I have to smile at how the Lord works things out. I've said it before, but really, I hope that I never cease to be amazed by the Lord. His timing, His plans, His purposes...perfect every time! For example, He led me to just the right church at just right the time, knowing all the while the blessings He had for me there. I just hope that likewise, He is using me to bless them as well.
One example of this is a very sweet, virtuous woman named Lani. What a treasure! When I think of Lani, I think of Psalm 31:
She is everything anyone could ever hope to be as a Christian woman, and humble enough not to know it. ;) She truly has a servant's heart, loves the Lord so deeply, and loves others. She has truly touched my heart and I pray I can be a fraction of the lady she is. Recently, Lani and her teenage daughters (also tremendous blessings & dear friends) set up their 3rd bedroom as a Sewing Room. (The girls had decided that a dedicated sewing room was more important than each of them having their own bedroom.) While they were still laying their plans, the Lord lead me to these adorably cheerful papers & embellies -and on sale! PTL! I knew the instant I saw them that I was meant to make something for Lani & her girls. It's been a few weeks, but here it is finally: 

I had so much fun working on this, that I almost missed the other purpose the Lord had for it: to encourage me about working in a 12x12 format! I have been wanting & meaning to get back to the doggie scrapbook I began for my mom when Charlie was a puppy. Well, Charlie's turning 5 tomorrow and we've added another dog (Cyrus) to the mix. I've got work to do! Besides time, the biggest roadblock has been fear. I love how faithful and true God's promises are, even in the little details of our lives. This experience was a great reminder to me that whether we're facing big fears or little insecurities, "...God hath not given us the spirit of fear;" 2Timothy 1:7 So, don't be too surprised if you see a lot more of my canine compadres from now on. But even before I get to that, there are a few more things lined up in the altering/photo-related department. I hope you enjoyed this and stay tuned...
Here's the coordinating card. Being so close to my heart, I'll not share what I wrote, but it conveys my gratitude and joy at having Lani in my life. She is truly a Sister in Christ, and I thank God for her.
((((HUGS)))) & may the Lord's hand be upon you in a mighty & wonderful way. God bless you!
Supplies:
Doodlebug Designs - Nifty Notions (paper, stickers, brads & most buttons)
Maya Road Zipper Trim
Glitz Teeny Alpha stickers
Unity KOM - April 2010
Sentiment by Clear Dollar Stamps (Help For Katie)
Copics - E41, E43, BG70, BG72, BG05, RV000, RV14, RV17, R24, R28, C1, YG13, G14