The Longest Journey


Dearest Blog Friends, if you haven’t figured it out, I’m travelling this week!!  While having an absolutely marvelous time, I miss my own bed and my craft supplies, lol!  I did have a chance to throw together some simple cards 
before I left (hours before my flight last Friday)  and I’ll post the last one today.   As much as I oft times get feedback my cards are too detailed, I do think you all like the more complex ones, no?   So every once in a while, when I’m experimenting, I would hate to throw away what I’m playing with and they end up on a card.  The experiment here were the roses – they are made from the dark colored coffee filters and painted with distress daubers.  I love how that goes down and is a good incentive to move me off the cream paper I seem to reach for automatically.

I picked this profound Quietfire sentiment  hand penned by my dear friend Suzanne with Quietfire Design, because it had such significance for the trip I was getting ready to leave on.  Art certainly mirrors life.  My sister invited me to join her on at trip to San Antonio and (in my heart) I didn’t know if I could or not.  Much of John’s care happened in San Antonio and I spent two different times in my life there, cheering him back to health as he recovered from bone marrow transplants.  Since much of the time he was not hospitalized, it’s an area we explored thoroughly.  Tis not a sad trip, even though a couple of moments caught me by surprise, this was a very positive step for me.  One of our favorite places was Rudy’s – a gas station that serves the most incredible barbeque with a picnic-like outside seating area and a cozy wood fire year round.  I went there as soon as I could and had a fabulous time.  Sitting in the sunshine with the fresh breeze was amazing, and I feel him all around me.  Thanks for indulging me to share that.   Ever the optimist, I know that getting through is about bravely stepping out.  I’m not dwelling in the past, but I do still embrace it (sometimes tearily and other times with great joy). Yes, this is a long journey and so much of it is inward . . .

So about my simple card . . . I started out by cutting Spellbinders™ Grand Squares, I then lopped off the end using Spellbinders™ Grand Labels Twenty Three before mounting to my card base.  For the decorative flap I used Spellbinders™Grand Labels Twenty Three again and cut off just the corner for my flap.  Then come the roses — they were a delicious experiment that I hope to share with you.  Using Spellbinders™ Spiral Blossoms One I cut and twirled several and glued down to a wide five wraps bow made using the Peg Bow Maker.  I stamped the sentiment across the bottom and embossed with clear embossing powder and embellished the flap and bottom scallops with pearls.

SUPPLIES I USED
Stamps:  Quietfire DesignThe Longest Journey
Paper:  Die Cuts With A View – Chateau Lavender
Ink: Versafine Black Onyx, Tattered Rose Distress Ink, Victorian Velvet Distress Ink
Accessories: Spellbinders™ Grand Labels Twenty Three, Spellbinders™ Grand Squares,  Spellbinders™ Spiral Blossoms One, Peg Bow Maker,  Zva Creative Pearls (used on flap), Recollections Pearls (used on scallop), Hug Snug Seam Binding, natural coffee filters, Pearl Pics
Additional Ideas:  Quietfire Gallery Spellbinders Blog

Several people have left comments that they are having trouble finding Recollections® Pearls or Bead-Landing™ elements.  Those are both Michaels brand items and both of those names are registered or trademarked, so if you google them or go the Michaels website or store, you should be able to find them :-). I can’t imagine they wouldn’t have these items in their stores, so I’m sure a clerk would be thrilled to help you – I know the gals in my Michaels store are fab-u-lous!!   Also the brand of seam binding I use is Hug Snug and can be purchased from Zipperstop.com (please tell them I sent you :-), Amazon.com, or Ebay.  

In the meantime, I’ll be home soon but didn’t want to miss the opportunity to tell you all how much you mean to me.  I don’t know what life would be like if I didn’t have you to talk to so thanks for letting me share.  I might live a quiet little life but it’s not so quiet with the internet that pulls you all into my sweet little craft room — my blog friends are the bestest!!

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  • Bridget LarsenMarch 29, 2012 - 12:52 pm

    I love all your cards regardless how complicated they are, they make my mind come alive!! and you have helped me get my mojo back after losing it for 2 years. If there was on thing I did during those 2 years was that I looked at your blog every time you posted something. So in a way you have helped me on my comeback journey and I hope your journey is easier on you now and yes it does take time to grieve and let go.ReplyCancel

  • Katherine LawsonMarch 29, 2012 - 1:00 pm

    Your card is beautiful, although I’m a fan of your complicated ones. :-)
    I love the rose. I bought coffee filters a long time ago to make roses with, but never did it. You have inspired me to try them!

    Thank you for sharing the story of your trip. I think many of us know the feeling of visiting somewhere where they spent time with a loved one who is gone, and can relate to the feelings you are experiencing.ReplyCancel

  • Marge R. (mer)March 29, 2012 - 1:13 pm

    Oh, good for you, Becca; nice to see you’re getting to travel a bit & glad that for the most, the return to TX has been a good experience.
    Had to share that I recently thought to use coffee filters (white) to cut a Sprial Blossoms One flowers and LOVED how they turned out. I use the cone-shaped filters and they have tiny bumps on them (embossed bumps) and I used Tattered Angels to mist/color them — so cool!
    NOW I can see I need some darker ones to cut/play with too — LOVE yours and that AWESOME card, Becca!!!ReplyCancel

  • JessicaMarch 29, 2012 - 1:16 pm

    Oh I love this one Becca! I love the whole thing. Thanks for always showing such uplifting sentiments.
    Hugs, JessReplyCancel

  • AmandaMMarch 29, 2012 - 1:17 pm

    How very sweet a post this was. I adore your card and kind words about moving forward. This year had some rough experiences, but I am still so blessed. I love your creative style whether complicated or not. Thank you as always for your inspiration for creativity and life.ReplyCancel

  • Amanda HMarch 29, 2012 - 1:17 pm

    Ok, I don’t care what anyone says, the more complicated the card, the more spectacular and breathtaking it is!! All cards are heartfelt works of beauty and art! I love all of your creations and I hope you don’t take what others have said to heart, so please keep creating what moves you. I’m going to say something hard and pretty close to rude, but maybe they are jealous or maybe even just simply want to recreate your cards on their own. Regardless, Please continue to inspire all of us with your inner beauty and creativeness :)ReplyCancel

  • Bonnie WeissMarch 29, 2012 - 1:19 pm

    Nothing you create is simple, Becca … just simply beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • Gloria WestermanMarch 29, 2012 - 1:23 pm

    This is so lovely!!!! I too have coffee filter and as yet try to make these…will have to now…thanks for the challenge…LOL
    It’s the quiet time to reflect the past moments in life are the best memories from the heart…my heart still prays for you in your journey….enjoy the sunshine ….let it reflect in your heart……
    Hope your having a blast……ReplyCancel

  • MdMarch 29, 2012 - 1:25 pm

    Superbe
    BravoReplyCancel

  • Jindra SturgillMarch 29, 2012 - 1:26 pm

    Dearest one, I have no negative comments about anything. I rarely comment at all…mostly because I am totally in awe of the beauty of your creations. I wanted to thank you for the info on the dvd cases order site (tape on line). I ordered from them last Saturday pm. The case arrived today! I am impressed and left your name as a referral on my order. Thanks so much for sharing ALL that you share. I doubt you have any idea of the lives you touch from afar….many, like myself, who are so reticent to express to you our gratitude. Thank you so much. Hugs, JindraReplyCancel

  • Barbara PalmerMarch 29, 2012 - 1:29 pm

    Do you hand deliver all your cards or do you mail them? I am still fairly new to card making and haven’t tried making paper roses yet. I just wondered how they would hold up.ReplyCancel

  • Mary HMarch 29, 2012 - 1:35 pm

    Becca, while your cards are so detailed, I’m loath to try to attempt anything so gorgeous, they are NEVER so complex that I don’t thoroughly enjoy your artistry. This is what you do best, and your talents are inspiring to the rest of us. So keep on doing what you do best! On another note: I’m so glad for you that you took this trip. Also glad that it is a renewing time, not a sad one. I sense you are celebrating your John, remembering all the wonderful happy times that you shared. Don’t you feel this is what he would want for you? We never forget, we have sad times when we miss our loved ones, but they don’t leave us. As time passes the sad times ease a bit, and we are left with the happiness of remembering love. That way, the loved one is always near & with us continually. Enjoy your trip, and the bbq sounds DE-lish. Be safe. God bless.ReplyCancel

  • Nan GMarch 29, 2012 - 1:36 pm

    You are a kindred spirit my dear, Becca! Your cards are a source of joy, inspiration and motivation to so many! Those that think they are too complicated have yet to stretch their artful wings and fly on their own. I find such strength in your work and determination to go forward…bravo! Only hope I can find the same as I struggle to hold onto something that is very dear to me… Thank you.ReplyCancel

  • SusanMarch 29, 2012 - 1:39 pm

    Dear Becca,
    Wishing you safe travels in the world outside, and the heart inside.
    You are a brave and loving soul who shares so much and I thank you for giving us the pleasure of your company and your talents each day.
    Your card is lovely and I can’t believe you used coffee filters for those gorgeous flowers.
    Wishing you sunshine and joy!ReplyCancel

  • JoannMarch 29, 2012 - 1:44 pm

    Becca I love your card today and admire all your work but I’m truly happy to hear that you were able to go back to some sentimental grounds and have it turn out to be a positive step for you. Moving forward is the hardest thing to do when we lose someone we love very much and hearing you talk about taking steps to do that and enjoying yourself makes me smile. Hugs!ReplyCancel

  • PhyllisMarch 29, 2012 - 1:46 pm

    Bekka, when you share a bit of your experiences with John and his illness, it answers questions I have often pondered. I believe with all my heart that John was with you at Rudy’s and I believe he was thrilled to see you are thriving. I believe he is touched you still think of him. Thank you for sharing. I am off to the website you shared! God Bless You.ReplyCancel

  • FrancineMarch 29, 2012 - 1:53 pm

    For sure you are not living a simple quiet life…
    You are so lucky to be able to travel… To have an exceptional talent that you generously share with us.
    You have the energy for return in your memories. I think you will realize how you are walking in the field of your life alone but different of before.
    I admired you.
    Your card is very nice as usual I cannot see the simplicity of the card when I thing you made the roses.
    Enjoy your trip!
    Enjoy each moment.
    FrancineReplyCancel

  • Patricia T.March 29, 2012 - 2:07 pm

    My dearest Becca, I stumbled on your blog about a month ago and I am in awe of your creations. God has truly gifted you, and you are using that gift to bless others. You are truly blessing me. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas and bits. I have learned how to make simple cards and now I feel it `s time to go to the next level with my creativity. Following your blog will help me do just that. Your creations and your blogging methods mirrors the person you are inside.(Beautiful and drop dead gorgeous!) Continue to create from within. I will be following you for a long,long time. Enjoy your journey. Hugs!ReplyCancel

  • Terri SMarch 29, 2012 - 2:11 pm

    How wonderful to read that you are able to enjoy the places you and John enjoyed together. It is living in the present while honoring the good memories. Personally I love the complex cards because they challenge me to grow in my crafting. Of course I love the “simpler” ones too!ReplyCancel

  • FernandaMarch 29, 2012 - 2:12 pm

    Oh Becca you are so inspiring!!!! I, too, like you lost some of my favorite loved ones. First, my Mom passed due to Alzheimer complications, then my Dad with colon cancer then recently my dear brother who had pulmonary fibrosis. I have been on a whirlwind spiral into depression. If it were not for the internet, like you say, I’d been lost. My passion is cardmaking and I so enjoy all your posts. You sometimes say the things I precisely need to hear at the time of posting. Please keep inspiring us both spiritually and with your art work. Love and hugs, FernandaReplyCancel

  • Ursula UphofMarch 29, 2012 - 2:24 pm

    Dear Becca, please just keep doing what you have been and that is making beautiful cards to inspire us. Glad you are able to make this trip and thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. warm wishes.ReplyCancel

  • LynetteMarch 29, 2012 - 2:32 pm

    Oh Becca, I cried reading your memories of John and San Antonio, and loved knowing that you felt him all around you, as I’m sure he is.
    Just wanted to say I ordered your Bow Maker — actually ordered 2 of them, one as a surprise to my sister in law who I’ve just introduced to your site — and it’s WONDERFUL!!!. So easy to use with the ribbon feeding out from the back and the adjustable pegs. I had rigged up one myself out of odds and ends and it worked for me, but there is no comparison! The quality and weight of yours is just beautiful, and so are my bows now. Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • ChelseaMarch 29, 2012 - 2:34 pm

    Hi Dear Becca, this is a fabulous card. I love the design and the colors you chose. Inspirational, as usual. I also appreciate the thoughts of your heart. I hope God blesses you richly on your trip and gives you abundant joy.ReplyCancel

  • Becky GreenMarch 29, 2012 - 2:37 pm

    Dearest Becca!
    Thank you for sharing! I can’t imagine my life without my husband! But, life does go on. You express your feelings VERY WELL & I’m SURE it would be how I would feel if I lost the love of my life! It’s GOOD for you to be out & about! We can’t live in just four walls, eventhough it’s tempting at times! Craft room or not! God made us to need people, to be loved, to be accepted…The Lord be with you as you travel! & come home safely & more rested! HUGS!

    I LOVE your detailed cards!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! When I see a card that ISN’T detailed, I chalk it up to your wanting to do something different! Even with the more simple cards, you SURPRISE US!!!!!!! Can’t wait to hear how you did the Roses!!!!!!!! I’ve REALLY been getting into making my own flowers lately! Yours are GORGEOUS!!!!!!!! I thought they were store bought! :) Thanks for ALL your inspiration!!!!!!!! :)ReplyCancel

  • Gail L.March 29, 2012 - 2:49 pm

    I’m glad you’re off traveling!
    I love your cards, and can’t get over how detailed they are. It’s not a deterrent for me, but an eye opener!ReplyCancel

  • BernieMarch 29, 2012 - 2:51 pm

    No matter what others may say you should always create what pleases you first. I love your style. It’s not my style but you always inspire me.

    I am so very glad you are enjoying your trip. Wishing you safe travels home.
    Blessings BernieReplyCancel

  • DonnaMarch 29, 2012 - 2:56 pm

    Hi Becca,
    I live in San Antonio, so I’m glad to hear you’ve been able to visit here again and find comfort in your memories. Rudy’s BBQ is definitely tops and the great weather we’ve had lately must have amde the experience even better!
    As always, thanks for sharing your many talents and gifts with your readership.
    dmcReplyCancel

  • Francie (Montreal)March 29, 2012 - 3:14 pm

    I pray you find this bitter-sweet trip down memory lane part of the healing process; that you emerge stronger; that the love you shared with John surrounds you in a comforting, sweet, restorative, even joyful way. I wish only the best for you. Take care, dear Becca.

    Oh yes, the card. It’s stunning as usual. Indeed, I recently bought this Quietfire stamp. While the words spoke deeply to me, I was somewhat befuddled on how to display them. You’ve given me pause for though on so many levels. Thx again for everything.ReplyCancel

  • Kelly LittleMarch 29, 2012 - 3:18 pm

    Becca,

    I enjoy what you create no matter how complex. I adore your work, your stories and your beautiful personality. Keep on doing what you are doing, girl, and we will keep on reading, commenting and drooling on our screen. You inspire me to try new things with my crafts, and although I tend to gravitate to the cute images when I purchase, I really love the elegant look you create with your cards too.ReplyCancel

  • Jean CMarch 29, 2012 - 3:24 pm

    Becca,
    I love your card. Those inward steps are definitely the most difficult ones in life. I’m glad you are enjoying your visit, savoring in your memories and acknowledging your sadness. My your sadness be less and your fun times be more!ReplyCancel

  • christiMarch 29, 2012 - 3:37 pm

    always love your cards fancy or plain. what a great trip for you.ReplyCancel

  • RitaMarch 29, 2012 - 3:57 pm

    Your such an inspiration Becca, believe me you are. I just love all your cards and I am always amazed at the quality of your work. Hugs from Scotland. Rita xxxReplyCancel

  • Lauren HashikuniMarch 29, 2012 - 3:58 pm

    Your cards are an inspiration. I am in awe of your talent. I have made some of your boxes and made the envelope/card as a birthday card for my grandniece. My daughter, my sister, her daughters and my friends I share my version of your projects are always impressed. I tell them of your blog site and how you generously share your ‘how to tutorials’.

    Thank you so much for your beautiful cards. I love how detailed they are even if I never replicate them, they are awesome. Please continue making them and sharing.ReplyCancel

  • Carolyn from DownunderMarch 29, 2012 - 4:01 pm

    Hi Becca, Thanks for sharing your beautiful story about the trip to San Antonio. Sounds like it did you a lot of good! xxReplyCancel

  • RaquelMarch 29, 2012 - 4:17 pm

    Dear Becca, I will repeat you are truly an angel of God. You have a beautiful way of expressing yourself-sharing with us your most personal thoughts. Your creations are beautiful-gorgeous and no matter how easy or complicated they are all master pieces. Enjoy your trip-take the time to be with John, it is hard but I am sure he wants you there to be with him during this trip. He will smile hold your hand and gently kiss you, he is proud of you for taking that step to be there. God will guide you-my thoughts and prayers for you and John. Have a safe trip. RaquelReplyCancel

  • Lorraine MMarch 29, 2012 - 4:22 pm

    DO NOT ever let anyone tell you your cards are to complicated. I check in on your site everyday just to see what fabulous thing you have created. You have such a special gift from God and I love the way you share it with us. When you had not posted anything for a few days, I hoped nothing would be wrong, and you would soon return. Lo and behold there was a new card.
    I am happy you are taking your inner journey. Wishing you many blessings in that journey. It cannot be easy, but as the cliche goes, time heals all. Safe travels, and enjoy!!ReplyCancel

  • bethann dMarch 29, 2012 - 4:40 pm

    lovely as always. my DH will probably need a bone marrow transplant in the future, we are just starting this journey and i have a steep learning curve ahead. i admire you so much, you are an inspiration for me in so many ways.ReplyCancel

  • yogiMarch 29, 2012 - 4:40 pm

    Hi Becca, Thanks for the lovely comment on my blog post. Much appreciated. This is a really pretty card and of course the quote sets it off nicely. Love those roses, they look so real.
    Glad you’re enjoy your journey, exploring the inward and outwardness of it. Have a great day.ReplyCancel

  • Sandy MMarch 29, 2012 - 4:46 pm

    Good for you , Becca. The first step is the hardest. Lucky for your sister can share the trip with you. San Antonio is a wonderful city and I am glad you could manage to visit an old haunt or two and reflect on the good times.

    About the card, I never thought to use the coffee filters for flowers. They are not as stiff as paper and yours are beautiful. Lucky for me I buy the unbeached ones and can try it immediately. Thanks for the tip.ReplyCancel

  • CynthiaMarch 29, 2012 - 4:48 pm

    Hi Becca, I love your site. I happened onto from being at Debbie Olsen’s blog. I’m so happy to have found you. I’ve already watched all your tutorials and will probably watch them many more times. You have a great talent and I wanted to thank you for sharing it with everyone. I have really learned a lot of things to do with my Spellbinders. I have quit a bit, but my cards do not look anything like yours. Your cards are so beautiful and I want to thank you again for showing me some simple things to make “my” cards shine. I try to visit your site every other day. You are truly inspirational. Thank you very much.ReplyCancel

  • MarisaMarch 29, 2012 - 5:15 pm

    Glad you have had a good trip and have been able to take some small steps forward :)ReplyCancel

  • LaurenMarch 29, 2012 - 5:20 pm

    Oh dear Becca. I wish we had the money to buy the newer Spellbinders….typically the rolled flower you have just made. I will try to make on my own……I love, love your creative designs and talents.
    Thank you, and thank you for being you.
    LaurenReplyCancel

  • Lynn WildMarch 29, 2012 - 5:31 pm

    Dearest Becca, thank you for sharing everything with us even though it must have been difficult for you at times. I so wish I could give you a big hug! Your John must be so proud of you, so please just keep on doing what you do best – making stunningly beautiful cards and sharing your talents via your blog.
    I love this card and the roses are amazing, but I am a little confused about how you managed to cut the striped card with the labels die without cutting out the full label shape. Just using the die on one edge gives such a lovely shape and makes the dies even more versatile, so I’d love to know how to do this please? I have noticed you use this technique on your cards before and have been wondering how to do it, but I haven’t figured it out myself yet.
    My bowmaker arrived last week and I have bought some seam binding from Zipperstop (they are really helpful). I have made a few lovely bows already and am very impressed with your design and the quality of the bowmaker – it was certainly worth waiting for it to arrive in the UK! I have a large supply of the spellbinders dies and lots of Waltzing Mouse stamps so now I just need to get cardmaking again. Thank you so much for all your inspiration.
    Have a safe journey home.

    LynnReplyCancel

  • Karen KnegtenMarch 29, 2012 - 5:32 pm

    Becca- I truly believe that John is watching and guiding you through your life, and smiling at the love you share with everyone. Thank you so much for sharing your personal journey and the gorgeous creations that keep us spellbound. I agree with so many comments above, that your sharing and teaching has inspired in all of us. BTW- the roses are just amazing!ReplyCancel

  • Clare BuswellMarch 29, 2012 - 5:54 pm

    I so enjoy visiting your blog! I love the way your cards are so full of meaning. Your roses are beautiful, the bow is perfection and such a wonderful sentiment. Your cards have heart! Oh and when I read your posts I love that I hear your voice in my head! Ever since I watched one of your video tutorials and heard your voice, isn’t that funny!ReplyCancel

  • Carol E.March 29, 2012 - 5:59 pm

    Just looking at your beautiful cards helps me get a small glimpse of the person you are. There is so much inspiration, emotion, and beauty in each one. Thank you so much for sharing with us your cards and your thoughts!ReplyCancel

  • LalaMarch 29, 2012 - 6:03 pm

    Dear Becca, God Bless You! You are an inspiration to me. Thank you so much for allowing me into your beautifully creative world. I look forward to all your posts. Take care.ReplyCancel

  • SuziMarch 29, 2012 - 6:29 pm

    Thanks for sharing your heart with us. Memories can be a mixed bag. Even the best ones can hurt. Your card is, as always, beautiful. The cards you make are never too complex! They are amazing!ReplyCancel

  • MarilynMarch 29, 2012 - 7:13 pm

    I am in love with your card, but then again which card of your creations don’t I love, LOL. How kind of you to plan postings while traveling. You are one very strong, kind hearted person, may you continue to express your heart through your paper crafting and blogging to all of us who care about you.
    Safe travels!ReplyCancel

  • Marilyn ClarkMarch 29, 2012 - 7:34 pm

    Thanks for sharing your heartfelt memories with us. AMAZING PAPER GRACE is such an inspiration to me. Love your work. God bless.ReplyCancel

  • SueMarch 29, 2012 - 7:43 pm

    I agree with everyone. Thank you for sharing your art and yourself. You do the most amzing work and you are so very kind to share your knowedge.

    SueReplyCancel

  • Pattie JnsMarch 29, 2012 - 7:45 pm

    Becca, you bless me everyday with your gorgeous creations, large, small, lots of layers, whatever. they are joys to see and challenges to do. Without challenges we wouldn’t grow. but your inspiration a kind words and thoughts are an added joy and mean a great deal. Do what the Lord inspires you to do
    and continue to share your kind words and heartfelt memories with us. We love you. and thank God for giving you this wonderful gift to share with us.
    ……Hugs and Blessings……May The Lord Bless and Keep You each day.ReplyCancel

  • Jo Anna GrimsleyMarch 29, 2012 - 7:53 pm

    Becca, so glad you are having a wonderful trip and that your sister can be there to support you. Thanks for another great card and for letting me know where you purchase your seam binding. I’ve sent Zipperstop an email telling them that you clued me in to their website and am looking forward to ordering from them soon. Thanks again.ReplyCancel

  • MickieMarch 29, 2012 - 8:02 pm

    GF, you were only a hop, skip and a jump away whilst in San Antonio. Wish I could have met and visited at Rudy’s (the best bar–b-que) in Texas. San Antonio s a very lovely city and I am glad you were able to visit again and embrace!ReplyCancel

  • DonnaMarch 29, 2012 - 8:18 pm

    Your comments today were so touching. I can relate to everything you said. Thank you for sharing your creativity and love of life with us everyday!ReplyCancel

  • LynneZMarch 29, 2012 - 9:17 pm

    Becca – Love your card and also the sentiment – so beautiful. Enjoy and savor every moment of your trip and cherish your memories of your loved one. He is watching over you every day.ReplyCancel

  • Jan GarberMarch 29, 2012 - 9:42 pm

    Too detailed? Never! Your cards are deliciously full of surprises! I love the roses and am convinced now that I also need to invest in some Grand Nesties! I am told that all but the largest of MOST sets will work with my little Cuttlebug! I was very happy to read of your experience in San Antonio, bittersweet as it was. It my belief that our loved ones who have passed would be glad to see you smiling and enjoying life! To many more delightfully “detailed” projects!ReplyCancel

  • RufusMarch 29, 2012 - 10:09 pm

    Your card is beautiful, and for you, simple! (lol) I’m so happy that you are having a good trip and that the memories are, for the most part, happy ones. I’ve been told (by my Uncle who might be a touch biased since he lives there) that San Antonio is a marvelous place. Of course you think of your darling John, he’ll always be with you. You know that he would want you to be happy and live a full life. I’m thrilled that part of that is continuing your creativity and sharing it with the rest of us. You never cease to amaze with your art, and yes it IS art! Thinking of you and wishing you the very best,
    R/ReplyCancel

  • MaryMarch 29, 2012 - 10:53 pm

    Becca, you have to be one of the sweetest people I know, yet have never met. Your cards are, without a doubt, some of the most beautiful I have ever seen and I delight in them. Enjoy your trip, with tears and smiles. We will always remember our loved ones that have passed and they will always be in our hearts. Take care of yourself. And know that all of your blog friends are always here for you.ReplyCancel

  • RebekkaMarch 29, 2012 - 10:56 pm

    Becca, it is always a joy to come by here, whether for your beautiful cards or your heart warming stories.
    Have a fabulous time.ReplyCancel

  • Christine Harrop, Oxfordshire, UKMarch 30, 2012 - 2:24 am

    Hi Becca, as far as I am concerned the more complex the card the better! It gives me something to aspire to – although I know I will never manage anything so beautiful. But there is always some little tip to pick up and make use of on a less detailed card, so I thank you for that.

    There is a verse from a poem that springs to mind – “I know I shall visit those places we loved, and walk by the fields and the sea, Where you and I shared our happiest hours and somehow you’ll be there with me.”

    I’m so glad you are enjoying your trip. John will always be there with you and I’m sure you feel his presence many times.

    God bless Becca. love from Christine xxReplyCancel

  • Carol Parker, Dalton, Lancashire UK.March 30, 2012 - 5:54 am

    I believe there is good in everything (& here it is on the Net), if we can be open enough to find it. I have never met you or your bloggers/followers,we don’t know each other but we’re a little community, your blog community, and although you feel you have a quiet life, it has brought us all together. That’s huge.

    Life can be a tough ol’journey at times but your little blog community is here for you. .. in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, journey and inspiration with us Becca. That you’re a kind, loving and gentle person comes through in your posts and it’s lovely to have met you, albeit virtually. Keep smiling and laughing… life is a gift to us all.

    Take care Carol.xxReplyCancel

  • mary puskarMarch 30, 2012 - 8:09 am

    Hi Becca! I visit you each and every day and am always impressed with your natual talent and creativity. But this post today made me comment as it was so beautifully written and so nostalgic. You and your John will never be completely separated and your trip to those all too familiar places bears that out. I was just so touched……you’re a beautiful person inside and out.

    MaryReplyCancel

  • teepeeMarch 30, 2012 - 11:12 am

    Becca, I follow your blog daily and love the fact that you share highs and lows with us through your art. Please don’t ever stop. I find your writing as inspiring as your card making abilities. As for the complicated cards, I just sit in awe. My one or two layer simple cards pale when compared to yours, but I love yours as well. Be safe and God bless you mightily.ReplyCancel

  • Kyle E.March 30, 2012 - 2:19 pm

    I couldn’t imagine starting my day without visiting you — not only for the fantastically beautiful musings of your crafty self, but also for the fantastically beautiful musings of your heart!! May God continue to bless you as you travel on this long journey!!ReplyCancel

  • facsmomMarch 30, 2012 - 3:25 pm

    I love your complicated cards. IF you take the card a layer at time you can usually figure it out. I don’t always have exactly what you used so I enjoy improvising and being inspired by your art. Your work reminds me of when women were more feminine and and openly wore and enjoyed frilly and girly things. There are many blogs that do a great job of simple cards but not so many that do work that even compares to yours. As a card maker I’m glad to dip in both worlds and create. I like and enjoy both.ReplyCancel

  • AnneMarch 30, 2012 - 4:52 pm

    I find it hard to compliment your beautiful work without being repetitive. The long journey says so much…just the card is a gift to anyone. The coffee filter roses are such an unique idea not to mention beautiful. I glad for you that your trip has been positive and reflective. -AnneReplyCancel

  • BarbMarch 30, 2012 - 5:47 pm

    I have huge admiration for your talent, Becca. As for too complicated, bring it on! You make us realize what is possible. My heart goes out to you as I know the moments you speak of. I lost my huband just after his 59th birthday. Last week I was on vacation…………and had my own moment. The trigger…………….literally everywhere I looked I saw couples “our age” enjoying their “retirement” and I felt sorry for myself and for what I will never experience. It is a journey, one of looking inward as you have said. I have learned to endure those moments, and to deal with them, I have learned they will pass and that they happen less frequently. Thinking of you and wishing you a safe journey.ReplyCancel

  • Lori AMarch 31, 2012 - 7:05 pm

    LOVE YOU TOO Becca!!! I also love the way you share your heart ? May the pain be less and less and the JOY of the Holy Spirit be more and more! We know that as each day passes, God brings a deeper healing.

    Much love and great blessings~
    xoxoReplyCancel

  • Lori AMarch 31, 2012 - 7:06 pm

    That question mark in my previous post was a {heart}!!!ReplyCancel

  • ElaineApril 1, 2012 - 4:55 am

    Becca, I don’t often comment, but I stop by regularly for inspiration and just to enjoy the gorgeous creations. Your simple creations and your complex ones are all fantastic. The complex ones often have me thinking about creative ways to use dies.

    Very best wishes,

    ~ElaineReplyCancel

  • Angie CrockettApril 1, 2012 - 7:23 am

    I’m a little late in commenting, but just wanted to let you know that my heart still breaks for you and your children…..unfortunately there will be more days like this one ahead filled with bittersweet memories, but you have the Lord to strengthen you and help you through. Thanks so much for sharing your heart and soul with us. Love, hugs, and prayers! AngieReplyCancel

  • Phil from Dublin, IrelandApril 2, 2012 - 7:48 am

    Your are an inspiration in so many ways – understandably your journey is happy and sad – its so good of you to share this – we all have different situations and having a faith that carries us through them is good. Take care and good wishes – just love your craft projects – I love seeing them and all the detail you put in is just beautiful.
    PhilReplyCancel

  • conniecrafterApril 2, 2012 - 8:13 am

    So glad to hear that your having a good time, and just love the flowers in your card, the colors are just so lovely!ReplyCancel

  • Susie LessardApril 12, 2012 - 1:33 am

    Becca, I love your cards. They’re beautiful, each and everyone. One of the things I noticed this evening was the beautiful calligraphy style sentiment stamp. I followed the link to Quietfire and have been there most of the evening. I’m smitten with these unique and beautiful sentiment stamps. Thank you so much for sharing this with us in your beautiful offering today.

    BTW: Congratulations on the launch of the Bow Maker. My husband made one for me about a year ago using the directions and photo from your blog. I love it. He even stained mine and put some rubbermaid on the bottom so it doesn’t move around on the table.

    Susie ~ReplyCancel

  • Susie LessardApril 12, 2012 - 1:52 am

    Becca, I want to leave one more comment this evening. In all things give thanks… and I know you do.

    I’m glad you decided to go with your sister on this trip. And your sweet home will seem all the sweeter upon your return. Give thanks for the memories that sustain and comfort you. And though many of us are only virtual friends — we are here, to rejoice with you and to share your burdens; for that is God’s will for His people.

    Gentle hugs,
    Susie Lessard ~ReplyCancel

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