Good morning friends. Many of you have emailed to ask about Ben’s progress. He is still hanging in there but earlier this week he was airlifted to another hospital in the state that could better handle his crisis. He was admitted with both kidneys failed, double pneumonia and an underlying bacteria infection that they cannot seem to locate. We’re told that it will be a very long road. He’s had two brain surgeries within the last year and a bone marrow transplant earlier this year; his immune system is very compromised. As you know, my John had two bone marrow transplants so I’m familiar with this type of crisis. Thank you so much for keeping him in your prayers – I wanted to let you know that is a welcome comfort to my mother who is caring for Ben and posting updates. Knowing the long road ahead, I’ve spent most of the last weeks keeping her lifted and appreciate all your kind thoughts.
So thankful it is Day of Giving Friday and an opportunity to send out a card to one of you, who truly mean so much to me. If you are new to my blog and wonder what Day of Giving Friday is all about – you can find out more about Day of Giving on my FAQ List at #11. My card today is an older card and some of the supplies are not available but certainly I hope you can use this for inspiration. This is one of my ‘go to’ styles when I make personal cards because it is quick and easy. It features a way to make a quick border using border punches – I have an older Youtube Video – HERE
For your comment today, free style, what’s on your mind?
Stamps: Retired
Paper: Die Cuts With A View, Coredinations, Neenah Classic Crest Cream 80 lb
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa
Accessories: EK Success Modern Cube, Spellbinders Blossom Tags and Accents, Seam Binding, Corsage Pins, Recollections Pearls, Prima Flowers, Recollections Pearl
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Thank you! I’m touched by the kind gracious souls that visit me here. You bless me, you really do!
I had a stampin’ buddy with leukemia. She went through the transplant and finally succumbed after a year. We did get to go shopping one day at the craft stores and she got to come to the Stampin’ Night Christmas party. It was so hard watching what she was going through. I miss her. I inherited all of her crafting supplies (she made exquisite scrapbooks) so I still feel like she’s here when I’m using something that was Sara’s.
Sending positive thoughts your way.
take care
Beautiful Card! What’s on my mind? Hmm…It’s Halloween and I’d better get moving on my Christmas Cards!
Such a lovely card again Becca, i will pray for your friend , my boys are coming over for dinner tonight so i had better get a move on.
God bless
Elaine H X
Another beautiful card Becca. I love that background paper. For me, a dear friend moved to Florida and even though we keep in touch by email, I miss her. She came back for a week but we only got to spend about 4 hours together now I miss her more.
Hi Becca, I had no idea Ben’s condition was so serious. It is a blessing he has family support. Is is so difficult for the care givers to watch, wait, while knowing the future is out of their hands. I pray he has your faith to sustain him. Even when your hopes and wishes are not answered in the manner you ask, you have honored God dealing with whatever comes. You and your family have my respect and admiration. My prayers will include all of you as well as a positive outcome for Ben. God bless you. Barbara
Prayers for you and your family. Today’s card makes me think of my mom who had her share of health problems most of her life. She used to say, “God helps those who help themselves.” That’s essentially what your card is saying, so it immediately made me think of my mom. Not that I don’t always think of her, but it did bring a smile to my face. Thank you!
Thanks for the update on Ben. I’ve been thinking of you all. Lovely card again. On my mind is what’s for dinner tonight?! And how to make the foiled die cuts I’ve done into a decent birthday card and get well card for friends. On a positive note it will help my die cut mixing and matching. Something I tend to be reluctant to do for some strange reason. Your die cut combos are fab. True inspiration. Happy weekend.
Becca,
Gorgeous card! I especially love the decorative bird paper. And, the quote is soooo great! Gotta’ love it!
Thank you for the update on Ben. He, and your family continue in my prayers. There can be a bit of PTSD in this for you, yes? So many similarities to John…prayers for blessings and grace and healing for all of you…
I’m having coffee with a dear friend in a bit, and doing some work for a class later on. It is a rainy day in the NW so Fall is really settling in…picking the last of the tomatoes and treasuring them. It is a treat to be getting a few this late in the year!
So counting blessings enjoying the day. Have a couple cards I want to make today and tomorrow, so some studio time. Thank you for another giving day…you are among the blessings I count.
Joni
Good morning Becca, God bless you. Please send my best wishes to Ben and your mum, you are in my prayers.
What’s on my mind??? I havn’t started my Christmas cards yet!!! I’ve got to get a move on!!!
Good luck everyone!!!
Have a good one!!!
Loopy Lynda xxx
Very pretty card Becca. Lots going on, pray for Ben and also my special daughter Angie.
Hugs
Mstgane
Ann Robbins
What a pretty card, Becca. I don’t remember seeing it posted in the past, so it was lovely to see it featured today. I remember your excellent tutorial on using punches for borders and have used your technique quite often. Thank you again for sharing your secrets with us!
I’m still praying for Ben and appreciate the update. It will be a long road for him, but I will not grow weary in prayer. I know our God does wonderful things, things beyond our imagining. Much love to you and your family in these stressful days.
I remember you showing this card (or one very similar). I actually went out and bought the punch “EK Success Modern Cube”. I would love to win this card. Thanks for the chance.
Chris
Enjoying my craft room this week. I had it so clean, then I started Christmas cards.
Thanks for keeping us updated about Ben.
What a beautiful card! Thank you so much for your kind, generous spirit. What’s on my mind is sending thoughts and prayers for you and your family. I hope your brother makes a full recovery. Bless you.
These life crisis events can drain you, be sure to take care of yourself through all this, it’s easy to forget.
Hello, Loved your tutorial for the above card. I have so many of the Ek Success and Martha Stewart Punches that are just gathering dust after a few uses. Cannot wait to try the ones I have. Thank you so much for sharing. Prayers for Ben are still being sent up! Hugs!
It is a beautiful card! Thank you for the chance to win it.
I will keep Ben, you, and your whole family in our prayers.
Becca, you and your family are on my mind. Lifting you all up in prayer…
My prayers of hope, strenth, and support continue for Ben, you, and all the members of your family. Just know many people care and are praying for you. Per today’s question: what is on my mind? I am gathering my supplies for a play day of cardmaking with friends this weekend. There will be ten of us for a full day of learning something from each of us attending. I have not taught a cardmaking technique to anyone before, so I hope I get this right and remember to take all the supplies each person will need for what I will teach. I will be teaching my “Northern Lights” technique. Wish me luck! Today’s card is lovely, soft and sweet. Thanks for the video on border punches. I have watched it before, but need to watch it again. God Bless you Becca.
Great card! Boarder punches do make for a fast and easy layer on a card. Thank you so much for doing the math and measuring for us! Your video helps a bunch!! On my mind today is to try and not be so attached to “things” (like a favorite old measuring cup that I thought got thrown out)but found, after I got upset and let it almost ruin my day. Life is too short and I need to let go, let God and live!!Loves, Ruthie
Thank you for the update on Ben. May God spread His healing hand over him and keep your family in the palm of His hands. Today I am thinking about Sunday – church first and then the 5 neighbors and their 2 dogs are moving in with us for about 5 days while their main level flooring gets sanded and varnished. The kids are all in their teens and still in school so it shouldn’t be too hard. The neighbors will do all the cooking so I have some time off from that. But I don’t think I will get cards made during this time. I’m thinking this as an adventure with family and friends.
I thank God for the creativity He has blessed you with and that you share this through the website.
Have a blessed week.
That is so sweet of you and your family to do this for your neighbors. Give the doggies extra love it may upset them a bit.
I will pray for peace, and love to abide during this time as it can be hard on you when you get set into your routines and schedules and then have to deal with someone else’s as well which at times can conflict.
But I know that God will bless you for doing it though!
We will continue to keep Ben in our prayers..what’s on my mind with October almost over will I get everything done in time for Christmas. Christine S.
Dear Becca,
What a lovely card and so delicate in color and style! I just love it! I am sorry to hear about Ben…is he a brother or relative? I would be glad to pray for him and your family! God bless and may He bring healing and comfort!
Kim, he’s my little brother :-)
Beautiful card Becca…would love to be the recipient!!!
Prayers for Ben and family during this difficult time.
Paper Hugs,
Jan
What a beautiful card. I am so sorry about your brother and will continue prayers for him. What’s on my mind today is the brother of a dear friend who is battling cancer. She e-mailed me this morning that she would be spending the day at the hospital with him as he is very bad. He has hung on longer than expected as it is and somehow finds renewed strength to continue. His first grandbaby is due in the spring and I pray he lives to see it.
Thanks so much for the update on Ben. We will keep praying for him and for you. Another lovely card in one of my favourite colours!
I’m so sorry you are going through this difficult time with your brother. Good you can be there for your mom and if any help we can provide is needed, I know you will reach out to us.
Am sitting here listening to the rain and just being appreciative of all I’ve been blessed with.
Oh Becca, it’s so hard to go through this kind of thing over, and over. The Lord will get you and your mom through it, whatever His plan for Ben is. He will give you both strength to deal. My thought for the day is I am so glad I got out of work on time for once! Such a lovely card as usual. Love the pearls they add so much. Your new bow die would look awesome on this go to card. Blessings, Lisa
Very nice, Becca. I’m still in awe of yesterday’s bows.
My granddaughter who in four recently had a mass removed from her neck. It was wrapped around her larynx. We got the results, and they are negative for malignancy! Prayers do get answered!
My goodness – you cards are such works of art!
Hi there Becca,
Such a gorgeous card here again hun. You always makes such wonderful creations, and this is no different.
Sooo sorry to hear, about the problems with Bens health and please know, I´ll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers here too. And what´s on my mind here? Well I´m having a load of healthissues myself here lately and just found out, that I need to go througfh tons of tests and scans here again now, so to be hobnest, I´ve been a bit low here lately. Haven´t even got started on my christmascards yet, and have no idea, if I´ll be able to finish them all and get them out in time, but we´ll just have to take one day at a time. Guess that´s part of life too.
Have a wonderful week-end to you and yours.
What an awesome card! Nothing very important going on right now, just enjoying this beautiful Arizona day.
Love the card. After working all day in the lunchroom kitchen I am wondering how wonderful it will be to retire one day. I am looking forward to that, I am only 53 so I have many years yet but just thinking about that day makes me smile!!!!
Lovely card today and I enjoyed the tutorial as well. Thank you for being such an inspiration! Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. On my mind today is that fact that I haven’t even started anything Christmas!
Beautiful card Becca!
I’ve been trying to figure a layout for an angel I embroidered on dark blue shimmer cardstock. These angels will be on my Christmas cards, and I want something nice, but that will not take away from the beautiful angel.
Hi Becca,
Thanks for the update on Ben I did not realize how ill he was, my prayers are with you and your family.
Lovely card as usual.Whats on my mind deciding what I have to do next my Christmas cards or some thing else.
Yvonne
What a pretty card. Love the background paper. I must have missed a post when you talked about Ben. So sorry he is having such a difficult time. What’s on my mind …..Christmas is around the corner and so much to do. My first and only grandson will turn one on Dec. 31 so Christmas morning is going to be so much fun with him around.
Becca you really are a saint – I so appreciate being able to read your posts and admire your work, and see Jesus through it all.
Today who is on my mind is an (internet) stamping friend who has a daughter in a very serious condition in hospital – another long term crisis it could be called, after an horrific trauma, but her daughter is not responding, if anything, she is worsening.
Thankfully she is being supported in prayer by many others, but it is still a very sad situation.
Blessings
Maxine
Becca, I am so sorry to hear this. Will be praying for everyone {{{hugz}}}.
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What is on my mind? I think that we should all get together and make cards for your mother to help encourage and lift her spirits and to give her strength. Does she have anyone coming in for Respite Care so she can get out for a bit and do something for herself?
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Your Dies are the da Bomb! I love them Congrats! I could not tell that the Paper bows were even paper I thought they were real ribbons,lol!
I agree with Karen would love to send cards..
It sounds like Ben has more to deal with than one person should have to endure. Please keep us posted. Your card is lovely, as always, Becca. What’s on my mind – I have so much to do and I hope I can muster the energy and persistence to accomplish what needs to get done. Checking out your blog is a great way to take a short break – thanks!
It is so true. Many people believe that not only do they need the food thrown in the nest. They also want someone to feed them. I believe that GOD will take care of us. But we need to try to help him. Work and help him.
I know you have great faith. I pray that your brother will get better soon.
Lovely card…thanks for update on Ben..so heart breaking, can we send cards to you family or anything? On my mind today is a 9 mo baby girl, that her family caused her to have a stroke, a dear friend is the foster parent right now , she only like a 3 mo old baby, went blind and no hearing from all this, but good news drs think she might get some of that back….I just don’t understand how people can do harm to others? But a baby? The whole world needs prayers…have a better week becca and thanks again for all you do for us….your truly an angel….sorry for long post….
Of course you will continue to have prayers for Ben, Becca. “Amazing” suits you perfectly – here you are taking time to share with us while keeping your Mom lifted up and the many other things going on all at once. My heartfelt thanks for sharing your heart and your many gifts with all of us.
This is SO BEAUTIFUL, BECCA!!! ;) You know what is on my mind lately….chickens! LOL ;)
This is a beautiful card, Becca. The punched background really sets
it off! Love It! I will keep Ben in my prayers, Becca, and your mom.
God Bless you all!
Hi, Becca,
Thank you for the update on your brother. I can imagine this crisis is bringing up a lot of pain in remembering your husband’s experience. I am so glad that you have the joy of introducing new dies to bring some balance into your life. Prayers and blessings to Ben, you and your family.
Life has given me several messages this week about the importance of taking care of myself. I’m one of those people tries to do too much and I didn’t realize how out of balance I am. Taking cues from the seasonal changes, time to let go and rest. You’ve had a busy week, also. Make sure you schedule in some YOU-time – TO DO NOTHING!
Love and blessings, dear one,
Sandy
Prayers for John and your Mother. Being a caretaker is hard, hard work but something that fills your heart with love. I’m thinking that right now my family is all doing fine and I’m so happy.
Glad you brother is at a new hospital. Praying for healing for the Dr to find the source of the Infection soon.
Your cards and dies are amazingly great.
A sweet friend is on my mind and in my prayers right now. Will pray for your family, too. May God bless Ben and all those who love can care for him.
Hello Becca,
I am so sorry to hear of your brothers illnesses. I will pray for his healing, and for strength for you and your Mom. You are an amazing woman. Your art is beautiful and I hope to some day receive one of your gorgeous cards. May you receive many blessings. My favorite bible verse is John 3:16. Just believe.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers at this very difficult time and hope that with each new day there is some improvement in Ben’s health. Stay strong Becca, keep making your beautiful, inspiring cards and may God bless you all.
Another beautiful Becca creation! such a pretty colour and lovely papers.
Sending special thoughts across the miles for Ben and hope that there is some relief for him and those who have the task of caring for him They are in my thoughts
Beautiful card. Two friends are coping with cancer diagnoses, one scheduled for surgery Monday. Hang in there, Becca. I’m thinking making your lovely cards must strengthen you.
Happy Autumn Becca. Beautiful card.
I really love this card! The patterned paper is so pretty! I’m so sorry for your brother and all hi is having to go through. Y’all are in my prayers. That being said, what is on my mind? I do love your Friday thought-provoking questions and anything I’d put here seems so trivial. But here ya go. I do team building on ropes courses with groups ranging in age from 5-6th grade through adult. This week I had the privilege of serving the most awesome group of high school students. They are such caring, thoughtful young adults and it makes me know that the youth of today have lots of great things going on. I’m so thankful to be physically able to do this work with them. They’ve been on my mind every day and have made me have a happy face! :)
Becca, I when you posted this card, since I’ve got that punch. Thanks for re-posting since I had forgotten your marvelous tip. I’m keeping Ben and your entire family in my thoughts. I’m sorry that you are having to go through this again…to similar to your darling John. But Ben is lucky to have the support system that he does. Remember to take care of yourself as well during this time. Blessings to you and yours,
R/
I swear that I typed I REMEMBER when you posted this card….the gremlins are at it again!
Dear Becca,
You are such a blessing to me, you are so strong through everything.
I would like you to know that I am praying for Ben, and your family.
I don’t recall seeing this card – but I have been missing in action for a long time since
my husband passed away. It’s as beautiful as all your cards are.
Blessings to you, Candy
Another of your lovelies I’d love to have. Great being able to observe a master’s work. Love your ‘Day of Giving’ idea. This way we get to revisit your creations, albeit the last glimpse. C’est dommage!
Dear Becca, my thoughts and prayers for your brother and family. I just lost my sister-in-law to brain cancer and I miss her terribly. We had so many adventures together. We never know what God’s plans are but always know He is there to comfort us in our time of need. Bless you and your family. What is on my mind right now is to get to bed and sleep, as I have a busy day tomorrow to finish 3 cards. HUGS
Missing my Mom… she passed away on the 17th of this month.
Yes praying and our Lord will bring about the best for Ben,and all concerned. He said He would. Thank you for showing the beautiful card. God’s blessings.
Beautiful card Becca. Thank you for the update on your brother Ben. I continue to keep all of you in my prayers. What’s on mind? I’m feeling blessed to have a wonderful husband, an amazing daughter and son-in-law and three of the most awesome Grandchildren!
Hi Becca, another gorgeous card. We all send our prayers and good wishes to Ben and your mum she must be a very strong lady.
Nancyd xx
Hello Becca
I just wish to add my thoughts and wishes are with you and Ben at this time!
Take care
Love Marg
Thank you for updating us about Ben. I continue to pray for him and your family. This must be incredibly difficult yet you continue to move forward each day with your blog and your craft. I know you are able to do so because of God’s grace.
Your update brought to mind how thankful I am for PRAYER. It brings us hope in times of dispair and unites us in a common goal. It reminds us of our faith in someone beyond ourselves and brings comfort when we feel alone. There is nothing like praying to our Heavenly Father to bring peace, joy and hope. It is divinely ordered and blessed. Prayer brings grace to our lives yet it also takes us out of ourselves as we pray for others. PRAYER is a gift of GOD and I am forever thankful we can share it, even with those we haven’t met. What a blessing!
Your card may be an older card but it is as beautiful as always. I plan to watch the video as soon as I’ve finished here even though I am sure I probably have already seen it. I appreciate it when you remind us there is a video. A reminder is always welcome. Blessings, Becca!
Hello Becca this card is so SPRING !!! As it is spring down here it
would be in the right part of our World to be appreciated lol . (fingers crossed )
Hi Becca,
After reading your blog today, your family has been on my mind and in my thoughts for quite a long time.
I do hope this will turn out well in the end…
On the other hand my mind is occupied with the Christmas card I have just started creating, and if I manage to do as many as planned this year:))
Hello Becca. ‘Tis truly a beautiful card. God bless you and your family each and every day. What’s on my mind today is what’s been occupying me for the past 8 weeks. I’ve been assisting in the daily care of my bff of 47 years who is struggling to recover from a devastating stroke. It also allows the family some free time for themselves. So any craft or card projects are on hold for now. That’s all okay and the sun is still shining brightly.
Gorgeous card! Praying for healing!
Another beautiful card. Thank you Becca.
Hi Becca, You are all constantly in my prayers, we are all praying for Ben’s recovery.
I love your card, especially the backing paper, the birdies are so pretty. Peach is not a colour I usually go for, but I must give it a go after seeing this ‘beauty’
My thoughts are with you !!
Lots of love from Patricia xx
Beautiful card. whats on my mind is I wish we could have a Miracle and talk to my Dad just one more time. and that my mom could save her home since Dad passed its been a struggle for her with not enough money to save her house. I will let God help if he can just Pray for her. thanks
Becca, I am soo sorry about your brother, Ben. I will pray for him and your family.
Hi Becca,
Here I am late again lol! Stunning card my friend, love it all.
Love & hUgs
Jacquie J xxx
Dearest Becca,
I’ve just recently discovered your blog. I’ve practically devoured every Becca bit and pinned pretty much every card. Hmm, it’s kind of like getting hooked on a TV series and watching all the episodes at once on Hulu. Thank you for sharing your struggles, your faith, and your passion for crafting. I am a kindred spirit. As such, I look forward to hearing about what amazing things God is doing. I am confident you will have much to report!
Sent with Blessings and Prayers,
Peg
Another beauty! You wow me every time I visit!
What’s on my mind? Ben, your mother, you and your family. You are all in my prayers and I was remembering you especially last night Becca. This must be so hard for you at this time.
God bless.
Hugs
Anne (UK) x
Hi Becca, yet another beautiful creation, thank you for sharing X X X