE MY ALTERED ART MARGINS!!
Leave a message for your Muse: Not sure if its my mail system but nil received by me as yet...can anyone help?

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Christy in NC, please let me know if you haven't received your package yet. I sent it quite some time ago and am getting a bit worried.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? What fun to share a gift with a perfect stranger-not worrying about relationship issues, etc. Very freeing.
Leave a message for your Muse: Amy, Thank you so very much for my beautiful frame. I am an avid gardener myself and so appreciated the phlox. Thank you again and have a wonderful New Year. ~~Rebecca
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I so enjoyed sending you the gifts I made. I hope you enjoyed them as much as I enjoyed making them. Have a wonderful New Year. ~~Rebecca

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi! This message is for Kathy Shubert in Iowa. We were just in Iowa celebrating Christmas! Did you receive my package? ~~Jessie Koenigsberg

Leave a message for your Muse: My Muse Dee (first of all, I sent you a thanks today)...made my day when her wonderful package arrived for me! I assumed it was a package I ordered for my kids. Imagine my excitement when I saw the address! I escaped to my bedroom and ripped into it and found a wonderful, thoughtful surprise. And as I've told her, the card she made me is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen and I'll be framing it. Even my husband and children loved the card. Thanks Dee for making my day!! ~~Roxanne :)

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Jeweliette: I've mailed your package today, so your 'surprise' will arrive soon! I promise I'll send it with the quickest option I can afford because of my slowness! I hope it brings you a moment of joy in your day!! ~~Roxanne

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I just love this activity. It's such fun to create something with a like-minded musee in mind, and I love anticipating receiving something special each time I check the mail.
Leave a message for your Muse: To my special Muse, Marcy. My gift is so sweet -- and the whole package illustrated the abundance of time, energy, creativity and thought you put into this activity. I feel so blessed to have been your musee. Thank you so much!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Thank you, Eugenie, for sending such positive feedback on the gift I sent to you. I appreciate you!
Other comments: Thanks also to Fred for pulling this all together for us. You are an angel!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? As always, it is a delightful way to create things for others and receive very clever, creative things in return! Thanks so much, Fred, for hosting!
Leave a message for your Muse: Jean in Vass, NC -- I hope you got my email of thanks! Your gifts were astounding -- from the wee watercolors to the amazing bottlecaps, earrings and book! You really made my day! Thank you so much! (Your website is great, too!)I did try to send email, but kept getting returns, so I'll send a real note in the mail soon!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi, Jennifer in Oregon! I hope you received your package. I mailed it on December 22. Hope your holidays were happy ones! ~~Your Muse!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It was wonderful to know that inside the box I received would be a rare piece of art. I opened the box on Christmas Eve with my other gifts.
Leave a message for your Muse: My muse was Betty who painted a wonderful red and green framed acrylic painting for me.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I sent on some items I made at artunraveled in Phoenix last summer and added some brand new atc's for my muse.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: To Michele in Poway CA. I am just about finished my creation for you and it will be winging its way to the west coast soonly. I hope you like. ~~Dawn on the east coast!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? As someone who is just beginning to share her art occasionally with friends, it was a stretch for me to send something to a complete stranger. It was, in a small way, an accomplishment and gratifying.
Leave a message for your Muse: To Russell in Warren, PA: Your package arrived today. It was so intriguing; a friend, who was dropping me off at home after lunch, came in to watch me open the box, which had been left on my porch. Thank you for your generous gifts. If the original art images on the two cd's you sent are anything like the art on the bookmark included, I will have a huge resource of beautiful work. The colors and design on the bookmark are stunning. And the perfectly framed vintage holiday card of "The Homecoming" will be enjoyed long past the holidays. It has captured my attention several times today, and I have become lost in the scene portrayed. Thanks for your thoughtful gifts. ~~Bobbie

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I love the fun of being a 'mystery' muse...it brings back all the fun of childhood and the mystery of wrapped packages under the tree.
Leave a message for your Muse: Kelly...thank you so much for the wonderfully artful notecards, bobbles and beads, and collaged sketchbook! I love it all. So much fun to share with you!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Ann S in Nevada...I sent your package two weeks ago...I hope you received it! I loved being your mystery muse!
Other comments: A huge thanks to Fred for all the time it took to organize and communicate to everyone!!!! ~~Susan GT

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Sharing art is a wonderful thing.
Leave a message for your Muse: Linda Hartzig in SC...received your gift today. Just love it (A memory book made from Paper bags and decorated very cute)...and the travel ATC. Thank you
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Liz Walker...hope you like your gift

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I felt a surge of creativity, and it was so good to reach out and send something artful to another muse. Thank you Fred, for your generous hand in all of this.
Leave a message for your Muse: To Paula Snyder from Rio Rancho, NM: Oh Paula! I am so happy today, and thankful for your time and artistry in creating such a beautiful handmade scrapbook. I love it, and especailly, knowing it was from your inspiration, and handbound. I will treasure this book. I love the watercolor violin adorning this book. A huge heartfelt thank you! ~~Celia from Oregon
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: To Peggy in AZ: I hope you enjoyed your gift. I had such fun making something for someone else, across the country!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Just pure fun and excitement, waiting for my surprise and getting mine ready to send.
Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Joy, I also am a quilter, so I did appreciate the work that went into my cardinal. Thank you so much. My bird is hanging in my kitchen window where I love to watch the cardinals gather in my yard. Thank you so much. ~~Beth in CT.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It seems so much more special to make a particular thing for a specific person, and it was fun getting to know the interests of Sharlene Lee, as well as Jil Beaux.
Leave a message for your Muse: Thank You Sharlene for the beautiful watercolor, I appreciate you and your skills. Thank You for sharing with me.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Dear Jil, I am sooo glad you liked the digital collage, it was fun to do and to make it personal for you. Thanks for your friendship, lets stay in touch?
Other comments: Such a great idea! Kudos to you Fred for hosting such a positive and fun activity.

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Wendy Vey: I just rec'd your parcel! How much fun it was to see that it came all the way from NL. I absolutely adore the little fairy ornament, she is so full of light and love that I am hanging her from my computer now as I type. Also the angel (?) necklace means alot to me too. I can see how you are a costume designer in Theatre with such talent. Love and light in the new year. ~~Lisa Underhill, Ottawa, ON

Leave a message for your Muse: Oh my goodness!!!! I cannot believe what a wonderful gift Teresa created for my artella muse surprise. Thank you so very much. The soldered collage us beautiful, and I am blown away by the lavender wand. I have never seen anything like it. I knew that it was lavender, because the envelope smelled lovely, but I never expected such a unique and intricate gift to be inside! You are a very talented artist, thank you so much for sharing yourself and your gifts with me.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Thank you very much, Fred. This a a great exchange and I appreciate all that you have done in facilitating this huge project.
Leave a message for your Muse: Hi Carol- What a surprise to find that I received a gift from the person whose name I had 2 yrs ago. Thank you very much. ~~Carol in MN
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hello Pat- I hope that you liked the handcrafted items. ~~Carol in MN

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I was thrilled with the prospect of making something for someone that I have never met. I tried several different processes and when I finally decided upon my selections, I felt a real sense of accomplishment. I haven't heard from my muse-ee but I hope she liked it. I vow to participate in every exchange in the future - so much nicer to receive a surprise in the mail rather than a bill! ~~Jennifer in Hilton Beach.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Muse-ee Karen - I delighted in every minute I spend on your little gifts. They were delightful to create and I hope that they suit you. After reading about some of the creations made by others, I can't hardly wait to see what is coming my way. All the best in 2007!
Other comments: Thank you Fred and Artella. You are my daily inspiration and the time I spend here rejuvenates my spirit.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Making connections and building community amongst generous kindred spirits. Namaste.
Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Lola, though we communicated by email, I thought to send a posting letting you know that I look forward to our sharing our creative expressions. ~~Chris from NY.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Dear Marney, Thank you for your kind words. My wish was that I could give back the awe-filled way(it's not just awe-some)that I have been moved by your work, your vision, and those of the Artella community of artists. With gratitude, ~~Chris from NY.

Leave a message for your Muse: To Lori Barker, artist extraordinaire and generous heart from Connecticut...thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU! I loved my bookmarks and Polaroid art! Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents and part of yourself with me! ~~Laurie in New York

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This pushed me WAAAAY outside of my comfort zone, which is why I signed up. I knew I needed to have faith in my talent that it is good enough to give to another artist as art!
Leave a message for your Muse: My muse carved a delicate sprite from fossil ivory! She is absolutely breathtaking!

Leave a message for your Muse: Happy New Year to my Mystery Muse, Mary Hurst in CA. Your interesting and thought-provoking painting is now in my VA home and has become part of my yoga corner. Thank you for this creative addition. ~~Frances

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Just like many others here, this was my first participation in an artist gift exchange. I was surprised at how much I was inspired to create art, not just for my Musee but for others as well. Thank you so much for the opportunity to be one of the multitudes of jewels in this network.
Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you, Muse in Yuma, AZ, for the lovely little scrapbook. It inspired me to create some similar little books for my friends! I learned a lot from your gift. . . and I guess that means you are a true Muse. My heartfelt thanks!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Kelly, I really appreciated your email message of thanks. I had so much fun creating your treasure box! Happy New Year!~~Janet in Iowa City

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This felt like I was sharing my art with the world so it was scary! I've not heard anything from my musee so I'm afraid she doesn't like what I sent. The "first-timer's" jitters!
Leave a message for your Muse: Renee' Steger Simpson was my muse. I have already thanked her privately but just want to give her kudos here, too. She sent a wonderful cube box decorated as if I had ordered it so, filled it with a tiny bookan ATC and a "fortune telling" cube. My quotes. You would have thought we worked together! Except she's better. sniff, sniff.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Peggy MeDevitt, did you receive your art from me? I sent it some time ago and haven't heard a word. If you didn't like what I sent, send it back to me and I will make you something else as I do many kinds of mixed media works. Please let me know if you have not received anything.

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Muse, I love my wonderful books. Thank you for the care and Joy and inspiration that comes through each one. I will send a real snail mail thank-you too, with love, ~~Ingrid Goff-Maidoff

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Bonnie A. Have you received my gift? It was mailed a while ago and I haven't heard from you. I hope it didn't get lost in the mail. ~~From Renee in New York

Leave a message for your Muse: I received a totally fab sparkly jigsaw piece - lovely. Thank you so much June. ~~Alexis Kelly

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Participating in this exchange was one of the best parts of 2006. It seems that my creativity peaks when I am doing something for someone...even though I didn't know that someone personally.
Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you Jackie Long of California for the personalized collage and the beautiful framed graphic collage. I also enjoyed getting to know you, Jackie through our emails. You are great, Jackie!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Jennifer in Mississippi: I am tickled you liked the little bit of creativity I sent you. Thanks for the appreciative email.
Other comments: This exchange is such a wonderful idea. Thank you for all your time, Fred. ~~Jil

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Pricilla Schrock, My biggest apologies for not posting sooner, but I love my inspiration deck and the tiny 1" square art! The deck is the perfect gift right now, "cuz I need some encouragement... ; ) ~~Lotus, Modesto, CA

Leave a message for your Muse: Happy New Year's Sherry from Tennessee and thank you so much for my absolutely wonderful inspiring imaginative hanging with the quote: "Imagination is more important than knowledge." ~~Pat in New Hampshire
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: To my Muse-ee, Carmen in SC, I hope enjoy my fiber gift, ~~Pat in New Hampshire

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? As ever, Artella gives me the chance to enjoy the giving and the hopeful anticipation of receiving.
Leave a message for your Muse: I've not received anything yet here in the UK, but I have hope that this is due to postal systems around the world and am sure that my Muse will not forget me.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Lisa Manyweathers, not sure how long your gift will take to reach you around the world, but it is on its journey. ~~arty love from Laura in the UK

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was my first participation in an Artella swap/exchange even though I've been a member for a couple of years. It was so much fun! Even as grownups we still need mystery and surprise in our lives! (Maybe even more so than when we were children!)
Leave a message for your Muse: Sandra Carlman I love your gift of collage! Thank you so very much! It came on a day when I needed a pick me up and it certainly did that!

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Mary S. Happy New Year. You should have received your very COLORFUL PADDED ENVELOPE full of hand crafted gifts for you by now, but I haven't heard anything. Please send me an e-mail or leave a note here to let me know you received them...they were created jut for YOU. Bright Creative Abundant Blessings in 2007. ~~your Muse Becky in Oregon
Other comments: Fred, thanks for checking on my MISSING MUSE and extending the deadline. Hopefully now the creative muse magic will arrive at my door after all. After the amazing gifts from Novella last year I can hardly wait to see what it has created for me this year. I so enjoyed this exchange. THANKS ~~Becky in Oregon

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It put me in touch with creative women from the other side of my country (I'm in Northern California) and the other side of the world. Thank you Fred for that!
Leave a message for your Muse: My muse (Susan in Florida) brought me floral color in a time of bare branches.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: To my musee (Carmel in Brisbane Australia) I want to thank you for getting me into my studio, to think about what we had in common and what were our differences on my winter solstice and your summer solstice.
Other comments: Happy New Year to my dear friend Caterina who put me in touch with this web site so many months ago.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was my first experience joining in an art exchange (mystery muse) and I loved every thing about it. The inspiration of making something for your muse to the appreciation of others amazing art abilities. And I can't wait to do it again. ~~Teresa Mae
Leave a message for your Muse: Teresa ,you are such a talented lady, no surprise you are a part of the artists of artella. Even the wrapping on your lovely gifts was so beautifully done. Thank you so much . I loved it. ~~Teresa Mae
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Tanaya, Thank you for writing to tell me how much you enjoyed the gift. I am so glad you loved the lavendar wand. I make them every year. You so encouraged me as it was my first art exchange. Have a wonderful new year. ~~Teresa Mae in Washington.

Leave a message for your Muse: To Chris in NY - I LOVE the Somatry art - I am just in awe of it, and of you...this has been a very, very special gift indeed. Thank you for touching such a deep place in me with such a special gift! ~Marney
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Lori, I'm so glad you liked your gift - it was great fun to put it together. I'm glad you're here at Artella!
Other comments: Just want to say thanks to everyone here for being part of this and making this dream of mine come true! ~~Marney

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was my first time involving myself in something like this online. I created something for my Musee, however I received nothing.
Leave a message for your Muse: Whoever had my name -- I hope you are not ill or you had a major catastrophe that would cause you not to be able to keep a promise. I wish you the best in the new year.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I hope you liked your surprise ;o)
Other comments: I must say I am disappointed in my first exchange of this kind. I know people all have good things to say. I think the idea is great and Fred's time is wonderful. After a year in which my small dog died, my oldest sister died, my daughter suffered internal bleeding, another sister died a few years ago on Thanksgiving, and a friend is terminal ... I thought this might add a bright spark to my life. And it did. Creating a gift for someone was fun. Happy New Year.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Same as always, THE THRILL of sharing art with a heart!
Leave a message for your Muse: AUNT BOBBY!! You have outdone yourself! I cannot express how much I love my Nicidoll; she brought out my inner child! I forgot what fun paperdolls are and how I loved them as a girl. And oh, my wardrobe is AWESOME!! A boatload of thanks to you and all your elves!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Denise, I am so glad you liked the journal! I enjoyed making it for you! ~~The Stratford Muse
Other comments: Thank you Fred!!!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Fun surprises and sharing a love of ART!
Leave a message for your Muse: Pat from Chicago, Thanks for your lovely card. It was so great to hear from you. I will send you something in return soon! Happy New Year!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Olivia in Ohio! Thanks for the sweet note. It made my day and your artistic card was lovely! Best for the New Year and many more miles cycling! I'm a walker myself.
Other comments: This is a great project to participate in. I think another idea might be to share art and greetings with a group of less fortunate (health challenged or otherwise) maybe even give art supplies to those who want to make art but can't afford to start. We could make up little packages of supplies for a project or two and send them along the way....Daily Giving of the love of creation.

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear muse from Baltimore who lives on Port Street! I got your wonderful package of goodies today! What a delight! I am a mixed media/collage artists and there was a plethora of terrific things I can use in my work! A very merrrrry to you! Blessings on your creative endeavors for 2007. I don't know how I got so lucky, but I had TWO muses this year!! I must have been very good this year! Wink! Wink! ~~Wendy Lee Lynds from Washington state

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I love this exchange and have participated previously - also in the Secret Sprite exchange. Sharing creativity and love among individuals world wide is a joy I believe benefits the universe as well. Cudos to Fred for the great job coordinating this!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Dear Maryelizabeth in Maryland - So delighted you enjoyed the gift tags...but wait - there's more! Another little giftie should be on your doorstep by tomorrow...God willing and USPO cooperating. Much Love from your Mystery Muse in California

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It was really exciting to be part of a world wide artistic community. I enjoyed getting off the wild-ride of shopping and wrapping for a few days to sit down and create art. It was a relaxing AND stimulating diversion.
Leave a message for your Muse: I was surprised to find out that my muse was also my muse-ee. Thanks, Sandy Davidson (Oregon), for the beautiful hooked rug pillow and wall-hanging. My daughter grabbed the pillow since the colors go in her bedroom perfectly.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Sandy ~ It was fun sending you a gift that I knew you might like since you used to live in Florida. The shells on your frame all come from Sanibel Island on the west coast of Florida.

Leave a message for your Muse: To Ethel Burnham, THANK YOU so very very much for the amazing bag you created for me. It was a delight when I ripped open the package and found your paper weaved and laminated handbag inside. It is just so "ME"!! I am in love with it, thank you so very much! ~~Laney in Long Beach WA
Other comments: Once again, this year's Mystery Muse project was a complete delight to be a part of. Thanks to Artella and to Fred to pulling it all together. Keep me on the e-mail list for next year please!

Leave a message for your Muse: Pattie Mosca! Thank you so much for the wonderful painting! She is hanging in my kitchen (where I spend most of my time!). My daughter has tried to take her, but I'm hanging on to it. Dreams come true! Thanks! ~~Dawn Allen

Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you very, very much for the wonderful art. I will enjoy this each day! ~~Melissa in NYC

Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you so much, Kathy of Ferndale WA! The exquisite hand-stitched pot-pourri holder arrived safely today. Plus the loveliest of cards! Thank you so much for keeping the joy of Christmas going for even longer :o) Blessings upon blessings for the New Year, ~~Claire

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Mary Sparks, Thanks you for the original Christmas poem and the sweet card that you designed to go with it. I wish you peace, joy, good health, and creative inspiration in 2007. ~~Lora Martin

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This is the first art exchange I've ever participated in and I had so much fun! It was a challenge to make something for someone I didn't know--I didn't know her favorite colors, what theme to do, whether she liked collage, stamping or what. I finally made a card I was very happy with and was so excited to think of her opening it. Chris Tessnear of Alexis NC, I hope you got it. ~~Pat
Other comments: I will do this again and again. Thanks Artella, for setting this up. ~~Pat

Leave a message for your Muse: I am Happily anticipating the arrival of my gift. Who could it be from, where could it be traveling from? The suspense is killing me!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Oh Susan, I am SO happy that you like your journals! And, I'm a bit jealous of your upcoming trips. :) If only I knew that you were a French Teacher...I spent a little time in Paris this summer, I should send you a few things to share with your class.

Other comments: Hi there and Merry Christmas to all. I will be mailing my gift out this week to my muse. I do hope I get something this year as last year I received nothing. Kept waiting and waiting but nothing ever came. This will be my third year and the first year was fantastic. I just know that I will not have another repeat of last year. Hope everyone had a wonderful day. ~~Linda in SC

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Enjoyed the mystery last year and was anxious to participate again...fun to see how creative the world is...
Leave a message for your Muse: Dear muse: I LOVE my "joy" banner! Gorgeous, and your gift to end world hunger, Happy with that gesture, as well. It is hanging proudly on my mantle. i would dearly love to thank you personally. Will you send me your email, perhaps? I don't even know who you are or where you are from!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Loved sending you the handmade cards...blessings on your 2007!!~~Wendy Lee Lynds, Whidbey Island, Clinton, WA wendyworksstudio@whidbey.com
Other comments: Fred is a darling. Loved his witty repartee' via email. He's a keeper!!~~Wendy Lee from WA

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Edith Hope! I am so glad it arrived safe and sound!!! Be it a mystery no more, I am Laney Clark from Long Beach WA :) I am thrilled that you are a beach lover, as that makes it so much more perfect :)

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Liz Walker in Tarrytown NY...your giftee left Arizona and should reach you in a few days. Happy Holidays xoxo

Leave a message for your Muse: To my muse in Long Beach Washington--My wonderful treasures arrived today and I love the beach magnets and beach scene with musings. I'm a life long beach lover landlocked in Idaho! Must your identity remain a secret? Thank you!~~Edith

Leave a message for your Muse: To Wendy of WendyWorks Studio - Your lovely handmade cards are a treasure! Thank you so much!~~Pat in Michigan

Leave a message for your Muse: To Tanaya in Illinois: Thank you so very much for the beautiful hand-made books! What a lovely surprise! As I am an avid traveler, they will soon be put to good use, the first one as a journal for a Greek Island cruise to celebrate my retirement!!! (As a French teacher, I love your use of "Joyeux"!!!!!) Merci merci merci! Merry Christmas!!!!!~~Susan
Other comments: Fred: Thank you for being the ultimate muse! This is my first time doing it...can't wait until next year already! Merry Christmas!~~Sue

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It's nice to share creativity with people around the country and hopefully make some new friends.
Leave a message for your Muse: Nothing yet but I am anticipating a fun package.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Bonnie A. Hope you have received my artful message of peace. Have a wonderful New Year filled with creative projects.

Leave a message for your Muse: The Gift tags were amazing. I almost didnt want to share. But they really dress up my gifts and have been commented on as really beautiful. Thanks so much~~MaryElizabeth
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Dear WendyLee in Washington State, Your gift is on its way It was mailed on Wednesday. Hope you enjoy.
Other comments: A special Thanks to Fred for all the work he puts into making the exchanges so wonderful. Thanks again.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Peggy S. in Flagstaff, AZ, a package was sent on the 22nd from Oregon. Should arrive in 4 days!

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Nina Olson, a package has been sent to you, but that is not all of the gifts..the handmade gift and other surprises will still be coming your way!!! I sent you an E-Artella Postcard, I have not been notified that the card has been read yet? I hope all is OK with you and your loved ones, since you live in Washington, I was thinking that perhaps you lived where all the bad weather had happened~~Your Mystery Muse, from California

Leave a message for your Muse: This is Hope Evey, thank you, whoever you are!

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Carilyn Libysen, Something for you left Tennessee on Monday. It should arrive soon!

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Edith Hope, A package filled with love and art was whisked away today. My hope is it will arrive and grace your doorstep by Saturday.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It was wonderful. My Muse sent me the most fantastic book she made of art paper, paper bags, yarn and beads. It is absolutely beautiful and truly inspiring. My creating something for my Musee helped me in recovery of my hip replacement surgery...gave me a project and a goal.
Leave a message for your Muse: To Sharon Bryan of Long Beach WA. Thank you so much for being my Muse and for creating such a beautiful and inspiring piece of art for me.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi, Sharon. Hope you enjoyed my gifts to you.
Other comments: Fred, this was a wonderful experience, as usual. Thanks for doing it.

Leave a message for your Muse: Katie Ciluffo of Lakewood, CO. THANK YOU so much for the wonderful book fob! I will be starting a new journaling book the first of the year and this will save the book from rabbit ears!! Thank you again~~Pattie Mosca

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was my first year on the group, and I just wanted to take a chance at this.
Leave a message for your Muse: Oh Leslie, the altered tin box was chockfull of so many delightful things! My DH got to see it and open it up and went WOW! He thought it was remarkable that a complete stranger would put that much effort into making something for me. I said, that's Artella!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I'm only a little worried because I should have looked at your email address to see that it said you were purpledy. If I had known that, I would have changed the colors. So if you would prefer a more berry colored one, I'll be glad to replace it.
Other comments: I'm going to keep coming back each year, and working on my art - and hopefully get better and better.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: For Sandy in MN - - Don't despair during these long, dark days.......your Solstice prezzie will be in the mail soonly! Hang in there! Warm hugs from Your Mystery Muse :-)

Leave a message for your Muse: To my Muse, Kristina in *Paradise*! Thank you thank you thank you for these GORGEOUS fabric postcards! I love them - but therein lies the rub... How can I address them and send them away??? They're just going to have to hang on my studio wall. :-) Thank you (and I'm sorry I couldn't wait till the actual Solstice to open them). ~~Susan in VA

Leave a message for your Muse: For Kathleen G., such a creative muse. Thank you for the beautiful photo collage, extra photos and a "words" booklet. I will mat the extras and hang them as well. Blessings~~Judith

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Susan B Young in Illinois, I am hoping that your package will arrive on the 21st or 22nd, in time for the Winter Solstice. I do hope that you will enjoy my gifts. :) Your secret muse, also in Illinois

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi Sioux in Mineral Wells. I mailed your musee package yesterday 12/18. You should be receiving a little priority package in a few days. Have fun with it. Cheers~~Sharon

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? If my muse-ee has half as much fun with the gift as I had in making it, she'll have lots of fun!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Nici -- I mailed your package today. Let me know when it gets there. Love~~Aunt Bobby

Leave a message for your Muse: To Wendy of WendyWorks Studio in Washington - I received the beautiful handmade cards -- thank you very much! I'll enjoy using some of them very soon to send thank you notes after Christmas.

Other comments: Gosh, it's funny to hear everyone else talking about snow and cold weather - we're in midsummer here in Australia, the drought is biting hard and the bushfires are already raging. I've sent my musee in the Netherlands something to remind her of the desert and how sacred it is. Hope she likes it!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Thank you Fred & Artella for the soul-satisfying experience of creating art for another artist. I am already looking forward to 2007. And I haven't even received my special art yet! ~~Judith in CA

Leave a message for your Muse: Pattie Mosea. Your package arrived today!! I'll wait until the Solstice on Thursday to open it! Can hardly wait! ~~Dawn Allen

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Kelly P. I am so thrilled that you loved your collage. Making a special gift for a fellow artist increases your inspiration and creativity. It is I who must thank you for so much fun. ~~Judith in CA.

Leave a message for your Muse: Thank you Anne S., for the fabric collage gifts. How wonderful you are living your dream and sharing your creativity.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: The Postal Pixies have your art surprise it is on its way to you Natasha UK... I hope you have been enjoying the Holly Days. ~~Your Muse, Bonnie R. USA

Leave a message for your Muse: To: Katie C. of Lakewood, Co... Thank you so much for the lovely book fob...I have a book project that I will be starting in the New Year and this is the perfect addition to this adventure! Holiday greetings to you and thank you again!~~Artfully Yours, Pattie

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This is my second Mystery Muse - and it is indeed a beautiful bright light in this darkest time of the year. It is pure joy to send a wee something to a complete stranger and to receive beauty from another :o)
Leave a message for your Muse: Haven't received anything yet, but there's plenty of time...
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Just to let you know, Barbara in Maryland that your wee spark of light is winging its way across the waters from England :o)
Other comments: Thank you again Fred for keeping all the balls of light in the air - you are a true star in the artistic firmament!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I enjoyed creating a unique little "something" to be a surprise gift for someone in another part of the world and enclosing it in gift wrapping with a flavour of my country. I hope she likes it.
Other comments: I think this is a wonderful idea!

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi, Cindy in Texas! Your gift from Alaska should be leaving here on Monday, that is if any planes are flying?? What fun. I hope you like it.~~Debi

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? The person to whom I sent a mystery muse art gift has turned out to live in France, as opposed to my Texas. What a delight she has been to get to know. And she talks to me like I am an adult, even though I am 20 years her junior.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Gena, you are precious to be so appreciative. It would be lovely to be able to meet you and your family some day.~~Almedia
Other comments: Fred, you have taken such good care of everything, and could not have picked a better person for me to get to know by sending her a part of my musings.~~Appreciatively, Almedia

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi Kate in PA. Your package is on its way and I'm hoping you'll receive it on Friday 12-22-06. It's coming all the way from sunny California, but not tonight. We are expecting a huge rainstorm and we might get snow. I know that's not too special for you, but exciting for us, since we get snow once every 5 years.~~Kathy in CA

Leave a message for your Muse: I received my package today, but do not know who it is from. But a HUGE Thank You!~~BrendaLea in Southern Illinois

Leave a message for your Muse: This is for Judy B-G. Love the collage and all the wonderful contents of it!! I love it. Thank you and have a wonderful holiday.~~Blessings, Kelly aka artsydoll

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Mary S.~~Happy Holidays, just wanted to let you know your mystery muse Becky is beginning to create your special gift. I had some crisis events happen recently, but now the creative juices are flowing. It should be there by the 30th. Not too fret -- it will be coming! Enjoy your holiday whatever it is!~~Becky

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Teresa Mae Malm -- your mystery muse has just mailed you a little gift! I hope you enjoy it when it arrives. I plan on mailing another gift but have to spend a week with my new granddaughter first, so you will get something after the holidays, too!!~~another Teresa

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Dear Stacey, Your "spark" of art is now well on its way to Hawaii! Since I've never been to Hawaii, I'm happy to know that my art piece can go there. Happy Holidays from "Palapala," aka Barbara from Brooklyn
Other comments: I think we may all consider adopting Fred H. as our secondary Muse-ee next time around! Thank you, Fred!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? This was such a great idea! I will be participating in this great art exchange forever now. The excitement of possibly delighting someone and in turn being delighted is just magical!
Leave a message for your Muse: My Muse Terri gave me two wonderful watercolor prints. Each had its own statement printed in words as well. Her words struck me and spoke what I have felt. I went to her website and read her bio, and felt a connection with her immediately. The fact we were connected thru Artella is no coinsidence. It was a universal plan, no doubt.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: I haven't heard from my Muse-ee yet, but I created a glass bead bracelet for her and hope she received it. It's not about being thanked or gushed over, it's about sharing the art and delighting someone with a surprize!

Leave a message for your Muse: A huge thank you to Bobbie in Rockford IL. I loved the snow baby you shared with me. She is hanging by a gold cord on my "art wall" just above my work area in my studio. She is beautiful! Thank you so much!!

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Nici Derosier, I am having SUCH fun working on your wee giftee! It's not finished yet, so I am not sending it yet. My goal is to get it in the mail by Dec. 21. I hope you find it worth the wait!

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? Being a Mystery Muse is fun. I have already sent ecards and a poem via email written for my musee.
Leave a message for your Muse: I have received nothing yet...
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Across the miles. I am inspired, and working on this *present* -- you haven't received it yet so it is still a mystery -- was so much fun I found it to awaken my inner artist even more.
Other comments: I have been inspired to send more cards this year and bits of my art by participating. By nature I am not very social unless performing or lecturing, etc. This is my first *art* etc. exchange, and I just JUMPED in with both feet, and am ever so glad I did.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Hi Waynda in Louisville, here is a message from your muse. My little gifts are traveling to you right now, but be patient,they have to go overseas!! Happy Holidays!~~C.

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? I really enjoyed seeing someone else's art.
Leave a message for your Muse: Kathryn, I didn't expect three things! The scarf is beautiful and I wore it yesterday. I hung the ornament on my tree and put the photo on my fridge. Thanks!
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Christy in NC, I have your art finished, but I've run out of padded mailing envelopes. I'll send it out as soon as I get to the store.

Leave a message for your Muse: I received the most gorgeous little meandering book from Alexis Kelly. Thank you so much, it's wonderful.~~Claudia

What did participating in Artella's Mystery Muse 2006 mean to you? It's such a thrill to create something for someone you don't know yet - putting yourself out there with your creativity to see where it lands. I simply love this and connecting with others.
Leave a message for your Muse-ee: To Judith, the photo collage was so much fun to make especially for you - I barely knew what was coming until it all came together. Enjoy your holiday and know you made mine better just for the fun of it. Merry!~~Kathleen

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Stratford, CT Muse. I received my beautiful journal. It's a perfect size for my purse and I will use it to keep all my important thoughts and inspiration in. Thank you so much.~~Denise Bongiovanni in NJ

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Please hang onto your toque, Muse-ee Amanda in Virginia. I'm a snail-pace worker having fun creating something just for you!~~Kit in Canada

Leave a message for your Muse: A big thank you to Joni in South Carolina, my creative gifts are so beautiful, I have all three sitting in my studio, and they are doing their "muse" work!~~Kathy in California.

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Aunt Bobby - Thank you for the very kinds words of thanks. One of my favorite parts of creating artwork is the joy people get when receiving the piece. Enjoy the art and enjoy an artfilled holiday season~~Stacy, Magpie Artist

Leave a message for your Muse: Dear Stacy -- Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you! I am SO excited to receive a present from my Mystery Muse and to know who she is. I love the plaque. It will hang in a place of honor on my Art Wall! I would love to know what the French says I know belle means beautiful, but I dont know what epogue means. And, how do you say it? The whole thing is just lovely the frame, the mounting, the picture, the lettering EVERYTHING! Thank you so very much for the wonderful Mystery Muse gift! Blessings~~"Aunt Bobby"

Other comments: Thank you Fred and ArtellaLand for organizing this! I thought I had finished my gift for my muse-ee, but I think I may just need to add to it. Can't wait to get it out in the mail. Thanks for playing, everyone!~~Tanaya

Leave a message for your Muse-ee: Jean, I am so excited. I have been working on your gifts and you will be getting mail soon. ~~ Brenda

Some people submitted comments when they signed up. Here are excerpts from what they said:
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Janet: I have done this before and enjoyed it.
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Holly: This has been one of the most fun things I've ever done. I think this will be my 3rd or 4th time I've signed up. Thanks for doing it again.
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Teresa: Yipeee...love the Mystery Muse!
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Melissa: Thank you very much for organizing this wonderful project! Happy holidays!
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Julie: I did the spring muse and it was fun!
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Terri: This will be my third year doing Mystery Muse...and it seems to get better every year!
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Deborah: I love this fabulous exchange! Such a delight.
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Darshell: This will be my second year. Last year was great!
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Leah: Thank you! I was wondering if this was going to happen this year or not!
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Hope: I'm very thankful you folks do this :)
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Libby: Even though I didn't receive anything last year, I had so much fun making something for a person I will probably never meet, so sign me up to do it again! Thanks, Fred.
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Jessie: I'm very excited about participating again!
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Laney: I played MysteryMuse last year for the first time and I loved it!! Thanks for emailing me to remind me for this year.
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Jocelyn: I am excited to be a part of this!
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Sherry: I've enjoyed many past "muses" and can't wait to do it again!
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Dianne: I've participated before and truly enjoyed this unusually creative wrapping around of the arms of shared art. Thanks for provoding the opportunity.
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Becky: It's wonderful that you do this..I loved being a Sprite and look forward to being a mystery Muse. Happy Solstice!
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Karen Ann: This is my second year. I love this idea. Thank You, it's been a real treat!
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Mary: Let's get started!
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Christine: Absolutely marvelous path of connectivity... Thank you!
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Kathy: I loved the spring sprite project. I also love that in this month's ME Home Companion, I see Artella in more than one advertisement! Way to go!
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Chelsae: I participated in the Spring Sprites this year and had a blast. I Angeled two people and hopefully they received. This is such a fun and wonderful thing to do! Thanks so much for organizing it!
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Anna-Marie: I had fun participating in this a couple of years ago but my muse went missing. I got a fabulous hand-bound book from an "angel" that I have cherished. Thanks for hosting!
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Tanaya: I am SO excited to sign up. I was waiting for something special to make my day today...and this is it!
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Sharon: Hi, Fred. Thanks for taking this on again this year.
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Wendy Lee: Loved participating last year!
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Linda: I have done this a couple of times and it has been wonderful. Thanks.
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Lisa: Sounds interesting! Thanks.
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Laurie: Loved it last year!!!
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Sandy: Thank you for this opportunity.
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Susan: I am not an artist in the way many of your visitors/members obviously are. I have done crafty things of various types for many years,however. I hope whatever I can come up with will not disappoint a recipient who is a "real" artist and not just an artisan like me. I'm so excited about participating! Thank you so much!
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Jan: Delighted!
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Rhonda: Thank you for making this possible.
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Sara: I think this is a great idea.
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Frances: I'm looking forward to this sort of secret fun again this year. Thanks for providing the opportunity.
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Barbara: Thank you, Fred!
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Chris: I can't wait to start.
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Patti: Sounds like a cool way to celebrate the solstice.
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Ana Maria: Thank you so very much for hosting this! I love surprises and I love being able to surprise someone with a bit of artfulness.
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Holly: This has been one of the most fun things I've ever done. I think this will be my 3rd or 4th time I've signed up. Thanks for doing it again.
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Jacquelyn: I like the idea!
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Sandy: This is my first time to participate in anything like this. I'm excited!