I'm Back! … wow, what a ride it's been over the past few weeks. I call my Stampin' Room my "Happy Place" and haven't been there in a while, but with some nudging from my husband, daughter, son, and son-in-law, my dog, Buddy, and I walked back in yesterday and it felt good. Love you guys! My stamping table is a mess again and for that, I'm grateful!

Today's post is quite different from those I've written in the past. You all know I'm pretty much a hobby stamper. Yes, I do get business from this blog, I have my monthly group, and I promote Stampin' Up! because I believe in Stampin' Up!. It's a great Company, but as I've said before, paper crafting and stamping are wonderful forms of creative expression, which brings me happy peace along with my music. For that I'm grateful! "A handmade card is a hug with a fold in the center" and my family and those who mean a lot to me get those handmade cards because they're thoughtful expressions of me. I love doing it!

Just a little more, and I'll stop rambling…promise.

My heartfelt thanks to my regular blog readers who have e-mailed me of their concern for not seeing regular posts. I've e-mailed you all personally and so very much appreciate your love, concern, and most of all loyalty.  

Now, during this season of "Thanks", I can't even begin to express my gratitude to two very important people in my Stampin' world – First, Brian King. Brian, I can't even begin… and Mary Fish. They are both true and loving friends to me and I love you both! I think I found out what it truly means to be a "Stampin' Pretty Pal"… yes it is about the business, but it's more about the comraderie and community. It's a very special place, trust me. For that I am grateful!

So, here's my card. The Dahlia travelled all over Europe, landed in England and Lord Holland of England wrote this poem.

"The dahlia you brought to our isle

Your praises for ever shall speak;

Mid gardens as sweet as your smile,

And in colour as bright as your cheek"

Flowers have meanings, and the Dahlia has several, one being "adventure"… cool, isn't it? I am smiling and my cheeks are bright! For that I am grateful.

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball and you have to catch it on the curve. Life sure is an adventure!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for our Pals Paper Arts Design Team Sketch Challenge. It's a good one!

Thank you again and I'll always be grateful for you.

Debbie