Show and Tell

find shelter in Him... and... birthday wishes

Today is Monday, February 20 — Presidents Day. Do you remember when there was no Presidents Day? Instead there was Lincoln's Birthday (I think on the 12th) and Washington's Birthday (which I think was the 22nd). My dad's birthday was February 21st. I remember my mom baking him a cherry pie one year and cutting a vent in the shape of a hatchet in the top crust — you know, because of Washington chopping down the cherry tree. Funny the things we remember, isn't it? 

 

Here is some scripture for today.

Psalm 37:39-40

"The Lord rescues the godly; he is their fortress in times of trouble. The Lord helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him."

Once again, a rescue verse. Who knew there were so many of those in the Bible? Who knew they would speak so completely to me? 

The Lord rescues. The Lord is a fortress in times of trouble. The Lord helps His people. He saves them. He shelters them. And don't we all need a little rescuing, a little help, a little sheltering from time to time?

 

This is a special card for a special friend on a special birthday.

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You know that I almost always sign my cards. That seems to have gotten a little more difficult since the brain tumor. Sometimes I make mistakes that I have to try to fix. Sometimes I'm not too successful, but you know how I feel about do-overs. I don't do them. :)

AND TELL:  stamps are from Papertrey Ink (Sending You); cardstock is PTI (Stampers Select White); ink is Stampin' Up (Old Olive, Pear Pizzazz, Real Red), Memento (Tuxedo Black), and VersaMark; embossing powder is Zing (Aqua, Rouge); also used PTI impression plate (Background Basics: Diamond), Stampin' Up Sizzlet (Lots of Tags Label 1), and a Corner Chomper.

Remember before Thankgiving when I showed you the glass globes that I bought at Pottery Barn? First we put clear lights in them and later, around Valentine's Day, we changed the lights to pink. I didn't get a picture of that, but one day I came home and Ken had put red lights in the balls.

 Wow! Now those make an impact! Kind of like little balls of fire.

That's all for today. Thanks for stopping by and visiting with me. I plan to be back again tomorrow. Wednesday is an infusion day so if you wouldn't mind praying about that I'd be so grateful. "See" you tomorrow! 

Lavished goodness... and... For Chloe

Today is Thursday, February 9. It's the day after chemo and I'm really feeling pretty good. Really! Yesterday, though, was rough. Three bouts of throwing up... yuck. But last night I took both the anti-reflux pill and the anti-nausea pill and today has been a pretty good day. Guess it's all about taking the right pills at the right times. Go figure.  

 

Here is the scripture that I chose to share with you from my reading for today. Once again I've chosen a verse from the Psalms.

Psalm 31:19

"How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world."

I write notes in my Bible. Maybe you do, too. I have one beside this verse. I wrote it in 2006, the day after one of our 5 year old students died of a very aggressive brain tumor, just a short time after showing symptoms and being diagnosed (less than a month, I think). It was quite a shock to all of us.

On that day, I listed in my prayer notebook some of the ways the body of Christ had reached out to us at the preschool. One of the parents who had a child in the little guy's class, brought me an energy bar, changed the message on the school marquee, gave me notes and scriptures, and prayed with me in the morning before school started. Another mom, who "happens to be" a grief counselor for the Kindermourn organization, met with the teachers, kids, and their parents. One of our former parents called to volunteer her services as a sub, should the funeral be held during the school day. I was so touched by the outpouring of love. And I still am, when I think about it.

It was a sad time for us, but it was also a time filled with hope. And a time that our faith community at the preschool really shined. As verse 21 says in part, "Praise the Lord, for he has shown us the wonders of his unfailing love...." And verse 24 reminds us to "...be strong and courageous...."   Even in the worst of circumstances, with the Lord's help, we can continue to be strong. We can be courageous as we put our hope in the Lord.

We have the best neighbors in the world. All of them, 2 adults, 4 children. They are always ready to help us out whenever we need it. Even the just-turned-16 year old.  

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Yesterday was a treatment day for me. And I completely forgot about Chloe's birthday. Her 16th birthday. Could there be a worse birthday to miss than the "sweet sixteen"? Hopefully Chloe will forgive me... but she's such a sweet girl that I'm sure it's already done. Hope it was happy Chloe!

AND TELL:  stamp is from Papertrey Ink (Big & Bold Wishes); cardstock is PTI (Rustic White) and Stampin' Up (Positively Pink); patterned paper is American Crafts (Hello Sunshine); ink is SU (Tempting Turquoise); ribbon is PTI (Summer Sunrise grosgrain); twine is Divine Twine (Aqua); also used a PTI die (Banner Borders).

I've been going through my photos that I've meant to share with you, but somehow have not. These two were taken back in the fall. And are further proof of how much we have been blessed by people that we know.

This one is a basket full of afghans and quilts that were sent to me after I was diagnosed. I should've taken the picture better to show ALL of the items we got to help me stay warm. They're all so lovely and I know were stitched with love. Tnank you if you were one of the quilt or afghan makers!

And this one...

is a pillow that was made for me by one of the 4 year old classes at the preschool. They all signed their name and a few had little extraneous drawings, too... like the one of "toast". Haha! I can only guess that the child had been served toast for breakfast... and maybe just learned to spell it, too. So cute! Thank you, 4D, for the pillow that has gotten me through many naps on the couch. (I know that YOU don't understand that, but when you're all grown up you may just LIKE taking naps!)

Well, I think that will be all for today. I have really got to start creating things because I'm all out of fun artsy stuff to post. Maybe that will be tomorrow's job. Thank you so much for stopping by and for your prayers as I recover from the affects of the chemo treatments. I really appreciate you more than you know! 

Happy Birthday, Britt!

Today is Tuesday, December 13. And today is also Britt's 28th birthday. Happy Birthday, Sweetie!

I had my fourth chemo treatment today... and this time I've felt it. I was tired before I went into the infusion center and shortly after they hooked me up for the treatment I fell asleep and slept for a couple hours. When I woke up I did a little organizing of computer files and tried to get some things done for work tomorrow... and got a bit finished before the bags of healing poison were emptied into my body. 

Then, since our coffee pot stopped working this morning, we stopped by Target on the way home to buy a new one, and afterwards found our way to Pinkberry. Of course. :)

By the time we got home I was pretty tired again. So, after trying to put to get this post written, I gave up and took another nap. Then woke up nausous and still tired... so... blah. I feel a little better after sitting up for awhile and eating something, so maybe the rest of the evening will be better. And hopefully I'll be good to go tomorrow... because tomorrow is the first of two days of preschool Christmas programs. And I'd hate to miss those.

 

The scripture I chose for today if from the book of Revelation.

Revelation 4:14

"'You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.'"

I'm tired today and don't feel all that great (although, I've started feeling a bit perkier as the evening has gone on). But that doesn't change a whole lot. God exists and He created all things. Things that please Him. And, no matter what is going on with me, He is still worthy to receive glory. And honor. And power.   

 

Can't believe that my first baby is now 28 years old. How crazy is that? I suppose that no matter how young or old your children are that each birthday comes as a bit of shock as you think about the passage of time.

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I had a hard time getting the true colors when I was photographing this card. For some reason it kept coming out with a lavender tint. Probably because I'm too impatient to wait for better light. The colors are truer in the photo to the left. At least you can see that the one strip is grey instead of purple.

 

 

 

 

 

AND TELL:  stamps are from Papertrey Ink (Birthdays by the Numbers); cardstock is Stampin' Up (Peach Parfait, Apricot Appeal, Going Grey) and PTI (Stampers Select White); ink is SU (Basic Gray); gems are Kaiser (Moss);  also used PTI's Cover Plate: Quatrefoil die.

Well, that's it for now. I hope to be back tomorrow with an update from the day. Thanks for all your prayers for strength and healing. Big love and hugs to everyone!    

Happy Birthday, Lynne!

Today is Friday, December 9. It is my sister-in-law Lynne's special day... Happy Birthday, Lynne!

It's been a busy, fun day around here. I went to work this morning and had the pleasure of giving a school tour to the mom of a set of twins who are potential students for next year's transitional kindergarten class. It's the first tour that I've given this school year and, although, I'm not at the top of my game, I think it went pretty well. I don't think I was quite as articulate as I usually am, but I didn't completely lose track of what I was talking about either. So — it felt pretty good and normal and right. Yay!

After work, Kris and I did a little shopping and then had lunch at Steak & Shake. Mmmm. Forgot to take a picture of us at the restaurant and our diner food and milkshakes. Kris had a burger, french fries, and an eggnog shake. I had a patty-melt, fries, and a peppermint shake. Very yummy.

We went home so I could take my mid-day steroid dose and then I worked on cards for stamp club. It looks like I'll get everything done that I want to before our meeting tomorrow. Hooray! That means that I'll have some new crafty things to show you in the upcoming days.  

 

Now onto some scripture. The verses that I chose for today are from the Old Testament.

Joel 2:11(last part)-13

"...The day of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can possibly survive?

"That is why the Lord says, 'Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.' Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish."

The Bible has many passages in it that outline what will happen to those who reject all the Lord has for them... all the good things He desires to give them. Eternity will not be pretty for those who reject God and His Son. You can count on that.

But the Lord is so merciful. His desire is that everyone will love Him and that everyone will turn to Him for hope, healing, and restoration. Our sin should cut at our hearts and cause us deep sadness — because that is how our it affects the Savior. But since God is compassionate, we don't need to live there and wallow in our sorrow. We can accept His awesome gift of forgiveness and life — because later on in the same chapter it is written, "But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved..." (Joel 2:32a). What awesome words of encouragement and hope!  

 

I mentioned earlier that today is my sister-in-law Lynne's birthday. Of course, I thought I'd be posting this much earlier because I had such a good start on it this morning... but here it is, getting close to midnight again. Oh, well. Sorry, Lynne, to get your blog birthday greetings to you so late. Hope your day was happy, happy, happy!!

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Here is Lynne's card inside. I put the strip of floral patterned paper where you see it very strategically. I find that the Stampin' Up embossing folder emboss very deeply and sometimes the embossing is so deep that it splits the paper along the embossed lines. So the floral patterned paper is kind of holding the card together. 

AND TELL:  stamps are from Papertrey Ink (Fillable Frames #12, Fillable Frames #4, Tag-its #3); cardstock is PTI (Vintage Cream, Rustic White), SU (Yoyo Yellow), and some printed cardstock from my stash; ink is SU (Yoyo Yellow, Marina Mist); markers are SU (Yoyo Yellow, Marina Mist, Positively Pink, Green Galore); rhinestones are Kaiser (clear); also used SU's Elegant Lines embossing folder along with some SU Stampin' Pastels. And inside there is some patterned paper (Crate Paper Emma's Shop) and Martha Stewart die-cut border (Butterfly).

Well, since I'm falling asleep at the keyboard, I think I had better get to bed. And how do I know that I've been falling asleep? Because I just looked up and this is what I saw:

A whole row of "j's" that seemed to stretch on for miles... took a bit of time to delete them all. :)

So, yes, it's time to get to bed. Tomorrow is stamp club and I have quite a bit to do to finish preparing for that... which is what I'll be doing all morning. I hope to be back with stamp club pictures tomorrow, but we'll just have to wait and see. It's going to be a busy day!

Thanks so much for stopping by. Your visits mean a lot to me! Sending you love and hugs! 

Happy Birthday, Dear Sister!

Today is Monday, November 7. And it's my sister-in-law's birthday... Happy Birthday, Kris!

So far, the steroid reduction seems to be going well. I've had two of the reduced doses with no ill effects. I know that's not much and last time I went a few days with the lower before getting a bit crazy, but there may have been extenuating circumstances that time. It was right before my first chemo treatment and so it's possible that anxiety was playing a role. I've always been pretty strong mentally, but these have been kind of extreme circumstances so maybe I did have some psychological stuff going on. Who knows. I'm just praising God that today is going well and I'm trusting Him for another good day tomorrow!

A few weeks ago I showed you pictures of all of the hats that had been sent to me to cover my partially bald head. Well, of course, as soon I did that, several more hats arrived. And then more... so here's a photo update with all the hats.

The first three are actually the same hat, but each is adorned with a different pin that the gift-giver included in the package. Pretty clever, huh? And, excuse the pun, but I think the problem of my bald strip is pretty well covered now. :) (Thanks, Britt, for doing another collage of your pudgy-faced mom! :) )

 

Today's scripture is from the Old Testament.

Ezekiel 16:62-63

"'And I will reaffirm my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the Lord. You will remember your sins and cover your mouth in silent shame when I forgive you of all that you have done. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!'"

Here is what this verse is saying to me today. Compared to the holiness of God, we are all filthy-dirty. Yet, even in the Old Testament, before the new covenant took affect, God was willing to graciously forgive us and give us another chance. Our behavior is often shameful — but God still loves us. He knows us... He created us. Nothing about us, nothing we do, comes as a surprise to Him. I often marvel at the fact that God could still love the human race even after all the ways we have messed up. I'm so thankful for His mercy. How about you? 

 

I mentioned earlier that today is my sister-in-law's birthday. If she lived closer, I'm sure we would have a blast celebrating her special day together. But, since there are about 3000 miles between us we have to settle for cards and phone calls. (However, she does have a trip to North Carolina planned for early December so we'll have to save up some "party" for then!) Happy, happy birthday, Kristine! 

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Since I didn't use a sentiment on the card front this time, I stamped one on the inside and then used several little butterflies from different stamp sets to add some color. 

I should probably mention the rhinestones on the front cover. Those of you who know me, know how I feel about doing things over. And after I did the main stamping on this card and stepped back to take a look, I noticed it was covered with little smudges from my not-very-coordinated fingers. Since I truly dislike wasting cardstock (and doing things over!), I just took adhesive rhinestones and put them on each mistake. Voila! Disaster averted. :) 

AND TELL:  stamps are from Papertrey Ink (Make a Wish, Tags for Spring, Tag-its #2, Places Please); cardstock is PTI (Stampers Select White) and some unknown pink scraps; ink is Stampin' Up (Tangerine Tango, Pumpkin Pie, Apricot Appeal, Basic Gray, Perfect Plum); rhinestones are Kaiser (clear); bakers twine is Divine Twine (Purple Plum); also used a clear star Gelly Roll pen and Stampin' Up's Beautiful Wings Embosslit.

Well, it's probably about time to wind this up. Thank you so much for stopping by for another visit today. I so appreciate your faithfulness in keeping up with me. And for your prayers. Especially for your prayers. Sending you lots of hugs! 

Peace in the Heart... and... Happy Birthday, Bob!

Today is Friday, October 7. My brother's birthday. More on that later.

So far the steroid reduction has gone fine. I truly attribute that to your prayers, so thank you very much. I'll keep you posted.

Not a lot else going on. I did some laundry this morning... just a few things that I wasn't ready to allow Ken to touch. :) I also took a couple of naps, watched some HGTV (trying to get my DVR list down before I start to load it back up again tomorrow), and am now starting on the blog post. I'm also getting a hair cut today. That should be interesting. We'll see what Cathy comes up with. Of course, I don't have much hair, but what I do have could use some work. And I'm thinking of just going pretty short all the way around. Good thing that I have never been a hair-focused person. If I were, I think this whole process would be quite traumatic.

 

Today's scripture is from the New Testament.

Colossians 3:15

"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful."

I'm going to take this verse in a different direction than I think it may be intended. I think the verse is really talking about our interpersonal relationships and how we need to live at peace with others. Important, yes. However, here is what it is saying to me right now. 

It's easy for me to get discouraged these days. And, I was there yesterday and this morning. I was feeling like my situation is hopeless and that there is no use in thinking anything different. I was forgetting that I have a relationship with the God of hope! I was forgetting that I have access to the peace that comes from knowing Him... the peace that surpasses all understanding! And I was forgetting to be thankful.

You may wonder what I have to be thankful for. Here's a partial list. No pain. Patient co-workers who are taking up the slack for me. That so far our jobs have not been jeopardized by our inability to do them as we've done them in the past. People who are providing us with food... abundant and delicious food. Good sleep. Time to blog. Time to create. Friends. Family. A caring Savior who knows just what I need and provides it for me. Like I said, that's just a partial list.

When you get discouraged about things in your life, I encourage you to turn that around and think about the things that you have to be thankful for. It makes such a difference in attitude and will do much to improve your relationship with others, too. No body likes to be around a sourpuss, right? So — let the peace of Christ rule in your heart. Live in peace. Be thankful.

 

And now a card. A birthday card for a special guy.

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Today is my brother's birthday. Mom called him a bit ago to wish him a happy birthday and I got to talk a little, too. He was on his way home after buying himself a birthday present... a great big (used) Ford truck. I know how guys are about their trucks — and my brother lives out in the country where a big ol' pick-up truck is almost a necessity. I'm sure it'll get lots of good use! (And, knowing Bob, he'll probably test out the 4-wheel drive very, very soon!)

Bob has had his own health challenges over the past several years including a fierce battle with melanoma and over a year of grueling, painful treatments — during which time he lost his job and has not been reemployed since. Life is just not fair, is it? But my brother has kept on living. He's kept on doing the things he loves. He hasn't given up. He's been an encouragement to me. And an inspiration. I'm so proud to have him as my brother! Happy Birthday, Bob! Sure do love you!

AND TELL:  stamps are from Papertrey Ink (Say It With Style); cardstock is PTI (Kraft) and Stampin' Up (Soft Suede, Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade); ink is Versamark; twine is PTI (Rustic Jute); also used PTI's Wood Grain impression plate, SU's Curves Ahead Sizzlet, and Platypus Designer Duct Tape (wicker).

Well, Cathy will be here to cut my hair soon, so it's time to finish this up. Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you have a fabulous day! I really appreciate your visits and love hearing from you. :)

 

Producing Good Fruit... and... Happy Birthday, Nora Grace!

Today is Tuesday, October 4. The most special thing about today is that it is the 5th birthday of our next door neighbor, Nora Grace. But we'll get to that later in the crafty portion of the post.

For now, let's see... the steroid reduction has been OK. Nothing like a few weeks ago when I got all loopy. So, that's good. Wouldn't it be great to get completely off of them? I haven't asked if that's even a possibility at this point, but just that they can decrease the dose without losing me into some other world... well, I take that as a good sign.

I can't really think of anything else on the medical front. I still nap for about an hour each morning and that seems to do me for the day. Today during radiation they also took x-rays. I'm assuming that we may hear something about that tomorrow. But, as I've told you before, I really suffer from a deplorable lack of curiosity so if they don't offer any information I probably won't even think to ask. I know. I'm a little odd. :)

 

Let's look to the New Testament for some scriptural inspiration today.

Colossians 1:9b-10

"We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better."

My desire is always to honor and please God. I ask the Lord to give me wisdom and understanding. I certainly don't want anything I say or do to become a stumbling block for anyone, causing them to lose or question their faith. Or to question mine. I'm so happy that I live under a system of grace and mercy and forgiveness. That Jesus works in me to produce good fruit... meaning he helps me do things that honor Him. If you've been visiting with me awhile, you know this is a big theme of mine — just that I stay true to Christ and His message and don't stumble and lead others astray. 

So, I think the message in these verses is to stay connected to the Lord. Ask Him to give you spiritual knowledge and understanding. Listen to Him as He speaks to you through His Word and through others. Then you will grow in your faith because you will be gaining a better understanding of God and His ways. And as you grow and engage others, you will be producing all kinds of good things in your life and in theirs. And that's what your faith is all about. Learning. Growing. Sharing. Live your life to honor God and all of that will come naturally.

 

And now for a card. 

Today is our next door neighbor's fifth birthday. And, in my experience with five year olds, turning five is a big deal. Ask most new five year olds how old they are and they won't tell you... they'll show you. It's very cool to be a whole hand old. :)

So, today is Nora Grace's fifth birthday and, of course, that deserves a card just for her.

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Nora is very precocious, so this card is probably a little juvenile for her... but it was what I came up with, so I hope that at least the purple colors will inspire her. It seems to me that all five year old girls like purple and pink. :)

The premise of the card, though, is that it's a counting card. There are five of each image... all lined up... both on the front cover and inside the card, too. Then on the inside I also added the numeral because it's always good for a child to connect the counting with the symbol. There is also a size component, as the images go from small to large. I just can't help myself. Once a teacher, always a teacher I guess. (And, I feel like I have to say that I really dislike the way I stamped the raccoons on the inside, but what's done is done. Hopefully Nora won't mind.) 

AND TELL:  stamps are from Stampin' Up (Furry Folk, Simple Sayings II); cardstock is Papertrey Ink (Stampers Select White); ink is SU (Lovely Lilac, Rich Razzleberry, Marvelous Magenta, Orchid Opulence, Mauve Mist, Perfect Plum); also used SU's Lovely Lilac marker and PTI's By the Numbers die. 

So, Nora Grace — Have a Happy, Happy Birthday! We love you and will be over with a present very soon. :)

And, to everyone else, thank you so much for stopping by and visiting with me today — some of you for the second time! I really appreciate your comments, your visits, your love, prayers, and support. You are special to me and I'm sending you great big hugs!

Don't Live in Dread... and... Cupcake Birthday

Today is Sunday, September 11, 2011. The 10 year anniversary of 9/11. Did anyone else see the beginning of the Bears-Falcons game? Wow. The guy that sang the national anthem really attacked it and, I for one, loved it! Well, I'm assuming the crowd did, too, because they cheered for the entire song... beginning to end. Beautiful stuff for a patriotic football fan! :)

I felt pretty great upon waking up this morning — always an encouraging sign. Five minutes from right now (which will be 2:00) I take the first reduced dosage steroid pill of this reduction go-round... and I'm pretty optimistic that this will be OK. At least, I'm trying to be. Our son is also flying home from his three weeks in Tennessee this afternoon, so that's exciting. I'm thinking that going to the airport with Ken to pick Ian up will be a good thing and a distraction for me — to keep me from thinking about what may or may not be happening in my head. So I'll do that, too. And, then, at 4:15 the Panthers football game is on. We will, of course, be glued to the TV for that. :) So — with all that activity, I'm hoping that this step-down in dosage goes without a hitch. (I'm sure I'll be giving you an update later down in the post — as there's no way that I'll be getting this done in the next 10 minutes before we leave to pick up the boy!)

 Here's some scripture for today. It is still — even after years of reading through a daily Bible — amazing to me how often scripture that is so, so appropriate for the day comes up. From the Old Testament for this time:

Isaiah 8:11-14a

"The Lord has given me a strong warning not to think like everyone else does. He said, 'Don't call everything a conspiracy, like they do, and don't live in dread of what frightens them. Make the Lord of Heaven's Armies holy in your life. He is the one you should fear. He is the one who should make you tremble. He will keep you safe....'"

Now — isn't that an encouragement for the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11? I mean... we don't have to live in fear and dread. We don't even have to think of the attacks as a conspiracy. Instead, we simply trust the Lord... make Him holy in our lives... fear (respect) Him. He is the One who keeps us safe! Sure — our world is a scary place. Bad stuff happens and there are people who have no regard for the lives of others. But, as one of our pastors pointed out this morning, Paul (in the Bible) started out as Saul who was persecuting and killing Christians. He ended up a foundational leader in the Church. So — we shouldn't count anyone out or give up on anyone. We are to love people to Jesus. And love is what will win them over. That's something to think about today, isn't it?

 

Moving on... 

It's time for a special birthday card now. This one is for a young woman that we refer to as our "adopted daughter". We met met Brittany during her senior year of college — 2005-2006 — but didn't really begin to become acquainted with her until she took the plunge and moved to Charlotte after graduation. It's a pretty cool story, we think, but probably too long to go into here. Suffice it to say, that the Lord definitely brought us together and has since knitted our families together — and it's been a beautiful thing!

So — today is Brittany's birthday... and here is her card.

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Adding a bit of colored cardstock to the inside seems to be working for me these days. Putting it on a nice shape adds even more interest. So to the right you can see the inside of Brittany's card.

I really, really wanted to buy a fancy cupcake to give to her, too, but with stamp club yesterday and then going out to dinner with her family, well — she "only" got a VISA gift card. Maybe she was happy to forego the calories for some shopping cash. :)

So — here is a picture of our dinner group.

You have Ken, me, Krista (Brittany's mom), Brittany the birthday girl, Sarah (Brittany's good friend who flew in for the occasion), and Mike (Brittany's dad). We had dinner at The King's Kitchen... a restaurant with a higher calling: the profits feed the poor in Charlotte and around the world and the restaurant provides employment for people who need a new start. Very cool concept — and the food is delicious. If you're near Charlotte and haven't been, I highly recommend it (and the fried chicken... :) ).

And here Ken & I are with the birthday girl...

You can't really tell that I have a pretty large bald spot, can you? Maybe I've perfected the come-over. :) But, I don't plan to rely on it... I think I'll start using the scarves, the wig, and hats... or just exposing my scalp, because I can be a bit lazy... 

AND TELL:  stamps are from Stampin' Up (Crazy for Cupcakes, Create a Cupcake); cardstock is Papertrey Ink (Stampers Select White) and SU (Pink Pirouette); patterned paper from my very old stash; ink is SU (Pink Pirouette, Barely Banana) and PTI (True Black); also used a PTI die (Double-ended Banner) and an SU embossing folder (Square Latice), die (Lots of Tags Labels 1), and punches (Scallop Edge, Cupcake).

I mentioned that we were heading to the airport to pick up our son...

well... he arrived! I think that he's thrilled to be home after being gone for three weeks — but exhausted, too. We took him straight to his apartment and I supposed he's already asleep. He's definitely my child for whom sleep — and lots of it — is very important! 

Today I also thought it would be a good idea to start covering my bald patch with something besides a come-over when I go out.

This was today's look. Not too bad, I guess. But I think I may need to start wearing my contacts again because having my glasses squished against the side of my head is definitely not comfortable. By the time our football game came on I decided to just go with the bald patch. I don't think Ken or Roxy the dog cared. :)

And maybe that's enough information for today. It's after 6:00 now and so far so good with the steroid reduction. I know there are still many more hours to go, but I feel good so — yay and thank you, Lord! And thanks to you for all the prayers! (And please continue...)

Have a great rest of your day and I plan to be back here again tomorrow... so I'll "see" you then. Thanks so much for stopping by for a visit — I appreciate it so much!

Happy Birthday, Mike!

Today is Saturday, August 27. (I always have to look... I actually have no idea what the date is when I start these posts...) We have a break from radiation for the weekend. But no break from the chemo pill. That will come tonight. Again... pill number 3. Also, today is my brother-in-law's birthday celebration in Indiana. Sure wish I could be there... but more on that later.

Here is a picture of my morning snack.

I know... it's not healthy. But it's tasty. :) The yummy sandwich cookie is one that I brought home from the wedding. As we were leaving the reception at the end of the night, I looked at all the leftover food and determined that there was no way all those specially made whoopie-pie type cookies were going into a dumpster (or someone else's belly!). Ken thought I was crazy, but we brought each and every leftover cookie home and stuck them in the freezer. And now we bring them out a few at a time and... mmmm...mmm...mm. They're the perfect anecdote for my raging sweet tooth, my crazy need to eat, and as a vehicle to remember a very, very special event that took place less than a month ago. How much has changed since then!

I've just awakened from a refreshing 20 minute nap and am going to launch into a little scripture. Actually, I think I'm going to do a little New Testament and a little Old Testament today. I'm having trouble deciding which direction to go... so I guess I'll go overboard. :)

New Testament first:

2 Corinthians 1:21-22

"It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us."

I can't imagine any other way than standing firm for Christ. But maybe that's because physical persecution hasn't been part of my life. (I really don't like pain!) I would hope that, with the Lord's strength, I would rise to the occasion, but I don't know. However, these verses tell us that God will enable us to stand firm — so I'll take it at its word. He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me — and that is something that I cling to now. Whatever the next few days (weeks, month, years...) may bring, I know that Jesus will be by my side — encouraging me, strengthening me, supporting me, loving me.

And here are the Old Testament verses that spoke to me today:

Job 23:10-14

"But he [God] knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure gold. For I have stayed on God's paths; I have followed his ways and not turned aside. I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. But once he has made his decision, who can change his mind? Whatever he wants to do, he does. So he will do to me whatever he has planned. He controls my destiny."

OK — I know sounds like a fatalistic type of attitude. But maybe I'm kind of a fatalistic type of girl. And I'm OK with being a realist. I know God is going to do what He is going to do. However, I do also believe that prayers can change the course of events. And that's what we're counting on now. And that's why we are so incredibly grateful to all of the people who are storming the Kingdom of Heaven on our behalf. Prayer does change things. And, if you know the rest of the story about Job, you know that God did change the course of events for him... that his misery was turned to joy. If you don't know the story, you may want to stick around with me for another few days. We'll get there. (Or, of course, you can read ahead...) :)

We have been so incredibly blessed with so much during these past several weeks — and one of the big blessings has been some really great mail days. :) A few weeks ago when our journey was really just beginning I showed you a photo of how Britt was displaying the cards on the family room wall (in this post). Here's a picture I took this morning before the cards from yesterday and today were put up.

 I cannot tell you how much all the cards and notes mean to us. We read and enjoy each and every one... handmade or not, from someone we know or not... every single one is special to us and many of them have brought us to tears of humility and deep gratitude. All the cards and drawings go on the walls. I've been corraling other items in another way. I'll share that with you at another time. Mostly we know how very blessed we are and just want to — yet, again! — try to convey our heartfelt gratitude for all the love being shown to us. We will NEVER be able to repay everyone... so please, please, please accept our sincere thanks and our virtual hugs! ((((()))))

And — one more thing before I move on to a very special card — whoever left this gorgeousness on both sides of our front porch...

what a spirit-lifter! Thank you so much! (We will do our very best to keep them alive!)

 

Today my brother-in-law (Ken's sister Lynne's husband) is having his third birthday (party) since he was told he wouldn't be having any more. You know that's inspiring to me right now, right?

So, I am so, so, so happy to have the privilege of making him yet another birthday card. :) Happy, happy, happy birthday, Mike!

SHOW

Here's what I know about making cards for guys. The guys in my family, anyway, seem to be mostly impressed by texture and dimension on a card — so I try to emboss and pop things up. And then I try not to be too girly with the colors and motifs that I use. I know that Ken likes bright colors, but Michael with all his woodworking skills leans toward a more Craftsman style. Don't think I accomplished anything that's especially Arts & Crafts movement or Craftsman here, but I thought it might work anyway. It's got muted colors, several textures, and dimension. Seems OK for a guy. :) Sure hope so, anyway!

AND TELL:  stamps are from Papertrey Ink (Little Labels); cardstock is Stampin' Up (River Rock); patterned paper is Webster's Pages Petite Papers (from the Seaside Retreat/Garden Gala/Nature's Storybook triple pack) and some Bo Bunny Back to Backs; ink is SU (River Rock, Elegant Eggplant); also used PTI's Little Labels die and Picnic Plaid impression plate, a Sizzix embossing folder (Tropical Paisley), and a shipping tag.

Since I've been feeling good and am able to do stuff, I have quite a few things lined up to share over the next week or so. Probably I've never been so "prolific" (haha)! I also still have my thoughts on taking meals to people in crisis, plus a few photos of some of the other nice things that have been done for us that I'd like to show you — just so that you might put on your thinking cap to determine how you can impact the people that you know and love. Truly, it is amazing how something that may seem small (like flower pots on a porch or a card in the mail) can lift the spirits of the people inside the house. 

You all are the best and we are so, so grateful for each and every interaction we have with you. Hope the rest of your Saturday is extra special. And, if you can take a moment, click over to my brother- and sister-in-law's blog (here) and wish Michael a very happy birthday! Hugs to you!!!

Time is a funny thing...

Only Wednesday, but already August 10

Yes, time is a funny thing.

Here are the scripture verses that jumped out at me this morning:

Psalm 31:9, 14-17a

"Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am in distress. Tears blur my eyes. My body and soul are withering away.... But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying, "You are my God!" My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. Let your favor shine on your servant. In your unfailing love, rescue me. Don't let me be disgraced, O Lord, for I call out to you for help."

It never ceases to amaze me how applicable God's word is to whatever I am going through at the time. And it's always been this way for me... not just now. It can be this way for you, too. If you read your Bible each and every day, surely, this will happen for you, also. 

And, in case you are wondering, I use a Bible that has been organized into 365 daily readings -- a selection from the Old Testament, a selection from the New Testament, a Psalm, and a Proverb. Mine is the Change Your Life Daily Bible (New Living Translation). And I love it. Love it. Maybe you'll like it, too. Seriously, it will change your life.

 

Let's have something crafty today. What do you say?

Besides Britt's wedding at the end of July, we also had a couple other family events. One was my sweet mama's birthday.

SHOW

Yes. Her 80th birthday. Gotta celebrate that, right?

And, here's the birthday girl. Yes. I said 80. She looks great, doesn't she?

Mom turned 80 on the day of the wedding rehearsal, so we made sure there was a bannered cupcake for her. Britt and Kenneth surprised her with it during the rehearsal dinner. Always nice to be remembered on your birthday, I think.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AND TELL:  (going from memory here... guess I forgot to write things down...) I think the patterned paper is Basic Gray and the baker's twine is Divine Twine; the doilies are definitely Martha Stewart and the flowers are Prima. The yellow cardstock? Probably just from my stash. I also used some Papertrey Ink dies (By the Numbers, Banner Builder Collection).

 

Since I mentioned the wedding rehearsal, here are a couple pictures taken there.

Thought you might like to see the inside of the chapel.

 Look at that ceiling. Beautiful, huh? This is the historic St. Mary's Chapel in Raleigh. Perfect site for a wedding.

And here's the happy couple...

Sorry about the less-than-stellar photos. At least you get the idea. Maybe if we can get rid of this brain tumor my photography skills will improve. We can only hope, right? :)

Well, it has been a long, long day for me with no naps. No Naps! Don't know if that's good or bad -- guess I'll know tomorrow. :) So now, I'm off to bed. And, I'm not editing or proofreading -- so please be forgiving of my writing today. And, thanks so much for visiting and for all your kindnesses and prayers. Hugs to you!