I had a new Ikebana freind on my birthday. What a great gift!
When you do Ikebana , you will find beauty in not only flowers and branches but also in yourself. You will know how much beauty you can create and express with floral materials. AT the same time you can experience moment of peace, like meditation or Zen.
The very beginning you may not know anything about Ikebana but you will be able to encounter spiritually moments and your inner beauty.
Also another wonderful gift is that my friend in Japan helped me with making origami cranes for 26 angels and heroes of Sandy Hook Elementary School. I hope our prayer and love will be reached to them. That was as kind gift on my birthday. Many people shared love for them.