Day of Giving Friday: Blessings In Disguise

Card Making Ideas by Becca Feeken using Spellbinders Decorative Applause 3D Embossing Folder, Spellbinders Labels 42, Spellbinders Labels 42 Decorative Elements, Spellbinders Classic Scallops - see full supply list with ink colors at www.amazingpapergrace.com
Friends, I’m so sorry that I missed Day of Giving Friday last week — the will was there but the way was missing.  As I was writing my post last Friday, my house was stuck by lightning – a first for me, but something I’ll never forget.  I didn’t realize it at first but there was so much damage; the first clue was when the power company with a bucket truck showed up at my door and I had not called them.  They said they that lightning had fried my electricity meter and they were there to put on a new one.   It dawned on me how lucky we were to be alive; that neither of us had been on the phone or that we hadn’t been outside during the lull in the rain!  The lightning fried all my televisions, all the internet equipment and killed the air conditioning/heat system.  I’m juggling vendors to make repairs in between calls to the insurance company. Mom and I gave up trying to brave the Florida heat inside and through pure kindness, found haven at a little hotel where they found a way to squeeze us in and even gave me a first floor room since I’m on crutches.  I’m lucky….things will get back to normal but I’m reminded how horrible it must be for people who are displaced by weather or circumstances.  I’m sitting cozy this morning, blessed to be able to write my post in a cool room, and it looks like after a week of flooding (like I’ve never seen) today we might see the sun!

Card Making Ideas by Becca Feeken using Spellbinders Decorative Applause 3D Embossing Folder, Spellbinders Labels 42, Spellbinders Labels 42 Decorative Elements, Spellbinders Classic Scallops - see full supply list with ink colors at www.amazingpapergrace.com
I have not been able to craft in the last week but pulled one of my favorite cards from the stash.  Today I’ll skip the how to’s but as always with Day of Giving Friday I want to send this out to one of you.   I love sharing my cards and hope if it comes to your door you’ll flip it over, turn it upside down, scrutinize ever detail and realize that yes, you can make this too!

Card Making Ideas by Becca Feeken using Spellbinders Decorative Applause 3D Embossing Folder, Spellbinders Labels 42, Spellbinders Labels 42 Decorative Elements, Spellbinders Classic Scallops - see full supply list with ink colors at www.amazingpapergrace.com

About Day of Giving Friday
For new readers, every Friday it’s my pleasure to give away a card.   The card goes to a randomly picked reader (worldwide) who leaves a comment in our conversation.  One comment is randomly picked and the winners name is posted HERE.  If you win, simply send me your address through my comment form and I’ll send the card to you.  Want to know more about Day of Giving, here’s a link to my FAQ’s just check out #11.

I believe that everything happens for a reason and while on the surface some things may not ‘appear’ to be good……..deep down, there’s always a blessing in disguise.  For me, the break neck speed of living, noise, deadlines and so many ‘have-to-do’s’ sometimes keep me from sorting out the black and white that’s often standing right in front of me.  This week removal of the internet, news and ‘the ability to be busy with busy work’ brought an unexpected peace and clarity – it was my blessing in disguise.  How about you?  For your comment, what has been your blessing in disguise this week?

WR-Supplies
Rubber Stamps: Discontinued Stamps
Craft Paper:  Neenah Classic Crest – Natural White – Cover – 80lb smooth***Read Note,  My Minds Eye – Lost and Found
Ink:  Versafine – Onyx Black, Tea Dyed Distress Ink, Antique Linen Distress Ink, Amuse Studio – Cranberry, Fresh Ink – Mojito, Harvest, Anna Griffin – Blush, SU – Garden Green
AccessoriesSpellbinders Decorative Applause 3D Embossing FolderSpellbinders Labels 42Spellbinders Labels 42 Decorative ElementsSpellbinders Classic Scallops, Krylon Gold Pen

****Note, many of you ask which paper I use for my cards and I have linked it up above to Amazon however, absurdly, the picture they show is a generic photo they use to represent every paper.  I have ordered from this link and can confirm that what I received was Neenah Classic Crest – Natural White – cover – 80lb smooth – 250 sheets.

post-header-bottomOMGoodness I miss you all!  No worries, I’m doing good.  My foot is healing nicely and with luck I’ll have some good crafting time soon!

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  • Michelle DaigleAugust 12, 2016 - 10:16 am

    What an absolutely gorgeous card! You’re incredibly talented. Thank you for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • Melissa BoveAugust 12, 2016 - 10:18 am

    Oh my goodness Becca! Thank God you are all ok. That is so scary! I hope everything gets repaired quickly and you get to go home soon.

    My blessing is not in disguise but every time I look at my children, I realize what a blessing they are.

    Amazing card! Would love to receive this stunning work of art from you and proudly display it in my craft room!

    Blessings….
    MelissaReplyCancel

  • Judy InukaiAugust 12, 2016 - 10:22 am

    Oh my goodness Becca, what a terrible thing to happen! But how lucky you were. I just thought you and your mom were having such a great time you didn’t have time to post the day of giving last Friday. My husband is a blessing to me always, but this week I would nominate him for my blessing in disguise. He has helped me in countless ways getting ready for a big dinner that I’m serving to his Lodge on Saturday. He calms me down when I freak out about not having enough food or when I realize I have to go back to the store because I forgot one little (but important thing), and writing me reminders so I don’t forget to bring certain things from home that I’ll need for the dinner.ReplyCancel

  • Patti J.August 12, 2016 - 10:24 am

    Oh my goodness! So glad that you are all well. We had a total loss in 1980 due to house fire. So scary, and DH was burned over 80% of body. So lucky to have him! How sweet that in the midst of all of your own issues, you are thinking of your readers – you are so generous! Hope everything gets back to normal soon, and thanks for the chance to get this beautiful card in the mail! Hugs…ReplyCancel

  • Carol bAugust 12, 2016 - 10:24 am

    I’ve been out of the loop a bit so didn’t know about your foot and now this mess Becca! Bless you. You always seem to make the best of things.
    My “blessing” is reading your post. I’ve been down in the dumps, having a pity me week. After reading your post, I’m bound and determined to get motivated.
    Thank you.
    Carol bReplyCancel

  • Joy MossAugust 12, 2016 - 10:27 am

    OMGosh!!!! Becca!!!! So glad you and your mom are not hurt and will send up prayers for a quick resolution to your housing needs/repairs/etc! Hope your insurance company doesn’t look at the lightning strike as an ‘act of God’ and refuse your insurance claim like some companies might. What a horrible thing to happen while dealing with your foot. Will be praying for you!
    My blessing in disguise? The horrible heat index here in Michigan allows me to stay indoors with my new grandbaby! Mom and dad get to sleep in while grandma gets to cuddle with her grandson. What a wonderful time.ReplyCancel

  • Karen iAugust 12, 2016 - 10:38 am

    Becca, you and your mom are so lucky that neither of you were injured. Hopefully everything will be repaired quickly and you’ll be returning home. Your card is beautiful as all of them are. Thanks for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • Judy SutherlandAugust 12, 2016 - 10:42 am

    Thank heavens you are okay, you must have been terrified. The card is once again, absolutely beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • Yvonne NicholsonAugust 12, 2016 - 10:43 am

    Hi Becca, glad that you both are alright and your foot is healing nicely.
    What a beautiful card.
    could you send some of your rain my way as things are so dry, my lawn looks like crispy crunch, keep showing rain and we get none, but all around.
    Hugs to you bothReplyCancel

  • ElaineAugust 12, 2016 - 10:45 am

    I am so pleased you and your Mun are safe Becca, i am a big believer that we have to have the bad times to really appreciate the good.
    I am blessed to have a lovely Son who is fighting Cancer he has had so many hics and set backs but he is much stronger than all of us and determined he will beat this ,he will hopefully start the treatment soon .

    God Bless
    Elaine H XReplyCancel

    • PAM TASAugust 12, 2016 - 8:28 pm

      Hi Elaine I have been thinking about you and wondering how you
      and your family are going !
      Wishing you all the best with your Son for a good result Hugs PamxxxxxReplyCancel

    • PAM TASAugust 12, 2016 - 8:47 pm

      Hello Becca and Mum I was concerned that you were missing but thought
      you were having a rest with your foot !!!
      What a drama you have had ! so happy that you and your Mum are not hurt
      by injuries to the body , but it would have not done your head a lot of good you
      would have been so frightened .
      Thanks for letting us know what’s going on love your card HUGS PamxxxxxxReplyCancel

  • Maryann LaursenAugust 12, 2016 - 10:46 am

    Oh my gosh Becca, how terrible this is for you, but like you said, good that noone was hurt in any way, then the rest will get sorted eventually. We tryed this many many years ago, shortly after we had bought our current place, and was without any power for about 4 weeks over the christmas and winter here, so we had a christmas in candlelight that year, and the kids found it pretty exiting, because they thanks god, didn´t understand the serious part of it back then, but I agree with you, not anything I´ll like to try again ever either, that´s for sure. But don´t feel bad at all about the card, I´m sure we´ll all survive that part.
    Todays card is absolut gorgeous, and I love the wonderful look of it and the warm color and feel it has too. Gorgeous as always hun. Have a great week-end ahead now and stay cool.ReplyCancel

  • christiAugust 12, 2016 - 10:46 am

    so glad to hear that only “stuff” was damaged. God gave you a time to rest. my blessing in disguise was rain, not in a bad way just in a way that kept me from overdoing myself. sometimes the word no is so hard to find in our vocabulary. we want to do it all and do it now. will we ever learn?ReplyCancel

  • Karen WeddingAugust 12, 2016 - 10:47 am

    So sorry to hear about the lightening strike. My blessing in disguise came to me when thinking about this question and I didn’t even realize it till now. I’ve always thought of it as a curse. I am a very caring person and would do anything for anybody in need, but am not a touchy-feely person or someone who oozes with sweetness. I am a type-A personality and it is very hard for me to be like that. Until now. My new daughter-in-law is someone who needs/likes to get reinforcement that you care about her. So I have to send her little texts and emails stating that I’m thinking about her and hope she has a good day, etc. At first it seemed forced and now I do it without even thinking about it. It has become much easier and it has spread to other people. That’s a good thing, right?ReplyCancel

  • Margene EskelsonAugust 12, 2016 - 10:50 am

    Your card, of course, is beautiful!!! As I read of your “lightening” experience, my thoughts were turned to the tender mercies that God gives us in our lives everyday. My blessing this week was the return of a dear friend who opened her heart to me when my husband changed imployment and we moved to a new community. She moved about 6 months later, but returned this week for a visit and relaxing golf and chatter. My gift: there are wonderful, caring, good people wherever you go! I am blessed!ReplyCancel

  • Barbara TranquillaAugust 12, 2016 - 10:51 am

    Hi Becca, You and your mom have a humdinger of a story to tell but so glad it has a happy ending. Too close for comfort, though. Sending prayers your way for all to be well and repaired in a timely fashion. Even in difficult times, you come up with a beautiful card for me to enjoy. Thank you. BarbaraReplyCancel

  • Beverley OffenbergAugust 12, 2016 - 10:55 am

    It was love at first sight, I have made this card in so many ways with so many materials and I’m still in love with it. You have such wonderful style and taste. Thank you Becca, I’m truly grateful for all that you share.
    All the best,
    BeverleyReplyCancel

  • JeanAugust 12, 2016 - 10:59 am

    Sorry for your troubles! Lightning can really mess up things in a house. Glad you were not harmed. My blessing in disguise is I have 2 friends from school (mind you that was 50 years ago). It is I ironic that we each have a parent in the same nursing facility. We support each other during these trying times. One day this week we were all in the hall in a three way hug crying. It is wonderful to have some friends. We understand what the other is going through.ReplyCancel

  • gloriaAugust 12, 2016 - 11:01 am

    Thanks be to God y’all are okay. That is so scary. The card is beautiful. I don’t know if I would have my wits to be able to think about making anything after that.ReplyCancel

  • Beverly FuchsAugust 12, 2016 - 11:07 am

    So sorry to hear about the lightening incident but I am glad that you and your Mom are both safe and were not injured. Mother Nature can surely create a lot of havoc. And by the way, the card is lovely as I would expect nothing less from you. Take care.ReplyCancel

  • SheilaAugust 12, 2016 - 11:11 am

    Thank Almighty that both of you are ok… wish you the best luck for a speedy normalcy back to your creative journey!
    Thank youReplyCancel

  • SuzzieQAugust 12, 2016 - 11:16 am

    Oh, my goodness, I have missed you, too. Blessed be that you and your Mom are okay. So sorry about your home and all your electronics that got “fried” by lightning. Since you were not on-line, I was so worried about you and your Mom. Prayers were going out for you two several times a day. Your card is lovely. I like that embossing folder that you used. Glad your foot is healing well. For your question: my blessing in disguise this week has been that I was able to work on my August cards that need to go out this month due to the continual rains that have kept me from doing the MANual work that I need to do on my decks. I would much rather work on my cards than be outside in the heat on my decks, BUT I must get these decks sanded and stained before the cold weather sets in here in the mountains. Take care my friend!ReplyCancel

  • ChristineAugust 12, 2016 - 11:16 am

    Oh my gosh, Becca. Thank God you and your mother are ok. You are in my prays. Hope everything gets back to normal for you soon. Remember that God tells us he will never put more on us then we can handle.

    Your Sister In Christ:
    ChristineReplyCancel

  • ChelseaAugust 12, 2016 - 11:19 am

    Oh, Becca. God is so good, isn’t He! I am so thankful you and your mama are ok. I wish I lived there so you both could come stay at my house while your place is being repaired. But I am thankful you have found a cool comfortable temporary home-away-from-home. You’re in my prayers!
    Your “stash” must be a treasure trove. This is a gorgeous card! Thank you for posting amidst the craziness of your present circumstances. You are so inspiring.ReplyCancel

  • Jan CastleAugust 12, 2016 - 11:25 am

    Thanking the Lord you are alright. Stuff can be replaced, but you are not! Happy you had some rest away from all the daily pressures which can truly take over our lives without us realizing it – we have all experienced it! Silly as it may sound, I have forced myself to come out of my studio and sit with my husband while he sleeps (on Hospice), and just quietly read a book – this blessing in disguise has brought companionship as he awakes for a few minutes, and peace to my heart.
    Paper Hugs,
    JanReplyCancel

  • Ruth ArmstrongAugust 12, 2016 - 11:26 am

    Oh my goodness I am so glad you and your mom are safe!! Wow!!
    Prays on the way to you both. Your card is just lovely! I love the embossing and the paper you used. Loves, RuthieReplyCancel

  • Dianne SchlegelAugust 12, 2016 - 11:28 am

    I’m so sorry Becca to hear what happened, but oh so glad you and your mom are okay. What would we do without your beautiful work. Praying everything is back to normal for you real soon.
    DianneReplyCancel

  • Frances EAugust 12, 2016 - 11:29 am

    Becca sending prayers out to you. Another blessed Friday! I love this cardReplyCancel

  • Sara AlfordAugust 12, 2016 - 11:31 am

    OH Dear Becca, lightning? First of all, my mouth made a loud WOW when I saw this card. So fine! I love fussy cutting flowers.

    My Blessing in disguise is similar to yours. Our home was struck by lightning as well. When the firemen were through cleaning up the mess we looked at our Insurance Policy and, because we had moved from out of state we left the details to our Realtor whose brother owned an Insurance Company and had written a Policy with everything imaginable in it. So we were 3 months out of our home while it was repaired, repainted, new wood floors and new counter top in the kitchen. Plus new everything appliances. The lightning had hit the meter and traveled up the wiring into the duct work and spewed fire and soot on everything. However, BID again, we had just moved in and most of our belongings were still in boxes. God is good!
    I called this a silver lining in a very dark cloud. As you know the South is known for bad storms. My prayers are with you to help you get back to normal. God Bless?ReplyCancel

    • SaraAugust 12, 2016 - 11:33 am

      So happy you and your Mom are safe and cool. I was wondering why I had not seen a post from you.ReplyCancel

  • Ms LindaAugust 12, 2016 - 11:44 am

    When I read our post today, I was saddened of the news, but so glad God spared you and Mother from the devastation which could have been. We never know the kindness of God until things occur,and realize it could have been worse.
    Sorry I have not been following any post and was so surprised to hear of crutches. Whatever caused it God and heal it wit time and patience.
    Should you need anything, drop a msg. and I will will respond.
    Blessings to you.ReplyCancel

  • ANNA ROBBINSAugust 12, 2016 - 11:44 am

    Dear Becca,
    I had sent you an email a couple hours ago as I was worried about you! When a week goes by without anything on “Amazing Paper Graces” blog, I get concerned. So sorry to hear of the misfortune but happy no one was injured and that maybe it was God’s way of making sure that you were taking it easy!!
    Today’s card is truly beautiful and I would love to have it in my collection of your card collection. I have 2.
    Hugs
    Mstgane
    Ann R.ReplyCancel

  • DottieAugust 12, 2016 - 11:52 am

    Wowzie! What a week youve had. So sorry to hear of the lightening strike on your home destroying so much. It takes SOOO much work and effort on every front to get everything back up and running again. Glad you are safe and cool as this has been an incredibly hot summer across the nation. Beautiful card, I enjoy your creations very much and do learn from them. I pray gods help and direction in the coming days and weeks for you.ReplyCancel

  • Graciela NeddAugust 12, 2016 - 11:56 am

    Wishing you a speedy recovery !!ReplyCancel

    • Graciela NeddAugust 12, 2016 - 12:00 pm

      Can imagine all that needed to be done…please take care of yourself and hope things will be settled for the good and fast. Having you in my prayers..ReplyCancel

  • KathyAugust 12, 2016 - 12:05 pm

    Oh my…thank GOD your both ok…miracles also happened to you both…yes sometimes, we get so into things, this crazier world gives us…I know since daddy passing in march, it’s like there’s a big ole soup pot on the stove and it just keeps having things added to it…I wish someone would turn the stove off and quit adding to it, it just keeps going around and around…I’m tired of cooking..sorry for riddling on…so glad your both well and love the card too…take care if each other…ReplyCancel

  • Marion TurnerAugust 12, 2016 - 12:09 pm

    Hi Becca, So glad you and your Mom are safe.
    And hope soon you will be back to normal.
    Beautiful card I love all your creations.
    Love Marion xxReplyCancel

  • Dale MasonAugust 12, 2016 - 12:12 pm

    Becca so sorry to hear about your challenges these past couple weeks. I just figured you were off on a vacation somewhere. I looked for your inspiration last Friday and did not see anything I’ll admit i was a little sad. But now knowing what you guys have been thru I’m so happy you all are alright. I don’t really have any blessings in disguise because I try to turn every situation into a blessing because I believe All things are in Divine Order according to HIS will. I am eternally grateful.
    Todays card is lovely. Stay blessed and be strong in your faith.ReplyCancel

  • Kathy SAugust 12, 2016 - 12:24 pm

    So sorry you have had such a rough week. Florida was my home for about 3 years. The lightning there is like no other place I’ve ever lived. So thankful you are okay. The cards are gorgeous, as always. Hope and pray all will soon return to normal. Kathy SReplyCancel

  • Granny DAugust 12, 2016 - 12:32 pm

    Becca, I was just beginning to worry about what was happening with you when I saw this email. I am thrilled you are improving and Mom is there with you and you are both safe and sound. I am happy your insurance is doing their part to correct the problems of Mother Nature.

    As for my blessing…..I have not felt good all week,one of those that you can’t shake off, waaaaay overtired for no reason, lite stress getting the better of me. I went in for my pre-annual physical blood test and when I received the results the next day they said I was pre diabetic. That allows me a few days to start making some changes and hopefully feel a bit better before the physical on Monday……listening to our body and quick technology is a blessing in disguise for me!ReplyCancel

  • Claire H.August 12, 2016 - 12:40 pm

    A very beautiful card!! So sorry to hear you are down on your luck but after the rain comes a rainbow.ReplyCancel

  • Clare WAugust 12, 2016 - 12:42 pm

    Well……I’ve heard some excuses in the past re reasons why folks haven’t blogged but never this. JOKE!!!! But seriously now, so glad to hear you and your mom are ok and have found a little retreat in the midst of what must have been utter chaos for a while, and just at a time when you could have done without that. But every negative has a positive. Glad to hear your foot is healing well also. I am picturing you sitting in your room, with your foot up with a book, doodling lots of ideas for cards, die combos and new die designs etc… hope it won’t be too long until you are back home in familiar surroundings. Take care and enjoy the change of scene if you can.ReplyCancel

  • Patricia HowarthAugust 12, 2016 - 12:46 pm

    Hi Becca, How lucky have you been !! God was certainly looking over you, thankfully.
    This card is stunning, the embossed pattern is stunning, I love it !!
    I have had an awful week, no blessings in disguise sadly, apart from, of course, the fact that I have woken up each day which is definitely a blessing to me haha.
    Lots of love from Patricia xxReplyCancel

  • Linda WaltonAugust 12, 2016 - 12:53 pm

    Hi Becca, so sorry for all that you have been through and admire how you can always find a bright side.ReplyCancel

  • Lynne AAugust 12, 2016 - 12:54 pm

    Wow, what a calamity….I glad you and your Mom are OK. Here’s hoping that things with your insurance company go smoothly and your repairs are completely quickly. I love all your cards and this one is no exception. Thanks for the opportunity to win it.ReplyCancel

  • Juanita BraunAugust 12, 2016 - 1:03 pm

    Since January I have been working on my crafts to enter in the county fair that I have been doing for many years. I just had knee surgery and not back on my feet. The line to enter has always been very long and the summer heat is very bad. Since I worked so hard on my entries and no matter what I was going to enter them. I worried about the long line and uneven ground but when I got there, there was only 2 people in line. This was a first and a real blessing.

    So sorry to hear about your troubles. Hope things run smoothly for you and not cost $$$ to get back in shape. Nice that you found the good side.

    Love your card this week.ReplyCancel

  • GayleAugust 12, 2016 - 1:07 pm

    Beautiful Card Becca. So glad you were unharmed. God is good. Stuff can be replaced but not lives.
    My blessing for sure was seeing my little Golden Rescue (Retriever) come outside & lay in the grass while I hung clothes out. He always wanted in quickly as it was his safe place. No more living on the street for him:) He likes the a/c almost as much as me!ReplyCancel

  • PennyAugust 12, 2016 - 1:14 pm

    So glad to hear that you and your Mom are doing ok! Beautiful card as usual!ReplyCancel

  • Lorna BaumannAugust 12, 2016 - 1:23 pm

    Becca, my blessing in disguise is being retired and living on Social Security. I cannot buy all of the new stamps and dies and other supplies when they come out like I used to do, so I have been teaching myself to get the looks of cards and other projects I like that I see on line with supplies I already have. I am really happy with some of my results. I am really sorry to hear about all of your misfortunes and I hope your are soon back to normal. I love all of your cards, but this one is especially pretty. I would love to have it.ReplyCancel

  • Leanne SAugust 12, 2016 - 1:38 pm

    So glad you are safe Becca & all is going well for you. Hope all your gadgets are restored soon.ReplyCancel

  • Karen GreissAugust 12, 2016 - 1:55 pm

    The card is beautiful Becca.So glad you and your mom are safe.It could have been much worse…you were being watched over for sure!!!ReplyCancel

  • Rebecca DeeproseAugust 12, 2016 - 2:05 pm

    Hi Becca,
    I’ve been away for awhile and I’m so sorry to hear about the huge challenges you’ve been presented with. Blessings on you and your Mom. I’m glad you’re o.k. and in some comfort. I would love to send you a card, but I don’t have your address….then again, perhaps you don’t have access to your normal postal deliveries!
    Sending you hugs and blessings,
    RebeccaReplyCancel

  • Sue AnnAugust 12, 2016 - 2:05 pm

    Just came across your website, loved your card and read about your lightning encounter. My goodness that is scary, glad there were no injuries. I love your idea of day of giving. Although your card is wonderful I just wanted to leave you some encouragement although you sound so optimistic I have no doubt you’ll get through this challenging time. If you send me your snail mail address I’ll send you a card – I have just a perfect one in mind.ReplyCancel

  • DevyAugust 12, 2016 - 2:17 pm

    Such a beautiful card. So scary with the lightning. Im so glad you are doing well, and the foot is healing. Blessings to you!ReplyCancel

  • Liz sAugust 12, 2016 - 2:21 pm

    So glad u r ok. Yes sometimes problems r blessings in disguise. My blessings r my children n grandchildren. Every time I hold one of the grandchildren or especially rocking the grandbaby I feel so close to God n thank him for them.ReplyCancel

  • Sandy ArtmanAugust 12, 2016 - 2:24 pm

    Dear, Becca,
    I am so relieved to hear that you are okay. It’s just like you to find the blessing in this situation. No wonder we love you so much!
    I had a bad allergy day this week which found me giving myself a little TLC. Because of that, I was home when FedEx tried for the 3rd time to make an important delivery. That certainly saved me some wear and tear.
    What beautiful detailing to today’s card. I just love the embossing and the exquisite cuts of the frames and tags.
    Love and blessings, SandyReplyCancel

  • Doreen JohnsonAugust 12, 2016 - 2:46 pm

    I am so sorry to hear of your episode with the lighting striking your house. That must be so awful but so glad you were not injured. Lighting is very scary and dangerous.

    Love your site and your beautiful cards. So inspirational to attempt to make. Hope things are back to normal soon.

    DoreenReplyCancel

  • Maxine DAugust 12, 2016 - 3:30 pm

    Oh Becca so blessed to know you and your Mother are safe – what a week!! Your card is beautiful – love the the slightly stronger colour on the flowers.
    Our blessings in disguise this week has been bad news of a loved one’s health. It has sent me to my knees, and given me yet again a deeper appreciation of the precious-ness and fragility of life.
    Blessings
    MaxineReplyCancel

  • Sonia StephensonAugust 12, 2016 - 3:56 pm

    Oh Becca, what a terrible time you’ve had, but so glad that you and your Mum are ok. Hope you get things sorted at home soon.
    Your card as ever is stunning, love all of the beautiful detail :-)
    Take care and sending hugs xxxReplyCancel

  • AlisonAugust 12, 2016 - 4:00 pm

    My heart goes out to you Becca! How fortunate for you and your Mum you are both safe. I’m sure it was an experience you won’t want repeated! Things can be replaced and you can deal with the inconvenience but I;m sure that you are both grateful that it was not worse. A beautiful card by the way.HugsReplyCancel

  • Barbara LeonardAugust 12, 2016 - 4:06 pm

    So glad you didn’t get fried last week! Beautiful card.ReplyCancel

  • Noelene ApapAugust 12, 2016 - 4:10 pm

    Hi Becca,
    So sorry to hear what happened. I have to admit I was hoping you were ok after not seeing your post last week. I am glad you are both safe. Material things can be replaced, it’s people that can’t. Sending you my prayers that it is not a stressfull time for you & grateful you were not injured,
    I have seen a family get torn apart recently in such a terrible way. My blessing probably not in desguise, but it has made me apreciate everything my husband does for me even more & realise the dramas with my teenagers are just tittle problems compared to what others are going through in todays world. I try to focus more on the positives rather than the negatives. Sometimes we all have a terrible thing happen around us that makes us stop & see the world through different eyes.
    God bless & have a lovely weekend xReplyCancel

  • Wanda BassAugust 12, 2016 - 4:36 pm

    Beautiful. Love the design. Studying it to get the technique.ReplyCancel

  • Rene StansellAugust 12, 2016 - 4:38 pm

    Hi Becca,
    yes, never use the phone or the computer during a storm. I also believe things happen for a reason and that all will turn out well in the end. Take care,
    Rene from OX xxReplyCancel

  • MildredAugust 12, 2016 - 4:42 pm

    Oh my goodness. I’ve never “known” anyone whose property was struck by lightning. We don’t get much of that in the Northwest, thank heavens! So glad you and your mom are OK. Replacing or repairing the other things will take time but I know you have patience.ReplyCancel

  • Christine MillerAugust 12, 2016 - 5:31 pm

    I’ll be discreet and just say that my blessing in disguise was an opportunity to show grace.

    I am SO thankful that you and your mom are okay, and even more thankful that you are finding peace and contentment in trying circumstances. Saying a prayer for you both.ReplyCancel

  • Cyndy WAugust 12, 2016 - 5:36 pm

    I love the card you are sharing Becca. My blessing came this past week from being able to spend quality time with my mother who is in the end stages of Alzheimers. She lives several states away from me and our visits are not as often as I would like. Most of the week she knew she “knew me” but did not know my name. On one special afternoon, she looked at me and her eyes got very large and bright and she not only recognized me but she asked about my husband and son. The Lord blessed me with a few precious minutes of complete clarity for her and we had an incredible bonding moment before the disease lowered the curtain and she once again slipped away. Might not seem like much to many, but to those of us who have loved ones afflicted with this disease and are watching them slip away ever so slowly, a lucid moment of clarity is a rare and wonderful blessing. God bless and hope you heal soon!ReplyCancel

  • Doreen RitchieAugust 12, 2016 - 5:42 pm

    My oh my Becca, what a terrible experience. I’m so pleased that you and your mom are ok and also that your foot is healing nicely. As usual you have produced for us a stunning card. My blessing in disguise this week was getting the opportunity and time to do a little sorting out of some drawers because a necessary repair meant the unit needed to be moved and the drawers emptied to lesson the weight! I hope things get back to normal for you very soon. Best wishes. Doreen R from Bournemouth UKReplyCancel

  • Joni StonekingAugust 12, 2016 - 6:45 pm

    OMGoodness! What a scary thing – so glad the two of you are ok, and cozy, etc. But still….wow!

    Trying to see the third rear end accident (I was rear ended) in five years as a blessing in disguise…it will probably come, but not quite yet. Nice card today, btw….and I’m glad your foot is still healing well.

    Blessings,
    JoniReplyCancel

  • Rosemary TejaAugust 12, 2016 - 7:16 pm

    So sorry to hear that you had this horrible accident with your home but am so glad that you or your mother were not hurt. My blessing came in the way of a total stranger. I was getting in my car and missed the step and fell really hard I thought I twisted my ankle he saw what happened and came and helped me up, thanking my lucky starts and God that nothing was broken or sprained he could not do enough for me. He restored my faith in man kind that there are good people still with us. So happy to see your post really would love to have this card to give to this gentleman.ReplyCancel

  • DeniceAugust 12, 2016 - 7:21 pm

    I find blessings in disguise in so many things that have happened in my life. God is so good and loves us so much. He knows what needs to happen in order to get us closer to where we need to be with Him and He weaves people into our lives that get involved with our situations because they may be the one He is working on at the time. I try to count it all joy as I walk the tribulation pathway but sometimes it can be hard. I have gone through many things in my life, so much so that it has gotten easier and easier to count it all joy. When I got cancer last year I cried for about a minute and then stopped and tried to look at this as a blessing and it was. I met so many people that I spread God’s wonderful love to and I pray all the seeds that were spread will bring a great harvest. Cancer truly was a blessing in disguise. I am completely healed and have baffled the doctors and nurses with the great miracle from God. Becca, you have such a wonderful heart. I pray God will continue to bless you and your family. Hugs, Denice :)ReplyCancel

  • RufusAugust 12, 2016 - 9:01 pm

    Becca, I’m so sorry for the trouble that you are going through. While my house has never been struck it’s been close enough to fry some of my appliances. Thank heaven that neither you nor your Mom was hurt. It will all get fixed or replaced eventually, it just takes time and some teeth gnashing! Oh, by the way, be careful with the gnashing, otherwise you get to add dental bills to the rest! Thankful you’re ok.ReplyCancel

  • Dayle SAugust 12, 2016 - 9:40 pm

    How scary! Very, very lucky for all of you to survive a lightning strike! And,I’m glad you are healing nicely. God has blessed you. I’m hoping our broken A/C unit is a blessing in disguise… once we are able to afford another one (probably not until the winter), we hope it will be much more energy efficient and save us money in the long run. In the meantime, I appreciate every trip in an air conditioned car :-)ReplyCancel

  • Bette SAugust 12, 2016 - 10:26 pm

    Glad to hear you and your Mom were not injured from the fire. How scary!! The Lord is surely watching over you!! Yes, I did have a blessing in disquise today. Rather personal – but to make it short, I’ll just say we had to go back to the house for a different reason shortly after we had left. I ended up in the bathroom as I’ve been having stomach problems. So glad this did not happen while we were on the road!!ReplyCancel

  • Connie RileyAugust 12, 2016 - 10:31 pm

    Dear Becca,
    First of all, thank God you and your Mom were not harmed when lightning hit your house. As catastrophic as the damage to equipment can be and as inconvenient as a relocation to cooler dwellings is, nothing can replace the health and welfare of you and your Mom. Secondly, it is a testament to your resiliency that you’ve marshalled on and are back to providing a blog post on “finding blessings in disguise.” You are a marvel to us all. I had no tragedy like yours this week; however, a very dear friend went to the emergency room to be checked over when his left arm went numb. It stopped my fussing about day to day life and events and made me focus on how precious friendhip is. Thoughts of how integral this person has been in my social group for the past 30 or so years and how I take his presence for granted sometimes, i.e., I expect that he will always be here. Scary, deep thoughts and ones that make you sit up and notice what is going on around you with new awareness–at least for a little while! I am glad you and your Mom are okay and I hope you and your foot continue to improve. Thanks for another thought provoking Friday!ReplyCancel

  • Laura PapercutsAugust 12, 2016 - 10:50 pm

    Oh my gosh. How many times in one post can I say oh my gosh!!!!!! I love your positive attitude and I love that card, its most beautiful. Hang in there.ReplyCancel

  • CJAugust 13, 2016 - 12:37 am

    Absolutely beautiful! Need I say more?
    My blessing in disguise this week was a phone call from my daughter to just talk.ReplyCancel

  • Lynda Mellor aka Loopy Lynda UKAugust 13, 2016 - 1:51 am

    Good morning Becca, I wondered why you didn’t post last week!!! Thank goodness you’re both okay, the inconvenience is a pain but it could have been worse be thankful for small mercies!!! Your card would cheer anyone up!!!
    Have a good one!!!
    Loopy LyndaxxxReplyCancel

  • Christine HarropAugust 13, 2016 - 2:55 am

    My bessing is that my husband and I are still here t otell this tale. Our car was hit by a lorry on the motorway last week when we travelling north to my niece’s wedding. Amazingly, apart from a couple of bruises and being very badly shaken, we are unhurt. Since then in my mind I have been singing “God will take care of you” and I just cannot get it out of my head. Didn’t get to the wedding needless to say. My heart goes out to you for the lightening strike. It has happened to us twice!! Very scary because we were at home both times when it happened and caused a fair amount of damage. God was taking care of you that day Becca! A beautiful card today. Hugs Christine xxReplyCancel

  • Bente SoerflatenAugust 13, 2016 - 2:57 am

    What a scary experience, Becca, I’m glad to hear that you didn’t get hurt.
    Your card this time is absolutely gorgeous!
    Thanks for a chance to win it!ReplyCancel

  • Jennifer Smith-KirkAugust 13, 2016 - 3:07 am

    Gorgeous projects Becca, I am so sorry to hear all your news but most importantly so glad you are ok, I hope things get sorted soon and that you continue to heal day by day, big hugs and positive vibes are winging their way to you from the UK X X XReplyCancel

  • Kathleen ReillyAugust 13, 2016 - 3:42 am

    I am so sorry for what happened to you I live in Florida to, and I also pray that your foot is doing better and better each day. I have not had a blessing in disguiseReplyCancel

  • Ang EdwardsAugust 13, 2016 - 4:08 am

    Hi Becca how frightening for you that must have been !!!! Glad alls well in the end though….what a sweet card today ..as always!I am so thankful we didnt get flooded here like they did in Cumbria during last winter i cant think of anything sooo awful its not just water but sewage too YUK . Hope all is well for you after your foot surgery and you are enjoying having your mum to stay .
    Fond Regards Ang from GB xxReplyCancel

  • Earlene BostAugust 13, 2016 - 7:51 am

    So glad to see you back! Missed you and was beginning to worry. So very sorry to hear about your lightning experience. We all know it could have been worse (total destruction). Many lightning strikes start fires. The fact that did not occur is truly a blessing, blatant and not in disguise. The fact that you and Mom could afford to go elsewhere to stay, another blatant blessing. Just being awakened through grace every morning is a blessing I thank God for every day! As most of my blessings are blatant to me, I can not think of one in disguise that occurred this week.
    The card is a STUNNER! Well worth the wait. Love the embossing, the patterned papers, the fussy cutting, and the over all design. You are such a WONDER! Speaking of fussy cutting, what was the source of the flowers? They are a lovely representation.
    Thanks for all your time, effort, and devotion to this blog. It’s the 1st one I check everyday. Several days without an update leads to seeds of concern. You always explain your absences. You are such a Giver! You owe us nothing, but you give so much! Thank for so graciously allowing us into your beautiful world! EBReplyCancel

  • VickyAugust 13, 2016 - 9:09 am

    Becca,
    I am so sorry that your house was hit by lighting.
    Could I ask why are you on crutches?
    I have not been on the computer for a while
    so much going on here.
    I know I am pass the deadline for the card
    but I would like to tell you my blessing.
    My nephew is back from overseas finally.
    He is in the Air Force & was supposed to come back 6 months ago.
    Now he & his family are beaning moved to Guam for 3 years.
    I am glad it is a safer place than the middle east.
    Stay cool & be safe.ReplyCancel

  • Joan OlsonAugust 13, 2016 - 9:20 am

    Glad to hear no one was hurt when you get hit by lightning. Your card is beautiful. May God bless you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • JoAnn BurnhamAugust 13, 2016 - 11:07 am

    Wow, I am so sorry your house was struck by lightening and you had so much damage. Thank the Lord neither of you were hurt and that you found a place to stay.
    I love all of your gorgeous creations and this is no exception.
    God Bless you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Margie vossAugust 13, 2016 - 2:51 pm

    Thank God fist I’m glad you a bs your mom are ok.ms Becca God will take care of all the other stuff…Let us get back to that beautiful card, love the colors perfect go any occasion .ReplyCancel

  • Peyy MAugust 13, 2016 - 2:55 pm

    Becca I am so sorry to hear of the lightening strike and damage to your home. Having guest (your mom) and not being able to be at home is the absolute pits:-(.
    The blessing is your home didn’t catch on fire!!!! Thank God!!!!! Out of tragedy has come your blessing and ours. Our (your fans) blessing is we still have you.

    The card is lovely as usual.
    Praying for you
    PeggyReplyCancel

  • Anne (UK)August 13, 2016 - 5:17 pm

    Oh my goodness, Becca! So glad to hear that you and your Mum didn’t suffer any injuries, but so sorry to hear of all the damage to your home and the inconvenience caused by the lightning strike! So glad you are now in a cool room and that your foot is healing. I do hope that it won’t be long before everything is sorted and you can move back home.
    Another beautiful card! You are so gifted!
    A store we visited yesterday was shutting an hour early and so I couldn’t get what I needed, but we came home and I found a superior product online at a cheaper price :o)
    Hugs
    Anne (UK) xReplyCancel

  • Diane BrownAugust 13, 2016 - 5:22 pm

    Beautiful card, love that embossing.ReplyCancel

  • Marcie SmithAugust 13, 2016 - 6:25 pm

    My heavens Becca, what an experience and how scary!!!!!! I am so thankful that you and your Mom were not hurt. It is better to have discovered damage in hind sight as you experienced. It sounds as though it could have been so much worse. Sending thoughts and prayers. Hopefully your insurance will do a thorough check on your entire electrical system and your home will have a clean bill of health before you know it. So sorry you had to go through this. Thanks for letting us know. I was really getting worried. Hope your foot is healing nicely as well. Take care sweet Becca and keep us posted as you can. Give Mom an extra hug, for being such a trouper.
    MarcieReplyCancel

  • TammieAugust 13, 2016 - 8:08 pm

    Oh Becca, may you and your Momma find rest and strength in your faith. Sounds like a life-changing adventure! You always see the upside and your positive outlook is a blessing. So my hidden blessing this week came in the form of a road trip. A mixup at a manufacturer and middleman supplier resulted in another seven-hour road trip. My son decided to go with me and it was a great day!ReplyCancel

  • Sandra LesleyAugust 14, 2016 - 4:00 am

    Lovely card. Glad all is well. My blessing this week is meeting with so many lovely ladies in my new job as a therapist. They inspire me to reach out more and to be more loving…..in spite of often difficult circumstances. XxReplyCancel

  • Sandra SmithAugust 14, 2016 - 4:02 am

    Oh my! I’m so sorry to hear about lightning striking your home! What a terrible thing to have happen and I know the hassle you are going through dealing with insurance since I was a licensed insurance agent for 20 years. I pray everything goes much better than you could anticipate and that you find hidden blessings in many many things as you travel this road.

    I received an unexpected blessing from my hubby this week. My family is giving a joint birthday party for my Mom (turning 85) and her sister (turning 80) so I’ve been making 125 invitations, including the envelopes. I needed to emboss 125 she’s of cards to clean that are 6×12″. My wonderful hubby has been recovering from open heart surgery that he had multiple complications with. Instead of 5 days in the hospital, he spent 12! Although his recovery has been slow and he now ha Pericarditis, he volunteered to do all the embossing for me! Since he’s stronger than I am, cranking the handle on the die cutting machine was much easier and faster for him. I’m sorry he’s had to go through the operation but I was blessed because he was here , available and willing to help me out. He’s always an amazing husband but he scored lots of extra points this week! I am blessed!

    I love your card and the layers and texture it has. It is fabulous so, as usual, I’m crossing my fingers!
    Have a wonderful weekend!
    SandiReplyCancel

  • Jacquie JacobsAugust 14, 2016 - 8:20 am

    Hi Becca,

    Gorgeous creation hun, love every detail. Glad your foot is on the mend.
    Take care

    Love & Hugs

    Jacquie J xxxReplyCancel

  • Jean MarmoAugust 14, 2016 - 11:55 am

    Thank goodness you weren’t hurt. Another beautiful card! We spent a lovely weekend at the cottage and got to see my 88 year old mom and my sisters!ReplyCancel

  • KarenAugust 14, 2016 - 3:00 pm

    Making and sharing cards with others has given me purpose and renewed energy to shift my focus to others.ReplyCancel

  • Judy BennettAugust 14, 2016 - 10:06 pm

    What a beautiful card Becca. So glad to hear you and your mom are okay. Repairs to house and contents will take time.

    A few weeks ago a huge storm came through and knocked a cell phone tower over, and that pulled down a whole host of power lines! We were without power for 3 days… right in the middle of a heat wave, and of course lots of humidity. I spent lots of time with my mom at her nursing home as it is air conditioned and I was also able to charge my cell phone and Kindle. I live out in the country and we have well water, soooo it requires electricity to run the water pump. Not only did we have no a/c, TV, internet, stove/oven, refrigerator, freezer, but no water, no toilets, no shower either! I even went out to visit my Amish friend. Told her I was learning how the Amish live! But at least they have water, toilets, showers, etc. Long story short, my blessing in disguise was that I was able to spend a lot of quality time with my mom and friends.ReplyCancel

  • Susan B.August 15, 2016 - 6:48 am

    I am glad to hear you and your mom are ok and weren’t injured. Things can always be replaced, but not loved ones. I was a late bloomer parent so I count every day that I spend with my two children as my ‘blessings in disguise’.
    thank you for sharing your beautiful card and the chance to win.ReplyCancel

  • Christine DearingerAugust 19, 2016 - 7:13 am

    I am so pleased that you are all safe.Mother Nature is surely telling us that she is not happy with our world.I hope that we listen and learn and everyone tries to make their little bit of difference to make it a better world.ReplyCancel

  • Norah McPheeAugust 19, 2016 - 11:03 am

    Good afternoon Becca,
    OH flower how lucky you and your Mum is when what could have been so much worse. We have had that lightening across here in Scotland over the past couple of weeks and it is so frightening. I hope that your wee Mum has got over the ramivacations of it and yes bless your lucky stars that you are both safe and sound. Another way of thinking on it is that you both perhaps needed some time away that is both gentle and kind on you with no distractions of deadlines to meet or what “must” be done as this just shows that nothing is more important than being safe and sound.
    Your card is bonnie flower both in design and in the papers that you have used giving it that shabby chic look that is all around but in a more clean and elegent way( i don’t do roughed up card or torn card, the part of the brain that can allow that is very much over ruled by the neat, tidy and precise part). I hope that you get back into your home soon and it is back to normal.
    My blessing is having beautiful friends that know when i need that bit of a perk up because things have just went and piled on top of each other. MY lovely friends are coming down on Monday to have lunch out with me which they don’t skirt around the problem, they hit it head on and deal with it and give me a lighter heart.
    Love and crafty hugs
    Norah (Glenochil Village, Scotland)ReplyCancel

  • RaphaelaAugust 25, 2016 - 12:55 am

    Every time I see your cards I get emotional.
    You are so talent.
    Love them all…ReplyCancel

  • Cynthia CurtsAugust 26, 2016 - 8:00 pm

    I feel so glad that God saved you. I’m so sorry that you had to go through this very trying time.
    You are one the best card designer in America and you give us all such beauty and joy.
    May God bless you with everything you need.
    CynthiaReplyCancel

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