Our good friends from South Africa, Ian and Stella, are moving to Kansas.

Kansas. I picture Dorothy’s house in the Wizard of Oz, spinning in the sky and landing on the wicked witch.

Mary Ellen was from Kansas. She went back after law school. I imagine Mary Ellen in overalls, sitting on the front porch of a one story log cabin, feet up on the railing, shot gun across her lap, a straw of wheat clenched between her teeth.

I know nothing about Kansas. Except that it’s flat. And Dorothy wanted to go back there because there’s no place like home. And now Ian and Stella will call that place “home.”

We had a farewell dinner last night. Stella gave me a collage journal she’d made.

I’m posting it here because it’s beautiful, creative, and inspirational.

Front cover of Stella’s vintage collage journal

Embossed “leather” spine

Paper flower applique blends seamlessly into the front cover design

Inside cover slit pockets

Lace edged paper pocket

Removable writing pad with matching pen

Matching pen with laminated paper.

Envelopes

Pocket with self closing magnetic flap

stacked pockets

French ribbon memo board

I love this little paper clip!