Live Life to the Full

My brother, my only sibling, passed away seven years ago this month from pancreatic cancer after an eight month battle.  He had just turned 50 years old.  We had a conversation one day in which he said, "I don't want to live forever, but I would like to have a few more years."  Sadly, he died just two months later.  

Which brings me to the card I'm sharing today.  I wasn't sure what sentiment I wanted to use when I came across this one from Kaisercraft.  It immediately brought to mind the conversation with my brother.  The base is Recollections cardstock and everything except the tag, stamp and sentiment are from Colorbok's Victorian Parlour and Antique Paperie lines.  The flower is made of punched out flower shapes of different sizes attached to a brad and placed on a doily diecut.  There is a clear sticker with rhinestones that runs across the top.  It is hard to see because of the patterned paper.  A Martha Stewart border punch was used on the green paper.

Here you can see a little bit of the dimension created with some Therm-O-Web foam dots.  I tied some hemp around several times to make the bow.

I'm sorry if this post is a bit on the depressing side.  I just thought it important to be reminded that each day is a privilege and not to take it for granted--something I need to bear in mind myself at times.

On a brighter note, today was a picture perfect day.  We finally were able to turn off the air conditioner and open all the windows.  Looks like it's going to be this way most of the week.  There definitely is a sense of fall in the air.  Makes me feel energized!  Thanks so much for stopping by and for all your sweet comments.  Have a wonderful week and live life to the full!