Did you stay home from CHA?  So did I.  I’m so stoked at how many of you have come through here in the last week or so – and as always you’ve had so many good things to say.   I thought while we’re all waiting for our CHA bound friends to come back home, that I would offer some Blog Candy in appreciation to those who have continued to blog hop.   The I Stayed Home from CHA Blog Candy consists of a set of Spellbinders Scalloped Rectangles (donated by Noelle – thank you!) , two sets of Hampon Arts Clear Stamps, a Colorbox Pigment Inks Queue, 3 x 3 note cards, American Crafts Chipboard Rounds, two acrylic stamp blocks. 

The comments left on the last blog candy at the beginning of the year make that post possibly the best here.  I sat down with a cup (or two) of coffee and it was the best reading I’ve ever done on a blog.   So again, I’m going to ask you to dig in your heart and share some of yourself with me here by finishing this statement in your comment.

The best gift I can give today is . . .

I don’t care how long your answer is, be assured that I will read it!!  One comment only though, so make it good.  As always, you’ll need to check back to see if you are the winner and can claim your prize by emailing me through my Contact page with your address.   Comments will close on Saturday 1/31/09 at noon CST and a winner picked by Random.org shortly thereafter.  

Oooh, I forgot to tell you . . .I am coming up on my 1 year blogging anniversary on February 1st.  Also Christmas time, CHA projects, Dirty Dozen projects and the like had me so busy throughout the last month that I completely overlooked reaching 1 million hits on Statcounter, so I’ll be celebrating that as well.  You can be sure that I will be offering more blog candy.  Keep your eyes peeled! 

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  • SusanJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:21 pm

    The best gift I can give today is prayer. My daughter had received some sad news today about a friend and I encouraged her to pray. She wanted to do something for her friend and I encouraged her to pray with her friend and for her friend. So the best I can offer today is to encourage all of us to pray daily.

    Thanks for the ongoing inspiration! I truly enjoy your blog and your lovely projects.

    All the best.ReplyCancel

  • Janet ZeppaJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:27 pm

    Yes I stayed home from CHA too! LOL!! The best gift I can give today is family. I had a lovely day shopping with my MOM today and I once again realized how blessed I am to have such loving and caring parents.ReplyCancel

  • Heidi MansionJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:27 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of love and caring. So many people are hurting today and a simple act of love and caring can make a huge difference in someones everyday life. We are often so caught up in our day to day happenings that we forget to love one another. We too often turn a blind eye to those that are in need and suffering. The Lord says in John 13:34 Love One Another, Just as I Have Loved You. I choose to honor his commandment and give the gift of love.
    Thank you for the opportunity to win! I love your art work, it is simply amazing!ReplyCancel

  • AnitaJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:29 pm

    My Time! I have two little girls and am constantly reminded that I need to slow myself down and enjoy their ages while I can! Today after nap time, I had to wake up my four year old – not a normal thing, she’s usually ready and raring to go! She just got her “big girl bed” last weekend and I crawled into bed with her and she snuggled in tight with me and we laid there for a little bit, just quiet and cuddling! Then she fully woke and was ready to play – but those few minutes are always precious!

    I don’t know if it counts as a *gift* but I also like to try out new meals quite often. I’m a vegetarian and dh is not. I try to stay motivated to try new recipes at least once, working to find a compromise of things I can/will eat but that he will also enjoy. Tonight I managed to make it happen, lol!

    I also enjoy participating in the SCS RAK group. It feels good to make a special card and send it to someone I pick from the RAK list and hope that when they receive it, it will bring a smile to their face. Smiles are the same in every language :-)

    Please don’t include me in the blog candy…I already have the nestie set and would rather see someone who doesn’t have it win it ;-) I love to follow your blog and just wanted to take a minute to particpate in a moment of reflection!ReplyCancel

  • PeggyJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:31 pm

    This week has been easy for me to keep up with the “numerous” blogs that I hop to on a daily basis! Will not be that way for long….
    Congrats on your upcoming blog anniversary and most recent “hit milestone”. Your work is awesome!!ReplyCancel

  • Esther SchattschneiderJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:37 pm

    My gift is KINDNESS. So many folks out there who are sad or lonely, then all those who are ill or taking care of loved ones. I am so blessed to have health and that my family is healthy. To say a kind word to the clerk at the store, or the other shoppers passing by…may be the brightness they need.

    Would love to win…I am just learning to use my Nesties my hubby gave me for my birthday…love them!!

    Be well and keep up the inspiration. Your gift to us with each blog is sharing your amazing talent. Thanks for that!ReplyCancel

  • KimJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:38 pm

    The best gift I can give today is a handmade Kim’s Creation work of art, whether it be an altered notebook, or a handmade card! I love sharing my art work with my family and friends!

    Thanks so much for the chance to win such a wonderful prize Becca! You are so amazing, kind, and generous! I love coming by your blog and being inspired! You are one of my art idols!
    Hugs~ KimReplyCancel

  • BeckyJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:40 pm

    The best gift I can give today would be of myself. To my husband who has been struggling with pneumonia since Thanksgiving, to his Mother who is 92 and we see her failing fast, and to my four children and 11 grandchildren. And just the fact that I can’t be there for all of them at the same time, I know One who can and to Him I will turn to and pray for all of them.ReplyCancel

  • JenniferJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:41 pm

    The best gift I can give today is time with my family. I don’t always feel the best b/c of Multiple Sclerosis, so I try the best I can to make sure and do fun things, talk with, and just “be” with my family when I do feel good.ReplyCancel

  • SanjiJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:41 pm

    I can give my love and compassion to my family. I am awaiting to talk online with my sister who lives in another country. I was looking at your blog while I am waiting. Thanks for the chance to win.ReplyCancel

  • CarolenJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:41 pm

    The best gift that I can give today is my time. Whether it be to smile at someone that I don’t know, to pay a compliment to a stranger, or to share knowledge. And that is best accomplished if I take care of myself and, often, that means creating. It always means taking the time to not rush!ReplyCancel

  • DeniseJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:43 pm

    I stayed home from CHA…. oh how I wish that I was there!

    My best gift I can give today is listening…… having five children sometimes it is hard to listen…. but I know they need to each share their day, their frustrations and exciting things.

    Thank you for the gift of your blog.
    DeniseReplyCancel

  • Sharon LeVineJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:43 pm

    is my time to my grand daughter so that she will get to know me. I have breast cancer and don’t know how long I can beat that monster and I need to give her all the memories I can, being she is just 2 years old, it’s going to have to be through the scrapbooks I make and the notes I leave her. I just hope i get the average 5 years that was she might have a light of the real me in her heart. She is the love of my life and got me through my chemo, she was 3 months old when they found cancer for the second time. She is my only grandchild my oldes it trying for one and not going very well. So my best gift is to us the time to get her book up to date. I’m stuck just got done the hospital album done. So now onto the the other 4, 000 pictures lol. Time to be with someone is the best gift you can give anyone.ReplyCancel

  • JoAnn BurnhamJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:45 pm

    I wish I could have gone to CHA, as so many others wish also. Congratulations on all the hits and your upcoming blogaversary. The best gift I can give is love and caring, and sharing Jesus with others, the greatest gift of all.ReplyCancel

  • MaryJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:45 pm

    The best and only gift I can give today is prayer. I have a kidney stone stuck and am waiting for surgery (hopefully Thursday if the weather improves… so I can’t do too much for a while. My mom finished her second round of chemo for breast cancer and today is without power from the storm. I can’t be there to do anything for her. My mom has no source of heat that is not electric… but I can pray and ask God to intervene. I know she is still tired and not her best and not ready to be without heat. The roads are so bad I couldn’t get there even if I was well but I can pray and believe that God will keep her strong and warm.ReplyCancel

  • CharleneJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:46 pm

    The best gift I can give today is ME. I am so busy all the time that I forget to keep in touch with those who are important to me. I have a large family, eleven siblings and numerouse nieces and nephews, I must make an effort to stay in touch. I enjoy your blog and look forward to put into practice some of your tutorials.
    Have a great day. CharleneReplyCancel

  • JulieJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:46 pm

    The best gift I can give is a little piece of myself to someone in need whether it be a listening ear, a hug or whatever. A small gesture of kindness goes a long way. I love all your blog candy goodies and how thoughtful of you while others are away. Thanks!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Diane WittJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:47 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my love. Being the busy mother of 14 children, 9 boys and 5 girls, I need to express and show my love to all my children each and every day. I want each of them to know they are treasured and adored in our family, and that I love them very much always. Love is a gift that costs nothing to give, but is priceless to receive.ReplyCancel

  • Diane SJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:49 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of love, compassion and understanding. Make the most of the time you have with the ones that mean the most to you in your life.
    Thankful for all the time you dedicate to your readers, you are a true
    inspiration. Your work reflects who you are.ReplyCancel

  • Nancy SchmidtJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:51 pm

    The best gift I can give today is just a smile for my husband. I have a horrible cold and feel terrible and a smile is about all I could muster up. LOL I love your blog it is my favorite!!! You are the best. Thanks for all you do – :) and yes I mustered up a smile for you!ReplyCancel

  • LindaJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:51 pm

    The best gift I can give is a phone call or visit to my parents. I’ve been so fortunate they have been in good health until very recently – my Dad has been extra forgetful. I try to call everyday or more often since he forgets we have spoken. My Mom is pretty scared with this recent change of being more forgetful. He has been to the doctor, but the doc says it is just normal aging. He will be 80 on his next birthday.

    Love your blog and your wonderful works of art.ReplyCancel

  • Jnine AJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:51 pm

    The best gift I can give today is…..loving thoughts and prayer to my friend Ruth. Her son lost his battle this morning with cancer.ReplyCancel

  • PatJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:52 pm

    The best gift that I can give today is to slow down and take the time to really listen to friends and family.

    Thank you for sharing your creativity with all of us. We appreciate you!ReplyCancel

  • annJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:53 pm

    In one of my bible studies the leader asked “if you could give God a Christmas gift what would it be”. I thought a minute and then said “myself”. He gave his life for me and the least I can do is give him the best of myself. That means total surrender to his will each and every day. The more you do it the more you can hear what he is trying to say and then what you give is what he is telling you to give at any given time. We are empty vessels waiting to do his will. It might be prayer, a helping hand to someone in a wheel chair struggling to open a door , soup to someone that is ill or just a kind word or maybe even a card. He works in mysterious ways his wonders to behold. He positions us in each others lives each day to meet the needs of others and ourselves. I love so much the spirituality and faith you bring to your blog. You have inspired me in so many ways. To reach higher in my walk with The Lord and also to raise my level of workmanship in my cards. thank you Becca.
    Blessings
    AnnReplyCancel

  • Linda C.January 27, 2009 - 9:54 pm

    The best gift I can give someone today is to remember their needs in prayer.ReplyCancel

  • **Milu**January 27, 2009 - 9:55 pm

    the best gift I can give today is…
    my smile,my servant’s heart to my family and friends
    an encouraging word,a funny e-mail,a goofy look to my daughter…
    anything that can make someone think that this life is nothing but a vapor…so let’s face our difficulties with a smile…=)
    Be encouraged sister!!!
    love,**Milu**ReplyCancel

  • JeanneLeeJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:57 pm

    The best gift I can give today is . . .is to be the best wife and mom I can be(only with the Lord’s help)….sometimes, I want to craft downstairs instead of doing these two things, but I know that I am building family relationships.
    So, what will I do the next time I want to craft instead of being with my family…take them downstairs with me so we can share together. What better way, then to look at your tutorials here, full of inspiration and blessings and *create* things together as a family!
    I am so glad to find your blog full of your love of the Father and your testimony is evident. God, may He continue to bless you in all you say and do.ReplyCancel

  • MargeJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:59 pm

    Oh My, how very generous. Thank you!
    The best gift that I can give today is…
    Myself to others. I always want to let the Lord shine through me so that others may see Him in me. It is said that my life may be the only Bible that some may ever read, and I want it to be a great reflection of Jesus. So today, I give of myself to others.
    Blessings,
    MargeReplyCancel

  • TaraJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:01 pm

    The best gift I can give today is love. We need more of it in this world. Let’s all give love!

    Great blog and wonderful blog candy giveaway!ReplyCancel

  • ColleenMJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:02 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my time. The dishes will wait, the laundry is going nowhere. the dust will not disappear overnight. My kids will not be kids forever and the best thing I can do right now is to spend time with them. watch them play, help them with homework, listen to them read a story, listen to them sing a silly song, snuggle with them as we watch tv, work on a puzzle… the list is endless.

    My parents are aging. They need company, rides to the store, extra ears at their doctor appointments, etc. I need them while they are here. What is getting in the way? my endless list of things to do.

    Time doesn’t wait but my chores will. I can give the gift of time!ReplyCancel

  • Elaine WilsonJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:02 pm

    I live day to day by the motto that the best gift I can give other’s is my time and attention. I have been disabled since 1996 at age 35 so I can’t do a lot of physical things for other’s but I try to always be there for to listen, pray, and give them my full attention. I feel if there is a blessing to come out of my disability it is that I can be there for my friends and family day or night. They can stop in or call and I will always drop everything for them. I have been very blessed to have many wonderful people in my life who help me when I need it and I try to return what I can in this way. I have a headset for my telephone and spend hours each day stamping, sewing, or doing light housework and listening to other’s on the phone. I like to talk too :D…..but find that I end up listening more. I try to let God use me as a vessel….which takes a lot of prayer in itself as we have tendency to like to give our own advice! LOL I just discovered your blog a few weeks ago and truly enjoy it. You do some beautiful AMAZING work and I like that you use so much scripture on your cardsReplyCancel

  • JosieJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:02 pm

    The best gift I can give is one on one time with my family. Our schedules all vary. With one son in college and working full time, and the other serving in the Navy over 1000 miles from home. And a husband who is on call at work 24/7 and on a different shift than i am.i rarely get any one on one time with them. So when i do get a chance i ask them about whats happening in their life at the moment, weather it be on the phone or in person. I give each of them my un-divided attention and listen closely to what they have to say. And i ALWAYS tell them “I love you”.so that they will remember how much i care and think about them even if i am not in contact with them for a day or 2. Love, kindness, and understanding can make a persons day much brighter. thanks,

    A VERY PROUD NAVY MOM
    JosieReplyCancel

  • Linda BJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:05 pm

    The best gift I can give today is love and caring. Love and caring for one another (family or friends) are gifts that money can not buy but are worth a million dollars. Everyday I do what I can to show my love by caring about my family and friends.
    I really do enjoy reading your blog and seeing your amazing works of art. Thank you for being an inspiration to me.ReplyCancel

  • SheriJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:06 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my time. My husband lost his job this month so we have no money to give but we do have time. We would like to volunteer at shelters and the Ronald McDonald House since we have more time than we have ever had. I pray that my husband find work soon but it is looking pretty bleak. In the meantime, we count our blessings and give a piece of ourselves.ReplyCancel

  • Linda EJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:10 pm

    Becca, you always ask the most thought-provoking questions. So, here goes…The best thing I can give myself is time. Time to be patient with my kids; loving to my husband; inspired by creativity. So often I find myself rushing through the days events so ginving myself time to stop and smell the roses, so to speak, would be a true gift to myself.ReplyCancel

  • Carol E.January 27, 2009 - 10:10 pm

    The best gift I can give today is… prayer for my husband as he leaves early tomorrow morning for Mozambique Africa. He’ll be teaching and preaching to seminary students. He’ll be gone for over two weeks and I pray for safety in travel and the many blessings he will receive as he ministers to others.
    Your blog is truly an inspiration to me!!ReplyCancel

  • Darlene LJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:13 pm

    The best gift I can give today is being the best caregiver to my Mom that I possibly can. Each morning I thank God that I have been given this opportunity to give back for the years she took care of me. I moved here to her home so that she could stay on the family farm and not have to go to a nursing home. We have become so much closer. We do have good days and the not so good ones on occasion. I have discovered that caregiving is one of the hardest jobs out there but I keep trying.

    Thanks for being so generous. I have loved reading some of the CHA reports but it almost sounds overwhelming. You have amazing talents and I thank you for sharing with all of us through your blog.ReplyCancel

  • Judit VJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:14 pm

    The best gift I can give today is love to my family. I am blessed with caring parents, a wonderful husband, two wonderful daughters and a great son-in-law!

    Love your blog and your beautiful works of art!ReplyCancel

  • LenoriaJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:14 pm

    I was going to say “my time” until I read some of the previous posts and I feel the best thing I can give at this time is a pray for each of them who are hurting or in need of comfort and solace from above and also for my family and friends. I pray that God is with each of us as we deal with our troubles and shares our joys each day and may He give us peace and comfort! Thank you for having such a caring heart and for sharing with us and giving us a chance to state our feelings and even say a prayer as “a crafting family”.ReplyCancel

  • SharronJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:15 pm

    The best gift I can give today………is the gift that I received oh so many years ago as a young child………..the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ my Lord & Savior. I am now 61 years old (did I just say that out loud!) & have had my ups & downs & failures & successes but I will never regret making the decision to follow Him. It’s been an amazing journey.

    I discovered Blogland only a few months ago & am amazed by all of the talent that ladies like you are using for God’s glory. I count it a privilege to follow you on your journey. You are such an inspiration!

    Hugs & Blessings coming your way!ReplyCancel

  • KimmJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:16 pm

    The best gift I can give is faithfulness… staying faithful to the commitments I make before the Lord and commitments that I make to others (whether that is my time, money, sharing of knowledge. etc)…. and then endure!
    I’m a new subscriber to your site, but am so impressed with your artwork. Kimm Bennington-ThompsonReplyCancel

  • FrancineJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:17 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my prayer that I can be a blessing to everyone. Learning to stop thinking of yourself and thinking what you can do to bless others has brought me the greatest joy and peace. I highly recommend it :-) Thanks for your wonderful web site!ReplyCancel

  • Pat in WAJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:18 pm

    The best thing I can give to anyone is to be an attentive listener. Only by knowing what someone is concerned about can we ever have any hope of being able to help them. So being a good listener is a skill that it never hurts to develop.ReplyCancel

  • MiriamJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:19 pm

    “We love because He first loved us”. The best gift I can give today is love. I pray that I will reflect God’s love in all my interactions with others–my family, my friends, my co-workers, my customers, my acquaintances, and the strangers I encounter every day. I pray that I will see all God’s children with compassion and a loving heart. The Bible tells us that we WILL be a witness to the world. I hope that my witness will bring glory to God and to Jesus Christ, His Son.

    I read your Blog every day. You always inspire your readers–both creatively and spiritually. I am thankful that I discovered your wonderful blog and I’m glad you stayed home from CHA to continue to share with us. In a recent Bible study I attended, we discussed creation. God is the great Creator and we are created in His image. It is natural and good that we also create. Thank you for your many beautiful creations. Bless you, Becca!

    Thank you for the chance to win some wonderful Blog Candy! Congratulations on your milestones!ReplyCancel

  • Rene MewesJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:21 pm

    My gift is kindness and caring. It takes so little to make a difference to people. Just reaching out to someone who is struggling can make such a difference to that person. I think it is even more important right now in these trying economic times that we try to connect with others and let them know that we care about each other. A co-worker’s son just had surgery last week that was quite serious and everything turned out just great, amd he was so touched by the outpouring of caring from all the employees here. Those moments bring me great joy. This is even more important since our daughter was killed in a car-bicycle accident 4 years ago. She was an amazing and caring 10 year-old who always helped the people around her. I want to make her proud of me, by doing her work here on earth while she is helping others in heaven.

    Rene’ Mewes
    RM3116@charter.netReplyCancel

  • DebiJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:22 pm

    The best gift I can give today is myself…time, energy, good thoughts, prayer, listen, just me. I have a lot to offer as we all do but it simply takes time to cultivate! Relationships take time to cultivate and I want to do it as much as possible.
    Give of yourself.ReplyCancel

  • Lisa GravesJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:22 pm

    The best gift I can give is my time. I enjoy doing volunteer work.ReplyCancel

  • LilianJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:23 pm

    The best gift I can give anyone today is encouragement, be it through a conversation with them or a card sent to them. Thank you again Becky for your tremendously sharing spirit. You encourage so many of us to reach to loftier heights through the generous sharing of your talent.ReplyCancel

  • NorineJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:23 pm

    The best gift I can give today is prays for my DN who is in Iraq at the age of 18 and all our soldiers who have given so much for our country.
    Kindness to everyone I meet in these hard times
    Love to my family & friends
    To be thankful for the things that dont cost anything like my blogging friends and the craft we all love so much (well the craft may cost a bit LOL)
    thanks so much for doing this for all of us that did not get to go to CHA you are so nice
    Hugs
    NorineReplyCancel

  • Shelly SchmidtJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:24 pm

    Congrats on your blogiversary Becca! You are such a wonderful gift to me- your inspiration and talent are so appreciated! I am trying to think of a gift that I can be to another- I guess the best thing I can imagine offering now is my love and support- I have a couple of friends and family members that really need love and support right now! Thanks for the offer to win Blof candy for Non-CHA goers……..

    ShellyReplyCancel

  • Susie LJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:25 pm

    My gift is to put the other person first, and me later..just a little thoughtfulness can go a long way…..
    Remember the golden rule we all learned at a early age…it never stops.
    Thanks for a chance to win……love your blog…..ReplyCancel

  • CherylJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:25 pm

    The best gift I can give is the gift of time. There is never enough and it really makes a differece when you sit down and spend time with someone.ReplyCancel

  • Janet CastleJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:25 pm

    Hi Becca….Congrats on your 1 year blog anniversary! So nice of you to ask what the best gift I can give today…well, maybe not today as it is almost over and I am all by my lonesome for the evening. I give help, caring, encouragement, and sharing of any talents I have when I have opportunity. It’s always fun to do this thru card making and sharing what I do and how I do it. It’s wonderful to see the light bulb go off when someone understands a technique and sees the lovely result of their work. I’m truly blessed to be able to share!
    Another area of delight is my “Jan’s Joy” photography which I use for note cards. Also share the photography with choir members thru e-mails each week when advising what we will sing, etc. I’m told they read the e-mails just to see the photos… LOL!
    I’m sure you understand this satisfaction as people enjoy your work…the blessing is doubled!
    Thanks for sharing your gifts with us!
    JanReplyCancel

  • Jocelan PerryJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:28 pm

    The best gift I can give is to share our Saviors love with all my friends ,by showing them love and compassion,and giving of my time and shareing with others the great ideas I learn from all the great blogs I visit.Becca you have one of the best blogs .Your talent is outstanding.It would be so nice to meet all the wonderful people we meet online .I think the internet is one of Heavenly Fathers greatest gifts,to use the internet for what it was meant for.It is nice to chat with another Child of God.
    JocelanReplyCancel

  • loreneJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:29 pm

    I love your blog! it is very uplifting, and I appreciated that very much! thanks for giving me the chance to win some wonderful blog candy. and yes I did stay home! hmmmm, the best gift I can give today is……time. all my children are grown and have started their own families. I must say being a granmother is the very best gift of all! but my time is what I can give to my 15, going on 16 grandchildren. I take such joy in these wonderful children. I am teaching one granddaughter to sew, I love reading to the younger ones. playing patty cake with the babies. listening to their jabber, or listening about the drama of 6th grade does stephen really like me! going to their concerts, picking them up after school and going to sonic. the list goes on. everything that I do to spend time with these wonderful blessings are a blessing to me.

    thanks again
    LoreneReplyCancel

  • MarianJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:29 pm

    The best gift I can give today is thanks. Thanks to God for everything good in my life, and thanks for all the struggles because they make me stronger and closer to God as well. I am so thankful for my family, friends and “online” friends. A close friend of mine once told me that her husband laughed at her for online friends asking how can you have a friend that you can’t see. She answered him by asking him if he thought that blind people had no friends. She changed him that day.
    Thank you for such a wonderful web site. Your inspiration is invaluable.
    MReplyCancel

  • Julie G.January 27, 2009 - 10:30 pm

    The best thing I can give is the act of forgiveness. Forgiveness of others who say things that hurt one another and forgiveness to myself for not always saying the right things…..
    Family….I think I have the best one….(I know we all probably think that)…my husband is the most supportive person…I just can’t believe somedays how much I am blessed….
    Thanks everyone for reading….ReplyCancel

  • Rebecca ednieJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:31 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my smile for my kids. I saw on oprah once that the best gift you can give your kids is to smile when they come in the room to show them you are happy to see them. I am pretty smiley but after I heard that I make an effort to smile and embrace them when I see them even if I don’t feel like it. I always feel better for it and so do they. They are sweet, happy confident little boys who charm everyone!ReplyCancel

  • Grace (Scrappigramma2)January 27, 2009 - 10:32 pm

    Hi Becca!
    I so love your blog… it’s one of the first I subscribed to. I appreciate your spiritual thoughts as well as your wonderfully artistic projects!

    The best gift I can give right now is prayer and encouragement. As prayer coordinators for our Church, my DH and I can get pretty busy and even overwhelmed… but right now my DD and DSIL are going through a very rough time financially… he moved to another state three months ago for a new job and she has stayed with their house to try to keep it looking good for any prospective buyers… but there is very little happening on that front these days! I have two Grandkids and they are with my DD… but the family is torn apart and it’s so hard on them all. Last week my DSIL’s new company made a huge pay cut across the board and things are very iffy right now as to the security of this new job. They were already cash strapped and now there is no way they can meet their bills without a miracle. I wish I could *fix* it for them… but only God can. I talk to her every day and try to encourage her with Scripture and truths to cling to… but ultimately the best thing I can do is commit them to prayer and trust our Lord to do His will and way in this situation. We know that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose…. and I know they do love Him! So… trying to encourage them to know that even if we lose everything in this world… it still pales by comparison to what we have in Christ. If I can convey in some small way that trusting God with this problem really can take away much of the anxiety… because the things of this world are really pretty unimportant in the broader picture of eternity… and nothing can take away our joy in the One who gave His life for us!ReplyCancel

  • CherylJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:32 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to pray and offer be supportive of all who need my time and energy. I consider myself to be a caring person and enjoy helping those who need it.ReplyCancel

  • TerriJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:33 pm

    Since I’m an insurance agent and we are experiencing a winter storm, the best gift I can give today is excellent customer service to those who call to file a claim, those who just want to review their coverages, or any other issue. I can offer a compassionate response to their need and expedite the claims to the companies for quick handling. I always try to put myself in my client’s shoes during their crisis and I treat them like I would want to be treated. I think that is the least I can do. Sometimes I am just the sounding board and I have to research their policies and give them good advise. I figure their insurance policy is only as good as the service we provide!ReplyCancel

  • Shirley LeeJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:34 pm

    The best gift I can give today is being thoughtful and caring to others. I have a friend whose husband is dying, and I have been making food, bringing little stamping gifts, books, etc. over to her home. She is going through such a rough time that I try to bring a smile to her and let her know how much she is loved. Becca, your beautiful creativity is a gift that I appreciate so much. You are at the top of my blogging list, and I look forward to every creation that comes from you. Thanks for the chance to win the blog candy and congrads on your anniversary! Who needs CHA, right?
    Shirley L.
    Roseville, CAReplyCancel

  • Cheri HowardJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:34 pm

    I’ve been reading posts on blogs that give peaks into CHA…looks like a lot of fun!

    The best gift I can give today is…my praise and service to my Lord. Too often I find myself caught up in my own agenda – get this done, run that errand, make these phone calls, yadayadayada. I have to stop and remind myself that the reason I was brought into this world was not to serve myself, but to serve the Lord Jesus Christ with praise and thanksgiving. Some days it’s easier than others, but praise & serve I must do.

    Have a wonderful day, Becca! And congratulations on all your accomplishments!ReplyCancel

  • Nancy ParkJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:36 pm

    I am retired and the best gift I can give is my time ,with love and caring. I volunteer with SHINE(serving the insurance needs of elders),I answer the phones at the senior center one morning a week, make tray favors for the Meals on Wheels program to be delivered to the home bound and spend as much time as I can with my granddaughters, as they are growing up far to fast.ReplyCancel

  • Lavonne (tweetygirl)January 27, 2009 - 10:37 pm

    The best gift I can give today is . . .dealing with customers without getting impatient…my time to my kids but I think that failed miserably. I was so tired and sore from working all day that it was very difficult to listen to them without getting upset…myself to my husband…kindness and compassion to co-workers.
    There are so many gifts we can give it’s really hard to pick just one, and as you see, I just couldn’t. Sorry if this sounds a little bit down. I appreciate your blog and your often-times encouraging and uplifting entries. Your work inspires me to try to do better.ReplyCancel

  • JeanJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:42 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the love of being a grandmother. Our youngest grandson (he just turned 1) was born with 1/2 of a heart. It has been an up and down year with 2 open heart surgeries and 4 angioplasties. He is a wonderful boy – full of life and smiles. His older brother and sister and his 2 cousins protect him all the time. I watch them tuesday-friday while their parents work. All our grandchildren are a joy to us and I love scrapbooking their pictures.
    Thanks for all the ideas you share with us. You are truly have a great gift!ReplyCancel

  • PamJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:44 pm

    The best gift I can geve today is a kind word and a smile.ReplyCancel

  • JeanneJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:46 pm

    The best gift I can give today is myself. Maybe to listen to a friend’s problem, give a hug, maybe cry with someone, pray for them and/or with them. Just show love how ever I can and give myself.ReplyCancel

  • GailSKJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:47 pm

    The best gift I can give today is encouragement, friendship, love … wait a minute … that’s 3 things .. but they’re all so needed today. As well as kindness, affection, you name it – it’s needed. I have a number of friends and family that are dealing with terrible situations right now. We all just want to roll up 2009 and kiss it goodbye! My mother-in-law is newly diagnosed with terminal cancer. We don’t know how much longer she will be around now but she needs all of the above. A co-worker just lost her baby at five months pregnant – she needs all of the above. A very dear friend is dealing with a very delicate family situation involving a grandson – they need all of the above. My sister-in-law’s mother-in-law recently suffered a stroke – she needs all of the above. A co-worker’s best friend has just been diagnosed with cancer – the prognosis is not good – they need all of the above. I could go on and on but I won’t. I’m pretty sure there is enough of me to go around to help comfort these friends and family. I will do my best to share what I can, and hopefully make their day a little brighter! I know I can do it!

    Thank you for reminding me that my problems are not that big compared to what other people are facing!ReplyCancel

  • JennyJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:48 pm

    The best gift I have to give is myself! To my Lord Jesus Christ, and to my husband, son, and family. I bring to them the gift of compassion, love and kindness. I bring awareness of poverty stricken children and do what I can to help, as well and inspire others to help. The physical and spiritual well being of children is a measure of the health of a community. Isaiah 65 makes this absolute. I offer the gifts God as graced me with and use them to His will, or try my best too! I send many of my crafting projects, including cards to my sponsor children! :)ReplyCancel

  • JoanieJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:50 pm

    The best gift I can give today is …..love, hope and prayer for my 19yr old son who is over in Iraqi fighting for our freedom….all my daily thoughts and prayers are aimed at all the young men and women and their families who are over there keeping us safe… Be safe everyone and come home soon….I miss you Matt……ReplyCancel

  • Chris R. from IowaJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:51 pm

    The best gift I can give today is “A SMILE” to anyone and everyone I encounter. We all seem to be having different problems and finding life hard to cope with some days. So, if my smile can help a co-worker, customer, or whoever – I have done well for the day! After the smile all the other sentiments, emotions, verbs, or just whatever will follow suit eventually.

    Bedtime, I am starting to babble! Wishing you many more creative endeavors and a zillion hits on your blog. I love reading it and seeing all your great creations.ReplyCancel

  • Barbara TaylorJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:52 pm

    The best gift I can give today is Prayer and to always try to be the best Christian example I can be. To be Grateful and Thankful for all the blessings I have. To stay humble and never forget the men and women that serve our country – and their families sacrifice so that we can have this Great Country. Our missionaries that teach the world that God does exist and that He loves each and every one. God Bless you for your inspiration and not being afraid to acknowledge your love for God.ReplyCancel

  • TrishaJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:52 pm

    Becca, thank you for the opportunity. Your blog is wonderful and the offer of the blog candy is incredibly nice. Congrats on your upcoming anniversary, and the million hits, that is very exciting!
    The best gift I can give today is faith. This gift is by far the one that saved me. Without faith I would not be here today and I am forever grateful to the people that shared their faith with me that I could learn, grow, and understand just how precious that faith is. Knowing the Lord, sharing a personal relationship with Him, this is the foundation upon which my faith is based. I feel blessed to be able to share that faith with anyone and everyone. If anyone reading this message wants to know more I would be happy to share. God bless you Becca.ReplyCancel

  • BJJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:53 pm

    The best gift I can give on a daily basis is time with my family. I chose to leave a promising career as a doctor to devote myself to rearing my children. That was 20 years ago. Though I miss my profession, I have no regrets as I see the godly foundation my children have and I enjoy the peace of a wonderful marriage.ReplyCancel

  • MaxineJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:54 pm

    The best gift I was able to give today was to pass on a copy of a Biblezine (a New Testament in magazine format) to a young neighbour who is battling with recurring depression and is seeking ‘something’, but she doesn’t yet know what, to give her security, a hope and a future.

    I will continue to give prayer, so that she will find Jesus, which is who she seeks. That is the best I can give.ReplyCancel

  • lorraineJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:55 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my happiness. Not many people are happy these days within themselves. I have just recently started scrapbooking and card making. I never really understood what all of this meant. I thought I was starting out on a small project….my neice decided over a year ago to go and teach in Cairo. We were all feeling a little lost with her being gone and she reached out to us on facebook. During that time (through her emails and pictures )I saw what a wonderful growth and development she was experiencing and sharing with us, and wanted to capture it for her memories to come. During this time I also became aware of an inner sadness within me that how unfortunate her grandmother and greatgrandmother never got to see her blossom. So in their memory my scrapbooking experience started……well during that time her mother ended up having a brain operation which brought my neice home during the christmas period. With my niece not knowing that I was creating this book, I also took the time to take extra family pictures of us all together over the holidays. Fortunately my sister in law recovered, and my niece was able to continue her journey for the rest of the year. I put my heart and soul into this project and finally completed it a year later (nine albums to be exact). The weekend I finally was going to surprise my neice with her scrapbook, she in turn surprised me, and asked me to go help pick out her wedding dress. With not having any children of my own, I couldn’t have had a great moment of happiness bestowed upon me. I have now realized the power of scrapbooking and card making. It has helped me reach out to other family members that have drifted away and let them know how much we care. It is the little memories that we can take the time to remember and share, the card that will bring a smile to someone who hasn’t smiled for a while, or to help them through a difficult time, or to rejoice about their own happiness. We are truly blessed with a lot of very talented people, to help us who are learning , to express the emotions that we feel inside…that these mediums could be such a wonderful tool. I have found through my year and half of scrapbooking a road to my own inner happiness and truly hope that many others will experience the same.
    Thank you again for your inspiration, and guidance
    LorraineReplyCancel

  • Irene AJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:56 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to be the best person I can be for my family and friends. The better person I can be, the better mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend I can be. Life is just too short not to live it to the fullest. I think there is always room for improvement. :) Thank you for all your inspiration!ReplyCancel

  • JenJanuary 27, 2009 - 10:59 pm

    The best gift I gave today is that my daughter asked for money so I gave her $10. (not unusual she asks daily she’s 17!)
    She was on her way to my sisters to pick my nieces up to go to the YMCA well they were stopping to eat a quick supper before heading over to the Y and we have a homeless lady that lives under the bridge.
    I always at least try to say hi to her not too many people do in our small town.
    Anyways to make a long story short my daughter seen her sitting on the side of the gas station and asked her if she could buy her a warm meal!
    She accepted and my daughter bought her a hot meal and sat and chatted with her!
    To me I was so gratefull that what I have tried to teach my children they actually do take to heart and that is the greatest gift I can ever teach them!

    Jen in OhioReplyCancel

  • Peggy MaierJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:00 pm

    So many wonderful answers! I have found personally that the best gift I can give today is myself. Speaking with friends on the phone, taking prayer requests from Bible study ladies, counseling with a friend in need of someone to listen… I have been told by each of them this week how much it has meant to them. It surprised me a little, until I remembered that old saying “You may be the only Jesus some people see.” So I’m trying to let go & just let God work through me.ReplyCancel

  • LouraeJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:03 pm

    The best gift I can give is myself! With seven children there never seems to be enough of me to go around!ReplyCancel

  • ChrisJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:03 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to be available to my family and friends. To be able to spend time with them and really listen to what they are saying. Time is so short and there are so many things to do that it is sometimes to forget who is important in life. I plan to spend more time with those that I love and to take all the little bumps in life less seriously.
    Thanks for all your inspirational ideas.ReplyCancel

  • FreidaJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:05 pm

    The best gift I can give is my time and personal attention. Whether it be my grandson, my own children, my husband, the wonderful residents I visit in the nursing home, or a total stranger, it seems my time is the most treasured gift of all. I was quite young when my mom died, so she never knew her grandchildren. What a loss for them because she would have been the greatest grandmother. This is why I treasure each day with my own children and grandson because we don’t know what tomorrow brings and we have to make the most of each moment of every day. Spending a few hours a week at the nursing home is really a gift to me. These folks are so lonely and it just makes their day to have some company that will spend some quality time with. It warms my heart when I am able to grab a minute and strike up a conversation with someone I don’t even know. People are living such rushed, chaotic lives that they have lost sight of a friendly smile, or a sincere hello. I pray God continues to bless and guide me to listen with my heart because everyone has a story to tell if we just take the….time.ReplyCancel

  • Joanne FermaniukJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:05 pm

    My gift is creativity. Watching the tube is a waste of life (unless you’re sick)! Creating wonderful things for wonderul people is good for the soul!ReplyCancel

  • MarilynYJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:07 pm

    The best gift I can give today and forever is ME. Does this sound so egotistical or what?? My gift to my family and friends is me because however possible….physically, mentally, financially, socially….I always try my best to be there for them. Whatever I have to share (a meal for friends who have become homeless) or lend a helping hand (caring for my parents and mother-in-law until their end) or just be a friend , I’ll do my best. The Lord gave me the heart and hands to use righteously so that’s my mission. The joy and love and work starts with one and spreads to many. Congratulations on your first blogaversary. It’s with great anticipation whenever I read your blog. I’ve learned and expanded a lot of my techniques just by reading and viewing your daily print. Thank you for sharing your priceless talent.ReplyCancel

  • bunnyJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:08 pm

    The best gift I can give today is a smile, support and encouragement. Everyone has their own problems and if one person can change their mood from bad to good, I want to be that person :)ReplyCancel

  • EdnaJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:08 pm

    Becca, I am a little working woman living with a 16-year-old son and a lay-off-sick-living-on-employment-Insurance, life is tough and tired, yet what I can give is to live everyday happily, and make it easy for everyone around me to testify Him that whatever comes our way, let Him guides us along the way until this life is done and we will stay forever young, beautiful and fresh forever and forever. The reason I like you blog is that the name of your blog inspire me : amazing paper grace;me too, I like to make cards to my family, friends, brothers and sisters, to cheer them up, to show sympathy, to share with them my happiness (peace from the Lord) and theirs with joy. Wish you and your family be blessed abundantly in the year 2009ReplyCancel

  • mary anne harmonJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:12 pm

    The best gift I can give today is hope and faith. No matter how hard life seems, no matter what challenge you are facing. It is only a change of direction in your life. The Lord has a plan for you and it is good.ReplyCancel

  • CindyJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:13 pm

    The best gift I can give today is being a good silent listener to a friend in need. Sometimes people just need to bounce ideas off another person to help them put things in perspective.ReplyCancel

  • Pat BargerJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:17 pm

    My gift is to do something to bring a simple smile to someone’s face. It may be a family member, friend, or just someone I meet when I am out that I don’t even know. A smile may just make someone who is having a bad day feel better.

    Blessings
    PatReplyCancel

  • CyndeJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:17 pm

    The best gift I can give is the gift of my time and myself. I feel that The only gift I can truly give is myself to others. By sharing with them and spending all the time I can with those that I love. When my children were younger I was so busy making money to survive, that as a single parent at the time, I didn’t always have the time to spend with them. We have talked and shared about it many times. They are lovely grown adults now. I am very proud of who they have become. My circumstances have changed and I am now very happily married to a man who loves me and them. I now spend as much time with them as they can fit me into their schedules. We have been blessed with a Grandchild and are happily expecting another Grandchild in July.
    So my best gift is “Time” as a “Blessing” now.
    Thanks Becca for the chance at a lovely assortment of Candy.ReplyCancel

  • Erika TJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:23 pm

    The best gift I can give today is being authentic. When everyday I show my husband and children that I am true to myself and live life the way I need to live it, there is an example being set for all of them. Showing them that I love myself, respect myself and put myself at the top of the list. in doing so, my marriage is strong, my husband has a wife that is “her own person” and my children learn the value lesson that they need to be “themselves”. This is the gift I give to myself, my husband, my children and those who are in my life.ReplyCancel

  • DeanJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:32 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the love of God. So many people here have shown that love and it is so wonderful to receive it and then to turn around and share it. He gave it so freely, why shouldn’t I? And thank you, for sharing with us–your love for God and your great gift.

    Blessings to you and yoursReplyCancel

  • DawnJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:36 pm

    The best gift I can give today is complete submission to God for in doing so I will be able to be what I need to be to the rest of the world. This is so much easier said than done. Thank you for sharing your talents and your faith.ReplyCancel

  • Sherry DJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:37 pm

    What a nice moment of reflection, I think the best gift that I can give today, any day for that matter would be to just be myself… growing up my Dad impressed upon me the importance of compassion, really listening when someone is talking, thinking before speaking, being honest and truthful and putting myself in others shoes to see that life can be hard and if I can make the road easier for others in some small way then I can count myself lucky.. it’s the golden rule, “do unto others as you would have someone do unto you” .. and it does come back to you… when I was a young single mom working long hours for very little my daughter and I were just barely getting by and one day at work I received a very large package filled with clothes and boots etc for both of us, the card was signed ” from a secret admirer” and I will never forget the warm rush that I felt that someone could care so much about us, they wanted no accolades.. they just wanted to help someone in need and I will never forget how good it felt.. In the years since I have found that by just being myself, living the golden rule is the best gift that I have to offer, it’s given freely and received warmly.ReplyCancel

  • Darla MillerJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:40 pm

    The best gift I can give today is…the gift of time to my kids! After school, my 13 year old daughter needed support on some difficult social situations and my 11 year son needed help on two big projects. They both needed to hear that they were doing great and making good choices. It really takes so little with kids – a hug, a few minutes of your time – they don’t need all the toys and distractions. Just someone to tell them they are wonderful and special.

    Congrats on your milestones. I’ve just hooked in with you recently (with the Spellbinders contest) and have enjoyed every e-mail you have written and every project you’ve made! :)

    Take care,
    DarlaReplyCancel

  • SueBJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:44 pm

    The best gift I can give is of my time. I learned today that a VBF’s Mom recently passed away and it reminded me that my own Mom’s getting along in years and sometimes I’m not as attentive to her as I should be.

    Congrats on the 1M hits, girl! And Wowza! Your “I Stayed Home from CHA” blog candy looks yummy – thanx for the t’riffic blog candy opp!ReplyCancel

  • ~michelle~January 27, 2009 - 11:45 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to teach my children about their Father in Heaven.

    In doing so I will be nuturing them to be wise with a wisdom that is greather than any wisdom on this earth.

    I will be teaching them to love others as one who has been shown the ultimate love.

    I will be encouraging them to live for things that are not temporal but eternal….the ULTIMATE gift.ReplyCancel

  • Kathy BJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:51 pm

    The best gift I can give is to be patient as my husband decides whether or not to take a new job opportunity. I have listened and helped list the pros/cons, but he needs to make the decision. To me, their are far more pros than cons, and I want to tell him to just do it…but I am not going to do that. That’s the easy thing to do, and I need to learn some patience. By not pushing him one way or the other, I hope he feels free to do what his heart wants to do.ReplyCancel

  • MeitalJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:53 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to share my knowledge and skills with everybody. as i am still learning to get my BA i really work hard and bring my laptop to all classes. when the semester is over all of my friends get the printed summaries. you can imagine their satisfaction… i guess i can upload those summaries for future students as well…

    this answer is a bit shallow but today thats all on my mind since i have a very big exam later!
    sooo wish me luck!ReplyCancel

  • ReginaJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:53 pm

    Hi Becca,
    I’m not at CHA, but I am looking forward to seeing what comes from it!!

    The best gift I can give today is my time and attention. Life can get so busy and hectic, and pretty soon we’re on the treadmill, just running to keep up! I used to pride myself on my ability to multi-task (something every woman does innately) but I recently became aware of the fact that we really can only DO one thing at a time. So my vow is to be attentive in the moment, realizing that giving my attention to someone is a gift to me and to them!

    Congrats on your milestones! Thanks for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • LindaSJanuary 27, 2009 - 11:57 pm

    My first thought was that the best gift I could give would be to give of myself – time, encouragement, love, and laughter.
    (Unfortunately, because of chronic illnesses, I sometimes withdraw instead.)ReplyCancel

  • JosieJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:11 am

    I stayed home from CHA too and the best gift I can give is health – oh how I wish I could give it to one and all and that no one would ever suffer from illness (big or small) again…so since health is in the power of someone far greater than me I will give prayer so that he might look kindly and take away the suffering from those that are ill.ReplyCancel

  • BettyBeeJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:18 am

    Dear Becca, Congratulations on your wonderful, inspiring blog, and reaching a million hits! That is a true testament to how you touch lives, and are giving your best gifts.

    The best gift that I can give today is to love God, first, and then to love my neighbor, as He commands. This, to me, means to build relationships. If one builds a relationship with the lady who lives down the block, you know when she needs a helping hand. Or the family that didn’t come to church this week,,,were they sick? Giving the a call is easy when they aren’t strangers. It’s easy to give service to one whom you love, and we love those whom we serve. God teaches that charity is the pure love of Christ, and we find it when we love one another. That’s the best gift that I can give…to my family, my friends…and I have a LOT of friends, and more and more to come.

    Blessings to you.ReplyCancel

  • DebSheffieldJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:22 am

    The best gift I can give is to listen – to my boss as she goes through chemo for breast cancer and has been ill this week – to a friend who is struggling with memory loss as she ages, and worries about participating fully in an organization we both love – and to my daughter as she over-extends herself this semester at college. Prayer goes hand-in-hand as I listen, of course…

    I’m missing CHA this year, too, but have wonderful memories of the past two years when I was able to attend!ReplyCancel

  • Karen HaysJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:25 am

    The best gift I can give is my time to my family. Life gets so busy, and time goes so quickly, before you know it the kids have lives of their own.
    Today I was “iced” in with my boys, 12 and 11. We watched a movie together, had popcorn. Had lunch and dinner together. The 12 yr old said grace and thank the lord for the opportunity to have this time together. Later I was scrapbooking and my 11 yr old came down and did some drawing for a couple of hrs. Time is precious and I have to stop and remember to take it all in before it is gone.ReplyCancel

  • lacyquilterJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:26 am

    The best gift I can give is time. It’s something that is so easy to be selfish with, making it more precious when shared with others.ReplyCancel

  • KarenJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:32 am

    Thanks for all your creative inspiration and your willingness to share.
    My gift would be to teach my children tolerance of others. We have so much to learn in this world and we can only enrich our lives by embracing other cultures and traditions. I would also teach my children to be kind to the environment. Balance is key to survival.ReplyCancel

  • LynneJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:35 am

    The best gift I can give today is spending time with my family. I lost my mother a couple years ago to pancreatic cancer. By the time she was diagnosed it was terminal. I took family medical leave and was her primary care giver for the four months she had left. Those horrible pain filled days and nights are the most precious memories of my life. i would not have traded a minute of that time for anything in this world.

    Moments with your family are more important than anything – you just don’t know how many moments are left. Treasure them while you can.ReplyCancel

  • Kerney WhitmanJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:42 am

    The best gift I can give today…is to serve my Lord. If I do that, then I have been a good mother, wife, daughter, friend, person. In the end this is the best gift I can give those I love.ReplyCancel

  • AmericaJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:44 am

    Oh Becca, you are amazing. Congrats on your upcoming Anniversary and hitting the 1 million hits mark! WOW!! You go girlfriend! :) I too am a mother of 4 children and so time is very precious. The best gift I can offer today is to SHARE something Ive learned with others. So often I realize (especially with my children), that they love to learn new things! The gratification of knowing Ive taught them something new is the very best gift I could give them today and everyday.ReplyCancel

  • cheryl yelvertonJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:47 am

    The best gift i can give today is to be thankful and appreciatiative of the time and care given to me from others.I am one of those that find it dificult to ask for prayer for myself because i feel my needs are miniscule compared to some.I feel that i have become too independent and it seems like i can’t take care of myself if i have to have others pray for me. my sunday school class was none too happy with me when i had a hysterectomy and didn’t tell anyone so they could pray for me and offer care for me. i had never thought about that by not sharing my needs i was cheating my friends out of the blessing they get when they care for someone.
    This time i had a knee replacement and i started early asking to be prayed for. i made sure everyone knew when and where and what my needs were.my friends and sunday school class have really come through for me. I have learned a valuable lesson.
    I too didn’t go to CHA. I didn’t even know i could.I have enjoyed all the sneak peeks i could find and can’t wait till all the items are out.I just got home from the hospital saturday and still trying to catch up on my blog hopping. thanks for such an awesome RAK, ms.cherylReplyCancel

  • Sue RJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:53 am

    Hi Becca
    This is easy for me, cause I am doing it right now. My gift would be my love & support. My cousin who is like my little sister to me (37yrs old) beat cancer 5 years ago. A year ago, she found out the cancer was back in the lymph nodes and was refusing treatment. She also tried to kill herself in Oct since she felt there was no point in “hanging” on any longer and they had to take her DL away from her. I went and stayed with her for a week and took my cardmaking supplies and we crafted and talked. I convinced her she needed to get the treatment and be here for her beautiful kids and new grandbaby. I told her after losing my mother when I was 10, I know her children need her here and to fight. She finally agreed to get treatment which started a month ago. She was doing great, going to all the appts. Last week she got some blowing news – she was diagnosed with chronic leukemia. She isn’t doing well with this, all the tests, and treatment is on hold until they figure what to do. Her husband is taking her on a week vacation if she can stay strong enough to go.
    I try to be there for her at all times, when she calls, wants to get together, and sometimes her conversations are so negative. I do my best to keep her spirits up and let her know we all love her and we are all here for her no matter what. “Life is too short, and you never know so you have to try for you and your kids and all of the family”.
    We are getting together again when she gets back from her short vacation to start a scrapbook for her grandbaby. I truly believe that will be great therapy for her since she took all the photos (loves photography) and I believe it is the best gift she leave her dd and granddaughter. After explaining not much was left for me since I was so young, she needs to do this for herself and her dd.
    Thanks Becca
    HugsReplyCancel

  • SparkofWhimsyJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:58 am

    Hello,

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of belief. I think that a person who believes in themself can do anything. So no matter who they are or the obstacles that they face, I try to inspire people I meet, be they familiar or strangers, to just believe they can do it. Believe they can be happy. Believe they can make a difference.

    Thank you for this entry. You share some amazing techniques. I’ve learned several from this blog I had never thought of and that really enriches my own projects.

    Blessings,

    AngeliqueReplyCancel

  • MariaJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:00 am

    The best gifts I gave today were prayer and encouragement. We have had several misfortunes in our family recently. My parents home was flooded. They have lost practically everything and there is no flood insurance. It is devastating. My husband’s finger was crushed when caught between two metal parts of machinery and needed reconstructive surgery…no health insurance. And now because of the economy one of the largest companies in our area closed and now we are without a job. My poor husband is so down and the only thing I could to is to pray and encourage. Seems those are two things we should do regularly as we never know what others are going through.ReplyCancel

  • NenaJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:09 am

    The best gift I can give today is to live out my faith by staying focused
    on Christ during this stressful time I am going through. My grown
    children still need the love and support of their christian mother just
    as much or maybe more than when they were young. They need
    to see me encouraging myself in the Lord!! Thank you so much for
    being a part of the support that God creates through his people that
    reaches clear down to the lives of my grandchildren each day..Blessings to You!ReplyCancel

  • Stephanie HargisJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:16 am

    The best gift I can give today is quality time with my husband! He has felt a little neglected lately due to some upcoming projects that I have been working on! He is the most understanding husband in the world and is completely supportive of my hobby but I know that it can sometimes take a toll on him! Well, since I say that, I need to go do it! :D Thanks for really reminding me of what is important!ReplyCancel

  • Glenda JJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:23 am

    The best gift I gave today was to take time out to spend most of the day with three very special friends who I didn’t get to visit with during the holidays. We had a wonderful time and want to try and get together once a month. It is so easy to let time get away from us and neglect our special friends by thinking we’re too busy! Same goes for time with family too. Thanks for making me think about the important things in life! Congratulations on your blog-aversary coming up. You are an awesome artist and person. Thanks for all you share!ReplyCancel

  • AmyJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:25 am

    The best gift I can give today is that of prayer. My friend Sandy has cancer of the lymph system. She has been battling cancer for four years. I am so thankful that I went to visit last week at the hospice facility. Because of her reduced strength, the family has decided to not allow visitors. Sandy & her family certainly need the gift of prayer.

    But I try every day to pray for my friends & family. Because I am disabled, I understand how good it feels to have someone praying for you. Even if they aren’t sick, they maybe dealing with a problem that I am unaware of.ReplyCancel

  • Mary GarveyJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:37 am

    The best gift I can give today is hope. With everything that is going in the world and closer to home (layoffs, loss of medical insurance), it is easy to despair, and hard to give encouragement and think “happy thoughts”. Sometimes all it takes to help someone feel better is to show them that there is hope for a better tomorrow.ReplyCancel

  • AlexandraJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:38 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time, love and smile. I am a busy mum of two little ones (2 and 4) and with household, crafting and all other things life throws at me it sometimes is hard to get the energy to just make time for the kids and enjoy life with them. But today I decided to make them (and me…) smile by taking them to a zoo. No preschool/nursery today, I cancelled that and will be leaving shortly with them for a day full of fun.
    Thank you for your inspirational blog and the chance to win something lovely again and also for reminding us all of just what is important!
    Love, AlexReplyCancel

  • TeresaJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:53 am

    The best gift I could give today was a little game of cards. I have 3 children at home on school holidays, it’s a disgustingly hot 41 degrees outside, 2 of the children have gastro. So I sat down in a cool spot with them and played snap, and then we all fell asleep! I loved my time with them today.ReplyCancel

  • Hila LevyJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:16 am

    The best gift I can give today is creativity :)
    In the last few days i’m feeling VERY creative, though i’m at work all day long (and it isn’t a creative work at all). I just feel like things are under the surface and will burst out soon… Can’t wait.ReplyCancel

  • elaineJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:19 am

    Becca – I love your blog! Your inspiration – both spiritual and motivational – have really made an impression on my life. Thank you for all you do to inspire me! Congrats on one million hits and Happy Anniversary on your first great year of blogging!

    The best gift I can give is my “true” self. With all the hardships and sadness in the world, there is not much I can do financially to help out. But if I can share a smile or a hug or a prayer when it’s needed it may do more than any amount of money! I’ve done a lot of soul searching lately and have found an inner self that God has plans for. I thank my good friend MS for helping me find my way when I thought all was lost. I am a lucky individual! GOD BLESS!ReplyCancel

  • Christine BrownlowJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:22 am

    The best gift I can give is love and kindness. There are so many people today struggling with everyday problems. I know I am one of them constantly struggling to keep my head above water. But I always think there are a lot of others alot worse off. I think a smile and a kind word or deed can go along way to help others , every day make some one smile , or do an act of kindness. I believe in what goes around comes around. Listen to what others have to say and don’t judge everyone. Be kind and loving and people will be the same with you.
    Thank you Becca for all your constant inspiration, congratulations on your blog anniversary. Thank you for a chance of winning.ReplyCancel

  • Kathy KelsheimerJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:46 am

    Hi Becca, The best gift I can give is be who I am, and that is a child of God. I am here to glorify Him and to be an example of Jesus to others. My prayer is that others can see the light of Jesus through me. My passion is to create cards to encourage others. You inspire me to do this, Becca, so thank you for that! I was thinking today that I have to…it’s not even an option!… make cards. And I was thinking that there are actually others that have to do the same! I suspect you are another that MUST make cards. Anyway, thank you for your blog. I enjoy it so much!ReplyCancel

  • Elaine AllenJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:00 am

    The best gift I can give today is my heart. I pray that it continues to feel compassion for those who have less than I do. That it is open enough to accept those who are different than I am, who think other than I do. That my heart can take those differences, embrace them and make a friend. I hope my heart never grows cold and complacent to the cruelty and unfairness that this world sadly still contains. I ask the Lord that my heart still remain open and able to recognize those who just need a kind word, a smile. It may not be much, my heart, but it is mine and it is what I have to offer.

    Elaine AllenReplyCancel

  • JenniferJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:02 am

    Yes, I’m home from CHA and look at your blog almost every day…just love it!! The best gift I can give is teaching…my children about school, about helping others by volunteering or giving toys/clothes to kids who don’t have any, about being nice to those who aren’t nice to us, about being friends w/those who have no friends, about Jesus and what He gives to us daily (“we use God’s light so we save electricity” is something my daughter says almost daily!), about being the best they can be…even if that means not being the “winner”.
    PS~Sure hope I win….I’d love some supplies to make some cards!! Thanks for offering these prizes:)ReplyCancel

  • PamJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:06 am

    The best gift I can give today is myself … as I’ve done for the past few years although, I guess, every year since my eldest son was born in 1972 but more particularly since I took early retirement 4 years ago to give aged parents more time. Before that I reduced working hours to give wheelchair bound hubby more time as well. Today will be the same as it’s been though since my Mum died last April and my time will be given more to my 86 year old Dad who turns 87 tomorrow! Poor Dad can barely walk and his memory is all of 5 minutes but he’s here and I guess that’s all that matters right now ….ReplyCancel

  • ReneeJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:19 am

    Thanks so much for the chance to win some wonderful blog candy! I truely truely enjoy your blog , you are so so talented!

    I would say the best gift i could give today is my faith. I too…would not be here today if it wasnt for my faith and the grace of God. He has seen me through so many things since i was a little girl taken away from her mother at age 5… With all i have been through and how i have survived only by the Grace of God, i can share my story in hopes that it wil help someone else along the way. And give them strength to carry on and believe that God is ALWAYS with us, in good times and bad.ReplyCancel

  • AbiJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:20 am

    The best gift I can give today, is my time for my family. I get so rolled up in gotta do this, gotta do that, that sometimes I forget to just take it easy and appreciate life and my family on a daily basis. Thanks for sharing your talent.ReplyCancel

  • Valarie FlorerJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:23 am

    The best gift I can give today is love and compassion. I will be sending some more cards to my sister to give to her friend, Deb, who is undergoing cancer treatment. She has received many from fellow stampers at SCS, for which she, Kat and myself are truly grateful.ReplyCancel

  • okienurseJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:31 am

    The best gift I can give someone is the ability to help themselves. I think self help is a learned behavior and if we are supportive of people and help them learn to help themselves we are true friends. If we don’t teach them then they end up crippled and have to depend on someone else all their lives instead of enjoying the sweetness of being able to do it themselves.
    I love your blog and all the beautiful things you make and do! Thanks for sharing with us and helping me grow to my full potential with my paper crafts!ReplyCancel

  • Anne - UKJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:36 am

    THe best gift I can give is myself, to hep others, taking care of my family is very important. To give support to our grandson who is autistic. One of the things he loves to do is to craft….
    Your blog gives so much inspiration and your cards are made from the heart, thank you.ReplyCancel

  • RosetteJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:53 am

    The best gift I can give myself today is the gift of time.. my time, cause that means giving myself and giving God.. as He is the fountain of time. If time wasn’t His present gift to me continually, I wouldn’t be able to give it with love to others. So while I can.. I shall give it.
    I give my time to Him with gratitude in prayer and in my consecrating my life to Him.. serving and loving traumatised and hurt children.. needing the constsnt healing and Love of God..and someone who gives his time to love, listen in proof that someone cares!ReplyCancel

  • KathyJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:07 am

    The best gift I will give today is time with my grandchildren. My daughter homeschools her 3 wonderful kids (2 are special needs) and although she cherishes the time with them, she needs some time for herself occasionally. Time to renew so she can come back refreshed. So I take the three little munchkins once or twice a week to spend the night with me. Actually that’s a gift to me as well! Thank you for a special blog–you are one of my “must reads” every day!ReplyCancel

  • Nancy JJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:26 am

    The best gift I can give today is to reach out and help someone else. I’ve had a very difficult year – my daughter is terminally ill and we got more bad news about her – and my nephew, age 17, died from brain cancer. I’ve had a lot to grieve, but I’ve found that the best gift I can give is to reach out to others and offer my support. Tomorrow I am going to give support to another family who has a daughter with a rare blood disorder. I’m also going to meet a mom who’s little girl has a similar heart defect and genetic defect as my own. I’m offering support as one mother who has “been there” to another who needs that comfort. I’ve been involved with local support groups for about 9 years, not only to receive support, but to offer support to others.

    I have found so much comfort and joy by helping others.

    Thank you for offering this blog candy! I love your cards and your inspiration.ReplyCancel

  • JennyJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:32 am

    The best gift I can give today is….thanks.
    Thanks to all my cyber buddies who have got me through some dark times and I have never even met you in the flesh, I am so blessed to know you all.
    Thanks for the gift of sight to see the sunrise each day and the birds and flowers and all that is glorious that we take for granted in our busy lives.
    Thanks to my pussy cat companions Charlie, Murphy and Dexter for being there for me through thick and thin and never judging or complaining but giving lots of furry cuddles.
    True thanks for finding Bekka and her amazing God given talent which spurs my own meagre crafting ability on in leaps and bounds.
    But finally my main thanks goes to GOD, for waiting and gently guiding me back to him after 40 years in my own personal hellish wilderness, for showing me that I am capable of being creative in my own way, that I am special and I have something to give however small, and that I am not alone even if I am on my own.
    Thank you sooooooooooooo much.ReplyCancel

  • Jill HaddadJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:33 am

    The best gift I can give today is prayer for, a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on and arms to hug my friend who lost her mother today.ReplyCancel

  • RobinJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:46 am

    The best gift I can give today is …

    for my husband and that would be to finish putting the house back in order after having to completely re-plumb it last weekend. There is so much left to do. Having the house neat and tidy would do a lot to help relieve his stress over the other things that have happened in the last week that are putting some strain on our finances.

    But I know that I know that I know that God is a Mighty God, and He will see us through!ReplyCancel

  • TereseJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:49 am

    The best gift I can give today is to be the best person I can be, and be as good a friend back to my wonderful friends, as they are to me. I am lucky enough to have the most awesome friends, who have been there for me, always.ReplyCancel

  • DianeJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:49 am

    I didn’t have to give this much thought, I’ll get to that statement in a minute! This New Year I gave myself two goals (I don’t do resolutions)! One was to think positive, what you “put out there” is what you get back! Also to put me first…not to sound selfish….but I have spent many years doing for others before me, this year it is about me, to slow down and take care of myself, that being said, I am going back to the positive thinking. Thinking positive to me also leads to prayer, which leads to the best gifit I can give today~prayer for my friend Mary at http://www.primitiveseasons.blogspot.com. In the last two months her brother has had a serious heart attack, her mother-in-law has had a double stroke, and this week her sister-inlaw passed away of recurring breast cancer, so my gift to you Mary is “I am praying for you” and can only be “positive” that things will get better.ReplyCancel

  • Mary BethJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:59 am

    The best gift is to freely share the love of my Savior and Lord – a gift that keeps on giving – forever!ReplyCancel

  • SueJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:04 am

    The best gift I can give today is prayer for those with aching hearts. Prayer is so amazing and helps us to heal as well, so I have been doing a lot of this lately.

    Your blog is amazing. Your cards are extremely gorgeous and so professional looking. I just love to see what you have here whenever you post.

    Thank you for a chance to win some blog candy and congrats on all of your hits. This doesn’t surprise me at all. :o)ReplyCancel

  • pamJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:13 am

    The best gift I can give today is to be understanding and compassionate to those less fortunate and give to those in need. And we should always try to remain positive and upbeat so that it will rub off onto others. Thanks for the blog candy, appreciate it! I love your work. PamReplyCancel

  • Sue CJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:15 am

    The best gift I can give today is attention. Whether I’m listening to a friend, creating a project, or saying a prayer, I need to give it my FULL ATTENTION! It is so easy to do things halfway – sort of listen, go through the motions, etc., but a lot gets missed this way – on both sides! Paying close attention makes it a fuller, richer, more rewarding experience…

    Whether I win the blog candy or not, thank you so much for making me take the time to think about this question – it comes at a good time, and I needed to think about it. This is another example of why you are so inspiring to so many – it’s not just about making “stuff”, it’s about making our lives deeper and richer. Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • LynnorJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:17 am

    The best gift I can give today is knowledge to a child. I am doing my student teaching to complete my BS in Special Education. It is one of my goals each day to reach at least one of the students in the class so that they leave that day with a skill they did not have when he or she arrived to school that morning. This is a tough group of kids, though. They are middle school students in a self-contained unit for students with emotional and/or behavioral disabilities. Whew…tough crowd!ReplyCancel

  • Laurie S.January 28, 2009 - 5:20 am

    What can I give? Several times a month my hubby and I deliver Meals on Wheels and of all the things we do I feel this is the most important. Also we volunteer at the local food pantry which is really struggling to help all those in need. The area where we live is having a huge unemployment problem. I think being aware of others, and their needs is where I can give in hopes it will make a difference. So many needs in this big world.ReplyCancel

  • Joan FrickerJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:21 am

    Becca,
    The best gift I have to give is to continue to pray for my family and live an example of what Christ had done in my life.

    I too didn’t go to CHA and I am really missing it!

    JoanReplyCancel

  • SouthernScrapsJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:38 am

    The best gift I can give today is a smile. That’s something I don’t do enough of, but when you pass someone and smile at them, it seems to make their day a little brighter. We never know what another person is struggling with inside, so it is so important to be kind.ReplyCancel

  • ColleenJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:43 am

    The best gift I can give is compassion. I work for a dermatologist and my job is to call people and give them the pathology results and if cancer, schedule them for surgery. I try to listen to their voice when getting this news and give the compassion and reassurance they need. Over the phone, this can be a challenge. Becca, I LOVE your blog. I can’t wait to get on every morning before work and see what you have created. Your are sooooo talented and I so appreciate your creativity. Thanx and may God continue to bless you.ReplyCancel

  • Ellie AugustinJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:48 am

    The best gift I can give today is care /patience as I have a full house today my DS2 is sick ,my husband is not working (as of Cuts at work) the roads are slick out and DS1 can’t go to school and my little DD is my daily at home buddy… so today I will manage about all them and make sure each is comfy and happy… but I will remember to stop and take a moment for me to look out the window and daydream a little…ReplyCancel

  • laura jJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:48 am

    Your blog is such a creative inspiration to me! The best gift that I can give is to share with others ……. I share my time through volunteering and also help out my family and friends whenever the need arises.ReplyCancel

  • Karen from OntarioJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:50 am

    Hi Becca,
    Thanks for a great gift pkg for us to win. Wow…. I think the best gift I can give today are many. I will give of myself to my family by sharing so much love that I have in my heart for them….and show them that love by all that I do for them.
    I have daycare children that I will give myself to as well when we smile and have fun playing and crafting together. I will offer my prayers for my friends and family that need to know that God is with them during their struggles.
    Kindness, love, caring, prayer and giving of ourselves….I think the person giving receives an even larger gift in return in knowing they tried to make a difference in someone’s life today.ReplyCancel

  • MaxineJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:58 am

    The best gift that I can give each and every day is a smile. It seems to brighten the day of the person who receives it and it certainly benefits me. I would include a kind word, prayer and hope to each and everyone that I meet and talk to over the days, weeks and months.
    I couldn’t attend the convention because of health, but look forward to all the postings that you do. You are one talented lady!
    All of the postings are so well written that I know you will have a very hard time picking a winner.
    I would love to have the set, but will understand if I am not chosen.

    MaxineReplyCancel

  • Pat PhillipsJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:06 am

    The best gift I can give each day is “Gratitude” to God. I thank Him each and every day for all He’s blessed me with…another day with my ailing husband, a comfortable home, warm bed to sleep in, food on the table, and a JOB to go to every morning. And with this spirit of gratitude, I try to give the best of myself to those I meet each day.ReplyCancel

  • ValerieCJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:06 am

    Becca, you are so generous already with your creativity! Thank you. The best gift I can give today is hope. My fourteen year old daughter has been home from school for three years because of medical problems. She has lost hope and is angry with God. Her medical problems began as an infant. We brought her to Boston Children’s Hospital, 4 1/2 hours away from our rural home. She had a fixated jaw joint that was life threatening because she could only open her mouth 10mm. At nineteen months she had the first of three reconstruction surgeries that required her to be in the ICU for long periods of time. She had to have three tracheostomies. We had to take her home with them because she developed trachealgranuloma’s in her airway. Around nine years old she started complaining of hip pain. I kept telling her it was growing pains. As time went on the complaints grew in intensity and frequency. Then one day I heard her hip “pop”. It was an awful noise. We had an x-ray done and even a lay person could see there was something drastically wrong. Both hips were deformed. My daughter was an athelete. She played sports everyday. She loved softball and field hockey. That was the beginning of struggle for the last three years. She was hospitalized for severe pain and contracted MRSA (antibiotic resistant staph). This postponed her reconstructive hip surgery. She spent the summer unable to play or go outside because the pain was so intense. In October 2006 she finally had her first reconstructive surgery at Children’s hospital. She was in terrible pain because the work they had to do was so severe. We were unable to get her home by car. She was brought home by ambulance. She was in a wheel chair. This went on for months. She was on high doses of pain medication. She essentially stopped eating and her hair fell out in clumps. She weighed seventy pounds at 12 years old. Months later they reconstructed the left hip and then her jaw again. The pain in the right hip got worse and worse. They couldn’t find out what was wrong because of the hardware they placed to stabilize the hip. It blurred the MRI. After a year they were able to take out the hardware, which was also a major surgery because they had to cut muscles again. The MRI showed she had osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Somehow the blood flow was being cut off causing the femoral head to die and then fracture. The pain from this continually got worse until it was absolutely unbearable. She screamed around the clock and was hospitalized for weeks at a time. No one would touch her because of her age. We searched up and down the eastern seaboard. Finally a doctor in our small rural area said he would do a hip replacement on her. In August of 2008 she had her right hip replaced at the age of 13. Then her left hip began aching all the time. The MRI showed that it is full of arthritis. She has been left with venous congestion. A condition that causes the blood to pool in feet and lower legs when you stand still or sit. She also walks like a penguin now because of muscle weakness and the surgeries. This causes her back to hurt. She missed jr. high and now the first year of high school. She feels separated from her peers. Every year I tell her next summer things will be better. She needs HOPE more than anything! That is the best thing gift I could give her. I’d like to ask that anyone reading this to please say a prayer for my daughter, her name is Chandler. I believe in the power of prayer. Although she doesn’t see it now, I know we’ve had blessings along the way. Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • LindastampsJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:13 am

    The best gift I can give today is myself. Day to day routine gets int he way of that sometimes as we’re all so busy.

    Congrats on your milestones!ReplyCancel

  • kimJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:30 am

    Becca ~ Congrats on these new milestones! I’m thankful you didn’t go to CHA ~ like all the other ladies, I would miss reading your daily blog.
    I read all the previous post and agreeded with so many.
    The best gift I can give is to try to live my life as Christ-like as possible.
    I Can’t wait to see what you create this week.ReplyCancel

  • MakarenJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:30 am

    The best gift I can give is my time. Time to listen to someone who has a problem, like the lady at work whose grandchild is in the hospital. Time to make an anniversary card for my husband of 41 years to let him know how much I love and value him. Time to spend with my grown children to foster a different kind of relationship than parent to child, more of a friend to friend. It all does boil down to taking the time to stop and consider what another person needs from you whether its a prayer or a sympathetic ear or letting them hear how they touch your life.

    And congratulations on a million hits. I’m not a bit surprised.ReplyCancel

  • Jessica RussellJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:41 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. My best friend is a single mom, not by choice. She relies heavily on her dad to help her with before and after school care for her two boys while she is at work. She just found out her dad will be having back surgery and 3 months of recuperation some time this spring. She is scared for he dad, and worried about figuring things out for her boys. I told her simple “we’ll help.” Whatever she needs us to do, we will do it. That is what friends are for!ReplyCancel

  • Wanda HJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:42 am

    Becca, I’ve only been following your blog for a short time and I don’t think I’ve actually left a comment yet (that time thing) but your art is amazing!!!! Everything is gorgeous right down to the final detail… thank you!!!

    The best gift I can give today would be a smile and a word of encouragement.. sharing God’s love and praying.ReplyCancel

  • Deb-doodlesJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:43 am

    The best gift I can give is kindness by smile or deed even if the events of the day are stress-filled.

    Becca as always I enjoy your blog and your great creative works!

    DebReplyCancel

  • Debra BarkerJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:43 am

    The best gift I give today,getting up and thanking God for Life, Health, and Strength. Thinking of others and helping the kids that I work with, also my family and friendsReplyCancel

  • KarenJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:43 am

    Wow Becca. Awesome blog candy!

    I best gift I can give today would be to show someone the love and forgiveness of Christ. There is no greater gift than eternal life. If I don’t get that opportunity (since it is snowing and sleeting like crazy out right now) then I should be the best mother, wife (to hubby who is having a birthday today), sister, aunt, and friend I can be. Even on difficult days I am reminded that there is One who went through much more for me and so I should be thankful. One day He is going to wipe away every tear and so those difficult days will all have been worth it! God bless you for your kindness and generosity.ReplyCancel

  • LauraJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:43 am

    It is so exciting to see the new releases. It is more exciting to see everyone who shares their talents with us. You are one talented lady and I so appreciate your sharing. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. Thank you.ReplyCancel

  • Michelle NadraszkyJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:46 am

    The best give I can give today is: ME, Myself, my undivided attention to my family!ReplyCancel

  • Susan JoyceJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:46 am

    Becca,
    Congrats on all your milestones, you deserve them, you are so talented.

    The best gift I can give is myself, to family and friends and through my creativety encourging others to take up a hobby so they are less stressed, and have something to occupy their time and lives, so the worries of the world are not so bad.ReplyCancel

  • TerriJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:48 am

    The best gift I can give today is time for my husband. I have had to work long hours for the last 6 weeks including working after I get home from the office. We miss having our time together. I hear the disappointment in his voice when I say I can’t take time to go to lunch with him. Today, I will make time for him.ReplyCancel

  • PatJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:50 am

    The best I can give to anyone on any day is me, my time, by listening, and by accepting you as you are.ReplyCancel

  • NormaJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:53 am

    The best gift I can give is time. We are visiting our grandchildren and it snowed yesterday (took lots of pictures for the memory calendar I’m doing for their parents for Christmas this year) and we had an ice storm come through last night, so no school today. Four other grandchildren will be dropped off at noon so we will have a cousins play date and more Hallmark moments I’m sure. They love to get together and play. Since they all live on the east coast and I now live on the west coast, we take advantage of every moment we have to get together and play together. Thanks for the opportunity to win the blog candy, it looks wonderful. Love your blog and your wonderful creativity.ReplyCancel

  • Janice DonahueJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:00 am

    The best gift I can give today is patience. I have a husband who recently had surgery and will be out of work for at least 6 months. He is to do nothing but heal. He is not someone who knows how to sit still and it is trying my nerves to make him do nothing. So today I will be as patient as possible. JaniceReplyCancel

  • senaJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:00 am

    The best gift I can give today is love and a helping hand. Actually, I can give that on most days :) Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • Mary CJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:03 am

    The best gift I can give today is . . . giving of myself and to listen, but not only listen but hear what others are saying. Understand what others are going through and help them beleive they are going through it not by themselves, but with God’s love. Mary CReplyCancel

  • pamJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:12 am

    the best gift i can give is a smile. such an easy thing but so important. there are too many grumpy self absorbed people around….and one smile can light up a day ! and it is contagious……so spreading a little joy one smile at a time….no cost but the benefit is hugeReplyCancel

  • Debbie DJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:14 am

    The best gift I can give is patience everyday. This is something I need to work on and be conscious of each day. I tend to get caught up in all that needs to be done and want to rush everything along. I am not superwoman and some things truly can wait until tomorrow.ReplyCancel

  • RitaJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:14 am

    The best gift I can give today is the best gift of all: love. Whether it be for family, friends, co-workers, or total strangers, do something loving and caring to connect with another human being.

    Becca – I love your creations!!!ReplyCancel

  • Lauri IngramJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:18 am

    The best gift I can give today is hope. So many of us have challenges, some seen, some unseen, that it is important for each of us in our own way to offer support and hope to everyone. None of us know what other path the other one walks.

    Thanks for the opportunity to win this! You are an inspiration, and I have been a lurker here for quite a while!ReplyCancel

  • CindyJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:20 am

    The best gift I can give today is myself; my prayers, time and attention to my husband and son.ReplyCancel

  • Janet BJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:21 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. Time for each student that asks me something–time where I focus solely on that person and don’t multitask. Time for my children–asking them how their day was, talking to them as adults, showing my true interest in each of them. Time for my partner–listening intently to how his day went and how he is feeling. Time for my mom–listening to her daily struggles with my sister and her children who are dealing with a mental illness, and various other issues in their dysfunctional life. My mom is their support system.ReplyCancel

  • KatieJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:21 am

    These days I feel that the best gift I can give is a prayer for peace and prosperity for our world. I’ve been doing this for three weeks now, sometimes it’s a quick one, sometimes it’s one I meditate on for a while. I don’t know how much it’s helping others, but it certainly has turned out to be a nice gift to myself…I have felt much more centered the last few weeks. Hopefully that overflows to my ‘everyday’ life. Thanks for the thought-provoking question!
    Cheers,
    KatieReplyCancel

  • TrudyJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:28 am

    The best gift I can give today is patience. We have had lots of ice and I’m getting ready to leave for work so I know the driving is going to be challenging! The best gift I can give in a few months is love and wisdom. I am going to be a grandmother for the first time to all 3 of my daughter in laws. Neither couple planned it that way, but all 3 of my grandchildren will be born in unison, May, June and July. Congratulations on your upcoming 1 yr. anniversary.ReplyCancel

  • teresa chapmanJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:29 am

    The best gift I can give today is making every person I come in contact with today feel special. Rather than going through the motions that we all find ourselves doing in day to day life I’m going to take the time to appreciate everyone who make my days flow seamlessly. May it be a warm smile, a compliment, letting a car squeeze in front of me in traffic. I will be more aware of those little things that make a difference.

    Thanks so much for the blog candy chance. I read your blog every day and wish I had an ounce of your talent. Thanks for the inspiration.

    TeresaReplyCancel

  • Barb (GrandmaUpNorth)January 28, 2009 - 7:29 am

    The best give I can give today is myself – through prayer, a smile, a helping hand, and a listening heart.ReplyCancel

  • Mary LukemanJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:33 am

    The best gift I can give today is forgiveness. The gift of forgiveness generates freedom both in the person that is forgiven and the person who forgives. Next to love it is the most powerful gift.

    Becca, I admire your work so very much. Your cards are stunning. Your blog is my favorite! Thank you for your generosity in sharing blog candy.
    MaryReplyCancel

  • Joyce RougeouJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:35 am

    The best gift I can give today, is my time. DH is off work today, and has many errands he wants to get done. I will be here for him, and help him to accomplish them.ReplyCancel

  • PeggyJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:36 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time and love. I homeschool my children and it is a gift of time and love. I am trying to train them to do right each day. (Proverbs 22:6)

    I love your art work and always look forward to each new creation. Thank you for the time and love you spend on each piece and for sharing it with us.
    God Bless!ReplyCancel

  • maryJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:37 am

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of my time. My MIL was recently admitted to long term nursing care with a severe stroke and my brother has been in ICU for ten weeks now and will soon be sent to long term care. They both need a visit and the gift of a smile, a hand holding session, reassurance that God is right there with them. Also today we have a funeral to attend. My SIL died on Monday from breast cancer so it will be a busy day.

    Becca thanks so much for offering this wonderful blog candy and for being so generous with sharing your cards and projects with us and for sharing all your secrets and tips as well.

    Mary
    http://www.primitiveseasons.blogspot.comReplyCancel

  • Lynne P.-D.January 28, 2009 - 7:39 am

    The best gift I can give today is time with my youngest teenage son. We both have an unexpected snow day today and I can’t think of a better way to spend it. Just the two of us together. Next fall he will be off to college and these type of days will be few and far between (if any) for quite awhile. Now to find an activity that we both enjoy. Maybe some photography of the new snow that is falling outside.ReplyCancel

  • RomaineJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:40 am

    The best gift I can give today is . . .to listen. I have two teenage sons. I pick them up each day after school and I ask them how their days went. I am there to help them with their homework if they need me. My oldest son in taking AP English and his teacher is sometimes very tough on the students but I just continue to encourage him to do his best. My husband has been at his job for 2 years and it is very discouraging when he is lacking staff and works long days and weekends. I know that I can’t help his work situation but if I can just be there to listen to his vents and encourage him that it will get better.ReplyCancel

  • CarolJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:45 am

    I love your inspirational blog and your thought-provoking questions. After much thought, I’d say the best gift I could give today is a smile to everyone I come in contact with. In this busy world, many folks have forgotten how to be kind to one another, and a big smile is the best way to get off on the right foot.
    TFS all your talent with the craft world!ReplyCancel

  • Sue StrozykJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:46 am

    The best gift i can give today…. well, it’s my husbands birthday today soooo… I will be giving him those new hockey skate he’s been wanting!!ReplyCancel

  • Becky DeVossJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:47 am

    The best gift I can give today is to give to others. Whether it be a smile, time, kindness, or just sharing with others, these are just small gifts from God that we can give to others.ReplyCancel

  • Amy SabolJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:47 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. Time to make my Mom a pecan pie for her birthday as she turns 75 today and has the energy of a 45 yr. old!! Time to homeschool my 4 children. Time to send a quick e-mail note to a friend who lives hours away. Time to spend with the Lord in His Word!! Thank you, Becca, for taking the time to read each and every comment you will have. That means a lot to me.
    Becca, Thank you for sharing such wonderful blog candy. I have been praying for some “nesties” for quite a while now. I absolutely love your creations — they are gorgeous and you certainly have been blessed of God with many gifts and talents. I always feel inspired by your creations and the encouragement you give in your blog. I wish we could sit down, have a cup of tea or coffee, talk and pray. Keep up the beautiful creations as I love pearls, too!! Your cards are my style and I am a gift-maker, as well — so I do treasure ideas!! Love, ~Amy S.~ReplyCancel

  • Mary EstherJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:52 am

    Since I am “home alone” the best gift I can give today is my prayers…for my immediate family…and for others I know who have special needs. It has meant so much TO ME to have others pray for my recovery from a broken back this winter. I can uphold others in prayer as they come to mind.

    I am looking out at over eleven inches of new fallen snow…and it’s still snowing. :-) Since I am still recuperating, I won’t be getting out in it.

    Thank you for the chance to win the blog candy. I would LOVE to win the Nesties especially.

    Your art is an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your talent and for giving God the glory for it!ReplyCancel

  • Ellen AJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:53 am

    It’s snowing here and I have given 3 hours of my time shoveling out seniors already this am. I’m glad I left early to take my mil to her app’t today so I could help some of her friends get out too. I enjoy you blog. Ellen AReplyCancel

  • KarinJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:53 am

    The best gift to give any day is that of love…Especially to those who are least loveable.ReplyCancel

  • sallymiJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:57 am

    I think a “best gift” is listening, not talking but listening to a friend who needs someone to listen.ReplyCancel

  • Robin ThompsonJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:58 am

    Congratulations on all your beautiful work and accomplishments. I recently discovered several new blogs and yours is by far the one I most anticipate! Thank you for all you do.
    The best gift I can give today is to focus on being God’s love in this world. My problems always seem smaller when I take the focus off “me” and strive to see things through God’s eyes.ReplyCancel

  • Kim BJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:59 am

    The best gift I can give today is a SMILE! It is contagious! There is always so much negative news these days that we need to be thankful for what we have. I am always telling my boys to thank God for what you have, and don’t dwell on what you don’t have.

    God bless!ReplyCancel

  • RonnJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:59 am

    The best gift I can give today is my patience, love and time. All the children are home from school today because of a snow day and the hour or two that I ususally have to myself will now be filled with screaming children.ReplyCancel

  • DorisJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:01 am

    The best gift I can give today is to leave a comment on all the blogs I visit. It takes a lot of work to maintain a blog, and it’s always encouraging to receive comments. Thanks for sharing all your beautiful artwork!ReplyCancel

  • DeenaJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:05 am

    The best gift I can give today is time to myself. I stayed home from work because of snow, and I want to spend the day being creative, making some fun things and not feeling guilty about it!! I am going to take some time for me today!ReplyCancel

  • Judy WilliamsJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:10 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. We talk about tithing our money, but just imagine what could be done for the Lord if we all tithed our time!

    Today I will make some more note cards for the staff at my church (they send them to people when the have been prayed for during the weekly staff meeting).

    I will meet with the rest of the leadership team for the ministry I
    co-chair, and we will spend time planning and praying.

    I will joyfully take care of my home and family, praising God in everything.ReplyCancel

  • DonaldaJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:12 am

    The best gift I can give today is to share the Grace of God that I have been given every day that I live. Thank you for sharing your amazing talent with us.ReplyCancel

  • Cathy GreenJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:13 am

    The best gift I can give today is time. I was a SAHM for 23 years. Then when my DH lost his job last year, I went back to work. I didn’t realize how much time you put into a full time job. (I guess that’s why they call it full time!). All the fun stuff that I did had to be put on the shelf until I had time to spend on fun stuff. So if I spend time on something other than my job, it’s a choice I make. And since a gift should be something that is treasured and precious, that is definitely my time.ReplyCancel

  • NellieJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:21 am

    Thanks so much for your inspiration and also for the chance to win. The one thing I like to give away is all the cards I make. I give them to all the elderly sick and lonely in our church. It gives me much satisfaction to do this. Hope you have a great day.ReplyCancel

  • CyndiJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:23 am

    Hi
    I love the BLOG candy and congrats on almost your first anniversary. I get really inspired from your blog.

    This has been a difficult last few weeks. My father passed away on December 5 and I can barely stamp. Just can’t get very inspired.

    I did buy some stamps from http://www.onyxxpressions.com to help! and that did it!

    The best gift that I can give is to show kindness at my job. I work in a pharmacy and customers who are ill just sometimes are not too nice or happy.

    Take care & God bless you!ReplyCancel

  • BrendaJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:25 am

    I think the best gift I can give is to teach my children well. There are no guarantees, of course, and the world will have its own influence on them. But by trying my best to raise happy, responsible, compassionate, well-rounded individuals, I am giving a precious gift. Not only to them, but to myself, their future spouses, their children, and ultimately the world.ReplyCancel

  • Theresa LeonardJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:30 am

    Congrats! I’m happy for your anniversary, but happy that you devote so much time to the blog and share such beautiful creations. Thanks for being such a spiritual inspiration.ReplyCancel

  • Liz VellaliJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:34 am

    The best gift I can give is myself. I can continue to show my family, friends and others how much I love them and will always care about them. Sometimes I falter, but I always get back on track. As the parent of a child with special needs it never ceases to amaze me how he can find such joy in the little things, like the falling snow! It has shown my other children, love, compassion and caring about fellow human beings! Please continue to do what you are doing. You make a difference in the world with your beautiful creations.ReplyCancel

  • sandi stampin by the lakeJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:36 am

    You are my inspiration for the New Year – your work is thoughtful, precise and beautiful!! The best gift I can give this year is forgiveness!!ReplyCancel

  • Angji PruenteJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:37 am

    The best gift I can give today will be making cards for our soldiers to send home to their loved ones. Then having our big weekly family dinner and spending time with my niece and nephew instead of watching tv. Wednesdays are my favorite!ReplyCancel

  • Janet RohdeJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:37 am

    Hi,
    My best gift would be time. I love to volunteer and work with the elderly. Love your blog.ReplyCancel

  • Rachel HopeJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:38 am

    WOW, that is some Super Sweet Candy!!!

    I am a long time reader of your blog, from my Google Reader…I don’t comment much, but I am greatly inspired by your creations, thank you for making the WWW a little more beautiful every day!ReplyCancel

  • WandaJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:39 am

    The best gift I can give today is the same as every other day. Myself, love, compassion, mercy, a listening ear, a hug, a smile, a prayer, advice (only when asked), understanding and forgiveness.ReplyCancel

  • Mary MarshJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:39 am

    The best gift I can give today is more of myself to others who might need -prayer-encouragement-a helping hand-some love. Scripture encourages us to reach out beyond ourselves because when we do one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored we are doing it to Jesus!!ReplyCancel

  • Erika HydeJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:40 am

    There is so much going on in my life and in my family. My husband is in the military and is away until March, and I am in the process of having my daughter evaluated for ADD. We had round one yesterday and the doctor seems to think she falls into the spectrum but now we have to wait to get a referral for our insurance so we can see a specialist and get a treatment plan in place. It breaks my heart to see her struggle. SO I suppose for now the best gift I can give today is courage. The courage to face the next few months with my husband gone and so much happening in our family, the courage to trust in God to give us exactly what we need when we need it.
    Your cards are beautiful and so uplifting! Thank you for sharing them with everyone.ReplyCancel

  • SusannaJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:41 am

    The best gift I can give today is to show love to everyone I come into contact with. We never know what other’s circumstances are, how their day has been, how they have been treated. That show of love, even if from a stranger, may mean the world to them.ReplyCancel

  • KarilynJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:41 am

    The best gift I can give today is a smile and a hug to someone who needs it.ReplyCancel

  • debJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:41 am

    Congratulations on your 1 year anniversary and the milestone of hits to your blog!
    My gift would be my time to my family. I love them dearly and with the crazy schedules they lead, its hard to connect, but a phone call to say I love you, is a must. Warms the heart to hear they love me too! What could be better?
    Thank you for offering great blog candy! I visit you daily and you are my inpiration.
    hugzReplyCancel

  • JillyJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:45 am

    The best gift I can give right now is my strength through Christ. After having lived out of state for 10 years, we moved back “home” last summer. Since then it has been a bumpy ride … my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently undergoing radiation, and my father-in-law recently had a seizure and mini stroke. Most of my family are not Christians so these hard health issues give me an opportunity to show Christ’s love and strength. God’s timing and plans for my life are so perfect … He brought us back home where He knew we would be needed. We’re also “home” for the pleasant things … one niece is expecting her first baby in a couple months, and her sister is getting married this summer. God is so good!ReplyCancel

  • ShawnaJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:45 am

    The best gift I can give today will have to be giving of myself. My time, a listening ear, an encouraging word. With the economy so bad at the moment I have some clients who are giving up their nail services and when they walk through my door to tell me the bad news, it is just so much more to them than eliminating a service. For some, the time spent across from me at my nail table is the only time they have for themselves and it hurts to have to give that up. Women are the usual “givers” in the family and most ignore their own needs in favor of the family’s needs. These women need the encouragement and kind words I can freely give and I will be honored to be able to do that for them in hopes it will help in some small way.ReplyCancel

  • EleanorJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:47 am

    The best thing for me today is being thankful — husband, family, friends, work, creativity, surviving 18 years breast cancer, etc. I didn’t go to work today because of ice and will keep my nine year old grandson while his mom works. He loves his videos and computer! Just thankful for everthing!ReplyCancel

  • MARYJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:47 am

    The best gift I can give today is to just listen, especially to those who need someone to talk to about their burdens.ReplyCancel

  • Megan LockJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:47 am

    This is GREAT blog candy!! I would *love* to win some of that! Oddly, I woke up in the middle of the night thinking about one of your cards–you know, the one with two frames stacked on each other with pearls?!?! It had a beautiful Scripture on it and I just love it. How’s that for making an impression! :)

    The best gift I can give today is forgiveness. DH and I got in a tif last night. Sad. We’re newly weds and still adjusting to one another. We do better than yesterday most of the time. :) I love that man.ReplyCancel

  • KarenJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:48 am

    The best gift I can give is love and support to my mom. She received some bad news on Monday and I was not very understanding. We have not talked since then. Today I am going to call her and tell her I am very sorry for not understanding her pain. Hopefully she will forgive me and I will let her know that I will try and be more understanding of her pain and sometimes she just needs to vent her feeling to me.ReplyCancel

  • Rosemary DJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:49 am

    The best gift I can give today…. patience with my children and letting God be in the drivers seat! He will always do what is best.

    You are crazy, amazing talented! Probably one of the most talented papercrafters I have come across! Thanks for sharing your most definitely God-given talent with all of us!ReplyCancel

  • Melanie KJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:57 am

    The best gift I can give today is a gift of a fond memory to my girls, by having a tea party with them. I just read the book The Cabin Faced West and I weeped at the part when the only daughter, who was lonely and homesick for her home and friends back East, took the moms best china out of the chest knowing she’d get in trouble for doing so, and had a tea party all by her lonesome self.

    When the mom discovered what her daughter had done, instead of getting angry and punishing her daughter, she, in her wisdom and sensitivity, joined her daughter in her little tea party, making a special memorable moment with her daughter.

    So today is going to be a gift of memory to my girls, baking ‘tea cakes’, dressing up in our best gowns and enjoying a nice cup of tea on this snow day (we’re getting 11 inches!).ReplyCancel

  • Sherry107January 28, 2009 - 9:00 am

    The best thing I can give is my faith and love in Jesus! with my family and friends!ReplyCancel

  • BethJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:01 am

    The best gift I can give today is love and encouragement. My DH lost his job the Monday before Christmas, and is so down and discouraged. I try to lift him up daily by sharing little bits of Scripture. I know we’ll get through this….we always do, thanks to our awesome God!
    Becca, thanks so much for sharing your talent with us on your blog! Your work is gorgeous, and a real treat!
    Hugs,
    BethReplyCancel

  • Jan ButlerJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:01 am

    The best gift I can give today is myself, whether in prayer and concern for friends in need because of health issues or just to be there to listen. To be just an ear for someone to talk to can be a gift they need, without offering more than an ear. I’m learning more each day that just being there can make all the difference.ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth V.January 28, 2009 - 9:01 am

    The best gift I can give today is to listen with undivided attention. Too often I listen with only a half an ear while my brain is making a list or thinking about the next thing. The gift of undivided attention costs me nothing and yet can be priceless to the recipient and that is my goal for the day. Today is the only today I will get so I’m going to do my best to listen well: to my Lord, my husband, my children and my friends. Thanks for offering the great prize!ReplyCancel

  • ConniecrafterJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:05 am

    I would have to say my time, it seems there just isn’t enough hours in a day anymore, and giving of your time means alot to people. To really be tuned into the way people are feeling, and give them a little time to talk to you, makes them feel a whole lot better. Sometimes we are going so fast that we don’t notice when someone may need you just to stop and listen!ReplyCancel

  • GiovanaJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:08 am

    The best gift I can give today is… time with my daughter. I know saying it is so easy, but doing it sometimes is difficult. I homeschool her, so we spend time studying and doing projects, but I want to spend more time playing and just being goofy (she loves that!)
    I lost my mom when I was only 13 and I know how difficult is to spend time just by yourself.

    Congratulations Rebecca for your blogoversary!!!! I love your blog since you started it. You are one of my favorite artists.
    Many blessing to you and many many more years of happy creations.

    GiovanaReplyCancel

  • Denise MJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:21 am

    The best gift I can give today is caring for my 84 years young Mom who is admirably fighting lung cancer.ReplyCancel

  • Bev J.January 28, 2009 - 9:26 am

    I haven’t been a reader of your blog very long but sure do enjoy your wonderful talent! Really like your banner.

    My gift for today would be to support my husband. He has lots of people who depend on him. We just received 5-6 inches of sleet and snow. He bladed our drive, a friend called needing help because he was stuck and his brother needs help cutting ice for the cattle to drink-all that just this morning. I think God he has the health and strength (he is diabetic) to help others so will be praying for him while he is out and about!ReplyCancel

  • NancyJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:31 am

    The best gift I can give today is to just be happy and love my friends and family the very best way I can.ReplyCancel

  • LaurieJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:32 am

    Becca,
    The best gift anyone can give is time. Time spent in the company of friends and family, time spent in prayer for our nation, its leaders, its military, our missionaries and our Christian brothers and sisters around the world, and time spent renewing relationships that get neglected within our own households while we women try to do everything because some of us cannot say no!
    Anyone receiving one of your cards, Becca, would feel you had just spent time with her/him. Your cards say “I care for you!” I feel inspired everytime I come to your blog.ReplyCancel

  • NikiJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:35 am

    The best gift I can give today is my love and devotion to our Savior, Jesus Christ. By living fully in Him, I am better able to love my family and others around me.

    Thanks for your wonderful blog, and blog candy!

    NikiReplyCancel

  • SandyJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:38 am

    The best gift I can give today is . . . sharing and caring. Daily I am overwhelmed with newly unemployed, homeless families and uninsured people in our country. I give money each month to our local food and clothing pantry. I also give to another group that helps families you have needs that have been turned down by 3 agencies. I make cards for people who need cheering up. You inspire me everyday Becca!! Thanks.ReplyCancel

  • cards4uJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:39 am

    The best gift I can give? – the Mary in me says prayer and the Martha in me says time : ) I pray each day with our 5 y. o. on the way to school for the teachers and students. Today I had the joy to help in the classroom and work with a little one who struggles in class and often sports an attitude. As I helped this little girl I saw God melt away the hardness and make her heart soft. Not only could I see her countenance change but she thanked me for helping her. What a blessing! Thanks for sharing your gifts with us and the chance to play!ReplyCancel

  • Darcie FerreiraJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:39 am

    Hello,
    The best gift I can give today would be ….Knowledge.I home school my children.I try to go beyond book learning and teach them valuable things about faith and service to others.I also work in Awana,a wonderful club our church has that teaches children about God and how to grow in their walk with him.I love helping kids memorize scripture verses!
    Blessings,
    DarcieReplyCancel

  • neenieJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:40 am

    The best gift that I can give today is PRAYER. Our world is hurting with war, hunger, homelessness and abuse. Our country is hurting with unemployment, a depressed economy, hatred, depression & recession and a loss of Godliness. Prayer for the positive to grow out of the negative, gain to grow out of loss, encouragement to grow out of despair, love to grow out of hate, acceptance to grow out of the unloved and the inner peace of the love of God to grow INTO the hearts of believers and unbelievers alike. Becca, thank you for this challenge. It is sometimes necessary for a little push like this for me to step back, search my heart and reset priorities. Your talent is exceptional but your love of God comes through all of your writing and is refreshing. Congrats on your 1 year anniversary!ReplyCancel

  • Marisa (whiterockmama)January 28, 2009 - 9:40 am

    Thank you for your wonderful blog :) I just love your amazing creations and sure wish I had just one of your creative genes!! The blog candy looks beyond yummy – thank you!

    Best thing I can share is multi-faceted. First and foremost, I want to be able to share Christ’s love with others. I watch kids before and after school and it is wonderful to be able to share God’s love with them through their being in our home. We pray before breakfast, several have come to VBS in the summer and two come to youth on Tuesdays! No decisions for Christ that I know of but I know seeds are being planted – yes!!

    A very close second is modelling my relationship with Christ with my kids. I want them to be able to grow in their relationship with Jesus, to be able to depend on Him in their daily lives, to see His faithfulness, how he answers prayer and how He is sovereign in all areas of our lives. I want to give them a foundation in Christ that will allow them to stand firm for Christ no matter what the world/Satan throws at them so they can be wonderful leaders and examples for Christ in a world that so desperately needs it!ReplyCancel

  • PamJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:48 am

    The best gift I can give today is love and appreciation to my husband for taking such good care of me following my surgery. I think it should be Valentines Day every Day!

    PamReplyCancel

  • DebraJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:50 am

    The best gift I can give today is to radiate GOD’s love by placing other’s needs ahead of my own and to make the best use of the wonderful gifts GOD has bestowed on me.ReplyCancel

  • patonslakeJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:51 am

    Thanks for your response. I’m amazed at your stamp and paper punch ideas. I enjoy reading your tutorials. Thanks!
    PatonslakeReplyCancel

  • ShariJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:53 am

    The best gift I can give today is support. My close friend and colleague lost her sister suddenly two days ago. She had a lifetime of physical problems but ironically died from a heart attack. She was alone at home and no one found her for two days. My friend Nora is devastated. She never had a chance to say goodbye, but Nora is a woman of strong faith and finds comfort that her sister’s suffering is over and that she is resting now with God. We are a tight-knit group and our prayers not only help Nora, but also us. It’s been a really rough start this semester. We’ve lost several loved ones, have a child just diagnosed with a rare cancer, and other personal tragedies. But we pray together and help each other so my support is the best gift I can give my friend.ReplyCancel

  • BettyJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:56 am

    Wow!!!!! It is very thoughtful to offer some NON CHA blog candy. There is NOTHING better than FAT FREE….CALORIE FREE….and ZERO WW Points CANDY!!!!!!! I am starving for some real candy, though!!!! I am trying to do weight watchers. I am wanting some pecan clusters or chocolate covered cherries. Actually, I could eat a whole bag or box of pecan clusters right now. Oh, dear!!!! I am adding this commentary so that you smile a bit with your coffee!!!!! BTW…are you having a muffin, too? I love banana nut. LOL!!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Eileen McCleanJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:01 am

    The best gift i can give today is gratitude. I am a retired school principal who hails from Ireland,lives in Canada and is in California to get away from the cold. I have so many blessings in my life , a wonderful family, friends, health so gratitude is my gift. Thanks for the wonderful candy, Nestabilities are awesome. I have 2 basics squares and recatngles.
    God Bless
    EileenReplyCancel

  • leslie deeringJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:07 am

    Hi you have such a beautiful and creative soul!!! I hope someone special wins your blog candy I just wanted to tell you that you are a gift! I am a sahm to a special needs son and I love looking at your creations breaks up the day and brightens it,even Jacob lol loves to look! Good luck with the give away the comments are very endearing. LeslieReplyCancel

  • JaneAnnJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:08 am

    The best gift I can give today is SUPPORT. I have a cousin that is going through some very tough times right now. I’ve realized I cannot tell her what she should do, even when she asks, she has to make her own decisions. But I can be here to support her and let her know she is Loved and things will be better…..

    Thanks for sharing all your beautiful work!ReplyCancel

  • Debbie PeysenJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:09 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. I have had a medical condition for the last four years that made it impossible for me to leave the house or do much.

    At first all my friends called and came by but as time went by people did not call as much. Now I can count on my hand friends who have kept up with me.

    Luckly I am getting better and I have decided one of the lessons I will take with me from this is never forget your friends. One short phone call can make all the difference to someone.

    I love your talent and also liking reading everything everyone writes.

    thanks
    debbieReplyCancel

  • Peggy W.January 28, 2009 - 10:09 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time to my children. I am trying to raise loving and responsible children. The only way to do that is to be an example and spend time with them teaching them to do what is right. I love my family and pray for them every day. I know Heavenly Father loves them too and is watching over them. Thank you for your generousity and for sharing your great art work. Thank you for the contest.ReplyCancel

  • ValondaJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:10 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. Some of the time I will be giving away today has been built into my schedule. Today I get to go help a neighbor of mine prepare for leading worship at a retreat this weekend. I LOVE getting together with others who are musically inclined to worship together, so this gift of my time isn’t a chore at all, it is a joy.
    Some of the time I have to be very intentional about giving away. My 3 year old son loves to play with me. Sometimes it is so easy to just go through the day, doing the things that need to be done to keep a household running smoothly and not get down on the floor and really interact with him on his level. So today, the best gift I can give my son is my time.ReplyCancel

  • Kathie KopfJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:11 am

    I found your blog not long ago. I hadn’t started looking at blogs until yours. I am SO impressed with your work. I love Spellbinders and have found some interesting ways to use them from your blog. I will keep on looking at your blog and being impressed and TRYING to duplicate some of your GREAT cards. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful talent, which we all know comes from God.ReplyCancel

  • linda ChristensenJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:14 am

    The best gift I can give today is my ear. I can listen to my co-workers who need to vent a bit, to my sister who needs to tell me the latest story from her life, to my niece who can tell me how her day went, to my friends who need a shoulder to cry on, to my painting partners who want to laugh and share a funny story. So many people with so many stories to listen to.ReplyCancel

  • Holly BuchanJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:14 am

    The best gift I can give would be me or my time, whether to my daughter who wants to play, a neighbour who needs a shoulder, my husband who needs an ear ect. I think what it comes down to is being there for each other it encompases kindness and faith all of which I’ve seen in others answers but your time is a precious gift I think just as others time is special when they share it with you.ReplyCancel

  • DebJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:19 am

    The best gift I can give to today is a SMILE ;-)ReplyCancel

  • Cathy SpicerJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:19 am

    The best gift I can give today is my PRESENCE. I am a Multi Tasking Addict and know I’m not always fully present when interacting with others. Today I will try to stay focused on whomever my path crosses and just stop with all the other things that I think need to be done.

    CathyReplyCancel

  • JaniceJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:21 am

    The best gift I can give today would be thankfulness. To show thanks for all that God has done for me. To show that same thanks in everything I do, that others may see by my actions that God works in their lives too. However, as I am sick with a cold virus, I think most of my family and friends will be thankful if I stay home and keep the virus to myself (LOL)ReplyCancel

  • Susan GJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:22 am

    I now have the gift of time to give. I’m a retired kindergarten teacher and mom to two wonderful young men who are married to fabulous ladies and grandmother to one 9 week old precious little girl. Since I’ve retired I’ve been able to renew my old hobby of crafting. I’ve taken up quilting–everybody gets quilts for Christmas now and the baby will have quite a collection by the time she grows up–and renewed my interest in embroidery and crocheting. I took up card making about two years ago. I love to make cards for those in my Sunday school class and church choir and am involved in a group that sends cards to soldiers. Both of my sons are Army MEDEVAC pilots so this is near to my heart. In addition to my crafting hobbies, I garden and read. I’d forgotten how much fun it was to be able to relax and make things for others. Retirement is so much fun!

    Thanks for the chance at the wonderful prize you are offering. I only subscribed to your blog a few weeks ago through the Spellbinders preview. I’m so glad I found you. Your work is wonderful. Congratulations on your anniversary and on your number of visitors.ReplyCancel

  • Gail S.January 28, 2009 - 10:23 am

    The best gift I can give today is be there to listen. I have a friend that moved away last year and she just e-mailed me that her daughter has breast cancer and was diagnosed exactly one year after my friend found out she had breast cancer. Please tell everyone woman (no matter what age!) to check their breast for any changes and to get that annual mammogram! It may save their life.ReplyCancel

  • GenaJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:26 am

    The best gift I can give today will be kindness… we are iced in and I have so many things that need to be done, but they will have to wait. I will be kind to my dd who is missing work and will have a short paycheck – somehow that will be my fault, but I will be kind… I will be kind to my ds who is upset about missing a basketball game and hanging with his friends and I will be kind to my other pre-teen who still thinks her mom is awesome and will scrap with her all day! LOL
    Thank you for sharing your work!ReplyCancel

  • Chris R.January 28, 2009 - 10:26 am

    The best gift I can give today is kindness, compassion and understanding – to family, to friends, to strangers. Sometimes that might just be a smile, sometimes more. With so many people hurting in today’s world just a little would go a long, long way.
    Thanks for your wonderful blog and for the chance to win.ReplyCancel

  • Karen PallasJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:29 am

    ..my full attention to those around me. Giving time is one thing but full attention is beyond that. I have so many people that I love that often I do not give my full attention to them.ReplyCancel

  • SheriJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:30 am

    Hello there! I am new to your blog, which I love! Thank you for sharing your ideas and your thoughts, especially about your love for the Lord Jesus Christ. The best gift I can give is my obedience to the Lord. I struggle with being self suffiencent and selfish. So, I believe obeying the Lord Jesus Christ would be a wonderful gift to give. When I obey then blessing flow to me and then to others. This way everyone benefits from my obedience.

    Congratulations on your anniversary and please continue to share your ideas and encouragement.ReplyCancel

  • CindyJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:31 am

    The best gift I can give today is my smile. It’s free to give and hopefully it will perk up the day of some of those I share it with.

    I really enjoy seeing your beautiful projects. Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • Debbie SteltonJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:33 am

    The best gift I can give today is my prayer for peace for me and my family and world peace. I know that may sound corny to some or even impossible but I truly believe in the power of prayer. I believe if we all collectively prayed for peace our prayers would be answered. I am often reminded of a song we sing in chuch and the line that stands out is: Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. I think our world needs forgiveness, understanding and love and it should start today with me and ripple out from there.

    Becca thank you for always sharing your generosity is inspiring. I also appreciate the chance to win some great blog candy. Hope you have a blessed day and take care.

    Debbie/Phx AZReplyCancel

  • Michelle A.January 28, 2009 - 10:42 am

    The best gift I can give today is generosity, kindness, love and appreciation to my family, friends as well as strangers. The love we give away is the only love we keep so by giving I believe we can grow and become better people, living in a better world. Thanks for this generous offering of blog candy…so nice of you!ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth S.January 28, 2009 - 10:47 am

    The best gift I can give today is be there for others with and open heart. Sometimes I get so self absorbed that I forget not to complain about what I have to do.

    I just love your blog. You make such beatiful cards!!ReplyCancel

  • Mary RaeJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:48 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time! I know we’ve heard it all before but our kids really do grow up too fast. I didn’t believe it when they were small (typical I think!) and now I treasure and make the most of the time I have with them.ReplyCancel

  • Denise SJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:52 am

    The best gift i can give today is my love and affection for my hubby and adorable kitty as i do every day. Also, i would say any help that i can offer to someone if the opportunity presents itself.

    Congrats on your anniversary and thank you for sharing your talent!

    Denise
    Ontario, CanadaReplyCancel

  • peachJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:54 am

    The best gift I can give to day is a positive and generous self.

    I hope to smile and make everyone that comes into contact with me feel appreciated and validated.ReplyCancel

  • Mary JoJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:57 am

    The best gift I can give is to think of someone else besides me today and then do something for someone else. It might be a card, a phone call or something to eat. This was my New Year’s resolution. By the way Becca, I just love your blog and your lovely art workReplyCancel

  • JanJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:00 am

    The best gift I can give today and every day is to try to live as Christ would have me to so that I can be the best representation of Him and His love.ReplyCancel

  • Erica MunroeJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:07 am

    The best gift I can give today is a calm positive attitude.
    I can give my time and prayers, but without the right attitude they can fall short of a gift. I need to draw this attitude from myself and continue to keep it with God’s help. Today is my busiest day of the week and it is easy for me to loose that calm attitude, and turn cranky on a dime.ReplyCancel

  • buzzyJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:13 am

    The best gift I can give to MYSELF (as well as my family) today is to spend time reading my Bible and taking time to be in prayer. I will be a better wife, mother and friend because of my commitment to Christ! Everything else pales in comparison.ReplyCancel

  • MaryRJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:13 am

    First of all – you are always so generous with your creative sharing and I always love seeing your gorgeous projects. AND you are so generous with your blog candy as well.

    I truly feel that the best gift I can give to make someone (hopefully my children) feel HAPPY today and appreciated for the wonderfully made person that they are.ReplyCancel

  • MayleeJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:23 am

    Hi Becca! I truly enjoy reading your blog daily, your creations are simply AMAZING! Thanks for sharing your talent.

    The best gift I can give today is to show my husband how much I appreciate him. I’m a SAHM and it is such a blessing to be able to be home for our children (ages 10, 8 and 4). They are so happy to have me take them to school, volunteer in their classes and be there to greet them when they come out of their classrooms at the end of the school day. I’m able to do so because my husband is such a dedicated, hard worker and wonderful provider for our family.ReplyCancel

  • JackieJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:25 am

    The best gift I can give today is love, time, and knowledge to my children.

    Thanks for this wonderful opportunity! I love looking at your blog everyday and my 5 year old has gotten hooked too! I even found my DH perusing your blog last night AND he started asking questions about how you had made things! You can imagine just how shocked/happy I was!!!ReplyCancel

  • TammyLJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:29 am

    I love your blog first of all. It’s always such an inspiration.

    The best gift that I can give today is a smile….in a world as topsy turvy as our is these days, a simple smile can change someone’s outlook on their whole day and make yourself feel so much better inside. No matter how crazy everything is sometimes a smile makes all the difference. It shows someone that for just a second you are thinking of them and wishing them well regardless of anything else.ReplyCancel

  • MaeJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:30 am

    The best gift I can give today is a smile. It’s a little thing that makes a big difference.ReplyCancel

  • PeggyJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:33 am

    The best gift I can give today is caring for my mom as she has a hospital visit and now is in transitional care. You give me a gift evertime I open your email—thank you.ReplyCancel

  • Gidget-TrishJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:34 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time to make others happy. I always try to be there for my family and friends and anyone else who is in need. Even when it’s difficult or inconvenient, I figure it’s worth it to just stop and listen and make someone else feel that they are important to me at that moment in time. I know it sure feels good when others do that for me.
    Thanks for the chance to win such lovely gifts in the blog candy package. It’s very generous.
    TrishReplyCancel

  • LisaJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:36 am

    I’m so glad I found your blog. You are an amazing artist!
    I love looking at your creations.

    thanks for sharing your talent.

    The best gift I can give today is to stay away from everyone! I’m being crabby today. (just being honest!)ReplyCancel

  • LaurieJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:46 am

    Hi, Becca: Thanks for offering the great candy. The best gift I could give someone today is to pray for them & send a card of encouragement. The older I get the more I realize that I shouldn’t feel like “all I can do is pray..boohoo..I wish I could do something.” I am understanding that prayer is THE most important part of a situation & doing something else is good, too. :) Have a terrific day, Dear.ReplyCancel

  • karen SilvesterJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:55 am

    Hi Becca. The best gift I could give today and everyday is to reach out to my parents who are 87 and 86 and still farming and raising cattle. A phone call, a lunch date a funny story shared. I am so lucky to have these two wonderful people in my life.ReplyCancel

  • Connie GJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:00 pm

    The best gift I can give today is patience. Sometimes I am in such a hurry to rush on to the next thing to do that I lack patience with my child who is autistic. Thanks for sharing your wonderful blog candy. I love your creative style!!ReplyCancel

  • Jackie KalchertJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:10 pm

    This is such an easy question for me Becca. I would have to say the best gift I can give today is myself.I can give my love to my family. My support to all that need it.I can extend my hand to friends new and old.I can smile at strangers that for all I know are facing many struggles and feel alone.I can reach out to my community in the smallest of ways that can make a real difference. I can help my neighbor take out the trash so she can breathe easier and not aggravate her asthma.I can hold my newborn grandson Luke and tell him how much he is loved.I will share some laughter with my daughter when she comes home from work and help the stress of the day vanish.I will be an example to the best of my ability of what is good and right in the world.I will not be ashamed to shed a tear with someone that is grieving.I will be part of the solution and not part of the problem. All these things will fill my heart with joy and bless me beyond measure. Thank you for asking this most profound question, as it made me look into my soul to see what really matters!ReplyCancel

  • wendyJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:18 pm

    the best gift i can give today is support and love. Without judgment; uncondiitonal love. To see past my own prejudices and failings and give support and love purely.ReplyCancel

  • Kitty RodahlJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:20 pm

    The best gift I can give today is encouragement. We have conferences with parents today. I can encourage them to continue doing a good job as parents; encourage them to keep working on spelling when they feel like pulling out their hair; encourage them to keep reinforcing the good behaviors so they carry over into school. Teaching is the best job in the world! All of you bloggers–encourage your children’s teachers periodically over the remainder of the year! You are all so creative–make a card to tell them thanks–even if it isn’t National Teacher Day.
    Thanks, Becca, for the chance to win awesome blog candy! Love your site and LOVE your work!ReplyCancel

  • Peg FJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:23 pm

    My best gift today is my presence. I have a funeral to attend today and one tomorrow. Thanks for the chance, Becca! I love your website!ReplyCancel

  • Paola NormanJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:25 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to be kind to myself.
    I find that I have been too hard on myself and blaming myself for things that haven’t gone the way I wanted them to.
    I have found that that by blaming myself I have not been able to move forward. I’m also going to forgive myself for being hard on myself so that I will be able to move forward on this beautiful life I was blessed with.
    Have a beautiful day. Your blog and your work are exquisite!ReplyCancel

  • JeanMarie BreslinJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:34 pm

    Hi Beccca,

    The best gift I can give, is the gift of time, encouragement, and love of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Thank you so much for all your inspiration. You are so creative, and I look forward to visiting your site everyday.
    Wish I could go to CHA. Looks like alot of fun and I live only 2 hours away.
    Have a great day.
    JeanMarieReplyCancel

  • MarshaJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:35 pm

    Your question for comments reminds of a Christmas emphasis I did with my family last year, “What God Wants for Christmas” from Family Life. The answer is “me” . . . the best gift I can give today is “me” to God and my family. Thanks for sharing the goodies. I don’t have nesties but would like to try some.ReplyCancel

  • SheilaJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:36 pm

    The best gift I can give today is of myself. Sharing information with my management on how to help customers dealing with the uncertainty of this year. I also feel I need to find time to make others happy.ReplyCancel

  • Linda wJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:41 pm

    The best gift I can give today is understanding. When someone you love has an addiction anger and other negative things don’t work. But they do sometimes make me feel better though. I pray he will get the help he needs before something very bad happens. So today I will go and stamp and try not to think about it for awhile.

    Thanks muchReplyCancel

  • AnneJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:41 pm

    The best gift that I can give today is a break to myself. I’ve not been much good to anyone lately, missing my parents who both passed away. To be able to give again to other people I need to find some strength and keep facing the days.ReplyCancel

  • PJJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:00 pm

    The best gift I can give today is appreciation and gratefulness for the people I have in my life that are true. Every day is the day to count your blessings.

    Thank you Becca for the inspiration you provide and share!ReplyCancel

  • MicheleJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:01 pm

    I stayed home too but have so enjoyed all the blog posts; still hoppin’ every day!

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of prayer – for family, friends, those in need, those less fortunate, and the most important – for my Savior’s son! I am blessed!ReplyCancel

  • EvaJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:18 pm

    The best gift I can give today is a visit to a friend of mine that has total care of her mother and often gets frustrated at having to be house bound. Her mother has Alzheimer’s and is not always with it. My friend is a very creative lady and has a heart of gold so a visit to brighten her day will be on my schedule for this afternoon. We’ll both enjoy it and she’ll get a small taste of the outside world.ReplyCancel

  • Susan VanMeterJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:21 pm

    The best gift that I can give today is to share my prayers with and for a colleague whose father died today. She is a wonderful and generous person, and I know that she is grieving – any solace that I can give will hopefully ease her burden a bit.ReplyCancel

  • Melissa B MitchellJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:31 pm

    My gift for today is one of support and encouragement. This is midterm and Regents week, and I have the students with special needs testing in my room. A smile, a pat on the back, and interest in how they felt they just did will bring a smile and some happy chatter in return.ReplyCancel

  • NadiaJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:33 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my love for all who need a big hug. I have been enjoying your blog immensely. You give so much of yourself and I thank you. I came across blogging just before Christmas and have been enjoying it and have used some of your ideas.
    Congratulations on one year anniversary and on your mile stone.
    GREAT GIVEAWAY and THANKSReplyCancel

  • Anna BananaJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:39 pm

    Thanks for offering the Blog Candy!! I’m putting you in my Blog Candy Dish on my site. I sure do hope I win – I have been eyeing the rectangle Nesties for a while now!

    The best gift I can give today is … a positive outlook.
    I may not like the snow and cold, but I have a roof over my head and heat to keep me warm, when so many are homeless.
    I may not like cooking dinner, but I have food enough on the table to keep us fed, when so many are hungry.
    I may not like doing the laundry, but I am fortunate enough to have piles of clothes that need to be washed which means I have a variety of different things to wear, when so many have nothing.
    I may not like scooping out the litterbox, or taking the dog out to potty, but doing both means that I have pets in my life that I love and that show affection to me and keep me company, when so many are lonely.
    I may not like having to go to work, but it means that I have a job to bring in money to pay for everything – necessities and the fun stuff too, when so many are out of work.

    And I am blessed with a husband who loves me no matter what and I love him so much too.

    So I may not like to do some things, but with a positive outlook, I can see how fortunate, lucky, wealthy, loved and blessed I truly am.

    Anna BananaReplyCancel

  • JanJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:42 pm

    My time! Today we are blanketed in snow. My grandson’s daycare is closed so he is with me! I started the morning thinking I was going to stamp, but, I get to do something so much more fun!ReplyCancel

  • GigiJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:45 pm

    The best gift I can give to myself is to continue loving passionately those who bring joy into my life and to those who sometimes bring sadness. I have a few blog subscriptions coming to my e-mail address and whenever yours is displayed, a happy feeling takes over. Knowing your love for God and for His son is genuine makes it even better. Thank you for continuing to witness to others; it’s sincerely appreciated.ReplyCancel

  • MistiJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:48 pm

    Becca, I just dream about going to CHA!! I think it would be the greatest!! I’d love to go at least once! I don’t think my husband could justify it though! Anyway…the best gift I can give today is my time and a smile. It doesn’t take any time away from my day to share a smile and a kind word. My time on the other hand is definitely a gift. Today I spent the day at my kids’ school. I was helping some kinds “correct” their work. Some of these kids really struggle in math so I try to help them out a little! Some of them come from dysfunctional homes as well. My gift to them is my time, a little smile and some encouraging words! May we be a blessing to someone, everyday!ReplyCancel

  • Carolyn S.January 28, 2009 - 1:55 pm

    The best gift anyone can give, because with God, all things are possible. I know that prayers can work miracles. I have seen it. The second gift anyone can give would be their time. Giving of yourself and your time mean so much. Whether it be to help someone out, or just to visit. that time can make a difference in someone’s life.

    thanks for sharing

    ceashark at aol dot comReplyCancel

  • kimmie kayeJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:55 pm

    the best gift I have to give is kindness. I strive to be a little kinder each day than I was the day before. Somedays its a challenge, but it is always a blessing.ReplyCancel

  • Cathy YoungJanuary 28, 2009 - 1:56 pm

    Becca, You are so fun. I love your blog and your creativity. I love checking in each day. When you asked what the best gift I could give today…I immediately thought of prayer. I just received (really just now as I am on my lunch break at work) a call that my aunt was rushed to the hospital this morning. She was found unconsciencous at her home in quite a mess. I won’t go into the details. It appears that she has had a stroke. I immediately said a prayer for her, called my sister and my husband and then began eating my sandwich and checking out your blog. Funny how God works becuase I immediately thought prayer and then noticed your first commenter (Susan) said the same thing. This is quite an outreach you have here whether indented or not. If you or your readers are so inclined, please include my aunt in your prayers today. Her name is Shirley and she lives up north in the area admidst all of the heavy snow right now making things more difficult for the family. Thanks again for another opportunity to win some fun stuff. Have a great day!
    CathyReplyCancel

  • SaraJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:29 pm

    The best gift I can give today is time. I work from home, but my girls have a snow day today. I have deadlines to meet and many household chores to get done. I was getting upset because I kept getting intterupted. Then it hit me like a tone of bricks…”drop everything and play with the kids”. How selfish of me to try to do otherwise. I’m always lamenting the fact that they are growing up too fast and how I need more time with them. Here was my opportunity and I nearly let it pass me by. Take time for others — it matters!ReplyCancel

  • Kim HolochakJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:33 pm

    The best gift I can give today is thanks to God for I have my family a wonderful husband and two wonderful boys . Nothing gets better than this and God is by my side. Kim HolochakReplyCancel

  • VickiJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:34 pm

    The best gift I can give today is- Kindness to myself and others.
    Giving kindness to others comes fairly natural to me but giving myself the same kindness is easily overlooked. I will always make sure everyone’s lunches are packed for school/work and forget to give myself one! My son has been ill with a cold and I have not been sleeping well as I have been up with him. I have been a little sleep deprived and I can feel myself feeling impatient, so I think I need to be kind to myself and take a nap with my son and then I think we all might be feeling a bit better.ReplyCancel

  • Tracie MooreJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:43 pm

    The best gift i could give today would be peace and harmony.

    if everyone just slowed down enough to notice each other and realise we are the same, regardless of race or religion, infact if everyone in the world was as friendly as crafters, the world would not just be beautiful but fabulous too.ReplyCancel

  • Joyce BattyJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:50 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to trust that God’s will will be done in my life, my family’s, my community, my country, and the world.ReplyCancel

  • melitaJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:56 pm

    Wow! what incredible blog candy! thank you so much for the opportunity to win!

    The best gift I can give today is my patience. God has really been teaching me a lot about patience, especially where my little girl is concerned. She sure knows how to push my buttons! LOL! But even when I lose my patience with her, which is probably a bit too often, she always tells me each night before she goes to bed that I am the best mommy in the whole world. Sometimes it breaks my heart because I feel like the worst mommy and sometimes it just fills me up with love. So, by God’s grace, I am learning to be more patient and instead of feeling broken hearted at the end of each day, I am filled up with love.ReplyCancel

  • dr.fineJanuary 28, 2009 - 2:56 pm

    Becca, the best gifts I can give any day are prayer, the ability to listen to someone who has needs and to give my time where it is needed. I try hard to do what I can and I often fail, but I will keep trying to be a good friend to thoses I meet along life’s way. Thanks for the beautiful messages of faith you share with us.ReplyCancel

  • Nichole JensenJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:12 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my time. There isn’t enough in the day and I feel like lately I have been overlooking my kids’ need for my time in favor of housework, of all things. I have re-dedicated myself to spending fun time with my children.ReplyCancel

  • crafty barbJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:22 pm

    the best thing I can give is time, time to teach the young about how we live and hope that they live better lives, time to tell the older ones
    that we have better lives, pray to God to end all wars, so that the young can live to get older.and let us all live in peace.
    my husband has just got through his cancer, so i thank God that now we will live to get older together.so we have now got time. thank you
    and God blessReplyCancel

  • Pam FJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:30 pm

    The best gift I can give anyday is my time and understanding…being there when my son comes to talk about the things going on in his life and helping him without “taking over”! Thanks for all your inspiration and the chance to win!!ReplyCancel

  • KatharineJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:34 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my undivided attention. I’m a mother of three teens (egads), my mother is terminally ill with Leukemia and in the final stage, my dad picked up a fatal staph infection while undergoing hip surgery in Sept. and is still unable to walk, my F-I-L is terminally ill with emphasema, I provide home care for a boy with cystic fibrosis, I’m a SU demo, volunteer at church… Between running from one person’s home to another’s I don’t often have time for my own kids and when I do it’s usually rushed, in between loads of laundry and a million things on my mind… so tonight since my son (the youngest of the three) and I are snowed in we’re going to have some hot chocolate, popcorn, finish his 2500 piece gigsaw puzzle and play some card games- without the TV on!! Sometimes God uses the weather to make us take the time for what’s important to Him.ReplyCancel

  • beth bJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:42 pm

    The best gift I can give is myself and my time. When God prompts me to call someone or send a card or visit a person I try to do it. I do have the time right now to be available. I believe that there are so many people that are just wanting a listening ear or a hug. It is a matter of listening and being available. Accepting peole for where they are at and not judging them is so important. God loves each of us. He uses each of us to bring his voice to others through our actions.ReplyCancel

  • Sandy HillJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:43 pm

    I feel like I am copying what the first poster said, but yesterday I received very sad news about a friend who was just diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer that had metasticized to her brain. She was not a smoker, so this is so hard to understand, but the best gift right now that I can give is prayer for her to come to know the Lord. To me that is more important than anything else.ReplyCancel

  • DebbieJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:44 pm

    The best thing that I can give is my time. In this world of rushing here and rushing there it takes a effort to stop and make time for the people that you love.
    I look at your blog every day and aspire you inspire me to create. Thank you for sharing your special gift.

    DebbieReplyCancel

  • MaryLouJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:54 pm

    The best gift I can give is my friendship and love. It it truly amazing to have friends that love to do the same thing you do. I love getting together with them and having a paper crafting play day. We usually get together twice a week and I am talking “all day”. It is so much fun when everyone has the same passion.ReplyCancel

  • CaroleJanuary 28, 2009 - 3:58 pm

    I also stayed home from CHA because this is too far from home. It would involve too much money and trouble for lodging and traveling. So this is just in my dreams. The best gift I can give for today and all the other days is TIME because time is love so what’s best than love!ReplyCancel

  • CherylJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:01 pm

    The best gift I can give today is: Prayer and Understanding. We all get in situations that require understanding and I always begin and end in prayer. I believe in the “miracle of prayer”. I have seen it. Thanks for the chance to win. Blessings to YOU. CherylReplyCancel

  • CyndyJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:05 pm

    As I skimmed through a few of the responses I noticed several that said the gift of prayer. That was exactly what my first response was. I just received a call from my mom. My dad is in the hospital and the Dr. wanted to know if he had a living will. He said his heart is so enlarged that he does not think he has much longer to live. Then I opened an e-mail from a good friend and her 19 year old nephew was in a skiing accident and is in an induced comma in critical condition. She was asking everyone to pray for him. My mom just called me back as I am typing this reply my mom called to tell me one of my cousins just called her to let her know that they found my cousin Jerry dead in his house today and do not know what happened. I am thankful that God allows us to go to him in pray to pray for others that need his help. Of course the greatest gift we have received is Jesus that made it so we are able to go to God.ReplyCancel

  • Tee RansoneJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:08 pm

    The best gift I can give anyone today is to help them to see the future. In the future the pettiness of everyday doesn’t matter; the hard, sharp words you speak to those you love have scarred; the small random acts of kindness bring a smile of memory.

    In the future you will have more knowledge and compassion because you will have learned from your mistakes. In the future you will also have regrets that make you more cognizant of needs of those closest to you and how small, seemingly meaningless deeds or actions can change someone’s present.

    In the future there will be losses of people that you love. This will remind you to make that call, stop and visit, write a note, send a card, tell someone that they mean the world to you. Once you experience loss, it will remind you to never, ever take love for granted.

    And finally, in the future, we will be ever closer to seeing our beloved Heavenly Father’s face and living sheltered forevermore.ReplyCancel

  • LisaJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:08 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my love and time to my children. Life is so crazy, and like so many have already said, people are hurting. I cannot help people I do not know (other than through prayer, which is so powerful) but I can also help my children (young teens) cope with what is happening in the world around them. Sometimes we forget how much our kids “feel” and what they see (even when we think we are hiding our emotions or thoughts). Reassuring my kids is so important right now — Trust in the Lord; this TOO shall pass!ReplyCancel

  • TanJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:15 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of my time to another. It can’t be bought, only freely given.ReplyCancel

  • Linda BandowJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:18 pm

    The best gift I can give today is prayer for my out of work husband (and those who are in distress) and the time to really listen to him. He has been so tough throughout this and believe that his faith has carried him. With business being what it is, it may be a while before he finds another job so I just pray and ask the Lord to bless him and stay with him. I’m truly thankful to still be working. I’ve always wanted to go to CHA but could not go when it was here in Chicago. I hope to have another opportunity someday.ReplyCancel

  • niva-jean PolandJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:18 pm

    My faith, as I believe all things are possible with the Lord. I believe the greatest gift we can give showing others our faith in how we live, act and respond to life.

    nivyReplyCancel

  • ConnieJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:21 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my time. I work way too many hours in a week and don’t get to do nearly as much with my kids as I would like. Tonight when I got home my little girl wanted to dance and I took a few minutes to dance with her. And how priceless is the smile that you get for that few minutes of time!! Now, I need to go figure out what I can do with each of the other members of my family so that they all get that few minutes of time; and I get memories full of happy smiles.ReplyCancel

  • Debbie WellsJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:26 pm

    What a meaningful question!! I’ve read through a few of the responses here and my heart has been touched in a way that I can’t ever remember before! Kuddos to you for challenging your readers like this!

    After giving this some thought…I know that the best gift I can give anyone in my sphere of influence is my time. Time to listen, time to pray, time to laugh, time to celebrate, time to cry, time to worship, time to create, time to hold hands, time to hug, time to advise, time to teach, time to serve, time to witness, time to build and exhort, time to minister, time to grieve, time to learn…..whatever the situation requires…..if I am able…the best I can give is my time and let the Lord do with my gift what He wishes to, in the lives of those I give to.

    Thanks so much for such a meaningful moment here with you and your readers. (This is my first time here and I will be back…blog candy or not!)ReplyCancel

  • KrisJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:28 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the good news of our salvation through Jesus Christ our LordReplyCancel

  • JoanieJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:32 pm

    The best gift I can give today is forgiveness. I forgive my neighbor for not taking care of his property as I’d like him to. Today I dreaded coming home from work. We’ve had 12 inches of snow, and I had shoveled early this morning to get to work, but more snow fell after I left. I knew that I’d have snow in my driveway…. but it was already cleared!! My neighbor had used his snowblower did our driveway and our sidewalks. So I need to be less critical and thankful that we have such a thoughtful neighbor.
    Hope everyone is warm and safe!ReplyCancel

  • minervaJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:38 pm

    HI Becca,

    The best gift I can give today is my time to my Lord, family and friends….and knowledge….sharing so everyone can benefit….and you Becca are one generous sole sharing your creative talents with all of us in the land of blog :)

    MinervaReplyCancel

  • Beth JonesJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:49 pm

    The best gift I can give today is forgiveness—of myself, as well as others. So often I am too quick to criticize the attitudes or behavior of others and sooner or later, I realize I am guilty of those very things myself. If Jesus Christ forgives me (once and for always), I absolutely cannot withold that from anyone else.

    I do not always have time to read everyone’s comments, but the ones I do read always humble me and inspire me to be a better person; you have some pretty wonderful followers!ReplyCancel

  • PollyJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:54 pm

    The best gift I can give is one of enthusiasm! I volunteer with young readers and I love seeing their faces light up when I listen to them and ask questions about things that are important to them and interest them. It gives me as much of a boost as it does the child when I say ..good reading today..or what a great reader you are! And I don’t ration my praise…..they deserve it every time!
    Thanks for the chance to win Becca….love your cards!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Polly from MNReplyCancel

  • Kim C.January 28, 2009 - 4:58 pm

    The best gift I can give today is encouragement. Living in Michigan we are seeing companies folding and people are loosing their jobs. I work in a hospital and I try to encourage my co-workers with reminders that we still have our health and our jobs.
    Your cards are absolutely beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

    KimReplyCancel

  • Karen PJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:15 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the giving of myself to my husband of 24 years today. After a recent health scare, I appreciate every day that the Lord gives us together. I know life is fragile and it can end at any time, so I am more committed to spend time with Him (and my husband).ReplyCancel

  • CherylJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:28 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my love and acceptance that no one can be perfect, so love everyone for who they are! The world needs more kindness and love, not disdain and contempt! I encourage eveyone to just smile at one another – it is a wonderful beginning!

    Becca your blog has been such an inspiration – not just your beautiful art, but also your beautiful heart! You are awesome and I thank you so much for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • RosellaJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:28 pm

    I really enjoy coming by your blog. I always get inspired by your project and non the less by you and your friendly personality. Thank you very much. Congratulations on your hits too!!
    So, the gift I can give today is taking time for my family, which means being there to listen to my 2 daughters and spending some time crafting with them; taking the time to run and see what my ds is up to when he calls, and also my dh who is going to come home very tired. I can also keep my friends and family in prayer as I cannot be with them personally. I could also go and make a card for someone special, if I find the time to do so.
    Thank you for this opportunity!
    God bless you!ReplyCancel

  • TinaJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:31 pm

    The best give I can give today and every day is to “pass it on”. Whether it be prayer, kindness, hugs, smiles, time, love, you name it, it is best to share and to pass it on. I feel like that is what you are doing when you share your talent and creativity with all of us who enjoy your blog so very much. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us, and also for a chance to win!ReplyCancel

  • Nancy C.January 28, 2009 - 5:34 pm

    The best gift I can give today is patience and tolerance. Due to the bad weather I am watching my granddaughters who are home from school while their Mom is working. I guess one can never have enough!ReplyCancel

  • NaomiJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:34 pm

    I did stay home—- BUT looking at all the stuff makes me think I should have gone. But looking at all I almost feel as if I was.ReplyCancel

  • Staci MerrittJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:42 pm

    The best gift that I can give today is to try to do the best I can to obey what God planned for me. Not to try to do more than I he has given me. I love Jesus, I know he loves me. I’m so grateful for this. To hush my mouth more when myself wants to say what I think.(A really hard thing for me). Right now he has given me 5 children to raise in his ways, to make a really good foundation of Christ in their life(While I can). So that they can build a wonderful relationship with Christ from that. To Love everybody, especially the ones who are harder to love. To let people like Becca know how much I appreciate the inspiration. Its not just about the beautiful cards she pours her love over also sharing her wonderful ideals opening herself up for critical replys and keeping a thick skin about them. But the scriptures that she puts in everything she does including her life and actions. Thanks and Blessings, Staci MerrittReplyCancel

  • Tricia JonesJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:44 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to miror the love Christ has shown to me to those I see along every step I take through out the day. I stayed home, but Ihave enjoyed reading everyones comments and the different videos from the show.

    TriciaReplyCancel

  • VioletJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:48 pm

    No, I didn’t get to go either. I have two rare brain disorders (painful but not fatal) and the doctors have forbidden me to fly – ever again! Crafting, especially card making and scrapbooking, keep me sane. I have so many restrictions because of the disorders that there is a long list of things I must avoid or they cause terrible spasms and pain – including cold weather – hello, I live in Canada!!!! So, I am house bound most of the winter.

    I have been blessed with the gift of patience and I accept my disorders as part of my life and I have absolutely do not sit around and feel sorry for myself or worry about what I cannot do. I enjoy every day – as each one is a gift. I am also blessed with a loving and supportive hubby and 3 wonderful daughters, 3 great sons-in-laws and 4 grandbabies – well, grandchildren I guess as they range from 1 – 16.

    I love Spellbinders and I was hoping to win at least one of the new sets on their last contest but it wasn’t to be.

    Love your blog and cards you make.
    God bless

    VioletReplyCancel

  • CindyJanuary 28, 2009 - 5:53 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to stand firm in the knowledge that Gods love is unconditional for myself and every single person in this world. That we live because of His grace. And to treat other as such.
    Peace Through His Love and Mercy,
    CindyReplyCancel

  • Joyce HarmsJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:14 pm

    The best gift I can give is my love, my time and my prayers. As I think of someone, I pray God’s blessing on that person; I send a note or e-mail and let them know how much I care for them and how much they mean to me. At this stage of my life, I have a little more freedom with my time and I am so thankful for the family and friends that God has surrounded me with.
    What a joy to read all the posts…God is so good to all of us! JoyceReplyCancel

  • Paula CJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:16 pm

    The best gift I can give is of myself, I don’t have a lot of “material” things, but I am more than happy to give others what I do have, whether it’s my time, attention or something else. I just love your blog and thank you for a chance to win something so nice!ReplyCancel

  • Judi MarkelJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:16 pm

    The best gift I can give today is prayer for everyone who is suffering and without jobs. I will pray that God can help all these people to make it throught these difficult times. Thank you for the opportunity to win. I love all your work and always look forward to see what you have done.
    JudiReplyCancel

  • Laraine RJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:20 pm

    I also am the best gift I can give is love, time and prayers. My mom was recently diagnosed with dementia and I help with whatever is needed. It is so hard seeing her this way and failing so rapidly.
    Thanks for the chance at winning!!ReplyCancel

  • Sue DJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:31 pm

    The best gift I can give today is myself– in whatever way is needed. Each “today” brings new adventures, trials, joys and cares and I pray I will be available in whatever way is needed. It could be as simple as a smile.ReplyCancel

  • Stephanie SheridanJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:37 pm

    “The Best Gift I Can Give Today”- would be what I give everyday is myself. The happiness I feel each for people and the smiles I give make someone feel good. With the times now, people do not smile or say hello to each other. If at least one person sees me smile or say hello maybe it will be passed down. I love life and do forgot sometimes. My laugh is full of fun and mystery. The joy to be alive after my open heart surgery is a blessing. How can I not smile even when I am down. My your journey to happiness pass your way!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Laurie WJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:38 pm

    praying for my SIL who underwent cervical surgery today- that she will recover the function she had and decrease in her pain.ReplyCancel

  • SUSAN SandmeyerJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:41 pm

    First let me say thank you, because today I thought about the best gift I can give today and instead of just writing about it I did it. I went to our local Ronald Mcdonald house and I helped out. I did some cleaning and talking to some parents. It was the most wonderful day. So I gave my time and in return I think I received so much more. Thank you!!!ReplyCancel

  • Anji BJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:42 pm

    The best gift I can give today is compassion. When I see a situation from the other side and realize I cannot know what the other person is feeling, it opens me up to real LISTENING. I can’t know how my small conversations with folks can ease feelings, lessen stress, allow me to listen and offer chances for others to feel heard.ReplyCancel

  • GloriaJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:42 pm

    The best gift I can give today is love and kindness to others. Every day brings new challenges and striving to be a reflection of Christ on earth will always be my goal. You are so gifted. When I look at your cards, I see the Lord’s love shining through! Thank you for sharing your cards with us. God Bless you.ReplyCancel

  • JeanneJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:46 pm

    The best gift I can give today is spreading the word of God. To open someones eyes to his love and compassion. Blessings, JeanneReplyCancel

  • Hey GirlyJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:47 pm

    The best gift I can give today is…a smile and the reason for the hope that in within me. Romans 8:18-30

    God Bless You!ReplyCancel

  • PaulaJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:53 pm

    The best gift I can give today is grace. I am so blessed, and I have certainly experienced the grace of God over and over in my life. I have NO money right now, but that is the great thing about grace. It is free!ReplyCancel

  • DebbieJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:54 pm

    The best give I can give today is… a huge hug to my kids. My husband’s cousin lost her 14 year old son last Thursday to cancer and it just reminds me how lucky we are to have our children still and to hold them (even though they think they are too old for it) and love them another day. I would like to thank you for sharing your lovely cards with us, as they inspired me in a Sympathy card, which I find very difficult to do. Thank you again Becca.ReplyCancel

  • YvonneJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:06 pm

    The best gift I can give you today is to remember on those ‘blue days’ how many new friends you have through your ‘Amazing Paper Grace” blog and how much you are appreciated for sharing your talent!

    It IS amazing how creative you are and that you are always willing to share with a , “How I did this project”, tutorial.

    So thank you Becca for your generosity!

    May God continue to bless you with inspiration and many new friends.

    yReplyCancel

  • Barbara SJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:06 pm

    The best gift I can give today is….a prayer for a little baby only 7 wks old now in foster care. I work in a physician’s office and the foster mom called to schedule a follow up appt from the er for multiple fractures. One was an old fracture! God bless the kind soul who has taken this innocent one into her home and her heart. I pray for this woman too. How do you give this baby back????ReplyCancel

  • P MyersJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:09 pm

    The best gift I can give is taking the time to listen. Listen to what my husband, son, brother, father, coworkers and friends are saying and sometimes what they are not saying. Most times people do not want a response or your opinion. They just want you to listen. In todays busy world, whether it be at home or at work, we are so busy formulating an answer or thinking about we are going to say next, that we are not really listening to what is being said. Think how much we may miss by not taking the time to just listen.ReplyCancel

  • PeggyJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:10 pm

    The best gift I can give today is encouragement. My husband is grieving the loss of his mother two days before Christmas and the sad, lonely, depressed feelings aren’t getting any better for him. I miss her too but for right now I need to be the ‘strong’ one for him. I need to encourage him to stay positive and remember the good times and the love that she had for him even if she couldn’t verbalize it or show it. Watching someone you love, hurt so badly, is the hardest thing to do but together we will get through it and we pray that she is in a better place and finally at peace.ReplyCancel

  • Nurse KimJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:12 pm

    Becca, I just love your blog! I look forward to your entries every day. You are so blessed to have such talent, and so generous to share it with all of us!

    The best thing I can give today is……patience!! We are on day 2 of no electricity (thus no heat, light, TV, etc etc etc!!), iced-over tree limbs falling on our house, and being cooped up with each other! I know other parts of the country experience this often, but it’s our first here in NW Arkansas in the 35 years we’ve lived here! There are 4 generations here together in my house right now – but what can ever be better than family, right?? And I am truly thankful we have a house to be IN!ReplyCancel

  • Elisa SalatJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:23 pm

    Hello Becky, Your cards are such a work of art. I have no doubt they are a work of love . I don’t know that you can sell these pieces of art you make because I can only imagine them made specifically for someone in mind. They show such care and love! and that is exactly what I have to give. Love!! Love encompasses all the other things you can give because when you give you must give with LOVE from your heart. Love also gives hope and hope is definitely a very important key in everyones lives. Salud (cheers in Spanish) to you because you are the perfect example of love giving!ReplyCancel

  • Lisa D. Atha (inspired by purple)January 28, 2009 - 7:30 pm

    The best gift I can give today is love and devotion to my family. My husband and my daughter mean absolutely everything to me, I don’t know what I would do without them. I am certainly very blessed!

    Becca,

    Big wow on such a great blog candy contest. I just wanted to thank you for the opportunity to possibly win such a wonderful gift! You are so generous and sweet!

    Lisa A.ReplyCancel

  • SuziJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:51 pm

    The best gift I can give is my knowledge of Jesus as Savior. There is NOTHING as important, and it lasts forever! However, the only way I can share this gift is by taking time, showing love and earning the privilege of sharing . . . . It’s a win-win situation!
    Congratulations on your blog and it’s popularity. You have been blessed with such talent. Thank you for sharing with so many. What a wonderful opportunity you have for sharing your faith, also!ReplyCancel

  • Liz in MOJanuary 28, 2009 - 7:55 pm

    The best gift I can give today is patience to my family. I have been very impatient the last couple of days, our boys have been home from school due to weather and I have not been very tolerant with them. I look back and regret that I have been impatient with them. So for the rest of today I am giving them the gift of my patience, and hopefully it will progress as a daily gift to them.ReplyCancel

  • Mary O.K.January 28, 2009 - 7:56 pm

    Becca, what a thoughtful request to make– obviously, you have made many people stop and reflect for a moment. This is a post that will be revisited often for its inspiration.
    The best gift I can give is tolerance, I think, because it can be versatile and applicable in many ways: tolerant of each of the patients I see today as a nurse (what may seem like a small issue to me is huge to them), tolerance for my poor Mom who has Alzheimer’s and cries because she “hasn’t seen me in years” even though I visited just yesterday but she can’t remember. I have a wonderful quote that I’ve framed– not sure who it originated with– but says “Be kinder than you need to be, for everyone is fighting a battle of their own.”
    If I can give the gift of tolerance, I can help their battle by not making it harder than it already is.
    Blessings to you, Becca.ReplyCancel

  • C BurkeJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:10 pm

    The best thing I can, and do, give right now is my time. It’s one thing we can’t reclaim.ReplyCancel

  • Val WJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:13 pm

    The best gift I can give today is probably a home-cooked meal for my husband. He hasn’t been home much all week because he’s working as technical director/set designer/builder for the music department’s opera production at his alma mater. He’s been spending long days at the university, building sets and making sure that everything is ready when the opera is performed this weekend. He’s been running on very little sleep, making the 70 mile drive (one way)to the university, eating fast food on the run, taking a week off from his regular full-time job to design and build amazing sets for the opera production each year. The sacrifices one makes for the love of their craft. He wasn’t here to eat this meal with me tonight, but will really appreciate being able to take leftovers with him tomorrow to heat in the microwave at the school. When he’s gone like this, I don’t usually do much cooking, but just make something quick and easy. He will be so surprised that I fussed, so he could take homemade food with him tomorrow…a little love from home.ReplyCancel

  • Dotti SnellJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:19 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to listen with my heart…not just my ears. Too often we listen but fail to really hear. I love what you do and am hoping to make it to Pensacola. Money matters… like many others right now. god bless you.ReplyCancel

  • Shirl MartinJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:22 pm

    The best gift I can give is to encourage all who cross my path. God truly shows me how to do that. As a counselor and Bible teacher, I write Bible studies to encourage people. At present I am getting ready to write a study on “contentment” and I believe that God is going to prepare me to teach it even as I write His study using His words for His daughters to refresh and encourage them.

    What wonderful stories are here. I have been strengthen and inspired by the sharing.

    Bless all of you. Becca, keep up the good work. You are some kind of special. Not just with your cards but your heart that shines through with each card and also what you write.ReplyCancel

  • Holly CraftJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:24 pm

    Wow, it is hard to choose THE BEST gift…..I guess it would change each day and according to the circumstances. I think I will say kindness. I did go to CHA and it really bugs me when “important” people (I guess they think they are important) act like they don’t have time for “the little people”……all of us ordinary everyday people! I like to look at each person and see if there is something kind I can do, even if it is only a smile or a hello.
    Sorry you weren’t there as I would love to have met you and said hi! You had a card in the Spellbinders booth and catalog and one lady came up while I was demoing and pointed at your card and said she wanted to learn how to cut the nesties just like you did!
    I admire your beautiful work.
    Congratulations on the blog milestones!
    Thanks for asking a thought provoking question.ReplyCancel

  • Robin WillisJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:26 pm

    Becca, you create such lovely, inspiring work. I really enjoy coming to your blog and seeing what beautiful creation you have made to share with all of us.
    Now my answer to your question is:
    The best gift I can give today is love. I make sure each and every day that my family knows how much I love and cherish them. My girls will never wonder if they are loved by me or their dad. Love is the most important thing I can give my kids and the best thing that they give me in return.
    Thanks for the opportunity to win your awesome blog candy!!
    Have a creatively wonderful day!
    RobinReplyCancel

  • Ron PerryJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:29 pm

    The best gift I can give today is…love and care…

    To my family, my partner, my friends and co-workers.

    By loving and caring for those in my life, I am a better person.ReplyCancel

  • Debbie BarnhartJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:30 pm

    The best gift I can give ANYONE is prayer in a time of need. I have 2 very good friends who have lost their mothers this week. It’s been such a sad time, but through prayer, both of them will get through their time of grief. I also believe that the next best gift would be myself and my time. I have raised 3 children and now have a beautiful grand daughter who just turned 6. She is my “crafting” buddy….she loves anything to do with making things. Thanks, Becca, for offering this “candy! I absolute love all your creations and you have totally inspired me in many areas. Keep up the good work!!ReplyCancel

  • Mimi2sixJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:32 pm

    Congrats on the one year anniversar! Wow,what a following you have, it’s a testimony to your gift and incredible talent. Thanks for sharing, I appreciate it.

    The most important thing I can share is unconditional love. I’m reminded of the scripture in 1Corinthians 13:4-8….Love is patient, kind, long suffering, it is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs, is not rude (this is para phrased). The scripture is longer and goes on to define the person I wish I could be. So that’s what I want to really give….. love with nothing held back, especially towards my husband and parents:)ReplyCancel

  • Amanda RJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:34 pm

    I agree, the best thing you can give is your time even if it is brief. A quick call or note to let someone know you are thinking of them stays in their memory a lot longer than the few minutes it took to call or write them.ReplyCancel

  • Cheryl in CincyJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:47 pm

    The best gift I can give is unconditional love and hopefully be a reflection of God’s love. Life is tough and people need to feel loved and appreciated.ReplyCancel

  • NanJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:00 pm

    The best gift I can give today would be to be a good listener to my friends and to take the time to be there for their hardships.ReplyCancel

  • Nancy FairJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:28 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to really listen to others as they share their thoughts. I tend to want to give unsolicited advice when they just want to express themselves!ReplyCancel

  • Charlene H.January 28, 2009 - 9:37 pm

    Holy cow do you have reading to do! This is one of my favorite places to have my morning coffee or my evening tea. You have such beautiful projects on your blog and it is such a joy to visit here. To answer your question, the best gift I can give today is patience. I think I need to have a little more of that with my boys. Sometimes I forget they are just little people and haven’t learned all that much yet. Thanks for making me think of something like that. You have inspired me to have a little more patience.ReplyCancel

  • marlisJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:38 pm

    Wow, this is a tough question. But the best gift I can give right now, today, in this moment would be myself. My sister in law lost her 26 year old son on January 4th. My youngest child has his own cross to bear. My friend’s brother has been diagnosed with cancer. My mother in law has dementia and it’s getting really bad now. My husband’s heart doesn’t always play fair. And so I decided that the best resource I have is me. I can give my sister in law a time away from sorrow, and I can be a ray of sunshine for my son, I can listen to my friend’s anguish. and I can love my husband. And that which sustains me is my faith, so I know that I can do these things.ReplyCancel

  • Sharon in MOJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:49 pm

    What wonderful blog candy. Your cards are so beautiful.
    The best gift I can give today is my patience. So hard for me to keep in mind when the days move so fast and I am getting behinder and behinder.ReplyCancel

  • Tracy SmithJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:53 pm

    The best gift I can give today is . . . my attention. We all get so busy in our lives that sometimes, not meaning to, we don’t give those we love the attention we should. I’m reminded about that especially this time of year as it will be 9 years on Saturday that I lost my sister who was only 31 yrs old. What I wouldn’t give to be able to hug her one more time. She was my best friend and I miss her so. I know she knew how much I loved her and we did spend a lot of time together but I had been so busy at work that I kept postponing doing things with her until ‘later’. Then, later didn’t come. So, I try to remember that now and while I still falter, I don’t do it as often. So now I take the time (most of the time) to say ‘how was your day’ or ‘I’m thinking of you’. To sit and listen, actually listen (not just pretend) when someone wants to tell me about their day. Time flies so fast and we don’t get ‘do-overs’ so pay attention while you can. I’m trying to! Thanks for the thought provoking blog opportunity!! :-) Tracy in Michigan, crazyforsu@aol.comReplyCancel

  • Adrienne W.January 28, 2009 - 9:59 pm

    The best gift I can give today is…… to live in the present and not worry about the future. I make a big effort to enjoy all that today has to offer and to learn from things that may not go as planned. By not living in the past or future, I keep myself “unstuck” of old mind sets and forecasting what may never happen. Life is short…I want to enjoy it before it’s too late :)ReplyCancel

  • JenJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:09 pm

    THe best gift I can give today …. Be of service to someone.
    Whether it’s watching a friends baby so she can take a break, helping a friend with laundry, just being a listening ear or send a note (on a handmade card of course) to someone who may be to far away to visit but you’ve been thinking of.

    Congrats on hitting a million and on your upcoming Blog-anniversary!!!ReplyCancel

  • KristinJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:13 pm

    The best gift I can give today is forgiveness. I need to forgive myself for my incessant thoughts of failing my daughter in regards to her education. I also need to forgive the teachers who DID fail her. Three years of falling through the cracks is taking a toll on her self esteem and her reading comprehension. This is going to be tough because it will impact her life forever if she doesn’t catch up. How does a mom live with knowing she should have fought harder? As you can see, I’m not there yet. I’d better get some knee pads for the amount of time I’m going to be praying! ;0)ReplyCancel

  • Deborah YoungJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:16 pm

    Becca…..you don’t know me, but you are one of my favorite artists. I visit your blog daily. So the best gift I can give today is sharing with you – letting you know that your talents are reaching people you may never meet. Thank you for offering the blog candy and congratulations on your milestones. I look forward to visiting your blog every day!ReplyCancel

  • Rachel rJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:22 pm

    The best gift i can give today is GOOD HEALTH, STRENGTH & HOPE to my beloved son who is struggling the 3 time with cancer disease.
    so, i send all of you, where ever you are – healt, lots of love and hope for a wonderful peaceful world.
    May all you wishes and dreams come true!ReplyCancel

  • YoshaJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:26 pm

    Best gift I gave today was the blood. I try to give blood regularly (though I HATE HATE HATE needles!), and whenever my iron levels permit! Usually it’s the pretty normal thing, sit down, tell them how afraid I am of needles (I am convinced they take it easier on me!) and then sit there for it to drip out.

    But today when I checked in they said they were waiting for just my blood type! Apparently a baby in the neonatal (sp?) was in need and they were low. They gave me a pink bag, rushed me to the head of the line and this guy literally stood next to me while I dripped and ran out the second I was done! Motivation right there to go back!ReplyCancel

  • LuAnnJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:27 pm

    I have 5 grown children and three of them are married and raising familiReplyCancel

  • LuAnnJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:36 pm

    I think the best gift I can give is loving encouragement to others. We all need to be reminded that we are appreciated and valued. I consider my most important job now after raising 6 children, is to be a constant cheerleader as my children now raise their children. Being a grandma is the greatest… I find it easy to always have a word of praise for each of my grandkids. Thanks Becca for sharing your daily beauties with all of us. Such talent shows us a bit of the lovely woman you must be. One of my favorite things to do each day is check out your blog. Congrats Becca.ReplyCancel

  • Lisa PhillippiJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:48 pm

    The best gift I can give is myself. Sharing my creative thoughts through blogging. Sharing kind words to friends who I may never meet in person. I love blogging because it is a way to connect & inneract with creative souls who share the same passion as I. I have been a fan of your blog, though I do not believe I have ever left a comment before. I want to share with you the gift of admiration for your talent. Thank you for inspiring me.ReplyCancel

  • CarmenJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:51 pm

    I hadn’t heard about CHA until last week, so I guess I stayed home too :). DH bought me a Cuttlebug for Christmas, so I need to save my money so I can buy all the fun embellishments and templates. This is just way too much fun!ReplyCancel

  • CherylJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:08 pm

    I LOVE your blog and your work! I check it everyday and look forward to reading all your posts. The best gift I can give is to BE PRESENT in whatever the moment holds. It’s so easy to become distracted and focused on something that’s just happened or is coming up. It takes effort to stay in the moment. It’s a gift both to myself and to whoever I’m interacting with. Congrats on your blogiversary! Awesome.ReplyCancel

  • LaurelJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:16 pm

    The best gift that I can, and did, give today was my undivided attention & love to my kitty-cats. Many people are under the impression that cats don’t want or require much attention. However, having lived with feline companions for over 30 years, I know that isn’t the truth at all! In fact, all four of my cats crave a considerable amount of my undivided attention and affection. Unfortunately, there are days, sometimes weeks, where life gets too busy – then, it’s all that I can do to ensure my kitties are fed & their litter boxes are kept clean! But today, however, I gave my best gift – undivided attention along with lots of love & affection, to my well deserving, furry friends. We played games, watched a long movie, ate treats & even took a catnap, together. At the end of the day, I’m not sure who was purring with contentment the loudest. Although, I think it may just have been – me……ReplyCancel

  • Melissa NevillsJanuary 28, 2009 - 11:28 pm

    The best gift I can give today is time. I don’t remember who said that the best inheritance we can leave for our children is time in their memory banks but it is something that has really stuck with me. My daughter is only 14 months old but every day she reminds me in a million different ways how present God is in my life and how He fulfills our deepest prayers. She reminds me to take time to play; that there is no need to rush; and to thank God every day for the time we have together. I pray that, for her, our time together will give her confidence, courage, a deep-seeded knowledge that she is loved, and the basis for an amazing relationship with God.ReplyCancel

  • Rosy CJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:31 am

    The best gift I can give today is a long and relaxing bubble/salt bath for myself. After a long busy day full of kids, pets, housework and errands, too tired for some late night crafting. This is a great winding down moment to get ready for what’s to come tomorrow. I have been following Oprah’s show the past two weeks. And it made me realize that it is ok to take care of myself too.ReplyCancel

  • MelissaJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:41 am

    The best gift i can give today is ministry to the Lord and to my husband by being a supportive helpmate. He is a youth pastor and reserve army chaplain. We had youth group tonight and I have an opportunity to minister to high school girls and military families including my own. :) Love, love ,love your tutorials and cards! They are so elegant!ReplyCancel

  • Judith -Overland Park, KSJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:54 am

    Thank you for your wonderful cards and many great ideas. Plan on sharing with my friends. Have a painful foot and had to get a shot and so this will allow me to stay home and not run around wasting time and appreciate what I do have.ReplyCancel

  • HeatherJanuary 29, 2009 - 1:08 am

    The best gift I can give today is of my heart. Life has been tossing me ‘curveballs’ for the last couple of years and amidst all that turmoil I think I have forgotten to thank those close to me. So, I promised myself that I would do my best to appreciate and reciprocate all the warm and wonderful gestures my dear best friend and my family have bestowed upon me. I couldn’t have managed without them!
    Finally, I can see the light in the tunnel slowly growing.
    I need to thank them for me.
    But mostly, I need to do that for them.
    They deserve it!

    Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful talent with us, Becca! I so look forward to visiting your blog as I know that not only will I be able to see your elegant designs, but they will inspire me as well!

    Warmly,
    Heather in MontrealReplyCancel

  • NancySJanuary 29, 2009 - 2:25 am

    Staying home from CHA, in sunny, warm California, may not have been my best idea…but I did it anyway.

    The best gift I can give today is my undivided attention. It’s so rare that we (mothers/wives/workers/grandmothers/fill-in-the-blank) aren’t trying to do at least two things at once. There is almost never a quiet moment for all the people who are important in our lives or ourselves. I would love to be able to sit and have a conversation with my parents, my husband, my children, my best friend and give them my full attention so they can truly feel my love and caring for them and vice versa. I think I’ll start making arrangements to do this right now.

    BIG hugs…and thanks for a wonderful and inspiring blog!
    Nancy in IndianaReplyCancel

  • Jean FitchJanuary 29, 2009 - 3:46 am

    Hi Becca,

    The best gift I can give today….is being present to those God places in my path. Whether it’s family, neighbors, strangers, my cats or even my own reflection in a mirror taking time to listen, love, pray and serve their needs reflects Christ and my love for Him and thus witnesses to his presence in the world and in our lives. Easier said than done though the practice does make it more natural over time and calls for a balance between Martha and Mary that takes work. So much easier some days to pull the blanket over my head and think about it tomorrow (think Scarlett O’hara) but when I step out in faith trusting God to strengthen my weak will miracles happen (albeit tiny ones most often). Thanks for getting us all to think, share and be better persons. You have the soul of a teacher my dear.

    Hugs and blessings – Jean FitchReplyCancel

  • Sandi AshJanuary 29, 2009 - 6:03 am

    Your blog address to 2 dear friends. …….ashReplyCancel

  • Ruthie Allen-HamiltonJanuary 29, 2009 - 6:18 am

    Hey, Becca!
    I so appreciate your giving spirit and your talent! Thank you for sharing with us!
    The greatest gift I could give today – or any day – is affirmation and encouragement. One of the reasons I started making cards years ago was to send encouraging notes to people…especially to those who don’t know who they are in Christ… sharing His love and His grace is the greatest joy of my life!
    Blessings on you!
    Ruthie
    Colossians 3:17ReplyCancel

  • RobinJanuary 29, 2009 - 6:38 am

    The best gift I can give is myself! My time, my devotion, to God, my family, friends and acquaintances.ReplyCancel

  • Laura H.January 29, 2009 - 6:39 am

    The best gift I can give today is baking my son a gooey butter cake in celebration of his 35th birthday. It gives me great pleasure to do still be able to do these “little things” for my children and I thank God for the joy that my children continue to bring into my life. Jude 1:2ReplyCancel

  • HeatherJanuary 29, 2009 - 6:44 am

    My gift is time, my husband and I (both retired!!) look after 2 of our grandchildren 3 days a week. We do feel tired, naturally, but we also feel priveledged to witness their ‘growing up antics’ which ordinarily we would miss out on.
    xxReplyCancel

  • GayleJanuary 29, 2009 - 6:50 am

    I believe that the best gift I can give others is Jesus. I need to be living my life in such a way that they see Jesus reflected in all that I say and do and share what He has done for me.
    Thanks for sharing your talent with us! Your work is beautiful! Congratulations on all your recent blog accomplishments!
    GayleReplyCancel

  • JennyJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:07 am

    The best gift I can give today is a smile for everyone and a prayer of gratitude for a loving family – especially my four wonderful sons, two equally wonderful grandchildren and my dear cat. A prayer of thanks also for my health and everything I have. We take so much for granted in our day to day activities, often we forget those less fortunate, and forget to be grateful for what we have.
    A big thank you to you too Becca for sharing your fantastic creations and taking the time to do tutorials for us. I love your work and have learnt so much from your blog.
    Hug and a smile
    Jenny xReplyCancel

  • patti moffettJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:17 am

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of encouragement. Isaiah 50:4 The Lord has given me a well trained tongue that I may speak a word to rouse the weary. Morning after morning He opens my ears that I may hear.
    The Lord’s Word is full of encouragement and I am blessed to be used by Him to pass it on.
    Thanks for encouraging me to follow Him and to share what He has given me.
    Serving an Awesome God
    patti moffettReplyCancel

  • Kimmy KJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:37 am

    Thank you for your inspiration, not only creatively but spiritually. I look forward to your posts. I think the best gift I can give is positive thoughts. I am always looking for the positive in things. When someone is down or having a bad day I try to help them see something positive in what’s going on. It’s nice to see their whole mood change and many times it looks as although a weight has been lifted. I thank the Lord everyday for all that I have – the least I can do is try to help someone else. Have a blessed day!ReplyCancel

  • PennyJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:07 am

    The best gift I can give today is Christ. Whether it be sharing His word or living according to it. That would be giving the best of me to others. I loved the question…makes one think about what is truly valuable and worthwhile sharing with others. Thanks you for sharing your talents with us.ReplyCancel

  • Ann LindJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:37 am

    The best gift I can give at this time is support for both of our sons who are each going through a rough patch right now. Just being there with empathy and unconditional love but I guess thats what Moms do!! Ann LindReplyCancel

  • Amy JohnsonJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:40 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. An elderly friend of mine recently died, and I can’t attend his funeral tomorrow because I have to work, but I will desperately try to ‘squeeze’ in some time to attend the visitation today. It will be very difficult for me to do this, but thats what friends do.ReplyCancel

  • Lisa KindJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:44 am

    The best gift I can give today is…to me! I know it may sound selfish, but I have been home sick for 2 days with bronchitis. I have no children to take care of, but I do have several at school to take care of and teach (if you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m a teacher of 5th graders). I hate being out of my classroom because I know the kids hate it too. It breaks up their normal routine, and believe me they hate that! So I want to give myself the gift of wellness so I can get back to my kids! Love your blog and this is such a great blog candy giveaway! TFS!

    LisaReplyCancel

  • KamieJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:55 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. I have a friend whose mother-in-law is living with them, the MIL is dying of cancer. I’m going to go help and serve my friend and try to make her day better. Then I volunteer in my children’s classroom today and help kids struggling with their reading skills. It’s going to be a busy day, but I’m thinking it will be one of the best days of my entire week, because there won’t be any time to think about myself. I love falling into bed, tired and happy, from doing something beautiful with my day.ReplyCancel

  • AmyJanuary 29, 2009 - 9:19 am

    The best gift I can give today is slowing down and spending time with my children while they are home from school due to snow. We need to play outside in the snow, make snow angels, and then come in to warm up around a cup of hot cocoa.ReplyCancel

  • Deb S.January 29, 2009 - 9:19 am

    The best gift I can give today is time. I am unemployed right now with lots of extra time on my hands. The best thing I can do is give of my time to others through volunteering.

    Thank You for sharing your exceptional creations every day. They are truely amazing!ReplyCancel

  • EvaJanuary 29, 2009 - 9:53 am

    The best gift I can give today is to take time and listen what people are really saying. I am going through a grad school right now with spiritual pschology as the topic, and I am learning the power of “I hear you, I hear what you are saying” with my loving essence. Since that is what most people are lacking, I feel that is the best gift I can give them.

    I did get to go to CHA, but I felt compelled to answer your very beautiful question. You really a true inspiration!ReplyCancel

  • Sandy ThelenJanuary 29, 2009 - 9:56 am

    The best thing that I can give today is my love and full attention to my son and husband. So many times there are distractions from things in our daily lives and I just need to stop and focus on them and not the “STUFF”.

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful art with us!ReplyCancel

  • marcelleschauerJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:04 am

    When times seem impossible, uncontrollable, unbelievable, and unattainable, prayer becomes the perfect powerful gift of all. With the recent loss of loved ones the only gift I know how to give that will last for ever and touch the families when I cannot because of distance is prayer. So today I choose to give the gift of prayers to ones who cannot see me give a meal or feel my hugs. Faith is exercised to believe God will answer and provide whatever is needed for them at that moment.
    Your cards are a wonderful gift to all of us, thank you for your generosity.
    MarcelleReplyCancel

  • LoriJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:06 am

    The best gift I can ever give is my life and my love – to God, to my husband, to my children, to my family, to my friends, to my neighbors, to my enemies.

    Thanks for your inspiration, Becca (in more ways than one)!!!
    LoriReplyCancel

  • Linda YamaJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:34 am

    my best gift is my helping hands,,, it’s what I have and it’s what I do.ReplyCancel

  • AprilJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:45 am

    The best gift I can give…..Is love, time, patience and kindness to all that pass in and out of our lives. So many times we get caught up in our busy lives and forget the Golden Rule. “Do unto others as you would have done unto you”. I think we forget that sometimes. I really realized how precious life is after I lost my Grandma. Even now, 5 years later I know how special life is and how fortunate we were to spend time with her. Now as a mother of two young daughters ( 3 and 1 ) I know that I want my husband and I to raise them with an awareness of the gift of life we receive everyday. We are truly blessed to be here at this time experiencing all that we are offered. Therefore, we need to be patient and kind to all. Love fully and unconditionally. Never stay angry and always so I LOVE YOU!!! And thank you for always inspiring with your art.

    AprilReplyCancel

  • Carrie CJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:47 am

    The best gift I give today is my time. I babysit my 9 month old granddaughter each day and love spending time with her. During nap times I’ve been working on Valentine cards for the residents of the nursing home where my sister works. I give a gift but I get so much more in return. Thanks for sharing your talents on your blog. Your creativity amazes me.ReplyCancel

  • Gail GenrichJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:59 am

    Your creativity and apparent gentleness never cease to amaze me! I so look forward to checking in every day to see what wonderous and inspirational gifts you have for us. I have decided that I will pattern the rest of my life based on the simplicity of spirituality and knowing that there is a greater good in all of us. The best gift I can give today is to believe in those things that present themselves as negatives, and turn them in to a positive. Also to give respect to those less fortunate than I and help them any way I can, to have faith and hope that things will get better. Thanks again for your inspriation and enthusiasm!ReplyCancel

  • Mary L.January 29, 2009 - 11:08 am

    Oh! I wish I knew what I stayed home from.
    The best gift I can give is to be able to take my vision impared friend where she might need to go. That might be to the doctor,or shopping or out for dinner. After that we always drive around the Ovals to see what our beautiful Lake Michigan is up to.
    Thanks Becka, for all the beautiful things you share with us. You are an inspiration to all.
    God Bless.ReplyCancel

  • Sandy AndersenJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:24 am

    The best gift I can give is time, time to listen, time to learn, time to understand, time to care, time to help, time to serve.ReplyCancel

  • Judie FralickJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:25 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time. There are a lot of hurting people out of work. They need a listening ear, a hand stamped card of encouragement.
    Thanks so much for this chance to win some blog candy. I love visiting and getting inspiration from you. You make so many beautiful things.ReplyCancel

  • CarinJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:28 am

    I best gift I can give today is to let Christ’s light shine through me in all I say & do. ( Matt. 5:14-16)ReplyCancel

  • Barbara Mac NeilJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:30 am

    Thanks for the ongoing inspiration! I realy enjoy your blog and your very classy projects.
    BarbaraReplyCancel

  • DebbieJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:32 am

    The best gift I can give today is to myself, to do something that makes me feel peaceful, good about myself and renews my spirit. Because only then can I give my best to my family and those that come into my life.

    Thank you for your generosity and for the beautiful things you share on your blog.

    BlessingsReplyCancel

  • DianeJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:40 am

    The best gift I can give today is to be kind….to myself. No negative thoughts or feelings. I will pat myself on my back when deserved and accept as a learning experience when things don’t work out the way I hope.

    Thank you for your generosity in sharing your talent and inspiration, Becca.ReplyCancel

  • […] Home from CHA Blog Candy!  You can sign up by reading how to enter and leaving a comment on THIS […]ReplyCancel

  • Angel WJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:56 am

    Hey, sweet friend! Just came by to say hi and saw you were offering goodies! Look at all of these comments! That will keep you busy!
    Hmm… there are a lot of great answers. But I would have to say the best gift I can give today is to share God’s love. That’s what it’s all about, huh? That is one thing you do so well with this lil blog of yours too! I’m so glad to call you sister-in-Christ!? {{HUGS}}ReplyCancel

  • sherryd77January 29, 2009 - 12:00 pm

    The best gift I can give today is a smile to someone who doesn’t have one and doesn’t know that they need one. But they will know a good feeling when they receive it. And a smile gives back to you also–two gifts in one!!ReplyCancel

  • dorisJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:01 pm

    best gift today? my prayer with all my familyReplyCancel

  • JonnaJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:14 pm

    For me it would be love, strength & encouragement to my husband & daughter right now. My daughter is going through some really tough stuff right now and I am so worried about her. She is 1700 miles away and I can’t be there for her but I can give what I do have on the phone. My husband of 4 years has stage 4 colon cancer. He has been on chemo for 16 months with no end in sight. I can tell he is growing weary of it all. I have to be strong for him & encourage him along the way. I am not discreating what other’s comments about prayer. For me that is a must. Thank you for this opportunity to share & maybe heal from our pains just a tiny bit.ReplyCancel

  • Denise ~ Paper PonderingsJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:19 pm

    The best gift I can give today is some cardmaking time for my Mom. She’s going to come over and make a couple of Valentine’s cards to give and I am so looking forward to it.ReplyCancel

  • Jane TJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:24 pm

    I am going to give the corner punch idea a try. I don’t have the Spellbinder’s heart, but maybe I can cut one with an Exacto knife and then use the corner punch around it. Thank you for a wonderful site to learn new things.

    JaneReplyCancel

  • RebekkaJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:30 pm

    My best gift, is prayer and myself. I just love your blog, and all the wonderful things you create.ReplyCancel

  • Hollie VJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:42 pm

    The best gift I can give today is . . .
    love, patience, peace, kindness, and abundant grace for my family and all those I run across.

    GREAT BLOG. It is new to me. :)ReplyCancel

  • RoniGirlJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:49 pm

    The best gift I can give today is the gift of love to all I meet whether

    family, friend, or foe. Whatever the need of whoever I make contact

    with today — love is the best place to start!ReplyCancel

  • Viki BanaszakJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:49 pm

    The best gift I can give today is sunshine and hugs :) Or an ornery cat who is making it hard to type. LOLReplyCancel

  • Karen ArthurJanuary 29, 2009 - 12:51 pm

    The best gift I can give today is prayer and encouragement. I am a caregiver to my husband for he has epilepsy that can not be controlled. The Dr’s have exhausted all the possible scenarios with no luck. I can not work anymore for he needs someone around him. He was also just diagnosed with dementia but the Dr is not sure how fast it is progressing. This puts a strain on us financially but I PRAISE GOD for all He provides. My DD’s husband was recently diagnosed with a serious degenerative disk disease and will be having the first in a series of surgeries within the next two months. He will most likely become disabled and this will put a lot of pressure on my DD with keeping up with her work, the finances, house and kids (they are still preschool age). As well, my DS has a son who has been recently diagnosed with a Sensory Integration Disorder, this is a subset of the Autistic disorder. He is preschool age and has been a real challenge to them but they are pushing the medical field to help them with rehabilitation treatments.
    I lift my heart and hands to GOD and praise Him for his many blessings.
    Thank you for providing us an inspirational blog to read and enjoy seeing the awesome works of art you create.
    KarenReplyCancel

  • Heather xJanuary 29, 2009 - 1:01 pm

    Wonderful candy you are offering Becca :0)
    The best gift that I can give to someone today is my ear, I am always here to listen to whomever needs to talk :0)
    I have put a link on my sidebar :0)
    **Hugs** Heather xReplyCancel

  • stephanieJanuary 29, 2009 - 1:08 pm

    Love, love, love your candy. I didn’t go to CHA either, boohoo.
    The best gift I can give today is encouragement. With all the economic woes we are going through, with all the people losing their jobs and possibly there homes, sometimes just a boost of encouragement in their ear is what is needed to put them back on track, to give them a sense that they are not alone and that someone does care, that when life hands you lemons, you make lemonade.ReplyCancel

  • Robin SipesJanuary 29, 2009 - 1:12 pm

    Hi Becca,
    Congrats on your upcoming blog anniversasry! Thanks for all the great candy. Gift giving today…Everyone I meet deserves a smile and a kind word, not only today but any day…everyday. I am gonna give ’em what they deserve.

    Smiles to you!
    RobinReplyCancel

  • KayJanuary 29, 2009 - 1:36 pm

    The most important gift I can give today is the expression of gratitude to the Lord. To acknowledge the blessings in my life openly gives me strength to face challenges in my life each day and then I can pass that strength on to my family, friends and even strangers. Gratitude is the fountain from which springs Charity. When I feel blessed I work to bless others.

    You, Becca, bless all of us by sharing your talent so freely. I am grateful for you.ReplyCancel

  • MarilynJanuary 29, 2009 - 1:39 pm

    The best gift I can give today is . . .is to serve others that are in need. Becca, congrats on the upcoming anniversary of your blog. I have learned so much from your blog and appreciate you sharing your talents and gifts with others.

    MarilynReplyCancel

  • Lucy TimiselaJanuary 29, 2009 - 2:18 pm

    I just discovered your blog thanks to a friend and I am so glad I found it, I see so many beautiful things… I want to congratulate you with your million of hits and one year of blogging. What I would give to you is time, because we all seem to have a lack of time, to take a deep breath, to look at the birds in the trees and to enjoy the gift of life….ReplyCancel

  • TracyJanuary 29, 2009 - 2:27 pm

    … to do my very best in every thing I try my hand at. And to love my husband with all I’ve got.ReplyCancel

  • MichelleHJanuary 29, 2009 - 3:08 pm

    1 million hits – Wowza! That’s a lot of people who love you. I stayed home from CHA :-( NOT that I would have been able to leave my kids, but it would have been nice to be invited. lol

    The best gift I can give today is love, in its many varying forms. God loves me and my job is to reflect it onto those I come in contact with – a smile for the cashier, laughing at the neighbor kid’s bad joke, hugs and kisses for my kids and husband, listening to a friend, praying for someone’s need, kind words for all, etc My goal should be to make all I come in contact with happy they ran into me. I fall short some days, but I’m a work in progress. ;-)

    Great question!ReplyCancel

  • Cathy MasseyJanuary 29, 2009 - 3:21 pm

    The best gift I can give is prayer! I am going thru a tough time right now so I have been really practicing. The economy is so bad and work for my husband is not good. I have been really stressing but I know God will work things out for us.ReplyCancel

  • Patsy BJanuary 29, 2009 - 3:43 pm

    The best gift I can give today and every day is the gift of love – agape. To be able to love as Jesus did would be such an awesome thing.ReplyCancel

  • BuffieJanuary 29, 2009 - 3:45 pm

    The best gift I can give is Love and kindness. Love to my family and my friends. And kindess to the people I come in contact with.

    Thank you so much for the great blog candy!!! You’re awesome Becca!!!

    Good luck to all!ReplyCancel

  • SamJanuary 29, 2009 - 4:10 pm

    Well, there was just no way I was going to go to CHA because I am waaaay over the other side of the pond! The best gift I can give today is the freedom to decide what to do. To explain….my youngest brother has been living with me for the last few weeks while he decides whether he wants to stay here, move back to his University town, or go back to Mum and Dad’s? All I can do is offer him the space to be who he is with no pressure while he plays with my cat!! ;-)ReplyCancel

  • ConnieJanuary 29, 2009 - 4:25 pm

    The best gift I can give myself is to really focus on each moment and try to love myself. I’ve been told by my family and friends that I am harder on myself than I should be. I’ve always wanted to love myself but it seems so elusive. I grew up being put down. Seems like everything I did was wrong. So my self image never went beyond that. I don’t even like seeing myself in the mirror. I try to please everyone else and obsess with insuring that they are happy. I’ve fallen into the “whatever you want” syndrome. It’s hard to know what I really want. I’m so used to trying to please everyone that most days I find myself starting to “shut down” and not accomplishing much. Yes, I am getting help for depression and anxiety. I recently was recognized as “disabled” by Social Security. I live with physical pain and fatigue. I use to love being creative. I look forward to the day when I enable myself to enjoy life again.ReplyCancel

  • marv dennisJanuary 29, 2009 - 4:30 pm

    The best gift I can give today is patience and more prayers. I teach GED math.
    When I go to work in the mornings I think about my students who are having such a hard time with life’s problems as well as their lessons.
    Becca, I love your site and the cards are just wonderful. I have seen so many new things. Keep up the wonderful work.
    MarvReplyCancel

  • LisaJanuary 29, 2009 - 5:36 pm

    My gift is that of piety to my sweet family. Even when I feel like acting like a brat, I remember that I am leading my kids (&husband), and they look to me first for example and guidance.
    CHA is a new word in my vocabulary- but how cool is that gathering!!!ReplyCancel

  • LatishaJanuary 29, 2009 - 6:50 pm

    The best gift I can give today is a positive attitude. I homeschool my children, so I have to be extra vigilant at being a great role model for them. My actions and attitude directly affect them. My husband is a pilot in the Navy and we just moved (a big one!), and I need to have a positive attitude about our new city, meeting new friends, finding new favorite places to eat etc, so my family can move forward and be happy. When he is gone, it can be tough but if I wake up with a smile on my face and a good attitude, the day will be brighter and better.
    I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in my early/mid twenties. There is no cure for it, and they do not know how people get it, my Doctors only can treat my symptoms. Some days are worse than others, but I always try to remember that someone always has it worse than I do. I don’t wish this disease on anyone, however I believe the Lord gave it to me instead of my siblings because they are not strong enough to carry this burden. I’m a glass is half full type of person. When I’m am having days or weeks when things look dire, I just have to keep faith and a positive attitude. There is immeasurable power in having a good outlook on things. Plus I know my loving God has his hand on me and my fate is predestined. I am here to teach my children morals and lessons in life and one of them is to keep a positive attitude, it will get them through tough times and will be a blessing in the good times.
    I would love to win the goodies :)
    But after writing that, I’m a little teary eyed and I really just feel blessed and so thankful! Do you ever have moments like that? Thank you for bringing me a moment of clarity
    {{{hugs}}}
    LatishaReplyCancel

  • Sherri DeanJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:17 pm

    Beca,
    In response to your contest question, I can answer it easily. The best gift I can give today is the gift of my time. My parents are both in their mid 80’s and although Mom has Alzheimer’s, they are still both in their own home. I visit daily to be sure they are ok & since they don’t get out much now, I know my visits are the highlight of their days. And I am just happy to still have them in my lives, so the blessing I get in return is priceless.

    I adore your cards. You are an inspiration of all of us who have become addicted to handmade cards!

    SherriReplyCancel

  • AngiJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:26 pm

    Very, very yummy looking candy! The best gift I can give is my dedication. I have been in the military for 19 years now. I work in military healthcare and the best i can give is my dedication to my profession each and everydayReplyCancel

  • Betty WilsonJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:27 pm

    The best guift I can give is myself to others who are in need. I especially love helping the elerdy who are lonely and sad. I take meals, make cards and deliver them and grocery shop for them. The smiles on their faces are the most wonderful reward in the world. Your cards are the best. I can’t wait to see what you have created. Have a wonderful day. BettyReplyCancel

  • Merrily SchulzJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:06 pm

    Thanks again for the wonderful you. You are such a great talent and person and am thankful everyday for you adn your talent. Thank you.ReplyCancel

  • Helen ReitersJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:09 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my time and love. I spent today with my parents who are now 86 and 83. I am so blessed to still have them in my life and I try and spend as much time with them as I can helping them out with their shopping and housework and gardening. Dad had a stroke almost 12 months ago and Mum has needed extra help around the house taking care of him. I drive Mum and Dad to their doctors appointments and to wherever else they need to go. Sometime I just put Dad in the car and take him for a drive for a short time just so that we can enjoy getting out of the house of a while. This always helps give him a more positive outlook on life. I pray and thank God everyday for the gift of my parent and their love. Family is the most important thing in life to me and I count myself blessed for having such wonderful parents. I love visiting you blog and get so much inspiration from your wonderful creations. Thank you for sharing your special talents with us all. I hope you are having a good day.
    Helen Reiters, AustraliaReplyCancel

  • Deb RobinsonJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:12 pm

    The best gift I can give today is to share how Amazing God’s Grace is. The Love that Jesus Christ has for us is what this world really needs. With all of the turmoil in the world today, joblessness, homelesness, war, killing and the fact that we don’t treasure life is crippling America. We all want to say, God bless America, but we need to Bless Him. It will be His blessings that will get us back to work, back in our homes, and loving one another.ReplyCancel

  • DebraJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:14 pm

    Becca, I appreciate this opportunity to tell you what a blessing your blog is! Your beautiful creations are so inspiring, both artistically and spiritually. I’m often surprised by the “perfect” scripture you include in one of your cards! Seems trite to call your works of art cards, as all are frame worthy! I don’t want to sound cliche, but the best gift I can give is truly prayer. I know the blessing it is to me and what a privilege to join Him in the intercession with which He blesses us continually! Thank you for the opportunity to give this some thought. I know the value of so many other gifts, those of friendship, compassion, caring, and love, but I believe prayer changes more than any of these. Thank you for your generous blog candy! It’s always a sweet place to visit and I appreciate you!
    DebraReplyCancel

  • CharmaineJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:23 pm

    I think the best gift that I can give today is myself. That may sound a bit conceited but the place where I work is currently going through a lot of major changes…changes that are unfortunately effecting all employees greatly. So giving myself to those I work with is really important these days…that can consist of a shoulder to cry on…a listening ear…or just being a friend to a stressed out co-worker. I in return get the same from them.

    CharmaineReplyCancel

  • CammyVJanuary 29, 2009 - 8:41 pm

    wow, nice blog candy!! Hope I win.

    The best gift that I could give today was to give lots of hugs and kisses to my children and let them know how much they are loved.

    CammyVReplyCancel

  • gardengirl3January 29, 2009 - 9:15 pm

    The best gift I can give today is a kind heart and lots of love and hope. Even with all the sadness we are surrounded by in the world and also in some of our lives today, we must always remember that God has a plan for each and every one of us. Thanks so much for all you do for us…I love your blog and look forward to checking it out every day. Congrats on your anniversary too!!

    {{{{{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}}}}

    VickiReplyCancel

  • MelissaJanuary 29, 2009 - 9:23 pm

    The best gift I can give today is patience to my kids. It’s hard to always remember to be patient with them as my son has been struggling lately with his frustration and how he expresses it, but they are both still young (four and 18 months) and learning. I should remember to savor these days at home with them and not to expect them to behave to any specific standard, and just have fun! Thanks for all the beautiful inspiration as well as the thoughtful inward look!
    MelissaReplyCancel

  • Bertha WJanuary 29, 2009 - 9:41 pm

    Having recently retired (I was a High School Guidance Counselor), the best gift I could give today is my time – time to call my parents who live 1500 miles away, time to stamp a birthday card for a friend, time to cook a meal for my wonderful husband, time to email my son in Philly and my daughter in Croton, time to exercise to keep my good health for my grandchildren, but most of all time to be there to help God in any way that he desires.

    Thanks for all your beautiful cards and this chance for all of us to appreciate and express our talents and gifts.

    BerthaReplyCancel

  • CandiceJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:00 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my friendship. I may not have a lot of money, or anything else to give, but I can be a friend, listen to you, help you through your grief, and share with you the joy in your life.ReplyCancel

  • Michelle IdziJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:06 pm

    The best gift I can give is the present. Today, this moment, when I see a need to be able to fulfill it. When my kids ask for a story, or a neighbor needs a hand, if I can do it, it is a present. It may not be convenient, it may be hard, I may want to do other things, but the kids will become teens, my neighbors will move on, and I will still have to look at myself each morning. So the best thing I can give is the present, to be there for the ones I love now.ReplyCancel

  • Karen RoquetJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:11 pm

    Becca…..first of all, no I didn’t get to go to CHA, but that’s ok. Second, I love your blog & thank you for all your beautiful work & inspirational words. You have become one of my favorite sites to follow on the Web now!

    The best gift I can give today (or any day!) is to completely give of myself & share the love God has given me. The past 3 years have been some of the worst in my life, but I have come to realize just in the past month that it is when I quit looking at myself & what I want & start looking at what would help others & make them happy that I can find TRUE happiness for myself. I have had to sacrifice what I thought I wanted, only to find out that there were better things around the corner for me. Literally, when God closes a door He opens a window—& bigger & better things happen!! Today alone I have given of myself to my elderly parents, my husband, & my boss who is having breast cancer surgery tomorrow. I feel more at peace tonight than I have for a long time. It may sound like a cliche, but giving of yourself is the most unselfish & satisfying thing I can do!!ReplyCancel

  • cynthiaJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:37 pm

    Being a good friend. When things go bad, that (and my great husband) are what keeps me going, whether I am on the giving or receiving end.ReplyCancel

  • TishJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:48 pm

    Normally I would say the best gift I could give is support to my friends and family who are going through hard times right now. But, seeing as how I just came from my son’s room where I had to tell him he could not participate in Winter Drumline in his school band because I’m losing my job in a couple of weeks and can’t afford to pay the dues, the best gift I could give him is a second chance at one of his dreams. He’s worked so hard, practiced so hard and for so long, and finally, finally after so many years and try outs, made Center Snare (which is like Top Dog on drumline) and now, after all his work and determination, I have just crushed his dream coming true of being Center Snare all because of my lack of ability to pay the dues. I know this doesn’t compare to most of the other answers, it truly pales in comparison to prayers for loved ones or even yourself with dealing with Cancer, surgeries, and the like. But, if you had just witnessed the crushed look on my son’s face like I just did, you’d understand why this, at this moment, is the heaviest thing weighing on my heart and the one thing I would love more than anything to be able to give someone else.

    Thanks.ReplyCancel

  • BettyJanuary 29, 2009 - 11:09 pm

    Hi!

    The best gift I can give today is kindness and patience.

    I have recently discovered your blog and I think that it is wonderful. You
    are very talented and creative. I think your blog is inspiring, not only
    because of your many creative ideas, but also because you provide words
    of encouragement and wisdom for your readers. Thank you for sharing
    your many “gifts” with all of us.

    BettyReplyCancel

  • Patti CunninghamJanuary 30, 2009 - 12:39 am

    seens like everyone has covered the most important gifts…gifts of oneself; one’s time and personal support. I think it is the most important gift we all can and must give….thanks for your creative support…you are one of the most talented paper artists out there. I am so very fortunate to have found your blog. Todays card is simply beautiful. Thank you, thank you, thank you!ReplyCancel

  • LastelJanuary 30, 2009 - 1:09 am

    The best gift I can give today is my smile , everyone tells me I have a great smile . Also love , patience and understanding are also gifts that I give on a daily basis , gifts that are a must when you are raising an autistic child .
    Congrats on another milestone ! I love your work and love visiting your blog daily !ReplyCancel

  • Mary WilkersonJanuary 30, 2009 - 2:24 am

    Mahalo, for sharing your gifts and talent It makes me smile and wonder how can people be so talented. My gift is understanding. Being a nurse the best thing I can do is to listen and explain what is happening to my patients and there love onesReplyCancel

  • DianaJanuary 30, 2009 - 4:34 am

    The best gift I can give is my time and attention to my family. I may not be able to give them any or all of the things they want but I can give them my love and time always.ReplyCancel

  • ConnieJanuary 30, 2009 - 5:26 am

    The best gift that I can give is to give more attention to family and friends and less to work. Family is first, but I haven’t been focusing on them. We had a tough December-ice storm, new car dented, customer big order didn’t ship-(see work), and missed family visit and worst yet-Christmas postponed. Never again. I am planning something by Feb 15 for the last week of Dec 2009 for my family so we can enjoy the time together.ReplyCancel

  • StellaJanuary 30, 2009 - 5:35 am

    The best gift I can give today is to have a bit of patience. As a parent, wife, and teacher I sometimes find that those around me just aren’t doing things at the speed I often wish they would. It takes an extra half hour to get those bedrooms cleaned, an extra phone call to ask for that special item to be picked up at the grocery store, or an extra explanation with a different method for an assignment. I am often tempted to allow myself to become frustrated and either just move on or to do it myself, but then I take a breath and realize that nothing will be learned that way. My kids won’t learn responsibility of taking care of themselves and their needs and my students won’t learn the process of problem solving. Patience is what is called for!ReplyCancel

  • SaraJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:14 am

    The best gift I can give today is kindness. My MIL is here with us and she is not very happy and rather negative so I am killing her with kindness right now in hopes she will be even a little bit happier.ReplyCancel

  • Jill W.January 30, 2009 - 6:29 am

    The best gift I can give today is to treat others the way I would like to be treated. We had a discussion with our kids the other day about the “Golden Rule” and how God expects us “to do unto others”. Yesterday I blew it (cranky, impatient and irritated) ….today is a new day. I hope to be more patient, loving and kind to my family. God is good… I need to be an example of his goodness!ReplyCancel

  • BevJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:33 am

    The best gift I can give today is…my gift of friendship. Just to be there for a friend or family member no matter what they need. If they need me to listen…I’ll be there. If they need me to pray…I’ll be there. If they need me to sit silently with them, hold them, share their tears (happy or sad) I’ll be there. That is what friends are for!ReplyCancel

  • Annette KlasinzJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:44 am

    The best gift i can give is to love unconditionally. Not to judge even when my mind tells me to. My heart and my love of god should keep my judgements quite and to myself. Share joys and calm fears and always be there for everyone i am near. because that is what the lord wishes us to do.ReplyCancel

  • AbbyJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:44 am

    The best gift I can give today is love and empathy to my significant other who is not feeling well right now.ReplyCancel

  • HeatherJanuary 30, 2009 - 7:58 am

    Hi. The best gift I can give now is time. My husband and I (both retired) look after 2 of our granchildren 3 times each week. We do get tired but feel priveledged to witness the ‘growing up’ antics of these youngsters. We have been given treasures in abundance and lots to be thankful for.
    Blessings and hugs.
    H WReplyCancel

  • Lisa VJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:13 am

    The best gift I can give today is to spend the day with my kids as there is no school today.ReplyCancel

  • CindiJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:14 am

    The best gift I can give today … is my time, and my magazines!
    Today is my husband’s 50th birthday. My piles of magazines really bug him. I think one of his presents might be a bundle of old magazines (I could probably even find 50!) tied up with a ribbon and sitting in the recycle bin! Sounds crazy, but I know he would appreciate it! I will also be spending time today on his card and a special dinner. I really enjoy your blog, and I’m not at CHA! Thanks!ReplyCancel

  • LindaJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:27 am

    The best gift I can give today…… is a smile and a kind word and my time to someone less fortunate than me………. Also my artistic creativity. I have learned soooooooo much from you, Becca, just reading your blog every day. You are AMAZING!!!!! I saw that you were going to be at an event for Flourishes in April I believe and I would soooo love to go Just to meet YOU!!!!!! Your attention to detail in everything you do is wonderful – I just LOVE looking at all your projects – no one even compares – no one even comes close…..I’m trying but I still have a LONG way to go. You’re the BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Thanks for all your inspiration!

    LindaReplyCancel

  • debbJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:28 am

    I always enjoy your blog- thank you for all you share! And speaking of sharing… The best gift I can give…I have spent since Tues thinking of my response to this and am still struggling with it (actually I have been struggling with this question for about a year now!)! I am in a time in my life when my volunteer life has changed and I need to find the right place for me to give of myself. The boys are both in college and so I am no longer always at the high school volunteering (well- I still volunteer there- only a lot less time). So I have been searching for the right thing for me. I have picked up a rather large commitment for my church, but need to do more. I selfishly hate to go out in the winter so I am avoiding certain things. Truth be told, I do not have an answer for you! Of course, I can give myself to my family and friends but I am searching for more! I think the best gift I can give today is to keep my heart and eyes open for that special place that needs me as much as I need it! debbReplyCancel

  • Robbie RubalaJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:48 am

    Congratulations on hitting 1 million! The best gift I can give today is to have a smile on my face and a friendly greeting for everyone I meet. This will help everyone have a good day!

    RobbieReplyCancel

  • LindaJanuary 30, 2009 - 9:26 am

    The best gift I can give today is my time wiith my husband and 2 boys. We stay so busy during the week I like to just have some family time on Friday.ReplyCancel

  • Myra RussellJanuary 30, 2009 - 9:49 am

    The best gift I can give today, is prayers, listening and being there for anyone that may need me. My husband is dealing with lung cancer. He has had the lung removed, many treatments of chemo and radiation and has finished those. Now a few new problems have come about but with the Lord in our lives and being so blessed, we will make it through all those things as well. Only our Great Physician knows the answers.
    I love your site for all the things it provides to all of us, God BlessReplyCancel

  • Terri S.January 30, 2009 - 10:13 am

    The best gift I can give today is… me. That’s all there is. All I can do/share/give is myself – to the best of my ability. Some days that’s not great, but wow! on occasion it can be. And you know what, my husband has come to expect the variety!
    I am now unemployed, so I was a stay at home from the CHA too. Didn’t manage to blog hop much but had fun when I could. I did make many valentine’s in the Challenge for Kids event as well as for a local nursing home project. Now I’m busy making more so that my husband can sell them where he works (male co-workers are notorious for not getting things in advance!) Maybe that will help me out so I can buy more supplies!
    Have a great blog anniversary. We will celebrate 37 years on Feb 17!ReplyCancel

  • kimJanuary 30, 2009 - 11:17 am

    The best gift I can give today is… to slow down and really notice what is going on around me. To interact with full attention to my family friends, and coworkers. They and I deserve it.ReplyCancel

  • TezaJanuary 30, 2009 - 12:05 pm

    The best gift I can give today is…spending time with/before our Lord. When I neglect time with Him, I end up neglecting the best part of my life… when I don’t spend time with Him, I end up not giving my best to all those people I come into contact with on a daily basis… family, friends or just someone passing by. Thank you for this question as it is a reminder to me of where I need to be….ReplyCancel

  • Helen VJanuary 30, 2009 - 1:20 pm

    Beautiful thoughts as always! The best gift I can give is my caring and willingness to listen to friends and family who’s hearts are heavy. Thanks for a thought provoking question!ReplyCancel

  • PEGGY LAMBJanuary 30, 2009 - 2:23 pm

    The best gift I can give today and everyday is to try to be kind and understanding with everyone- friends, family, co-workers, and everyone I come into contact with. Thank you- great question.ReplyCancel

  • Kay McBrideJanuary 30, 2009 - 2:26 pm

    WELL i didnt get to go to CHA either but thats ok. the best gift i can give today and everyday, is prayer for everyone esp. those with special needs. and i can also be there for my father and sister since we just lost our mother. congratulations on your accomplishments and look forward to more beautiful crafts from you.ReplyCancel

  • Jan CoolJanuary 30, 2009 - 2:49 pm

    The best gift I can give today is HOPE & HAPPINESS. HOPE that we find in a child’s eyes when they look up to us — the unconditional love and trust. HAPPINESS when you see a smile just because you smiled–sharing a moment with a complete stranger. You give us hope that we can do as you do thru your tutorial. And one big smile of happiness when you show us how and we accomplish making the cards. Thank you for all you share. Here is HOPE I can follow your lead and HAPPINESS of a smile goes out to you and yours Becca and everyone else. SMILE and the world smiles with you.ReplyCancel

  • MarciaJanuary 30, 2009 - 5:14 pm

    The best give I can give is Hope. With the world situation, there are so many that need hope and positive words. I try hard to be positve. In my job with troubled teenagers, there is always room for hope and a positve attitude.ReplyCancel

  • FoxieJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:19 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my time and my friendship…..I have failed to call friends, family and acquaintances that would just love to hear from me….You reminded me with your question that a phone call can sometimes make all the difference in someones life…so for about two hours today, I have made phone calls that really may have made a difference and brightened up someone else day. By doing this little simple task, I was again inspired at the feeling you get from a pleasant word and someone just listening to the trials and troubles of others. It is amazing what a simple kindness can do to brightened both parties attitudes and their day….Thank you for your wonderful blog and for reminding me how far kindness can carry you…….Have a blessed day….ReplyCancel

  • SandraJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:22 pm

    The best gift I can give today is my love and support – my husband lost his job a little over a week ago and it has been tough – emotions are running rampant – from anger to self pity. It has been tough on the family. So at this point the best I can give is my love and support to try and hold the family from falling apart.

    Thanks for the inspiration – this blog is wonderful – you are so creative and sharing of your secrets and beautiful creations is much enjoyed.ReplyCancel

  • colleen eJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:34 pm

    The best gift I can give today is of myself to others. I am a RN for the last 30 years. I am blessed each day by god for the work I am able to provide/ I give of myself to my patients to inspire them to heal, educate them, manage ther care in there recovery at a diffacult time of there life in all kinds of life altering events. I pray each morning that I can make a difference in the patients lifes I touch each day, either its taking care of there wound, taking care of there IV, or the little premature baby that birth wt was 457gm and is on life support, with endless hours of teaching, or just siting holding a dying patint hand and there family. or maybe having a family conference with a young man 23 who is paralized from the neck down and is on life support who no longer wants to live in this condition, I ask god to heal these people through my hands. and make a difference. What I believe in is you give and give and give of yourself and when you think you have given enough give just a little bit more.

    Thank you Becca your inspiration and the great blog. your creations are so talented you are indeed blessed each day.

    you have a blessed day BeccaReplyCancel

  • cheryl higginsJanuary 30, 2009 - 8:54 pm

    I stayed home too. The best gift I can give is setting a
    true example for Christ and being there when my family
    needs me. Thank you for the example you set and the
    talent God has given you.ReplyCancel

  • Louise BrownJanuary 30, 2009 - 9:55 pm

    I think the best gift I can give is to be willing to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I don’t feel like I do a very good job of it but I want to be willing to have a servant’s heart when I feel like I am being led by Him to do something. Becca, I have been encouraged many times by your blog both for the creativity you share with us and the things you write. Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • Cat D.January 30, 2009 - 10:23 pm

    The best gifts I can give are love and prayers for my family. My DH is ill, and my DS has decisions to make concerning job opportunities. It is so difficult to stand by and watch. I tend to be a “fixer”, and the Mom in me can’t solve every problem. I like to believe that things in life happen for a reason, and that when God closes a door, He will open a window. I just pray that the windows will open soon.
    I enjoy your blog so much. You have such creative ideas and are truly an inspiration!ReplyCancel

  • AnneJanuary 30, 2009 - 10:24 pm

    The best gift that I can give to day is to be the person God wants me to be with His help: the best child of God that I can be; the best wife that I can be to my husband; the best mother I can be to my two children; the best friend I can be; the best employess that I can be. And with God’s help I will do my best!
    God bless you, and thank you for all the inspiration you give to so many through your blog.
    Hugs, Anne. dinkuminkum at yahoo dot co dot nzReplyCancel

  • Katy DJanuary 30, 2009 - 10:39 pm

    The best gift I can give above all others….LOVE. I love my family. I love where I am in life, no matter if I like it or not, I must love the fact that it’s where He wants me to be. I love each day I wake up in the morning and am able to lay down at night. I love that life is busy and full of life…otherwise, it might be called something else, right?ReplyCancel

  • ElizabethJanuary 30, 2009 - 11:00 pm

    The best gift I can give right now is a handwritten note. We have been bombarded with the electronic/digital era that a handwritten note is almost obsolete. Many people haven’t even seen the penmanship of their loved ones. That is why a handmade card is so precious these days. Not only does it show that you have taken the time to make it. The recipient will also note that you took the time to write them a note conveying your thoughts/best wishes to them.
    Thanks for an opportunity to win some blog candy.ReplyCancel

  • Janet L.January 30, 2009 - 11:02 pm

    I wish I could have attended CHA. It looks to be so much fun. However, I’ve been giving a gift, substitute teaching for a friend who had cancer surgery. I love her and wish her special prayers, but I know she is in His hands and care. Congratulations on your blog hits. Your cards are just so beautiful and inspirational.ReplyCancel

  • pamEpooJanuary 30, 2009 - 11:16 pm

    The best gift I can give today is blog love. SWAK! Thanks for your creativity and inspiration. Congrats on your success!ReplyCancel

  • Yvonne C.January 30, 2009 - 11:45 pm

    The best give I can give is prayer. I have so many friends and family right now in need of prayer, just seems like too much is going on causing many of us to feel helpless. I have been praying for many,
    as well as my own famiy. I know prayer brings results, I am seeing some of GOD’S gifts in my own life.

    Thanks for your BLOG, you bring such inspiration to me. I love all your projects, and hope my work will soon become as good as yours.
    God bless you,
    YCReplyCancel

  • Carol HeadsJanuary 31, 2009 - 4:21 am

    The best gift I can give today is laughter!
    I am appearing in a British Traditional Pantomime at the local theatre and it is great to hear the applause and laughter. The whole show is interactive and the children are encouraged to join in! They love the funny parts and being scared by the monsters! (That’s what I am).
    Carol
    PS I love your blog, it is so inspirational and the first one I look at every day!ReplyCancel

  • AbbyVJanuary 31, 2009 - 4:24 am

    I love your blog! I just discovered it through Splitcoast, and I am in eyecandy heaven whenever I visit! Thank you for sharing your creativity with us from blogdom. I love how you take the time to give us tutorials on your creations-you have such a generous spirit. As for the best gift I can gift I can give–patience and lots of love. My kids are going through a rough patch right now and they are not the best kids to deal with–lots of whining, crying, and tantrums. Ordinarily this would rile me and I’d end up yelling at them–which just perpetuates the vicious cycle of whining, crying, temper tantrum! I know WHY they are acting up and honestly, I can’t blame them-I feel like doing some whining, crying and temper tantrums of my own! So, I am trying to be more patient and loving, and understanding than I usually am. Things often happen that are beyond our control–all we can do is to roll with the punches and continue. And sometimes, a good cry is all we need to let all that stress out so we can deal with what we’ve been dealt with.ReplyCancel

  • DawnJanuary 31, 2009 - 6:28 am

    Hi Becca
    well I have no choice of staying put since I live in Scotland!!
    CHA would just be a dream come true for me!!!
    Your candy is such a great idea!

    Hugs
    DawnReplyCancel

  • Ginny HJanuary 31, 2009 - 6:41 am

    I stayed home also. I have not had much time this week to blog hop so I guess I missed all the comments about CHA. That is probably a good thing so I won’t feel so left out! The best thing I can give is my time. Time for my family, time for my work and time for myself.ReplyCancel

  • Marion MillerJanuary 31, 2009 - 6:58 am

    The best gift I can give today is gratitude. I am so grateful for so many things but only for one person. That person is my sister who is the world to me. She gives me unconditional love and support, she gave me room in her home to live when I divorced. We share laughter every day and we also share the love of stamping and making cards. I am grateful for you blog and website as well. I just found it last Sat. through an email from a store I frequesnt and I have enjoyed it tremendously so far. Shall I continue all I’m grateful for. I think not. Perhaps a short list will suffice – our country, our lives, our freedom, our hopes, my family, my faith in God, and I could go on and on. But the gift of gratitude is something we should all give to make others aware of the precious things in our lives. – MarionReplyCancel

  • Becky LuJanuary 31, 2009 - 7:18 am

    The best gift I can give today is encouragement. Be encouraged to know that God is still in contol, even though things may appear to be totally against you. Be encouraged that His peace is still available, even when the world around you is falling apart. Be encouraged that His return is coming very soon and all our pain, hurts, disappointments and failures will be gone and we will have a new body and walk on those streets of gold with Him, and see all our precious loved ones to be parted no more. Be encouraged that God is God and has already won the final victory and walk in that knowledge with faith and all your heart. Be of good cheer, for He has overcome!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Bernie D.January 31, 2009 - 7:43 am

    The best gift I can give today is time and patience. Time to talk to my children who live thousands of miles away. To listen to how their week has gone. All their joys and their frustrations. Time and patience when talking to my sister who tends to go off tangent during our conversations.

    Thanks for offering this blog candy. I discovered blogging about 6 months ago and have many saved as my favorites. I have to say your blog tops the list. I use to check out some of the blogs every 2 or 3 weeks. Since I found you I’ve been checking back every couple days. I am always so amazed at the things you create and look forward to your next creation. Keep up the great work!ReplyCancel

  • stampandweave from SCSJanuary 31, 2009 - 8:43 am

    The best gift I can give today is a Christlike spirit. That is the best thing I could possibly have for myself and for anyone whose lives I touch today or any day. That will enable me to be patient, kind, loving, forgiving, gentle, compassionate, merciful, thankful, etc. His Spirit will move me to reach out to others, to be moved by the needs of others to do what I can and to be moved to pray that even though I can’t do a thing to help He can. His spirit will make all the difference in my day and just may make a difference in others’ day too.

    I really enjoy your blog and all the beautiful creative things you come up with and then share with others. Thank you very much for your generosity in doing that and in offering such wonderful blog candyReplyCancel

  • DianeJanuary 31, 2009 - 8:46 am

    The best gift I can give today is patience. : ) My husband hurt is back, my son has 2 basketball games, and my other son needs to get to scout activities–so it’s all up to me. I want to be a loving wife and mother, patient and giving today. DianeReplyCancel

  • MelanieJanuary 31, 2009 - 8:50 am

    The best gift I can give today is time. What a precious commodity these days! Without the investment of time, relationships cannot grow whether it be with a friend, husband, children or most importantly with our Heavenly Father.

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful gift! You have been blessed with such creativity.ReplyCancel

  • Shawn K.January 31, 2009 - 9:06 am

    Hi,

    Nice question…thanks for asking. I’m a psychologist and a mother and I find that the most important gift I can give is the gift of understanding. Whether to my children or my clients…I always seek to really see the other person’s point of view. Where are they coming from? What do they need? How can they get there?

    Take care,

    Shawn K.ReplyCancel

  • GinaJanuary 31, 2009 - 9:41 am

    Hi there! I stayed home too and I will stay home for some time now, you see I have 3 kids, 2 teens and 1 toddler!! Yes, I had a surprise baby after 11 years,so the best thing I can give you now is time because I don’t have much of it, but if you need it I’ll give it to you, I don’t even have time to do some stampin’ but I always have time for anyone who needs it!!;) Thanks for sharing this is beautiful…..GinaReplyCancel

  • SylviaJanuary 31, 2009 - 9:46 am

    The best gift I can give today is laughter. No matter how badly I feel or how horrible the day is if someone can make you laugh all things look brighter.

    I was out with my 17 hear old son yesterday and we had a special time together because we laughed. It is so hard to connect with that age group but laughter seemed to bridge to gap. It almost made it okay that he had not yet done the dishes I had asked him to do the night before (this is an ongoing battle!!!)

    Becky, just to let you know your website is the one I go to first everyday. Your creations are elegant and beautiful and so creative. You are a truly inspiring artist. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself.ReplyCancel

  • TeresaJanuary 31, 2009 - 10:43 am

    The best gift I can give today is kindness. While at times I forget all I have in my life and feel down about something small, I do really have allot… God’s love, family, friends, health, security, and the list goes on. By doing RAK I am able to give and receive so much more back.ReplyCancel

  • Nance in RenoJanuary 31, 2009 - 11:39 am

    The best gift I can give todya is a deliberate act of kindnes. Actually, this is my new year’s resolution and I’ve been able to keep it. Every night before I go to bed, I ask myself if I have done at least one thing for someone else that I wasn’t required to do, if I have done one thing for my family, and if I have done one kind thing for myself. Sometimes my DAK is as simple as picking up some litter, letting someone cut in traffic or letting someone go ahead of me at the checkout line. Sometimes it is picking up an extra chicken while I am shopping and giving it to the lady at work who is now raising her grandchildren. It might be sending a “thinking of you” card to someone who is going through a tough patch to let them know I am praying for him/her. I think that if everyone did one nice thing for someone else, we’d have billions of RAKs happening every day.

    I make sure I volunteer to do a “bigger” kindness once a week. It might be packing/distributing food at our church or spending the night at the homeless shelter or making a meal for someone who is ill. Focusing on the needs of others puts my own worries in perspective.

    And I firmally believe that we should treat our family as well as we treat company. So if my daughter or husband mentions something (like a favorite book/movie or song, or a food item), I try to check it out at the library or make the dish. It has helped me become a better listener.

    Lastly, I’ve come to realize that if I don’t take care of myself, I can’t take care of anyone else. This means getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and not being too hard on myself. If I start ruminating or beating myself up about “woulda, coulda, shouda’s” I have been just making a simple sentence and then the word PERIOD. So, I might tell myself “I didn’t work out yesterday. PERIOD.” Time to move on!ReplyCancel

  • bonnieJanuary 31, 2009 - 7:05 pm

    The best gift is looking someone right in the eye and smiling. Nothing connects better than sincerity of feeling and genuine appreciation. I work as a nurse in a pediatrics office and kids can spot a phoney right away, so if I can connect and make them feel safe and garner trust there is no better feeling. Also their mothers or fathers appreciate your time taken to let their child feel comfortable. Lots of tough times ,but there is always time to stop , smile and maybe make someone feel like you care about them.ReplyCancel

  • Jerry WeaverFebruary 1, 2009 - 12:41 pm

    The best gift I can give today is passing along your website to my two best crafting buddies. We love the Nestibilities and I for one love your use of them. I’m new to the Nestibilities so all the help I can get to see how to create with them and how they stir the imagination – is just simply great!! I also give the gift of helping the kids at our church learn what their imagination and creativity can accomplish. Long live crafting!!
    GrammyJerReplyCancel

  • Carol WestJuly 19, 2009 - 2:48 pm

    My gifts today are sharing the gift of the love of God and country, being patient and kind to everyone I meet and listening to their cares and woes, not to judge but to be compassionate and understanding of others. These gifts I give to you and all others in the world today.ReplyCancel

  • Pam PJuly 30, 2009 - 4:05 pm

    I also stayed home from CHA althought I would have loved to have been there. My brother-in-law has recently been diagnosed with cancer and had some radical surgery. He now is facing radiation therapy and kemo therapy. So my gifts to him are that of compassion, empathy, love, and time. We try to spend as much time with him as possible and will continue to do so as we know our time could be limited. Thank you for sharing your beautiful creations with us.ReplyCancel

  • Jan JacguotJuly 31, 2010 - 10:00 am

    The best thing I can give is time for my husband and grandchildren.ReplyCancel

I received quite a few requests to show you how I made the flower HERE.  You were also curious about which Spellbinder die I used.  The die is called Floral Accents and can be seen HERE; it is one of the new dies being shown this week at CHA and at last report they will be available some time in March.  So as promised, today I’m back with a very quick tutorial to show you how I made the Spellbinder Filigree Flower.  The most perceptive of you will notice that I used the exact same materials as I used for the last card.   I intended to publish this the other night and hit a roadblock after I got the flower done.  I put it down and in a matter of an hour or so, created the I Am The Way card.  When I sat back down with this a day later everything clicked.

Below is the flower again – a little closer.

To start, grab your Spellbinders and pick one of the floral accents.  If you look on the website here, I chose the green element and cut eleven of them, as shown below.

Place a glue dot on the end of the accent that you want to be at the center pivot point of the flower.

Below you see that I have placed all of my glue dots.

Taking each die cut, one by one, stack them on top of each other, as I have started to do below.

Create enough space between each die cut (petal) to keep the flower visually interesting and follow that spacing for each consistently.

My glue glue dots were flexible enough that I could continue to move the shapes for a while.  Once I had them where I wanted, I flipped the entire medallion and placed additional glue dots to keep things from shifting.

Pictured above is the finished medallion.  I adjusted each petal so that the little flower at the midpoint was on top of each preceding petal.  On each of those little flowers, I placed a gold pearl.  At this point you can embellish as you please.  As you can see in my sample, I selected another floral accent and created a gold layer for additional embellishment.

I’m sure you’re gonna make some of these beauties yourself!!  Now for some other news, if you remember a week or so ago, Stacey Caron with Spellbinders invited you back to the Spellbinders blog on Sunday, January 25th for a little surprise?  Ya need to go here and have a look see – I’m just sayin’!

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  • ColetteJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:14 pm

    OH THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I so get it now!

    TFS!ReplyCancel

  • kimJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:23 pm

    Becca ~ That is a very sweet ‘thank you’ card!ReplyCancel

  • Rene MewesJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:27 pm

    That is SO cool! Thanks so much for sharing this project!

    Rene’ Mewes
    RM3116@charter.netReplyCancel

  • Nancy AccolaJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:35 pm

    This so beautiful as always you are awesome. Thank you for sharing your talent and God Bless.ReplyCancel

  • Jo WilliamsJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:36 pm

    Beautiful card! Thanks for the instructions and letting us know that this will be available in March. It’s definitely on my list to buy!ReplyCancel

  • CharleneJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:37 pm

    That was great ! Tell me, how do you come up with these ideas. I look at a die cut and all I see is what’s there! I must have a very lazy brain. Thank goodness there are people like you who have the vision to see other than what is there. Thanks again for a very informative blog.ReplyCancel

  • Carol WestJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:41 pm

    Thank you so very Becca. I would never have figured this out on my own. I love your works, inspiration, and dedication to helping those of us less talented. You are blessed!ReplyCancel

  • Kimberly (pierides)January 26, 2009 - 12:45 pm

    Wow! That is stunning. Thank you so much for the tutorial!ReplyCancel

  • RitaJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:45 pm

    Great job! I never figured that it was 8 separate pieces put together to form a flower. Very creative of you!

    TFS

    RitaReplyCancel

  • RitaJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:46 pm

    Oops! Re-read your instructions and see that it is 11 of them!!

    These old eyes are tired!

    RitaReplyCancel

  • Lucia JoiaJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:52 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing! From the first time I saw the other card, I loved it, but this one… It´s gorgeous!!!ReplyCancel

  • Mary Ann SmithJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:58 pm

    I am so impressed with your work. You are a God send for me an amateur in card making. Thanks.ReplyCancel

  • Peggy MaierJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:02 pm

    Love, Love, Love it! How can I wait until these are available?!ReplyCancel

  • Troy LouiseJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:03 pm

    Becca: Thank you for sharing your beautiful work. You are a blessing to the papercraft world.ReplyCancel

  • SusanJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:13 pm

    As per usual, an extremely beautiful card. What about the larger flourishes? Thanks for sharing.

    SueReplyCancel

  • JoAnn BeachlerJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:36 pm

    Becca, thank you so much for sharing your talent with us. Your instructions are always simple to follow.ReplyCancel

  • denise (peanutbee)January 26, 2009 - 1:38 pm

    WOW!!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Susan LankfordJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:46 pm

    Wow! Who would have been able to put that filigree into a shape that is a flower except you?? Beautiful!ReplyCancel

  • Lisa D. Atha (inspired by purple)January 26, 2009 - 1:51 pm

    Oh my gosh, that is such a gorgeous card. What a great tutorial, it is easier than the finished product looks. I have got to save my pennies and get these dies when they come out. Thanks so much for sharing this tutorial with us.

    Lisa A.ReplyCancel

  • Linda EJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:58 pm

    Thanks for the wonderful tutorial. I can’t wait to get my hands on this die!ReplyCancel

  • Margaret HightonJanuary 26, 2009 - 2:07 pm

    Wow,
    you’ve done it again, beautiful colours and lovely design.
    i have my new bilities on order and its killing me waiting till march.
    could you please show how to colour the inside of the nestabilites and tell me what brand you use.
    i have tried sakura glitter and sakura glaze pens, my marvy le plume II pens and my new copic ciao markers, but these do not work, i dont have any other brand. could you tell me what you use and how to do that very fine black line PLEASSSSSE?
    cant wait for your next card
    lots of love
    margaret ukReplyCancel

  • Michelle (sf9erfan)January 26, 2009 - 2:14 pm

    Holy smokes girlie! You are amazing! Hugs,ReplyCancel

  • Pat GarvinJanuary 26, 2009 - 2:24 pm

    Gorgeous!!!! PatReplyCancel

  • Maria WilsonJanuary 26, 2009 - 3:23 pm

    I love the colour combination in this card. It’s absolutley stunning.ReplyCancel

  • Debi E.January 26, 2009 - 3:31 pm

    Thanks for sharing that Becca – I was going to email you personally and ask how you did it, but I’m glad you posted it for all us all to enjoy. I just ordered the die and other than using them seperately to embellish a card or scrapbook page, I never thought about putting them together as you have. If you come up with additional ideas, please let us all know. Sometimes, our creativity levels are a -1 — LOL. Hugs, and prayers, Debi E. Rittman, OHReplyCancel

  • HeatherJanuary 26, 2009 - 3:38 pm

    Becca – It’s so good of you to show us how you created this wonderful card, you are so talented and I love visiting your blog to see all your lovely creations. Thank you.
    H xxReplyCancel

  • JanetJanuary 26, 2009 - 4:07 pm

    You are somethin’ else. Wow.
    I love the way your brain works.
    Thank you so much. You are such an inspiration.
    Yours in Harmony,
    JanetReplyCancel

  • LouiseJanuary 26, 2009 - 4:35 pm

    WOW!!! Is about all I can say, you have so many amazing ideas…..how do you manage to come up with so many!!!! I really love your cards and tutorials. Keep it up!!!ReplyCancel

  • DianeJanuary 26, 2009 - 5:03 pm

    Becca,
    FABULOUS!!!!!!

    As Alawys…… Thanks for sharing with us,

    ~~Diane~~ReplyCancel

  • Mary G.January 26, 2009 - 5:19 pm

    Wow, Wow, Wow!! Your stuff is amazing!!! I always think of you as the QUEEN of bows…I love bows too! Thought you might get a kick out of my recent post on a particular bow! :)
    ReplyCancel

  • CindyJanuary 26, 2009 - 5:31 pm

    Dear Becca,
    Thank you for the tutorial. As always, your card is spectacular and beautiful!
    Thanks for sharing,
    CindyReplyCancel

  • MistiJanuary 26, 2009 - 5:35 pm

    That is awesome! I’ve made a flower out of paisleys before too. It was the same process! That makes a beautiful medallion!ReplyCancel

  • BeverlyJanuary 26, 2009 - 5:40 pm

    Becca
    How sweet of you to go to all the time and trouble to post these directions! Thanks so much!
    Your work continues to amaze me–so beautiful. There is always something wonderful to see on your blog.
    hugs,
    BeverlyReplyCancel

  • Judit VJanuary 26, 2009 - 6:35 pm

    Awesome! Thanks for the tutorial…it’s great!ReplyCancel

  • Linda CoughlinJanuary 26, 2009 - 6:50 pm

    Becca,

    You are, as always, such an inspiration to me. I just love visiting your blog to see what you are up to. You have such original ideas. Thanks so much for sharing your talents with us!

    Blessings,
    LindaReplyCancel

  • Katherine McKameyJanuary 26, 2009 - 6:51 pm

    Wow! So simple yet so elegant! Thank you for the detailed
    explanation! I can hardly wait to get the new dies and play!ReplyCancel

  • Janet CastleJanuary 26, 2009 - 6:51 pm

    Many thanks to you Becca….please know how very much we all appreciate you sharing your talent so freely!
    Blessings,
    JanReplyCancel

  • Karen KeyJanuary 26, 2009 - 7:03 pm

    Becca,
    I check your blog everyday to see what wonderful creation you have come up with. You are so blessed to have such talent – and thank you for sharing it with all of us. You new card is beautiful and thank you for the tutorial. This particular die was not on my priority list til I saw your cards – now it is a must have.
    KarenReplyCancel

  • jami {sgtStamper}January 26, 2009 - 7:34 pm

    Awesome!!!! This is so beautiful!! My spellbinders wish list is a mile long with all the new releases!
    hugs, JamiReplyCancel

  • Melanie MuenchingerJanuary 26, 2009 - 8:35 pm

    wowee!! fancy shmancy!ReplyCancel

  • lorraineJanuary 26, 2009 - 8:44 pm

    wow….you make it look so simple…….if i master this one…..I will be amazed. THANK YOU …..THANK YOUReplyCancel

  • DianeJanuary 26, 2009 - 9:13 pm

    Wow!! beautiful, just like all your cards. Thank you for the tutorial.
    BlessingsReplyCancel

  • TrishaJanuary 26, 2009 - 9:49 pm

    Becca,
    As always your cards are elegant and awe inspiring. Thank you so much for the tutorial. You make it look easy!ReplyCancel

  • Rose AnnJanuary 26, 2009 - 9:49 pm

    This is absolutely gorgeous, Becca!! Thanks for the tutorial!!ReplyCancel

  • JoAnn BurnhamJanuary 26, 2009 - 10:42 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Your card is gorgeous as always.ReplyCancel

  • HennyJanuary 26, 2009 - 11:09 pm

    Bec that is so beautiful.. I would never think to do anything like that .. ohhhhhhhhh for some of your creativeness..
    thanks for sharing the tutorial with usReplyCancel

  • SpikeJanuary 26, 2009 - 11:39 pm

    Oh my gosh Becca! Once again you leave me in awe!! Wowzers! Thank you so much for sharing that!! I’ve now added that set to my wish list!!

    Hugs

    ~SpikeReplyCancel

  • WendyJanuary 26, 2009 - 11:48 pm

    Thank you for showing us how to make this. Your creativity amazes me and you are always so willing to share. I look forward to your next creation. By the way I have also added this set to my wish list.
    Thanks again
    WendyReplyCancel

  • Sandi AshJanuary 26, 2009 - 11:55 pm

    Becca: Thanks ever-so-much for this and all your other tutorials. I’m on dial-up and it’s ALWAYS worth the, sometimes agonizing, wait to see your amazing and breath-taking works of art. ……ashReplyCancel

  • Sandi AshJanuary 26, 2009 - 11:57 pm

    Ooops! Forgot my question. Are the pearls you use adhesive-backed or hot fix? ……..ashReplyCancel

  • Kathy (Wattle)January 27, 2009 - 12:32 am

    WOW!! Thanks so much for publishing this – I am soooooo looking forward to getting that die set!! :)ReplyCancel

  • Laurie GeloJanuary 27, 2009 - 5:41 am

    Becca, thank you so much for making such a great tutorial about your amazing floral piece. It is always such a blessing to come to your blog and see what you have to share. You have been truly blessed with a wonderful talent for creating such beautiful projects and then you are gracious enough to share it with the rest of the world. I sincerely get such a pleasure out of looking at your blog each day. Thank you so much!!!ReplyCancel

  • Karen from OntarioJanuary 27, 2009 - 5:46 am

    Becca….you are so smart and full of such creative ideas. I love reading what you have been up to and seeing your beautiful cards. Thanks for sharing your inspirations with all of us.ReplyCancel

  • Brenda M.January 27, 2009 - 6:16 am

    Oh my……..all your cards are the most amazing cards I see on the web. The layout, colours you choose to the little added touch. Just love your cards. This is a great tutorial and plan to give this a try. I am so glad I found your blog. You can do it all!!!!ReplyCancel

  • BettyJanuary 27, 2009 - 8:06 am

    Becca, this is beautiful!!!!! I guess I will need this set as well!!!! Thanks for the tutorial!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Cindy HaffnerJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:26 am

    So clever and elegant Becca.ReplyCancel

  • ConniecrafterJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:51 am

    You are such an amazing artist, I never would have thought to put those together like that, the tiny pearls are so sweet, Beautiful card!
    Thank you for sharing your talent with us!ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth S.January 27, 2009 - 2:05 pm

    These are so pretty!! Thank you for the tutorial.ReplyCancel

  • SharronJanuary 27, 2009 - 8:57 pm

    OMGosh Becca!

    You are soooo amazing & talented!

    What a gorgeous flower!

    Thank you so much for sharing the how-to!ReplyCancel

  • KimJanuary 27, 2009 - 9:40 pm

    Becca thank you so very much for the tutorial! I can’t wait to get my hands on these dies so that I can make one of these! :)
    Hugs~ KimReplyCancel

  • Linda LittleJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:39 am

    The card is breath taking beautiful. I am excited to try such a beautiful card. Thanks for the detailed pattern.ReplyCancel

  • Linda LittleJanuary 28, 2009 - 12:40 am

    lovely card. Love the websiteReplyCancel

  • Frances NaeveJanuary 28, 2009 - 6:16 am

    This is truly so beautiful I can’t quit staring at it. I’ve passed it along to my Yahoo stamping group so they can admire it as much as I do! Thank you for the wonderful tutorial!

    Frances Naeve, Hearts In Touch Rubber Stamps.ReplyCancel

  • debJanuary 28, 2009 - 8:44 am

    WOW, you have to be the QUEEN of these spellbinders! Your idea’s are just endless! This is GORGEOUS!
    hugzReplyCancel

  • LazyKayJanuary 28, 2009 - 10:19 am

    Stunning and thank you for sharing – you are so generous.

    xxxxxxxxxxReplyCancel

  • Beth JonesJanuary 28, 2009 - 4:56 pm

    Becca, this is one of the prettiest things I have ever seen. Thank you for the step-by-step tutuorial on doing it, and for introducing me to the newest Spellbinders. No one in my area sells these, so it is very frustrating to know they are available, but have no concept of what to do with them—thank goodness for you!ReplyCancel

  • Stacy Twinshappy SCSJanuary 28, 2009 - 9:31 pm

    Very creative Becca, gorgeous card.ReplyCancel

  • Laurie HuntJanuary 29, 2009 - 7:01 pm

    Becca this card is so beautiful and so creative. I think I left a comment the other day, but don’t remember for sure, but I must say that your creativity never ceases to amaze me. I do not know how you consistently look at these dies or punches and use them in a completely unusual way, but always so beautiful and elegant. Love your work!ReplyCancel

  • Peggy WMarch 7, 2009 - 7:34 pm

    Becca you are truly an ispiration to me. You are like the energizer bunny you just keep sharing your talent with us. I know you are very busy but you keep going.
    All your work is so beautiful. Thanks so much for sharing with me.
    Jesus Lives!!!
    PeggyReplyCancel

  • bluemoonApril 1, 2009 - 1:01 am

    oh my goodness! Now I know why your blog is called Amazing Paper Grace… you’re so amazing! I’d love to take paper classes and do neat things like this. thank you for sharing. wow!!ReplyCancel

  • BarbaraApril 5, 2009 - 10:44 pm

    Wow that is gorgous!!-BarbaraReplyCancel

  • hilde suykerbuykAugust 20, 2009 - 11:06 am

    hi becca, i am a fan of you that lives in holland, its greet to see the wonderful things you make!! you give me a lot of inspiration and i will thank you for it!
    thanks a lot and many greetings, hildeReplyCancel

  • Christine (Bourgogne, France)September 4, 2009 - 10:13 am

    Magnifique. Votre carte est splendide.
    Les couleurs et la combinaison avec le die spellbinder est tout simplement fabuleuse. Mais où trouvez-vous toutes vos idées.
    Surtout, continuez à nous surprendre.
    Merci de tout coeur.ReplyCancel

  • Amazing Paper Grace » BelieveOctober 17, 2009 - 6:48 am

    […] in seeing how the filigree flower works I did a tutorial quite some time ago that you can find HERE.  To finish off the card I stamped Believe from the Santa I Believe set and cut it out using […]ReplyCancel

  • Pam SJanuary 25, 2010 - 5:58 pm

    Gorgeous!!! Thanks for the easy to follow directions!ReplyCancel

  • Shauneen from South AfricaJuly 16, 2010 - 12:57 am

    Hi Becca,
    This is absolutely GORGEOUS! Thanks for the spellbinding inspiration! Be Blessed.ReplyCancel

  • GAYLE INGRAMJuly 17, 2010 - 6:09 pm

    HOW BEEUTEFWUL! I LOVE YOUR DESIGNS BECCA
    THANK YOU FOR SHARING I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE MORE.
    CEWPIEReplyCancel

 

Today I’m excited to share a peek at a new release from Our Daily Bread Designs.  The name of this set is I Am The Way and I’m happy to hint that it is an Easter Set!!  I Am the Way is scheduled to be released on Sunday, February 1st.  Stay tuned and visit the rest of the Our Daily Bread Design Team to see additional peeks.

I pulled my very favorite papers for this sample, so if you feel like you’ve seen them before . . . you have!  The base is cream colored cardstock that I’ve layered with a metallic gold and dotted gold paper. On the main panel I’ve cut two frames with the Spellbinders Labels Four Die and crisscrossed them for an interesting squared center frame.  I stamped the sentiment on my ribbon and pulled it through the square in the frame;  the frames are then embellished with small pearls.  Finally the card is topped off with a bow and button.

Card Recipe:
Stamps:  Our Daily Bread Designs; I Am The Way
Paper:  The Paper Company; Blonde Columns, Dotted Gold, Gold Foil
Ink:  Black Brilliance
Accessories:  Spellbinders Labels Four Die, Ribbon, Pearls, JBH Vintage Button

 
I’m working on a quick tutorial to show you how I made the filigree flower medallion yesterday.  It should be ready soon, so be sure to check back

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  • DianeJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:12 am

    Becca,
    What a beautiful card! The bow is just stunning.
    Those Spellbinders Labels Four Dies are on my wish list.
    Beautiful job stamping the ribbon.

    ~~Diane~~ReplyCancel

  • sheilaJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:22 am

    God has blessed you with an amazing talent. Every day I check your blog to see what you have done and every day i am amazed. Your designs are just breathtaking. Thank you for sharing.ReplyCancel

  • Sherry107January 24, 2009 - 8:28 am

    Wow!! I am amazed at the way you come up with such awesome-beatiful designs! Just when I wonder how can you top the previous design uou pull another beautful creation out! Wow!!!

    Would you give us directions on how you made the deisgn with Label 4?? Have a GREAT weekend!
    I look forward to your emails everyday!ReplyCancel

  • MakarenJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:35 am

    Beautiful, as always. Your blog is one of the few I visit several times a week. In addition to having a wonderful creative eye, you manage to make these gorgeous designs with products, tools and supplies that are readily available to the average crafter. I think it spurs creativity in people when they look at one of your designs and think “I have those embossing folders/border punches/stamps/dies. I could do this.” You provide so much inspiration. Thank you.ReplyCancel

  • NorineJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:37 am

    another beautiful card
    Hugs
    NorineReplyCancel

  • CassieJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:47 am

    Becca! you’ve done it again….when I saw this all I could say was Jesus! You are just amazing…

    Have a Blessed day!

    CassieReplyCancel

  • ChickieJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:49 am

    WOW Becca!! Just when I think you topped yesterdays post, you come along with a more beautiful card today!! I don’t know how you do it? You are blessed with an awesome talent & how wonderful to use it in this way. I’m sure you are touching many peoples lives with your talent. You have mine, that is for sure. Thank you so much for your inspiration & for sharing so much with us. I for one, really appreciate it!
    THANK YOU, ChickieReplyCancel

  • CherylQuiltsJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:54 am

    Your work is totally amazing! Each card is so professional and gorgeous and the detail is extraordinary. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents with us!ReplyCancel

  • Joan FrickerJanuary 24, 2009 - 8:55 am

    Becca, this is just stunning. I agree with everyone else….you are so very creative and have a been blessed with great talent.

    I love that gold dotted paper too.

    Thanks for sharing with us!

    JoanReplyCancel

  • kimJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:02 am

    Yeah, that is one of my favorite verses! Very nice!ReplyCancel

  • Pat AdamJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:06 am

    What an exquisite card but then I think that of all your work. You are
    certainly blessed with a gift of talent. This card is beautiful. PatReplyCancel

  • dr.fineJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:07 am

    Beautiful card, Becca. Your talent is amazing and must come from your deep love of God. He has truly blessed you and gifted you with the ability to inspire and touch others. TFSReplyCancel

  • Gidget-TrishJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:11 am

    Wow!!!!!!!!!!! Gorgeous! Your work is so elegant.
    TrishReplyCancel

  • Michelle NadraszkyJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:12 am

    What a stunning card!ReplyCancel

  • Peggy MaierJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:13 am

    Another WOW card! So elegant & I love the verse! Have a day blessed by His love!ReplyCancel

  • Bev J.January 24, 2009 - 9:14 am

    Beautiful! Love the stamping on the ribbon-great bow! tfsReplyCancel

  • Oliva OhlsonJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:15 am

    Oh, Becca! It is so beautiful!ReplyCancel

  • MargaretJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:16 am

    Just when you think you can’t top the last card, you do! Just beautiful Becca, what a talent you are.ReplyCancel

  • CarolJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:19 am

    This is just exquisite! A sensational creation in every sense of the word! You are so blessed with such talent!! TFSReplyCancel

  • ShawnaJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:25 am

    This card is absolutely stunning! I am so glad I found your blog. What a talented lady you are.ReplyCancel

  • Tracy SmithJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:37 am

    Wow, every day I think I’ve seen your card that can’t be topped but you keep outdoing it! this one is just amazing. I love how you stamped on that ribbon and wouldn’t have thought to do so. Now I’ll have to try. Thanks for your inspiration and your incredible use of the talent God gave you!! Tracy in Michigan, crazyforsu@aol.comReplyCancel

  • Linda EJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:38 am

    Absolultely stunning, Becca!ReplyCancel

  • MarianJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:40 am

    I can see from the number of posts, that I am not the only one that “frequents” your blog! You are so inspiring and your talent and craftsmanship are amazing and so motivating.
    The Labels Four die is so much on my wish list. It’s so versatile and can be used in amazing ways. Thanks so very much for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • cplatoJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:51 am

    Gorgeous! ps – you can post several times a day and I’ll always be pleased to see your name in my in-box! You do wonderful things with your God-given talents, and I’m especially appreciative of the many faith based cards and comments you have. I, too, try to use my talents in ways that share my faith, and have been very inspired by how beautifully you do exactly that, and in a gentle, good humored way that reaches out to so many! Carol P in CanadaReplyCancel

  • KarenJanuary 24, 2009 - 9:58 am

    Stunning! Very elegant card. TFS your talents with us!ReplyCancel

  • denise (peanutbee)January 24, 2009 - 10:15 am

    Oh my goodness. Your talent just blows me away!ReplyCancel

  • JenniferJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:17 am

    Absolutely stunning!!! You are blessed with such creativity and talent.ReplyCancel

  • HeatherJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:19 am

    WOW – I look on your blog every day to see your beatiful creations – my jaw drops time and again – I agree with all the other comments, you outdo yourself each time – you are a lovely lady and very talented.
    tfs. Heather (in the UK)ReplyCancel

  • Suzi MetcalfeJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:20 am

    Beautiful! Always so elegant! You are very gifted!ReplyCancel

  • FayeJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:30 am

    I have on a T-shirt today with the same scripture –your card show the elegants of the Word!! Maybe you can design t-shirts also!!!ReplyCancel

  • CarolenJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:36 am

    I agree with the others – you’ve managed to top yesterday’s post!

    Your creativity is an inspiration as is your sense of design and balance!
    Thank you for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth S.January 24, 2009 - 10:40 am

    Your cards are always so beautiful!!!ReplyCancel

  • Shirley LeeJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:42 am

    Your card today is stunning. I agree with all the previous posts. You continue to amaze me with your creativity. You take simple supplies and turn them into super projects. Love your blog and your inspiration. Can’t wait to see the video you are making on yesterday’s card using the Spellbinder. Have a great week-end.
    Shirley L.
    Roseville, CAReplyCancel

  • TerriJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:50 am

    Another beautiful card and a beautiful message! I love the way you used the spellbinder dies to make the frames. I learned this technique by accident but I am loving it! Have a great weekend!ReplyCancel

  • Brenda MJanuary 24, 2009 - 10:59 am

    So gorgeous and elegant. Your cards are amazing.ReplyCancel

  • Lisa D. Atha (inspired by purple)January 24, 2009 - 11:19 am

    Becca,

    Wow is the first word that comes to my mind. This is so pretty that I can’t seem to find enough words to describe it. So elegant. I am looking forward to the tutorial, it is very sweet of you to go to that trouble for us.

    Hugs,

    Lisa A.ReplyCancel

  • KimJanuary 24, 2009 - 11:28 am

    Becca another STUNNING work of art! WOW! Can you move closer to me so I can take classes from you? hee hee! I absolutely adore your work! Very elegant! I am looking forward to your flower medallion tutorial! Woo-Hoo! Enjoy your weekend!
    Hugs~ KimReplyCancel

  • Janet CastleJanuary 24, 2009 - 11:35 am

    Ahhhhhh! Brings peace and softness to the soul just to see your card! Thank you,
    JanReplyCancel

  • Pam aka/YorkieMomJanuary 24, 2009 - 11:45 am

    Oh Becca………this is so breathtaking!!!!

    Even tho I’ve not been commenting as often, I just want you to know that I check out your blog almost daily….it’s just that I’ve have been so busy trying to catch up from the combination of having been sick on two occassions plus the holiday rush!!! Maybe someday, I will catch up!!!

    PamReplyCancel

  • MaryJanuary 24, 2009 - 11:47 am

    This card is absolutely breathtaking. What a talent you have, thank you for sharing with us.ReplyCancel

  • Karen ArthurJanuary 24, 2009 - 11:48 am

    Becca, you make the most beautiful cards and I look forward to each time that you post. I never think you post too much, actually, I can not wait until you post again.
    Your inspiration touches each our hearts and you are truly blessed with talent from God above.
    Thank you
    KarenReplyCancel

  • Linda HenryJanuary 24, 2009 - 11:54 am

    That is the most beautiful card I have seen today on your blog. The combination of color and the embellishments are perfect! I truly look forward to seeing your blog.

    Linda H
    Sacramento, CAReplyCancel

  • lengowJanuary 24, 2009 - 12:09 pm

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    You are the … true Artist.ReplyCancel

  • Sandy HillJanuary 24, 2009 - 12:14 pm

    WOW!!! I am speechless. Your card is phenominal. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I look forward everyday to your blog. Your work is so inspiring. I could just sit and stare at this card forever.ReplyCancel

  • FreidaJanuary 24, 2009 - 1:06 pm

    OH BECCA! This is the most gorgeous card I have ever seen! This needs to be showcased in a shadow box and hung on a wall! You are so amazingly talented and each creation out-shines the last!

    I LOVE how you crisscrossed the label frames…never would have come up with that one! Everything about it is so elegant….it’s a masterpiece!
    WOW!ReplyCancel

  • Laura (scrapnextras)January 24, 2009 - 1:12 pm

    I’m going to have to stop coming here…you take my breath away everytime! Becca, WOW is such a small word for the amazing work you do..this is creative and magnificent! Love the crossed frames and the stamped ribbon. The pearls add to the elegance of the card…gotta go catch my breath!ReplyCancel

  • SueBJanuary 24, 2009 - 1:25 pm

    AMAZING, Becca – you never cease to amaze me! WOWza card – TFS!ReplyCancel

  • JennyJanuary 24, 2009 - 1:28 pm

    Lost for words, can’t take my eyes off it.
    It is awesome.
    Thank you so much for sharing your God given talent with us all.ReplyCancel

  • Beth NormanJanuary 24, 2009 - 2:13 pm

    How do you manage to come up with such unique cards every day? They are unlike anything that is out there, and they are always so professional and elegant looking.ReplyCancel

  • ConniecrafterJanuary 24, 2009 - 3:58 pm

    Wow, that is amazing, love your frames and the stamping on the ribbon is just too cool! So love it!ReplyCancel

  • neenieJanuary 24, 2009 - 4:09 pm

    Becca, thanks for another inspiration! What type of stamp pad do you suggest to use to stamp on satin ribbon? Stampabilities will put me in the “poor house”!!!ReplyCancel

  • Debbie SteltonJanuary 24, 2009 - 6:26 pm

    The Lord has blessed you with so much artistic talent and we are blessed that you share it with us. Have a great weekend and TFS.

    Debbie/Phx AZReplyCancel

  • Pamela C.January 24, 2009 - 6:46 pm

    Beautiful, beautiful card.ReplyCancel

  • lacyquilterJanuary 25, 2009 - 12:32 am

    Absolutely amazed! The frame is so unique and gorgeous.ReplyCancel

  • JeanneJanuary 25, 2009 - 6:51 am

    Absolutely gorgeous! You never cease to amaze me with your beautiful creations. Thank you SO very much for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • DealbaidaJanuary 25, 2009 - 6:54 am

    Amazing. Just amazing.

    Marion
    UKReplyCancel

  • ValerieCJanuary 25, 2009 - 8:05 am

    This card is absolutely STUNNING!!! Your cards are among the most elegant I have ever seen. I so enjoy coming to your blog everyday to see what you have created. You are so talented!!!!ReplyCancel

  • BarbJanuary 25, 2009 - 8:39 am

    This is such a beautiful, beautiful card. The sentiment stamped on the ribbon reminds me of how you often see the cross in churches drapped in satin as a reminder that Christ is no longer in the tomb but that He is risen. I love the papers you used, the white ribbon and the gold. What perfect colors you chose for an Easter card and the perfect scripture as well. White represents a number of things- the purity of Jesus, forgiveness of our sins as in being washed white as snow, and the gold representing the glory of God. Pearls in a work always make me think of the story in the bible of the merchant who sold all for that one priceless pearl… and to think that Jesus gave His all for us because He considered us to be as priceless pearls. Just an awesome, awesome piece of art Becca. I also love what you did with the frame- gorgeous!

    BarbReplyCancel

  • JenniferJanuary 25, 2009 - 9:41 am

    Gosh, Becca, just when I thought I’d seen all the prettiness I can stand, you make another eyepopping design! How lovely this card is! I love it. I love to see God’s word highlighted in such a grand way!
    JenReplyCancel

  • NANCY RILEYJanuary 25, 2009 - 11:34 am

    Incredible! God has GOT to be smiling down on you for adding such beauty to His Word! Way to go, Becca!ReplyCancel

  • cherylJanuary 25, 2009 - 11:59 am

    Oh my gosh I have been playing catch up on your site and my eyes are just going all over the place and my tongue is licking the keyboard! Becca, your work just always makes my heart sing, thank you so much for sharing your talent. nancy is right, God must be smiling down on you!!!ReplyCancel

  • Suzeq4500January 25, 2009 - 12:10 pm

    I really enjoy your blog, I was lucky enough to receive an award this week and I would like to pass it on to you for your blog. When you get time to come over to my Blog and grab it.

    KarinReplyCancel

  • BarbaraJanuary 25, 2009 - 12:55 pm

    Bekka
    I have been watching your blog for some time now and am never disappointed in the designs and thought you put into your work, and this one is even more beautiful than I can say. Thanks ,from the wet weather in England still keeps me indoors to spend more time looking at your site.

    BarbaraReplyCancel

  • BettyJanuary 25, 2009 - 2:42 pm

    Becca, this is so beautiful!!!! Love the crisp white and the layered frames with ribbon stamping is absolutely gorgeous!!!! Wonderful work!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Kathy (Wattle)January 25, 2009 - 5:54 pm

    Oh My Gosh!!!! I really need to start taping my jaw up because every time I come here it hits the floor!!! Becca, you are so incredibly talented, this is STUNNING!!!!ReplyCancel

  • ChristineCreationsJanuary 25, 2009 - 7:29 pm

    OH BECCA! Look at your frames! Your style has such elegance that I have to gasp each time! Beautiful!ReplyCancel

  • Kay McBrideJanuary 25, 2009 - 8:13 pm

    as you know i have been absent for a while but i am back now and let me just say i had a withdrawal from your card site. i went back and looked at all your cards and all of them are beautiful. i continue to look forward to your site and your talent!!ReplyCancel

  • Linda C.January 25, 2009 - 8:21 pm

    Jaw-dropping gorgeous!ReplyCancel

  • Laura DiekeversJanuary 25, 2009 - 8:44 pm

    breathtaking!ReplyCancel

  • MechelleJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:14 am

    As always your work is flawless and beautiful! I love this card it’s truly unique and beautiful. Lovely!
    ((hugs)) MechelleReplyCancel

  • Laurie in MNJanuary 26, 2009 - 1:21 am

    I am in awe.ReplyCancel

  • jami {sgtStamper}January 26, 2009 - 2:46 am

    Stunning and oh so elegant. I just love all those little pearls, and how you stamped right on the ribbon! Wow!!
    hugs, JamiReplyCancel

  • JanineJanuary 26, 2009 - 6:03 am

    Hey Becca!! How are you??? Fabulous cards !! You are amazing!!
    Hope you have a great week.ReplyCancel

  • PiaJanuary 26, 2009 - 8:46 am

    Stunning. Your works is always so exceptional and elegant. Your cards are truly a gift in themselves. Have a blessed week.ReplyCancel

  • Shirl MartinJanuary 26, 2009 - 10:53 am

    The Bible verse, the dies, the fab papers and ribbon in the hands of our Becca always is a breath-taking and blessed creation.ReplyCancel

  • AmericaJanuary 26, 2009 - 12:08 pm

    Oh Becca, Imamazed by you with each new card design. Each topping tte last! I love that you think outside the box and go for different looks and try new things and add your own spins. You have awesometutorials and great techniques. Youve quickly become 1 of my FAV artists thats for sure! :) I see how your work inspires me and so does for so many others! What a wonderful thing to have your work to drool over. Its truly unique, AMAZING creativity at its finest. TFS. :)ReplyCancel

  • claire brennanJanuary 26, 2009 - 5:39 pm

    Can I be you when I grow up? I just live in awe of your talent.ReplyCancel

  • Silke LedlowJanuary 26, 2009 - 7:42 pm

    Stunning ODBD card – Becca – you all sold me on this Set already – LOL!!!ReplyCancel

  • Abra LeahJanuary 27, 2009 - 1:26 pm

    What an amazing card!!! I really need to get some of these stamps!ReplyCancel

  • Chris OlsenJanuary 27, 2009 - 7:05 pm

    Wow Becca!!! This card is just stunning!!! All of those spellbinders dies are on my wishlist. I love your floral medallion. My daughter asked me what I was drooling over. You are absolutely AMAZING!ReplyCancel

  • KelleyJanuary 29, 2009 - 10:11 am

    Wow! Eighty commments already! I will have to come back later and read them all. As always, Becca, this is just wonderful! Missed you!!ReplyCancel

  • LorelieJanuary 30, 2009 - 6:32 pm

    Your card is so breathtaking that my jaw just DROPPED!! Excuse me while I pick it up! LOL! I wish I had 1/1000th of your talent!ReplyCancel

  • Jerri KayJanuary 30, 2009 - 10:57 pm

    Breathtaking Becca, absolutely breathtaking! So peaceful and tranquil. The verse is so fitting for such a gift of art. You are truly blessed!ReplyCancel

  • Hege-Annie SimonsenFebruary 2, 2009 - 6:21 am

    Your work is truly amazing!!… :) Hugs, HegeReplyCancel

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