Blessed Is The Season (and a Winner)

Once again I send my thanks as so many of you showered well wishes on me an my family for the holiday.  We are blessed to have each other and I know it’s incumbent on us to make the best of the season.  I do have some sad news, but in many other ways a blessing – John’s father passed away on Saturday night.   In my heart I know he held out to support John though his illness and then let go when he’d made up his mind it was time.  Simply said, God Bless him. 

I have a new card to share with a sweet new sentiment.   So elegant with swirls and swashes, the sentiment is called Blessed is the Season by Quietfire Design and is perfectly sized for the front of a card or an inside.  Of course I’m happy with sentiments that take a good bit of real estate on the front of the card, but this one plays so nice with all the other elements.  I paired it up with some magnificent K & Company paper (the paper was precut with that curvy die cut bottom) and a couple of embellishments. 

Card Recipe:
Stamps:  Quietfire Design – Blessed is the Season
Paper: K & Company, Bazzill
Ink:  Ancient Page – Bordeaux
Accessories:  Spellbinders Labels Four, Spellbinders Fleur De Lis Border, Spellbinders Mega Ovals LG, Pearls, Ribbon

So, are you waiting to see who won the Grand Circle Nestibilities?  We do have a winner!!  With the help of Random.org I pulled the number 725 and it matched the following comment.  
Penny, please reach out to me though the contact tab at the top of my blog.  It will allow you to send me an email with your mailing address.  Let me hear from you within 48 hours, dear :-)   

Thank you sweet friends!!  I’ll be back soon with more to show.

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  • Yvonne RussellNovember 30, 2010 - 4:44 am

    What a perfect sentiment and as usual a wonderful card.ReplyCancel

  • BarbaraNovember 30, 2010 - 4:49 am

    Oh Becca I am so sorry to read that now you lost your Father -in-law too.
    When it rains it pours!! Your faith is really being tested this year.
    Please accept my condolences to your and your family. Your children lost their Father and Grandfather just weeks apart. Give them a hug for me.ReplyCancel

  • kathy sNovember 30, 2010 - 4:53 am

    what a beautiful sentiment- I have never heard it before- Sad news about Johns dad but if he had been ill for some time he is now at peace and with his son. They will be looking down and caring for you all-Celebrate their life not their passing. If I were there I’d give you a big hug full of love – so my thoughts are with you all at this sadest of times.
    Congrats to Penny-might be me next time.ReplyCancel

  • AnneNovember 30, 2010 - 5:06 am

    Oh Becca – what a father/father-in-law and grandfather your family has been blessed with. Hold on to cherished memories and know that they are at peace and smiling on you. I will hold you all in prayer.

    Such a beautiful sentiment on your beautiful card :o)

    Hugs
    Anne (UK) xReplyCancel

  • Olga JewellNovember 30, 2010 - 5:21 am

    Beautiful sentiment, John and his Dad are together again. So sorry you are going through such hard times. God won’t put us anywhere he is not willing to help us through, so walk with hm.ReplyCancel

  • lois skiathitisNovember 30, 2010 - 5:55 am

    So sorry for your loss Becca. It seems to me that a parents love is never ending. It is quite difficult to live without your child I know first hand. The sadness never goes away and the whole in your heart just doesn’t mend.

    Your card is beautiful Becca. I too love it when the sentiment becomes the main focal. I just love to look at your bows they are always a work of art in itself. As always Becca, TFS!!! :-D

    PS Congratulations!!! to the winner.ReplyCancel

  • RobbieNovember 30, 2010 - 6:04 am

    My heart is sad for all the news so close together! I know God is right there with you holding your hand as you enter these difficult times. May you know you are a shining light for someone who really needs your encouragement at this time…probably online. You are special to so many people. May you also know that many are praying for you now!! And that, my friend, is the best thing you can know…ReplyCancel

  • Donna RinckelNovember 30, 2010 - 6:07 am

    So sorry that you have lost another member of your family. But John and his Dad are rejoice together in God’s love, I’m sure! Beautiful card and a sentiment to match. Thanks for the inspiration!ReplyCancel

  • Susan GNovember 30, 2010 - 6:21 am

    so sorry to hear of the passing of your FIL.
    The card is so lovely, simple and lovely…perfect!

    and Congrats to Penny!
    SusanReplyCancel

  • chrisdNovember 30, 2010 - 6:34 am

    So sorry to hear of the death of John’s Father. I bet there they will be keeping watch over the family in God’s house.
    The card is lovely and a big congrats to Penny!ReplyCancel

  • Michel ENovember 30, 2010 - 7:04 am

    Sorry to hear about your father-in-law. May God strengthen and comfort you in this time of need.ReplyCancel

  • Jessica MooreNovember 30, 2010 - 7:10 am

    So sorry about your loss, know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many. Your card is simply beautiful, and that bow-wow I don’t think I will ever master the Beca bow.ReplyCancel

  • Francie (Montreal)November 30, 2010 - 7:19 am

    So very sorry to learn of your father-in-law’s passing. My most sincere condolences to you and you family.

    I wonder if creating beauty is one of the paths through this difficult time. In any case, I thank you again for making the world a more beautiful place through your work. I look forward every day to see what else you have done.

    Another gorgeous card today. Wow!ReplyCancel

  • JenNovember 30, 2010 - 7:26 am

    Beautiful sermon Penny and congrats on winning!!!!ReplyCancel

  • ChrisBNovember 30, 2010 - 7:35 am

    Becca so sorry to hear of John’s father passing away. They will be together looking over you and your family in God’s house. May God stregthen you and lead you through this tough time. My thought and love are with you and your family. Take care. Hugs x ChrisBReplyCancel

  • Sandra ltbNovember 30, 2010 - 7:38 am

    Sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you and your family at this sorrowful time.
    SandraReplyCancel

  • KarenNovember 30, 2010 - 7:48 am

    So sorry to hear that John’s father has passed away, but, what a glorious reunion he and John will have. It is always so hard when we loose those that we love, but, we have to always remember that they continue on with us in our heart, and, most importantly remember that God never gives us more than we can handle and He is always, always there to hold us up and to carry us, just as the poem Footprints tells us. Prayers continue to be with you through this time and in the days and weeks ahead.ReplyCancel

  • SusiNovember 30, 2010 - 7:57 am

    How sad to hear that you & your family have suffered another enormous loss! However, how sweet to know that love is so strong that it allows us to hang on for those we love the most. You are blessed to be part of such a strong family. You are also truly blessed, Becca, to have such an amazing gift of creativity – another beautiful, touching card!ReplyCancel

  • MickieNovember 30, 2010 - 8:08 am

    My heartfelt sympathy dear Becca for more loss but REJOICE, John and his father are now standing arm-in-arm in the prescence of the Lord. Also, a huge congrats to the winner of your candy. By-the-way, I am going to have to lift this stunning card. Beautiful work!ReplyCancel

  • Vonnie CooperNovember 30, 2010 - 8:21 am

    Becca – I’m so sorry for the loss of your father-in-law. May you be surrounded by love and peace during this time.
    On another note – just an absolutely beautiful card. . . .ReplyCancel

  • Marlena M.November 30, 2010 - 8:27 am

    I am so sorry for the loss of your father-in-law. Thank God for the mercy of tears…we women are blessed to release those bittersweet emotions that sometimes can consume us.
    I am happy for Penny…and loved what she wrote. May you always be inspired to create…another wonderful gift of grace from the Lord!ReplyCancel

  • Gloria WestermanNovember 30, 2010 - 8:28 am

    Oh Becca….I’m so sorry…..you are still in my prayers……

    And your card is so pretty……I love it….ReplyCancel

  • ChaunNovember 30, 2010 - 8:30 am

    So sorry to hear about your father-in-law. i think you are right, he was hanging on for John. Family is so important.

    HugsReplyCancel

  • Donna G.November 30, 2010 - 8:32 am

    Beautiful card! I love the sentiment! Thanks for the inspiration!ReplyCancel

  • Becky GreenNovember 30, 2010 - 8:45 am

    CONGRATULATIONS Penny!!!!!

    I am SO SORRY to hear of another loss for your family!!!! Life can be SO DIFFICULT at times!!!! But, just like Penny said, if we know the Lord—We know our future!!!! Thank the Lord for that confidence!!!!

    BEAUTIFUL WORK on your card, Becca!!!!! I LOVE the colors you used!!! It looks old and treasured!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Debbie AldersonNovember 30, 2010 - 8:56 am

    Becca,
    I am so sorry for your loss of your father-in-law. I lost my father-in-law last week too. You continue to bless us with your beautiful cards and your beautiful spirit. Thank you for both!ReplyCancel

  • Kathy LaubenthalNovember 30, 2010 - 9:20 am

    Becca, I am sorry to hear about your father-in-law. Thank you for your wonderful card designs and for sharing your talent with all of us.ReplyCancel

  • Kelly MassmanNovember 30, 2010 - 9:25 am

    Sorry to hear of another loss in your family!
    beautiful card though… and Congrats to your winner!ReplyCancel

  • ConniecrafterNovember 30, 2010 - 9:29 am

    So pretty, love the layering, pretty paper and that bow is just gorgeous! So sorry about another loss to your family so close after your Husbands passing, may God bless their time together now!ReplyCancel

  • MarianNovember 30, 2010 - 9:32 am

    The card is beautiful…the winners post is beautiful, and so are you Becca. You are a real brick.
    Please accept my heartfelt condolences…again…in such a short time
    I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again…I am always so happy to fire up my computer and find a new entry in your blog! :)
    God Bless,
    MarianReplyCancel

  • DebraKNovember 30, 2010 - 9:34 am

    Becca, I’m sorry to hear of more heartbreaking news for you. It is sad to see a father see his son pass. My father-in-law, with days to live himself, saw the unexpected death of his youngest son thru a heart attack. It was horrible to experience that. He followed his son within a month, both now are at peace with their Maker.
    Your card is gorgeous–‘love red and green together!
    Congrats to Penny for winning the stash!ReplyCancel

  • JessicaNovember 30, 2010 - 9:35 am

    Beautiful card as always. I glad you had a nice thanksgiving. And am sorry to hear of Johns Dad passing. I think you’re right about his waiting to help John. But he is now home with his son again.
    Congrats Penny, I’m sure you’ll love your prize!ReplyCancel

  • Gayle TaylorNovember 30, 2010 - 9:36 am

    Congrats to Penny and thanks for sharing about your sermon. What a great message for all of us. I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your FIL. Like you said, he was probably holding on for John’s sake. Now you can think of them together again. You card is beautiful today. I love those K & Company papers, too. Thanks once again for blessing us with your talent.

    Hugs,
    Gayle Taylor
    Abilene, TXReplyCancel

  • lacyquilterNovember 30, 2010 - 9:37 am

    Congrats, Penny. Beautiful card, Becca. So sorry to hear of your loss. Hugs,
    MelodyReplyCancel

  • Bert RiveraNovember 30, 2010 - 9:48 am

    I am so sorry to hear about your father-in-law passing. You and your family remain in my heart and prayers.ReplyCancel

  • mamajulieNovember 30, 2010 - 9:52 am

    Thinking of you and your family and praying for you in this hard, hard time.ReplyCancel

  • Cyndi EvansNovember 30, 2010 - 10:04 am

    Becca..I am so sorry that you lost your father in law as well. I will keep your entire family in my prayers!

    We lost our nephew to the war in Iraq in the summer of 2008 and in December of that same year lost my Dad to cancer. We do miss them both, but we have a sort of peace knowing that they are together in heaven and we will see them again.

    It is hard to get used to “celebrating” holidays when our loved ones are gone for us. BUT it can be done! It takes time. Give yourself and your children tons of time to grieve.

    Much love and God’s blessings to you & your family in this difficult time!ReplyCancel

  • Sabrina aka okimom2girlzNovember 30, 2010 - 10:16 am

    Oh, Becca, I am so sorry to hear of your FIL’s passing!!! Stay strong my friend!! Your card is absolutely brethtaking…so rich an festive. Hugs and blessings, SabrinaReplyCancel

  • CherylNovember 30, 2010 - 10:18 am

    You have such amazing grace in the most difficult of times. How appropriate that the name of your blog reflects that! I will continue to include you and all of your family in my prayers. Your card today is lovely, as usual. Thank you for continuing to share the gifts that God has given you – those gifts make us all richer!ReplyCancel

  • Debby WaltersNovember 30, 2010 - 10:24 am

    I am very sorry to hear of the passing of your FIL. He too is now with his God, where everything is good. Hugs and many prayers to you and your extended family.

    Then, congratulations to Penny. I know you will enjoy those goodies.

    Last, but certainly not least, your card is amazing, as usual. I am going to have to check out the Quiet Fire designs. Such a beautiful sentiment. Thank you for sharing with us even during your most difficult times. Love you ….ReplyCancel

  • ChristineNovember 30, 2010 - 10:28 am

    Becca I am sadden to read that now you lost your Father -in-law too.
    I know that times are hard for you and your family right now . God tells us he will not put more on us then we can take. Sometimes that is hard to believe however he is always with you and your family. When it rains it pours!! Your faith is really being tested. Please accept my condolences to your and your family. Your children lost their Father and Grandfather just weeks apart. Give yourself and your family a hug for me. My prayers go out to you and your family.

    I love looking at all the cards you make.

    Your Sister in Christ

    ChristineReplyCancel

  • Judy CoveyNovember 30, 2010 - 10:41 am

    Becca, I’m so sorry to hear that you father-in-law passed away, but like you, I think the good Lord had a plan and wanted him to be around to see his son through his illness. My heart goes out to you and your family and hopefully this will be the end of the hardships for a while.

    Thanks for sharing another fantastic card.ReplyCancel

  • Cathie - Ontario, CanadaNovember 30, 2010 - 10:44 am

    Dearest Becca,
    I am heartbroken to hear the loss of John’s father. I believe in what you said about John’s father. I have witnessed this many times where people find this divine inner strength to continue if only for a short while. I’m sure that John was waiting with our Lord to welcome his father to the glorious afterlife in heaven, where their is no pain or suffering. They’ll be there together to watch over you and your family and to give you the strength to continue on. My condolences to you and your family.

    I also wanted to leave you a comment on your beautiful card. I love the gentle layering and the subtle embellishments. Great job!

    Take care and know that so many of us are thinking of you and your family.

    CathieReplyCancel

  • AmericaNovember 30, 2010 - 10:46 am

    Oh, you do such beautiful work and Im so happy to see you creating again sweet dear Becca! :) Thanks fo rsharing your wonderful ART with the rest of us. :)ReplyCancel

  • Kelly SasNovember 30, 2010 - 10:50 am

    Your FIL is now with his son (John & Son of God) once again. Praying for you and those who are left here with their memories. Thanks for creating and sharing your wonderful cards with us.ReplyCancel

  • crystalNovember 30, 2010 - 11:06 am

    Becca, Your card is gorgeous. So sorry to hear of your father in laws passing. Continuing to keep you in prayer.ReplyCancel

  • MarisaNovember 30, 2010 - 11:12 am

    So sorry to hear about your FIL… My dad’s dad did the same. He hadn’t seen his son in over 35 years (dad left Czecho after WWII) and once the iron curtain went down he went to visit him and a month later he passed. (((hugs)) to you!! Gorgeous card.ReplyCancel

  • DWDNovember 30, 2010 - 11:21 am

    Becca,

    So sorry to hear about John’s dad. You are still in my thoughts and prayers.

    Your card is beautiful!!! I had this paper kit. I used it to make Christmas cards for soldiers to send home to their families. I made 33 cards out of that kit. They certainly didn’t look like yours.ReplyCancel

  • conniemelanconNovember 30, 2010 - 12:02 pm

    Sorry to hear about your father-in-law. I will continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.ReplyCancel

  • QuietfireNovember 30, 2010 - 12:07 pm

    Oh Becca! Once again my condolences, this time on the passing of your father-in-law. I’m so glad that all life’s obstacles have not stopped your creative flow. This is an absolutely stunning card with beautiful rich colours and the quote nestled on top of the bow is perfect. It just fits on that oval! Thanks so much for using the rubber!ReplyCancel

  • FernandaNovember 30, 2010 - 12:14 pm

    You are in my thoughts and in my prayers. While it must be very difficult for you, know that they are in a better place-where there is no suffering. They are rejoicing with our Creator and hugging you from above! Take care during these trying times.
    Continue your beautiful work!ReplyCancel

  • Janet CastleNovember 30, 2010 - 12:37 pm

    A simple card beautifully done and a treasure to receive!
    Jan CastleReplyCancel

  • SheilaNovember 30, 2010 - 12:40 pm

    I know the hurt of experiencing loss back to back like this, (I lost my 2 daughters in Sept. 2007 and then my mother in May 2008) But this one thing I know that God will not put no more on you then you can bare, and He will give (and ahs given) you the strength that you need. Keep praying and don’t lose hope for God is faithful.ReplyCancel

  • TeresaNovember 30, 2010 - 12:50 pm

    Becca, so sorry to hear about John’s Dad. My John’s mother followed him within months of his passing. And I lost Johnny’s Dad last yr right before I was hospitalized. I know in some respects it is like losing John all over again for you. Just remember you are in our prayers, love yaReplyCancel

  • emilyNovember 30, 2010 - 3:03 pm

    Parents should never outlive their children but some parents don’t listen to good advice and want to care for and love their children until their last breath. My wish is for peace and strength for you and your family and John’s family members.

    I love your card and the sweet vintage feel.

    Thank you for sharing! {Hugs}ReplyCancel

  • Linda S. in NENovember 30, 2010 - 3:36 pm

    Becca, Once again I send you my thoughts and prayers because of your sad news about the passing of John’s Father. You and your family have my sympathy. Linda S. in NEReplyCancel

  • ChelseaNovember 30, 2010 - 5:23 pm

    I wanted to thank you for putting this beautiful card up. It is gorgeous and I love the layout.
    I also wanted to say how sorry I am to hear you have endured another loss of a loved one. Let the love of our Lord lift you up.ReplyCancel

  • paulaNovember 30, 2010 - 5:27 pm

    beautiful card image and sentiment.

    Paula, Derbyshire, UK.ReplyCancel

  • LouiseNovember 30, 2010 - 5:55 pm

    Your card is beautiful. Your family is in my prayers and I am sorry to hear about the loss of your father-in-law. May God bless you and your family always.ReplyCancel

  • MazNovember 30, 2010 - 6:01 pm

    A beautiful card Becca and a great sentiment. Love how you have the little birdie perched there.
    So sorry to hear of yet again a sad loss this time your Father-in-law. But happy he is with his son now worshiping the Lord. It sounds like he was a wonderful man.
    Hugs MazReplyCancel

  • MichelleNovember 30, 2010 - 6:58 pm

    What a beautiful card. and I love that sentiment stamp.
    Sorry to hear about your FIL… Even though it’s very hard… sometimes its better for them to go. I can only imagine that they must be kneeling at Jesus feet. Or possibly dancing with JOY!ReplyCancel

  • Marcie SmithNovember 30, 2010 - 8:06 pm

    Becca,
    I am so very sorry to hear of yet another loss in your family. As hard as it is to those of us that are left behind, I’ll bet that being reunited with John is truly what he wanted. Now you and your family have two guardian angels (one on each shoulder), watching out for you. I am also sure that John is smiling down on you for your courage after his passing to carry on with your crafts. He knows how much pleasure it has always brought you and I am sure he only wanted you to continue with all of your endeavors, especially those that bring happiness and fulfillment to you.
    I just saw a very similar card on Grace’s blog. She had also chosen this paper. This paper is amazing and really beautiful.
    God bless you and your family.
    Hugs,
    MarcieReplyCancel

  • PamNovember 30, 2010 - 8:39 pm

    Oh my word, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family. Beautiful card, and congrats to Penny.ReplyCancel

  • Candy MillsNovember 30, 2010 - 10:12 pm

    Becca how saddened I am to hear of the passing of John’s father! You have been burdened with so much and at this time of the year things are harder to bare.
    The good news is they are together with The Lord.
    I hope that helps to ease your pain.

    Your card is lovely, of course!

    You are always in my thoughts and prayers.

    Hugs, CandyReplyCancel

  • Penny ReedNovember 30, 2010 - 10:17 pm

    There are no words to ease the pain of your loss! A double dose. But as many have said above, John and his dad are together in the presence of Jesus.
    I am so excited to be the lucky winner! Thank you and everyone for their congratulations. This is such a wonderful place to be!
    Prayers to you always!ReplyCancel

  • Linda C.November 30, 2010 - 10:21 pm

    Love your creative style! I’m sorry to read about your father-in-law. I’ve been where you are now. God’s grace carried me through it all. It was amazing and beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • Melissa BNovember 30, 2010 - 10:32 pm

    Becca
    Your card is beautiful.
    So sorry about your father-in-law. He and John are now reunited, helping each other out in a better place.
    You remain in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • TrishNovember 30, 2010 - 10:41 pm

    I’m so sorry to hear of your loss of your Father-in-law. Remember that when you need Him the most, He carries you. Footprints in the Sand.
    Your card is gorgeous! Take good care of yourself. *HUGS*
    Trish H., CanadaReplyCancel

  • DaviNovember 30, 2010 - 10:57 pm

    Your card is sooo beautiful! I love the rich colors and stripes! Becca, Im so sorry to hear that your father in law passed away. Much you have went through this pst month but I know that the Lord will continue to sustain you. You bless so many with your talent and gentle spirit.ReplyCancel

  • Deborah YoungDecember 1, 2010 - 1:09 am

    Oh my goodness. I am so sorry to hear about your father-in-law. You have so many burdens on you right now. I wish somehow we could lessen them.
    DebReplyCancel

  • Sue (suen)December 1, 2010 - 1:31 am

    Beautiful card, Becca! I love the rich colors, contour of the lower edge and elegant red bow! So sorry to hear about John’s father. Take care.ReplyCancel

  • MarieDecember 1, 2010 - 8:11 am

    Hello Becca,

    I’m so sorry to hear of John’s fathers passing. John and his father will be together again in paradise, and watching over you Becca. I’m praying that 2011 will be a much better year for you and your family.

    Thinking of you once again and sending warm cyber hugs. Take care.

    With much love,
    Marie xxReplyCancel

  • DeborahDecember 1, 2010 - 6:38 pm

    Oh Becca. Beautiful card (as usual); sending cyber hugs for you in such a tremendously difficult time for you and your family. Your strength during adversity is a strong reminder to us to count our blessings…and bless YOU…ReplyCancel

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