I recently got a phone call from the King. Yes, The King! No, not Elvis. Royalty. Stamping Royalty. The King of Stampin’ Up! Let me explain:
As many of you know, we lost our oldest daughter this past July. I immediately ordered the “Kindness & Compassion” stamp set knowing it would be perfect to make thank you cards for all the folks who were covering us with love & prayers and many acts of kindness in the days and weeks that followed.
The problem was that every time I sat down to try to make cards with that stamp set, I just went blank. I just couldn’t bring myself to actually make anything. Not one card. Maybe it was just overwhelming but I felt like I just couldn’t do it.
Then one day I was surfing thru the websites of several of my fellow Stampin’ Up! Pals and came across this post from Brian King, the King of Stampin’ UP! (That is his official title, isn’t it? Well, that’s what I call him!) Brian made a beautiful set of cards and a lovely box using the Kindness & Compassion stamp set. It was just what I needed! I left a comment for Brian that this was just the inspiration I needed to dust off my stamp set and make some much overdue cards. A short time later, my phone rang. It was Brian King, calling me! I was so honored I stopped what I was doing (I was teaching a class, actually) to answer the call. Brian was not aware that my daughter had passed away, but he asked me for my address so he could send that beautiful box full of cards to me! Can you imagine that? I was so humbled and honored!
A few days later, a package arrived from Brian with that beautiful box of cards just as promised. Not only is Brian extremely talented but he is also a man of his word! And it was just exactly what I need to kickstart my own card-making again. I’ve used his layout to make several cards of my own and it seemed to have broken the slump I was in. Like good medicine!
Thank you Brian, for your gift, for your caring and your friendship. “Thank You” doesn’t begin to convey the depth of gratitude for what your simple act of caring means to me. I am looking forward to meeting you face to face in Orlando in 2 weeks.
Let’s take a look at Brian’s gift to me. 
Isn’t this box beautiful? It’s made with Gray Granite cardstock and Joyous Noel Specialty DSP tied up with a beautiful Merry Merlot & Copper Reversible Ribbon. 
The top opens to reveal several cards and envelopes inside. 
Here is the trio of cards made from the same Joyeous Noel DSP. Brian just let the simple elegance of that DSP form the backdrop to let the sentiments speak volumes.
Here are some of the cards I made using Brian’s layout.
Now with all these cards ready and waiting to be addressed and mailed, I must start getting my notes written and mailed.
Thanks for letting me share my story, and my gift, and my road to getting my stampin’ mojo back! One of the best things about my Stampin’ Up! gig is the virtual community of fellow stampers and the friendship and encouragement we share. If you would like to experience this type of fellowship for yourself, I hope you’ll consider joining with me by purchasing the $99 Starter Kit, it may just lead you to far-reaching friendships too!
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That is so Brian. He’s a great guy. So sorry for your loss Nancy.
Thank you Nancy for taking the time to write this heartfelt post. I did not know that you lost your daughter this summer. My heart hurts for you. Special prayers and hugs my friend.
Thank you Ginger, prayers are much appreciated!
Nancy, I am so very sorry for the loss of your daughter. I can’t imagine the grief you are experiencing. Thank you for sharing this story of serendipity and kindness. I wish you healing and many lovely memories of your daughter.
Thank you, Denise. My family is on the road to healing.
Oh, my goodness Nancy , I’m so sorry to hear about your lost , I know it doesn’t fill better by bring it back , I know so well that filling,
But your going to be ok, and it does get better , we’re all here for you ,
And yes , THE KING ,…. he’s a wonderful person, I got the same call when my mommy went away 4 years ago ,He hugs are just as beautiful, you’ll know what I mean when you meet him , we’re all so BLESSED aren’t we , ok my friend, take care , hugs and and can’t wait to meet you ♥️♥️????
Frenchie, I can’t wait to meet you too! I know you’ve had your share of loss too in recent years. See you in Orlando!
I am so grateful to know you through this craft of ours and can’t wait to meet you face-to-face in a couple of weeks. I am so glad my small gesture means so much to you, Nancy! I’m happy it inspired you to create and am glad my projects inspired you to create. Lovely cards – each of them. Much love to you and your family. <3
Thanks so much, Brian. Can’t wait to meet you too!
Nancy, my deepest condolences for your tremendous loss. Thank you for the beautiful reminder of the graciousness and care that being a Pal offers. Amazing, caring and inspiring people.
Erin, thank you. The Pals truly are a special group. I’m blessed to be a part of it!
Nancy…this is beautiful! I know how much Brian’s kindness meant to you, so I’m grateful to him for making you feel as special as you are! I can’t wait to see pics of you two from Orlando!
Thanks, Kathy. I’ll be sure to get those pics for you!
What a beautiful post. Through the depths of despair we can find such amazing acts of kindness. I am not surprised one bit to read about how awesome Brian is. My deepest sympathy as you go down this path.
Thank you, Pam
a beautiful thing!
Nancy, I’m so sorry for what you’ve been through. My heart is breaking for you. I didn’t know. But I’m thankful for Brian and his kindness. Blessings to you friend.
Thank you, Peggy