Monday, February 9, 2009

Openings in heaven...


I think you will all agree that sympathy cards are probably the most difficult for us to make. I've worked on this one on and off for 3 days now, and I'm still not happy with it. But I finally just decided this is it...I can't tweak it any more. It's time to move on.

The stamp I used is Northwoods Closed Wing Swallowtail on Flower . I stamped it on watercolor paper using Onyx Black Versafine ink, then embossed with JudiKins Detail Clear embossing powder. The stamped image was colored with Tombow (water based) markers and a damp paint brush.



Since these images cover pretty much the entire card front I don't usually do much embellishing. But since I wanted this card to be extra special I used a Martha Stewart punch to make a border on the bottom, as well as the corner piece. I added three self adhesive pearls to the corner piece for a little dimension. The two strips of blue ribbon on the bottom border are from my stash.

For the sentiment on the side I made a panel using my Curved Rectangle Mega Nestabilities . The sentiment I stamped is from Impression Obsession's Sympathy Sentiments clear stamp set.


You see, the reason I felt such intense pressure in making this card is because it is for my sons extended family.

My boys father, my ex-husband, passed away Saturday afternoon after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was only 58 years old. He was a minister, and spent his entire adult life preaching the word of God. He is now with Our Father in the Kingdom of Heaven.

He was deeply loved, and he will be missed. May he rest in peace, forever.

16 comments:

Anonymous said...

Words are so insufficient when it comes to expressing condolences. I am sorry for your and your boys' loss nonetheless. You and your family have my most heartfelt sympathy. And BTW, your card needs nothing more.

Cindy said...

Michelle, I lost my cousin (age 57) to cancer on Friday. It is such an awful disease. You have my sincere sympathy. The card is stunning. I used the same sentiment set (different sentiment) on my card to his wife. If you are interested, you can see it here.

Denise Marzec said...

Your card is absolutely beautiful, Michelle. I love the lacey border with the pearls, and that image with the beautiful butterfly is just perfect. Butterflies hold a special place in my heart.

I'm sorry for your loss. {{Hugs}} to you and your boys.

Kerry Johnson said...

Your card is beautiful and sure to bring comfort. My deepest condolences to you and your boys (and their families).

Elizabeth S. said...

I agree these are the most difficult to make. This is a gorgeous card!! I don't think I would do anything to change it.

Charmaine (CharmWarm) said...

Gorgeous card, Michelle! I'm sure it will bring much comfort. Hugs to you and your boys!

Debby said...

Incredibly Beautiful! Wow!

Anonymous said...

Oh Michelle, I'm so sorry!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers!!!

Anonymous said...

I know this is most likely the most difficult card you've ever had to make, but it turned out to be beautiful and comforting as well.
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your boys at this very sad time in your lives. {{{hugs}}}

Cat Tidwell said...

What an awesome sympathy card Michelle...I do have a hard time with them and this one is just perfect! LOVE the saying on the inside too, and that butterfly looks so real!

HUGGSSS to you and prayers coming your way!

Joani McDonald said...

Michelle ~ how kind of you to say such nice thoughts. You card is absolutly beautiful. Yes, you are correct ~ these cards are always the hardest. Sending your family kind thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.
{{BIG}}Hugs to you and your family,
Joani

Kimberly Crawford said...

Lots of ((((HUGS)))) and prayers for everyone during this time!!
The card really is beautiful, really beautiful! It will be deeply appreciated!!!!!!!!!!

Silke Ledlow said...

WOW - Michelle - this is image/card is sooooo gorgeous!!!
Love the laced border and the beautiful sentiment inside!!! Your coloring is once again superb!!!

Linda Carson said...

Your artwork is beautiful! I'm sorry for your & your sons' loss. I rejoice that he knew the Lord.

Carolyn King said...

This card is beautiful---just the perfect sentiment too. Continued prayers for you and your boys. xoxo

"Luv 2 Glitter" by Brenda M. said...

Wow.........super fabulous card. Just lovely.