Monday, July 14, 2008

The Power of a Card

I love being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator because I truly love to create and encourage others to create handmade cards and gifts. But the friends I've made through this journey have been a true blessing in my life. Look at this beautiful card I received from a fellow demo Sheryl Braun:


About a week ago, we had to make the decision to put down our 17 year old pet, Carly. That dog had survived many challenges in her lifespan. My mother-in-law liked to say that she was like a Timex watch - she took a lickin' and kept on tickin'! :) She survived eating an entire one pound box of Fannie May chocolates when she was a mere 10 lbs. herself! She was diagnosed with kidney disease about 5 years ago and we kept it at bay with a special diet. She lost most of her eyesight and was just about completely deaf. And in February, she took a tumble down our hardwood stairs and injured her back. She was a fighter so we made special accommodations for her and helped her with every movement. She even began walking independently again even after the vet said she would probably never walk again! After continuing to lose more than 30% of her body weight and having more and more difficulties, we finally set her at peace on Saturday July 5.

Well, I shared my sorrow with some local demos and was touched to receive Sheryl's thoughtful card today. Thank you Sheryl!! It reminds me about the power that a handmade card can have on people. It's just re-affirmation that my hobby has a special place in this world. I can only hope that my cards will bring someone else a little joy, comfort or just lift their spirits. Keep stampin'!

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear about your Carly. It's never easy when you loose a loved one.
My Cubby (a malamute) was hit by a car in April and it's still hard for me to deal with. She was only 2.5 years old. I don't know which is worse, losing a pet at a young age knowing their was so much life left or losing one who has been with you for so long.
My thoughts are with you. It sounds like she had a great life and fought to be with such a loving family.

On a happy note, I absolutely LOVE the projects on your blog!! If i had more time I would CASE them all.
Thanks for your inspiration!
Debi

Jana O'Brien said...

So sorry about your dog! How sweet that you got such a beautiful card.

Marilyn said...

What a beautiful dog Carly was and I know how much it hurts to have to make that decision to put them to sleep!! They become part of your family. Your friend's card is so beautiful and sweet though, and I hope your pain will be eased by happy memories of your sweet Carly!

Emily said...

I'm so sorry about your dog Marylin! I can't imagine how hard that must have been. Dogs really have a way of becoming part of the family, and touching our lives. At least she had a long happy life. She was beautiful BTW.

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your dog!! I do know how hard it must have been your family and my heart goes out to all of you!!!

This is awesome card Marylin!!! I just love that stamp set.

Michelle said...

Marilyn, I'm so sorry to hear about Carly. What a beautiful dog. Great picture. Hugs to you and all those whose lives where brightened by Carly. ~Michelle

Nicole said...

Marilyn, I am so sorry to hear about Carly. Blessings to you and yours at your time of loss. HUGE HOOSIER HUGS, Nicole

Ret said...

Here it is Sept, so I'm not sure you'll even see this post, but I wanted to tell you how sad I was to hear you had lost Carly this summer. She was really beautiful & had a nice long life with your loving family. We just lost ours a month ago, so I can certainly understand how you feel.

What a thoughtful & pretty card that Sheryl made you. I love the color combo's she used.
big hugs,
Ret

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