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Monday, November 5, 2012

Thinking of You Card (and where I've been)

Happy Monday night, my crafty friends! I've missed you!

I apologize for not being around to visit you since my last post. Sadly, my sweet mom wound up in the hospital. It was a trying time, but thankfully she is back home now and doing much better. I am looking forward to catching up on your inspiring projects over the next couple of days. :o)

Shortly before my mom's incident, I happened upon a post that broke my heart. I instantly knew festive creations would take a break so I could reach out to a mother in need of love and comfort. Flowers that never fade entice smiles from a downcast heart, right?
Just as I peruse (and adore) crafty sites, I also frequent baking blogs. I'm sure this doesn't surprise you! Last week I was scrolling through a collection of new treats from various bakers and fell in love with the sweetest pink cupcakes, topped with beautiful hearts. I eagerly clicked on the picture to visit the corresponding post, expecting everything happy. Instead, I was brought to tears. Those lovely cupcakes were baked to honor a birthday that should have been.

Four-year-old Rowan passed away earlier this year. I was going to share her sweet picture, but realized I shouldn't without permission. Her mom's cousin is the baker who made the cupcakes and shared the heartbreak. I'll soon be baking cupcakes in Rowan's honor, too. After reading the story, I wanted to reach out... no, I needed to. I am so thankful that after only a day or two of comments and emails, she had spoken to her cousin and I was trusted with an address.

My card's creation was delayed because of my mom's situation, so when things returned to normal, the first thing I did was get to work on this. Normally I would have caught up with you guys first, but this little card is urgent.

The pretty flowers, sparkling with love:
I hope she likes it. My mind was all over the place, but I tried to settle it enough to focus. The base is from Art Philosophy, with the frame popped up for dimension. The lovely My Mind's Eye papers are from their Sweetest Thing-Lavender collection, which I am crazy about. The Kate's ABCs vase was cut with opalescent SEI paper, which is so pretty in person. I trimmed it in pearls for additional elegance. Amidst the bouquet of Wild Orchid Crafts roses are pearl sprays, added to saturate Megan with all things beautiful.

A Cheery Lynn Designs butterfly flutters nearby, delivering my love via the pearly heart in the center. The sparkling Core Couture paper is trimmed in Victorian Velvet, as she has so much love to share that she's positively glowing. WOC Guipure lace was a must, and I hope she loves it as much as I. For a pop of color I layered it with ruffly American Crafts ribbon... I pray that faith, hope, and sunshine ruffle through her heart when she receives this.

The interior, which inadvertently has the sentiment cut off in this picture. The top of the circle includes a Whimsical Designs "Thinking of You" stamp. At least you can see the pretty polka dots and Picot Edge circle. :o)
Please say a prayer for Megan when you read this... and all parents who have lost a child.

Challenges entered:
 *A Gem of a Challenge~ Spots/Polka Dots
 *Crafts With Cutters~ Bingo (Die-Cut/Ribbon/Ink.. the butterfly is inked)
 *Crafty Catz~ Add Texture
 *Fab 'n' Funky~ Die Cuts/Punches
 *Fussy and Fancy~ Pearls and Flowers
 *Little Scrap Pieces~ Anything Goes
 *Make It Monday~ Anything Goes
 *Out of a Hat Creations~ Nature
 *Simon Says Stamp~ Shaped Cards
 *The Crafty Pad~ Anything Goes

 Thank you for fluttering on by! I wish you a day that sparkles with love and light. :o)

41 comments:

  1. Karen, I'm so sorry to hear your mom has been in the hospital but I'm glad to hear she is doing better. Making this beautiful card was such a sweet gesture! I'm sure it will be treasured and very much appreciated! I love the flowers and the pearls you added and the inside looks wonderful! Such pretty papers too! I hope you have a great week! :)

    Karen
    craftedwithlovebykaren.blogspot.com

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  2. One of the things that I love most about you is how you put your own needs and worries aside in order to bring joy to others. The recipient of this card (and it is a masterpiece) is going to feel SO LOVED. You are awesome. :)

    Hugs to you and your sweet Mom (and SO thankful she's home and on the mend)!

    Nita

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  3. Karen, so much information in this post. So sorry about your mom but we are happy to hear that she is at home now. Our prayers to Ms. Megan. We can't imagine losing a child. She must be in so much pain. Your card is beautiful. It is like a piece of art. We are sure Ms. Megan will appreciate it and you. God Bless you!
    ~Madison and Cindy

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  4. Such a wonderful post Karen you are a special lady for sure. I am so pleased to hear that your mum is getting better now.

    I almost forgot about the beautiful card that will bring joy to the person you have made it for.

    Thank you for sharing it with us at Out of a Hat Creations.

    Love Chrissie xxxx

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  5. Hi Karen.
    I'm sorry to hear about your dear Mom, I hope she is well on the way to a good recovery now.
    You are are such a kind and caring person Karen and this is reflected in many ways in this gorgeous and special card that you have created. I adore the shape and pretty colours with that wonderful vase of ever-lasting flowers. I feel sure the recipient will appreciate and treasure this gorgeous way of letting you know how much you care.

    Thank you again for your kind comments on my blog, it really means a lot.
    big Hugs
    Sue

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  6. Exquiste card Karen. Beautifully made. Thank you for sharing with the Hatters this week. Hope your Mum has a speedy recovery.
    Regards Florence x

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  7. Hi Karen - I'm glad your Mom is now on the mend. This is a gorgeous card, and so much love has gone into making this for a stranger who is going through so much pain - that is truly special. This card is so pretty and I'm sure it will be treasured by Rowan's Mom. Thank you for sharing this (and the sad story) at The Crafty Pad this week in our "Anything Goes" challenge.
    Helen x (DT)

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  8. Oh Karen, my heart breaks for this parent who lost her child..it is just unthinkable and I am sharing tears with you my friend for I always find it quite shocking that anyone can make it through something like this.. I will certainly be praying with all my heart for this family and all who are effected... I will also pray for your mom, is she going to be ok? We missed you in bloggy land , thank you for sharing what is going on because we can be a big support to you or at least try right? It is always nice to know someone truly cares , I feel that everytime I read a comment on my blog from you..you are very special to me... This card speaks volumes of comfort and softness and it is certainly the prettiest card I have ever seen in my life... I mean it, my jaw dropped.. after reading your post I understood where the beauty of this card came from... your emotions go into your card .. it is stunning Karen, very stunning... My heart is with you and all my prayers my sweet sweet sweet friend.

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  9. I reread my post and forgot to ask hot you join the card front to the back panel?? Also I wasn't clear about your mom... I meant is she going to be ok in the long run, is it something that will happen again or just a one time thing.. lots of hugs my online angel.

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  10. This is so pretty!!! Thank you for joining us this week at Fab'n'Funky!

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  11. Hello again Karen. I really is so nice that I get to have another look at your gorgeous card so that I can say a big thank you for taking part in the Fab n Funky Challenge this week
    Hugs Sue

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  12. Gorgeous card Karen and a wonderful too :-)

    Thanks for joining us over at Fussy and Fancy for our pearls and flowers challenge - good luck!

    xx Sazzle xx

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  13. Fabulous Card Karen.
    Thanks for joining us at Out of a Hat
    Janet x

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  14. Such a pretty card - and I do hope all is well with your Mum. Cx

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  15. Beautiful card!!! Glad that your Mother is doing better. Mothers are precious and it was wonderful that you were able to be with her during her time of need.

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  16. What a beautiful and sad story. I am sure she will love your card with someone who cares as she does will. You are such a thoughtful person. I saw your card on Make it Monday and so glad I stopped by. Hearing your story really. I sure hope your mom is getting better every day. She's blessed with a caring daughter like you. Big HUGS.

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  17. Superb card,very shabby chic thanks for playing along with us at CRAFTY CATZ this week hope to see you again hugs sassyx

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  18. Absolutely beautiful, love the design.
    Thanks for joining us at Fab'n'Funky this week.
    Wendy xx

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  19. I'm always so amazed and humbled when I find bloggers and crafty people like you. The thoughtfulness and need to reach out to each other is like no other. I'm so touched by your post and I too will send up prayers for your mother and the family who so sadly were only able to enjoy their little blessing for a short time. Thank you so much for what you've written here today and I do hope that your most beautiful and touching card brings a little bit of peace to that lovely mother.
    Thank you so much for sharing this with us at Make It Monday.
    Sincerest of hugs,
    Lisa xx

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  20. i am so sad to hear about your mom being in the hospital and the struggle you must have been going through.. my prayers are with you and your mom. AND also with Megan, she will be so blessed by your beautiful card. i am always so amazed with you, you are such an inspiration to everyone, and so willing to let God work through you to comfort so many others. Your card is simply beautiful.. i pray you have a sparkly week.. hugs

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  21. Karen I am so sorry to hear about your Mum's stay in hospital,sincerely hope she is feeling better.
    Your card is BEAUTIFUL,just stunning,like your heart!
    Hugs to you
    Jayne x

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  22. Beautiful card. Love the shape. Thank you for joining us at AGOAC.
    Debbie x

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  23. How could she not love this card? So much heart and soul has gone into it's making! A truly lovely gesture from you and BTW the card is gorgeous! Hope your mom feels better soon. Tracy:)

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  24. Hi Karen, So sorry to hear of your mom it really is a testing time where parents are concerned but only to pleased to know she is back home again, l cannot imagine what a parent must go through after losing a child its heartbreaking reading about it and really tearful too! your card is truly beautiful and my prayers go out for Megan take care Karen and thank you for sharing this xx

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  25. A gorgeous card, your design, colours and papers are so pretty and such a beautiful image!!

    hugs
    Heather xx">
    Thanks so much for joining us with Simon Says Stamp challenge.

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  26. My sweet friend, you know how relieved I am your Mom is home and doing better. Continued prayers that she recovers quickly. Oh my gosh, this card is spectacular!! Every single detail is stunning!! I love the gorgeous flowers, the butterfly...everything!!

    You have the biggest, sweetest heart of anyone I've ever met, Karen. With this beauty, you will brighten the day of someone going through unimaginable pain and heartbreak. You truly are an angel on earth!! God works his beauty through you and and your heart and your talent!! Big hugs my dear friend!!

    Lisa :)
    A Mermaid's Crafts

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  27. Karen so glad you mom is home and doing better. Your talent is only surpassed by your kindess. Thank you so much for joinging my challenge this week. Karen

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  28. OMG!!! Your card is gorgeous!!!! Thanks for sharig and I am very happy for you that your MOM is at home with you!!! crafty hugs for you my friend!!!

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  29. Karen, this is so beautiful!! The vase of flowers are just gorgeous along with the pretty papers! Such a stunning butterfly-AMAZING!
    You are such an amazing person Karen and always so thoughtful! I am sure you will touch her with your sparkly heart...just like you touch all of us each day!
    Hugs my friend,
    Sherrie K
    http://sherriescraps.blogspot.com

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  30. Oh, I forgot to tell you that your Pumpkin Gingersnap cookies are the best! Total win, win in my house! Stay tuned for a project coming up with those yummy cookies~
    Sherrie K
    http://sherriescraps.blogspot.com

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  31. This is beautiful! Love your DP and the flowers look stunning! Lovely to see you playing along with us @ The Crafty Pad this week :) P.S. I have Santa’s Candy on my blog !

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  32. Back again :) This time sailing in from Make It Monday. I still adore this card and the delicate look it has!

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  33. I LOVE YOU SUNSHINE!!!!!!!! *clings to you because I just read everyone's gorgeous comments and I am all super teary now* Tee hee!

    I wish there were words to express just how much your sparkling love means to all of us, Sunshine. This gift for sweet Megan is truly the most incredible present from the heart. It is just SO radiant sis...exactly like the love that shines from your beautiful heart. I can see you and God glowing in every single tiny detail of it. I can't even imagine how much your kindness will touch Megan's heart, sis. Through your beautiful selflessness will come healing, hope and strength in faith.

    And you know what, Beautiful? I couldn't be more proud of you. You and your sweetest mommy have shone through this week so amazingly. I love you both more than I can ever express. I get all teary every time I see the incredible support for my precious sis from her sweetest bloggy followers. *huggles everyone so super tight* We all love you something silly, Sunshine and you can bet that you, your precious mommy and sweet Megan will be at the very heart of all our prayers tonight and always.

    God bless you for being the extra extra extra special girl that God made you. I love you with my entire heart and beyond, Sunshine.

    "For the Lord God is my strength and my might; He has become my salvation..." Isaiah 12:2

    *forever super happy sparkling flutterby hugglers*
    ~~~ Christina :)


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  34. Thanks for making a very special card. The love behind it shows. It's so pretty. Thank you for joining us over at Crafty Catz. Hugs Nina

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  35. Every where I look or read someone is asking what are you Grateful for?I always reply,my family,health,the lords presence in my life and now....people like you.People like you?I call them Angels,I know that I have said this before but its true.I always look forward to see what you post.I grab my cup of coffee and a box of tissue,I read,take a break and reread your post.I think a lot about it.I think about the words being used on your post,the feelings behind the post and your heart.
    I look at the details on your projects and think I wonder why she added a bow or butterfly.Your colors are always soft and sweet so I can only imagine that,That's how you are!Some days when I wake up,I am waiting on a response from the lord and without realizing where the response will come from...I take a trip to bloggie world and find that response on a post.This has happened to me many times especially with you.So,you see I DO Believe in Angels and I am grateful that there are kind, wonderful,loving,humble,and warm hearted Angels like you.
    Your card is so special.It gives you that feeling of understanding,love and heart.very beautiful!!!I am so sorry that your mom was not feeling well.I hope that she is feeling better.The word Sparkle on your blog,is for Light,Shine,Hope and Love.My prayers and hear arewith Megan and all parents who have lost a child......
    Have a wonderful weekend my Friend,
    Sending a HUGE amount of my Bloggie love to you,
    Migdalia
    Good Night my Angel :-)

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  36. Glad to hear your mom is doing better. Hospital stays can be such an hassle on top of not feeling well.
    Beautiful card. Love how you used the patterned papers and the lovely butterfly.
    So sad to hear about the child that was lost. Hopefully your card will bring some comfort.

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  37. Omgosh I just saw that you were one of the winners' of this card on Karen's blog... And I didn't or I missed this posting.. My apologizes Karen... This is just super gorgeous what a pretty vase of flowers and love that shape card too..... Sorry about this miss~

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  38. Karen,

    I have missed you and I'm so glad you are back. I hope your mother's health continues to be better. Oh my heart aches for this mom. I do not think there could be anything more heart-breaking than loosing a child. Many years ago when I was just a toddler, my aunt lost her only child, Shirley, at the age of five. I have heard the stories from my parents and grandparents of how difficult it was on my aunt. She did a little boy two years later. He died three years ago with brain cancer. She has buried her husband and both of her children. I cannot imagine her loss. She is now 90 years old, in great health and going strong.

    This crd you have created is beyond gorgeous and full of love for this mom and honor of her little girl. I know that when she sees this, it will lift her spirits and give her some peace. This is just another example of the out pouring love you give to others, even those you've never met.

    The amazing details of this card are perfect. From the gorgeous vase of flowers to the inspiring butterfly, lace and ribbon, a work of art has been created. This is just beautiful, inside and out.

    Charlotte

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  39. As soon as I saw this beautiful card I was lead to read and comment - not at all expecting the words I read! Your card is breathtaking and perfect for its purpose. Each detail is just as it should be and your love and sympathy shine through.

    My heart just aches for Megan. I wept when I read your post. I simply cannot imagine going through such tremendous heartbreak. I will pray for this mother that I don't know... as I do know the One who loves her and knows her every need.

    I'm so sorry to read about your mother, too. I pray that she will soon be restored to full health. I'm so thankful to learn that she is doing so much better. I'm praying for you as well. You have had a trying week!

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  40. Totally gorjuss, thanks for joining us at Fussy and Fancy.
    Shell xx

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  41. Karen, this is beautiful and you can see how much love you put into each one of your projects. This is such a wonderful gesture on your part and shows just what a truly wonderful person you are. I had to stop by today to thank you once again for visiting me - your comments around my blog yesterday made me smile from ear to ear and put so much love in my heart. Thank you my new found blogland friend. I hope you have a fabulous weekend and that you enjoy the New Year - heres to 2013! Hugs, Karon.

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Thank you for leaving some love! Have a beautifully blessed day. :o)

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