I Am Blessed

Today I was working out in the yard and I met one of my neighbors for the first time. We've lived in our home now for a few years, but still haven't met everyone yet. We live in a very rural area, so some of the people we consider 'neighbors' live quite a distance away. I had heard from someone else that the man that lived there had Alzheimer's disease and had to be placed in a nursing home recently. My "new" neighbor -Mary Alice - introduced herself and told me a little about her family. She got choked up when she talked about her husband and told me that her only son had committed suicide a few years back. I know her life is really hard right now and she must be pretty lonely. When I meet people like Mary Alice, or hear stories of other people's struggles -- instantly my stress, worries, 'problems' seem pretty minuscule. I am reminded - once again - that I am blessed!

One thing that I love about this craft is the simple joy it can bring to someone's life. Sometimes when it's hard to put feelings into words, a handmade card can speak volumes. So... this card is for my new friend, Mary Alice. I hope I can make the time to visit her and show her that someone cares. If anyone would like to send a RAK (random act of kindess) card to my neighbor, I'm sure she would be THRILLED! Just send me a message and I'll give you an address.

Stamps: Papertrey Ink (Text Boxed, Little Lady, Faux Ribbon)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Cool Caribbean, Ruby Red, Summer Sun - Stampin' Up!;
Patterned Paper: American Craft
Ink: Summer Sun, Choc. Chip, Ruby Red
Accessories: Ticket Corner Punch, Word Window Punch, Crafter's Tool Kit, Choc. Grosgrain Ribbon (SU); sewing machine, brown brads (Joann's), Fiskars small scalloped scissors
NOTE: This card measures 5" x 5"