Pages

Monday, August 22, 2011

WMSC #61- This one is for me

Today I did something I never do.  I made something for me.  No one else, just for me.  I have had a pretty bad couple of weeks. 
Here's the sketch by Sara Martina Parker.










Here is what I made:

 My mom is in the early phases of dementia.  It hasn't been that bad so far, my dad has been the one who has dealt with it on a daily basis.  Two weeks ago, my dad had a mini stroke.  Again, wasn't too serious, he was home quickly but had to have some surgery a few days later.  After the surgery, he has totally changed.  He can't do everything he used to, but it is not 100% permanent.  He could recover completely.  Thing is, his spirit is broken.  He has given up.  No amount of rational explanation has sunk in and he is so sad and depressed.  He's treating each day as if he is going to drop dead the next.  Giving away all of his things, paying future bills way too early, just not acting like my dad used to. 
I have had this heavy blanket of sadness hanging over me lately and I decided that I needed a little pep talk myself.  This little framed card is going to sit on my desk at work.  I love this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt.  It is from Waltzingmouse Afternoon Tea Sentiments which I just got a few days ago.
 I can't believe how appropriate this sentiment is for the way I have been feeling.  I have to be strong, especially at a time when my parents can't be.  To make the card I stamped a subtle background on dark chocolate cardstock.  The patterned papers are from Webster's pages, Country Estate.  The colors are so delicate and pretty, especially paper pieced for the cute tea cup.  I did a little stitching on this one, added some pearls to the teacup and adhered a bit of cream colored lace at the bottom.  The flowers are just something I have had in my stash forever.  I hope my dad gets better.  I really do think he will, but no matter what, I will have to be the one who is strong now, something I learned from my dad.

Next post, going to be something a lot more cheerful, promise.

12 comments:

Kelly Schelske said...

Gorgeous Cathy!!

Renee said...

GORGEOUS!!
I really love the softness of this whole piece...
the comfort.
And that quote...
one of my faves!
Love it all...
truly beautiful.
And I know the last couple of weeks have been rough on you...
I just hope everyday that they get better for you!
In my thoughts and sending hugs!!!

Laurie said...

Cathy I am sending you big cyber hugs! I know how hard it is to deal with aging parents! I will keep them and you in my prayers! I love your project! It is gorgeous!

Jen Adcock said...

So beautiful Cathy...nearly as lovely as you are, my friend! I am sending you lots of love and squishy hugs. Keep crafting!

Denise said...

Cathy, you are definitely in my thoughts. I can relate in many ways to your sadness and need to dig deep for strength. I love that you made something for yourself... cherish it and allow time for yourself to decompress. HUGS

Kara said...

so sorry to hear about all you are dealing with. i hope your beautiful creation cheers you up a bit each time you look at it!!

Kathy Mc said...

Cathy, this is gorgeous and LOVE Eleanor's saying. So true! Yes, you do need to find the strength to carry on for your folks even though it isn't easy. Of course, we always hope our parents will be there for us forever and hate to see them failing ~ been there, done that! Will add you and your parents to my prayer list plus a cyber hug for you. Good Luck!

Kelly S. said...

Oh I am sorry you are going through a rough time, Cathy! Thinking of you and your parents. What a lovely reminder to stay strong. I am so glad that you took some time to create something beautiful for yourself. Love the colors, papers, lace, and the pearly tea cup! Definitely frameworthy ;)!

Kim Heggins said...

Oh my goodness Cathy, it just broke my heart reading your post. Please know you and your family are in my prayers. I know how hard it is to see someone you love so much suffer. Sending hugs your way too. Beautiful card and what a great senitment. Thank you so much for sharing.

Joyce said...

Love this card, and that quote. I have never seen it in a stamp before--I could imagine so many ways to use it. So glad you are taking some time to be kind to yourself.

Marybeth said...

This is gorgeous and I think its wonderful you're keeping it for yourself.

Marybeth said...

Not sure how I missed this post of sad news for you at this time. So sorry Cathy, I will be praying things get back to normal for your dad. Take care