“The journey of a 1,000 miles begins with a single step”
This is the photo I took of Alexa the LAST day of her Chemo treatment. To mark a milestone. The end of a long journey for her. A new beginning.
This is for Alexa’s doctor’s. A thank you. For walking that long road with us.
THAT saying on this card is my newest motto. It puts everything we go through in this life into prospective.
WARNING: This gets deep! LOL! At least to me. Even if no one gets it, I do.
The weirdest thing happened to me. I so believe in fate, and God providing answers in unusual ways, or providing us with answers and things we seek.
The very last day of Alexa’s chemo treatment, I was a wreck!!! During that visit, I was on a wild goose chase for some much promised Groovy Girls. Upon my hunt, I saw a silver bangle in the jewelry case of the store, out of the corner of my eye. I went over to look at (I never get that interested in that stuff), and the silver bangle read……
“The journey of a 1,000 miles”
I asked to see it.
Now I had JUST posted about what a long road it has been, and all we learned along the way, and blah blah blah. I looked inside and it read “begins with a single step”
Now you may think- SO?
But to me that was so pivotal! I was standing there, Alexa’s LAST chemo, and already worrying about the WHAT Ifs, and then, this simple bracelet put it all into perspective for me. Like a silent voice from God, reminding me-Lauren ONE step at a time. I felt so at peace. Tomorrow will take care of itself. We got through this journey that way, and we will continue through life the same.
Just like Footprints in the sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. |
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. |
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. |
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, |
other times there were one set of footprints. |
This bothered me because I noticed |
that during the low periods of my life, |
when I was suffering from |
anguish, sorrow or defeat, |
I could see only one set of footprints. |
So I said to the Lord, |
“You promised me Lord, |
that if I followed you, |
you would walk with me always. |
But I have noticed that during |
the most trying periods of my life |
there have only been one |
set of footprints in the sand. |
Why, when I needed you most, |
you have not been there for me?” |
The Lord replied, |
“The times when you have |
seen only one set of footprints in the sand, |
is when I carried you.” |
So, that left me sitting there, really wanting the bracelet as a reminder to take life step by step. I thought it would be perfect to keep next to my Alexa bracelet that I have worn since the day she was diagnosed. Sort of a “we can do this”. But, it was pretty pricey for a simple bangle.So I walked away.
Then, later that day, I go to another store, hunting for those darn Groovy Girls, and in the store window-just before the store I am there to go to, THERE IT IS!!! That SAME bracelet! I wasn’t even looking for it. It just popped right out at me.
Mind you -the store in the hospital, and the store in Concord NH are like 75 miles apart! I thought WOW! What a message someone is sending me! LOL! But I left it again. Remembering the message I was given.
Then, the next day my dear sweet friend Paulette went and found that bracelet!! She gave it to me, and I was just in awe. She is so good to me. I am blessed to have a friend like her.
I have not taken that bracelet off since. I am reminded several times a day to take it one step at a time!
WHEW! Are you still with me? Weren’t expecting all that now were you?
I just wanted to share too, what an impact a photo can have on a card. I also like that it shows the A Man’s Sole, isn’t just a guy set.
My sentiment was printed off my computer. Paper is Autumn Leaves. The flowers are Queen & Co, and SU felt flowers.
This card is 5 1/2 squared.
So here is a view of the sketch-click to enlarge
You don’t have to use a photo. Just have fun with it. The possibilities are endless. It could be a scrap page. Those wanting to see more of that.
If you get to try it out, send us a link here so we can all see your take!
OK I’m WAY busy. Orders are all shipping today! YEAH! Don’t even want to know how much that is gonna cost EEKK!!!
Speaking of orders……Pink Cat is next up for their release on the 12th! You won’t want to miss that 😀 Then we have PTI on the 15th. Following up with my first Unity release on the 25th. Then in July Lizzie Anne celebrates 2 years! WOW!
Dont forget ATS just released 2 sets, MFT just released 3 sets and 3 singles!!
LASTLY!!! If you haven’t yet, don’t miss my classes at The Paper Tree next Friday and then Sunday the 29th!!
OK enough of that. Im off.
Till tomorrow
88 Responses for "Sat Sketch Time-inspiratation"
I call those “God winks” (as opposed to God smacks). He’s sweetly telling you something special, and sometimes He has to be rather obvious.
Wow, great storey, I’m a definate believer in things happening for a reason, even if we don’t always realise why at the time, enjoy your bracelet.
That is an excellent saying. I love it!
How beautiful is that photo of Alexa?!!!!! What a perfect gift for her doctor. I hope you do the same for yourself!
-Molly B
Oh, I just love that story! Sometimes God has to blatantly obvious with his message before we take note. 🙂
Your card is gorgeous, and the picture does add a lot.
*hugs*
thanks for sharing Lauren, made me cry as always…lol…Love your card. That picture is so precious! Thanks for the sketch, I hope to get to it this weekend! Have a fab day Saturday(at the post office…lol)
Alexa is adorable and her smile is glowing. Wow Lauren, this is really touching. I also have a daughter but she’s just 9 months old and eventhough I am not on the same road like yours, I had a share on mine. I’m a believer and always reminding myself what God said “Cast your burdens upon me and I will give you rest.”
That is just such a wonderful saying. I live by ‘one step at a time, you’ll get there in the end’ which is very similar I think.
Must give you a warm glow to know that Alexa’s next journey (to a full and healthy life) has begun 🙂
What a great friend you have! That bracelet will be your strength…live each day, take each step and enjoy…don’t think of the what if’s!
Have fun at the post office!!!
This really touches my heart and I’m sure it will his too. Congratulations on the last chemo treatment and I pray that Alexa will be better. What a fabulous sentiment and how nice of your friend to pick that up for you, obviously you were meant to have it. God Bless your family and the beautiful Alexa.
[…] Sat Sketch Time-inspiratation Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,. other times there were one set of footprints. This bothered me because I noticed … […]
Lauren, what a wonderful story. I know Alexa’s doctor will be touched by the gift.
Lauren,
I just love the card you created for Alexa’s Doctor. It is beautiful. I completely understand about the little things that you pick up on thinking it is a sign. I’m struggling with that right now since Ethan is finished with chemo and finishing up with the last of his protocol drugs. It’s scary and sometimes I get too wrapped up in the what if’s. I couldn’t sleep…..note the time (4:34 am) so I came to check my favorite blogs quickly and head back to bed. Your message is just what I needed. I love your story and I BELIEVE that you were meant to see that! What a neat friend you have too! Thanks for sharing your story.
Alicia
Dear Lauren! I saw your LO and got tears in my eyes! It´s absolutely beautiful!! I wish you, Alexa and the rest of your family all the best! Greatings from Germany,
Steffi
A very special story, I believe things do happen for a reason! Great sketch, and beautiful card that’s the perfect message for the journey so far! Take care, Kim
Ok I’m crying now!!! 🙂 I so need that quote right now. Just know how much you touch the lives of others on your own journey, Lauren. 🙂 Thanks for all you do.
Lauren, I loved what you wrote about the bracelet. I am a firm believer that God is always trying to tell us things… we just need to slow down, open our heart and mind… and LISTEN. I am so thankful that your friend purchased the bracelet for you. You are so blessed in so many ways (as am I). Thanks for sharing your experience with us. Have a wonderful weekend!
Wow, that is a wonderful saying. I’m so glad you ended up with that bracelet because it does belong on your wrist. Thanks for sharing the Footsteps poem I have always liked that one.
When I read your release and saw Unity has a release on the 25th I was so bummed because I’ve been waiting to hear when and I will be away then, so I’m guessing I will miss the party! LOL! Bummer.
Lauren….I am simply speechless (which if you knew me is quite remarkable in itself). I am constantly in awe of you and your family. As you mark this incredibly momentous day which is filled with both joy and worry remember that our Heavenly Father love you all and as you continue to walk “the journey of a 1,000miles” God is taking each and every step with you..in fact he’s ahead of you clearing the path.
Give Alexa a hug from me….a stranger that loves her.
Corinne
That poem always makes me cry – I carry it in my purse wherever I go.
Hope Alexa experiences nothing but terrfic health from here on out!
~Meredith
Lauren,
I so get it. God is always talking to us – we just don’t stop and listen. I remember after I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I went through the flury of Doctors and opinions. I was like a zombie – numb and walking around in a trance. My mind was a jumble and I was confused as to which way to turn. I begin to feel a “tap” on my shoulder that I kept shrugging off. One of my church girlfriends called me and asked me if she could pray with me. I suddenly realized what that tap was! I stopped and prayed and after God patiently waited for me to stop telling him what I wanted, I started to listen. When I told God – OK , your will not mine be done I felt so at peace. The decisions came much easy and even though I faced many set backs and ultimately a bilateral mastectomy I never lost hope and kept taking each step with God and my family. Here I am now four years cancer free.
God Bless you and your family.
Marcia
Oh yeah – I spoke at a womens retreat and we used the footprints poem as the central theme. I wear little footprints on my laynard that I wear at work just to remind me every day of who is walking with me. – Marcia
What a beautiful card, Lauren. And I got chills reading your story. Thanks for sharing – great reminders!
I loved that story Lauren. Sometimes God does send us little messages like that…everything does happen for a reason. We may not know what that reason is now…but it will all make sense later on. There is a lesson to be learned in everything we do. Sometimes we struggle to find an answer…but when we let go and let God…everything falls into place.
Charmaine
Lauren, I love this story. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Hugs and prayers.
yes! I was reading the whole thing, with BIG ol’ tears in my eyes! Like
some have said before, and I agree, thanks for sharing this with us.
And I am glad you have the bracelet. What a good friend you have. I would have
bought it for you too! 😉
I like the sketch too.
Praise God!!! Christina
I truly believe we are given our messages in these ways all the time- we just need to recognize them when love has dropped them into our laps. What a truly beautiful story! I myself have these ‘out of the ordinary’ messages or what some may call coincidences when I need them most. It makes you feel so very very loved always! I lost my first child, my only son at his birth and it’s messages like this that helped me through so very dark times. Ironically, the poem footprints was one of the things that would find it’s way to me at the exact moment I needed it! To this day I read it and feel the love surround me like a big hug.
I truly believe that children such as Alexa are gifts from God as he only trust his most dearest angels with those parents who He knows will love them so much for who they are instead of never seeing past their situation. He truly knows how loving you are to have entrusted you with Alexa.
I hope that is not to hokey, I have just always believed this and after reading your note felt moved to respond! Andrea
What a touching story. Thank you for share. You have enriched many other peoples life with your stories. God works in mysterious ways. We just have to open our hearts, minds and souls and listen! Peace be with you. The prayers go on!
There is a reason for everything……so there was a reason for the bracelet..God Bless You All. You are so awesome…….Love Susie TFS, tears falling……
What a very special gift for Alexa’s doctors. I imagine it will be a very powerful gift for them.
That Paulette is one very wonderful person (even though she argues that point). I think that I am going to “cling to these words” for awhile myself. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
God was certainly insistent on getting your attention. It was His way of saying “all is well” Or perhaps He was saying “Let go and let God”. Either way I am glad you have the bracelet.
What a wonderful special gift for the doctors. I can imagine they will have tear in their eyes when you give it to them. You have touched their lives as much as they have touched yours.
Sheri
What a great story. I so want to thank you for always sharing your thoughts. You may think your just blabbing but you don’t realize the impact you have on others. I always gain so much inspiriation from your blog. Not just in card making but in life. I’m going thru breast cancer and my journey seems so small compared to yours. Thank you for all your do everyday. God has a purpose for all of us. My favorite saying thru all my trails has been: Fear knocked on the door, and faith answered, and behold, no one was there!
Great story behind this! I too feel God has his ways of talking with us, so neat of your friend to get the bracelet for you. love this pic of Alexa, the soft flowers go so well with the paper, Great message!
I think God talks to all of us but not everyone listens – so good for you for hearing that quiet voice and applying that lesson to your life! Congrats to Alexis – her strength is an inspiration to everyone. And of course, the framed art is gorgeous – it’s a great piece for the doctor to hang in his office and lift up others too.
Hi Lauren,
What a great story! Brought tears to my eyes!
I soooo agree with that “Journey” story! And I LOVE “Footprint” too! Its in several places in my house!
Thanks for sharing, as always…
Take a deep breath, relax… it will be ok!
Angie
What a wonderful story. I don’t always comment, but I always read and am always touched by what you share. You have no idea how it touches people to read stories of your faith. The card is absolutely beautiful, and a wonderful way to say thank you to the doctor. May God continue to bless your family!
What a wonderful picture of your daughter to celebrate such a great milestone. I am sure the doctor will love your sentiment. You bring such inspiration to us all.
Wow, Lauren. I’m going through a tough time for different reasons with myself and with my son. This made me stop and think that I need to remember this- one step at a time. I have worn a bangle since I was high risk pregnancy with my son- it says ‘With God All things are possible”. I had repeated this to myself during my pregnancy and in a similar situation, ran across this bangle in a store when I was about 15 weeks pregnant. Though it was a little pricey, I knew I had to get it because it was just there, like a message from God. God works in mysterious ways- but he is always there. I need to remind myself this EVERY DAY!
Lauren, thank you so much for sharing your journey with all of us. I think your gift to Alexa’s doctor is so special.
I think it is one of the first things you learn when you live with a kid with a disability/health problem, take things one step at a time. Sometimes the big picture is just too much, we have to learn to go step by step, knowing that we are not alone in our journey! 🙂
Your card is beautiful, the doctor will love it. You should duplicate it for your new scrapbook 😉
What a story and I’m so glad you ended up with the bracelet! It was meant to be! That is a lovely card for Alexa’s doctors! It means so much!! I agree with Bee, you should duplicate it for your scrapbook! What a momento of times to come!
What a super-sweet picture! I love it! What a perfect little gift for the doctor!!
Beautiful page Lauren!!! Loved the sketch, here is my card: http://smilingwhilestamping.blogspot.com/
The doctor will love the card.
The story of the bracelet was a message.
Paulette is one of your friends that I believe is God’s gift to you.
I hope you found the groovy girl.
Lauren,
Thank you for sharing your faith and how God is working in your life. Blessings to you and your family.
That is so sweet Lauren, I love it!
Okies…I’m back and I’m finished your sketch 😉 I used the new Froggie and Friends and the ATS colour challenge from this week…I’m playing catch up! LOL!
http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/939626?cat=500&ppuser=93708
Lauren, the card is beautiful, and the sentiment is perfect. I do believe that God whispers to us all the time, but we’re often too busy to listen. I’m so glad you listened and that you found peace. What a wonderful friend you have to give you the bracelet! 🙂
Beautiful picture, story, card, friend and words of wisdom for us all. thank you! Holy cow! With all those releases, you are sure to be a very busy gal! 🙂 Looking forward to seeing all of your sneak peeks…
Love the card and everything that quote represents for you. Thanks for sharing 🙂
What an awesome story! Yes, I’m right there with you. I believe God speaks to us all the time. Everything happens for a reason.
I love the frame of Alexa and the doctor is going to be so touched by this. You’re so thoughtful for doing this. What a beautiful picture of Alexa too.
Paulette is truly a beautiful person – inside and out. She’s so caring and thoughful. What a blessing it is having her as a friend.
Hope the weekend goes well for you and you get what needs to be done done. Hang in there!
Big hugs to all of you! ♥
Love, Renee
thank you thank you thank you… for your endless generosity in sharing your stories with us and for helping me personally with my son’s situation.
I’m so happy to “know” you.
Hugs…
em
Isin’t funny, that sometimes when God knocks, we don’t listen…We are so lucky that he keeps knocking til we answer the door!
Oh Lauren….your testimony feeds my soul! Thank you for sharing how God is moving in your life. Don’t get me wrong….I LOVE your creative geniusness….but its your words that keep bringing me back to this blog. May God continue to bless and keep you and your family!!
Thanks for sharing your incredible story. It just goes to show you that God shows up just when you need Him! God is good – all the time! I, too, need reminders to take it one day at a time. I have a daughter with special needs. Some days are better than others, but every day I know that God is in control and loves my daughter even more than I do. Hang in there! Glad you got the bracelet.
Janet
What a wonderful project! It is just beautiful…I’m sure the recipient will LOVE it!
Your story was SO touching…I love reading your blog, you give us such great inspiration. Your trials and tribulations never stop you from being the best Mom ever…you are awesome! And I don’t know HOW you get so much paper crafting done, taking care of 3 children! And a hubby! and Daisy!
HUGS to you, and know that we all love and adore you! 😀
“What a wonderful..powerful Post”
God is there when we need him..
This has been a long journey for
you..Alexa and family. May God
Bless all of you!
I am so glad that your friend was
able to get you that bracelet..
you were meant to have it!
Beautiful photo of Alexa..
and Beautiful card too!!
“Keep the Faith”…
Hugs to ALL!!
Dee
Beautiful card and great sketch Lauren.
Your story gave me goose pinkles as my kids would say.I guess everyone else calls them goose bumps. Alexa’s pic is Beautiful.
I was reading and hoping that you went back and got the bracelet BUT your friend did.It’s great to have friends like her in this world. I bet you were in awe when she gave you the bracelet.I would have been too.Great story.
Here’s my take on the sketch
http://niftynaggy.blogspot.com/2008/06/couple-challenges.html
Beautiful card Lauren! I love the paper and flowers – and Alexa looks adorable in this black and white pic! wonderful sentiment – it is prophetic – you’re chancing to see it – twice!
awe honey, that was such a great story! I will truly keep Alexa in my prayers! Thanks for sharing her with us!
This is sooo very special, Lauren!! What a fabulous and perfect gift!!
That you for sharing for fears and joys with us Lauren. You have been blessed in so many ways and what a wonderful friend you have.
Now that you have me in tears and I’ve had a good cryin for the day…this is an amazing story. I have two very similiar situations to those of Alexa’s in my life. You can read about both on my blog. One is from 2006 archieves and the other is my post from April 2007.. Thank you so much for the reminder that each step must be taken one at a time.
Lauren,
We all have those moments. You know the one’s where you are unable to see the forest for the tree’s. Life can be overwhelming when you tackle these moments that time builds up to, but it is our faith that can carry us through them. It’s giving it up to God and realizing that with Him leading we are always headed in the right direction. We continue to lift your sweet baby up in prayer.
Many Blessings,
Michelle
wow somethings just call to you and then find their way to you as well… I’ll have to try your sketch sometime latter this week.
What a beautiful card and a touching story! I’m glad that your friend (what a great one!) got you that bangle! I think we all need to be reminded to take things one step at a time. Thank you for sharing your story with us!
Lauren,
that card gave me the chills (in a good way). I can’t imagine the emotions that you go through day after day. She is lucky to have such a great mom. thanks for sharing.
*sniffle*
What a beautiful post. And I love the gift you made for Alexa’s doctors.
Love your card and the story behind your bracelet! Thanks for always being to inspiring! I used your sketch for my mft ambassador entry – http://cardsbykerry.blogspot.com/2008/06/i-made-this-card-for-my-favorite.html
Alexa is so beautiful. I am so praying for her to keep those steps coming and if just 1 step is a 1,000 miles she has a long way to go. I am on my way back to Boston for our family reunion and will be visiting The Paper Tree. I will leave you a message.
What a beautiful story Lauren, Thanks for sharing… I am not a religious person, but do believe that there are messages out there for us from someone (maybe God, or someone else???) Glad your friend was able to help you out, and thanks for reminding me of the simplicity of that message!
Diane
Your story was trulky amazing and moving. It really brings us down to the realization that someone is watching out for all of Us. Goos Speed to you and yours.. MaryAnn
Lauren,
I know I read this a little late. I totally agree someone was sending you a message, letting you know that things will be okay, they work out. Sometimes we need to take a breath, step back and start again with one step at a time. God works in mysterious ways and always watches out for us, even though you think he is not listening or watching. As far as getting deep with discussions, the way I see it we all are here to listen, and give support when needed. I always feel that there is a reason why you connect with strangers, who then become friends, God or maybe fate puts people in your path for a certain reason.
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Thank you for sharing your story about Alexa and the bracelet. What a special little girl she is! I’m sure her doctor will appreciate the card.
Here’s my try using the sketch: http://inkingaloud.blogspot.com/2008/06/at-least-someones-glam.html
I got it Lauren…I think anyone who loves someone…gets it! I am so very glad you found that bracelet! My prayers are with you, always. God bless you all.
You may claim not to be a scrapbooker, but YOU’RE SO GOOD AT IT!!!! You were the Scrapbook Page of the Week for Scrapbook Saturday over at http://www.CardoftheWeek.com. You can check out the post at http://www.cardoftheweek.com/2008/06/scrapbook-page.html
I don’t know how you do it all, Lauren, but I’m sure glad that you do!
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Hi Lauren!
Just wanted to let you know I suggested this sketch for a challenge on my team forum tonight – we are SU! demos in Australia. I loved the sketch and the reason for your sample, so that’s why I picked it. Alexa is a lucky girl to have you for a mum!
Thankyou for sharing all your beautiful work! 🙂 Kari
[…] a square card or a scrapbook layout using it. The sketch is from Lauren Meader’s blog and her story about her sample made from this sketch is just lovely (keep the tissues handy, though) sketch […]
thanks for sharing! What a beautiful card! But its beauty lies in the story behind it. I’m reminded of Psalm 119:105: “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” I picture being out in the dark, with only a lamp to my feet, showing me just enough for the next step, but not always enough light to see what lies down the road a ways… congrats on reaching the last day of chemo! May God give you and your family peace and joy to enjoy this time, free of anxiety of what tomorrow might bring. For He is with you today and all of your tomorrows.
Hi Lauren.
Thank you for sharing your journey… What an inspiration you and Alexa are. God is Good – All the time. May He continue to light your path – journey – and hold your family in His arms. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Keep sharing your talents and I know miracles will be worked through you by God.
Blessings,
Shaunna
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