Please Join the "Angels Among Us" Club!
Collin forgot his lunch money today so I had to run to school to give it to him. I left it at the front office since he was still in class (he has second lunch) and turned to walk out the door. Instead, I felt drawn to the lunchroom where students were eating lunch. I walked upstairs and stood in a corner looking over the balcony. My mind went back to junior high school--the fitting in, the popularity contest, the chaos and noise. I stood there for several minutes, taking everything in. Then I noticed "her" (I'll call her Lilly)--a beautiful girl sitting all alone eating. Oh--there were students sitting at the same table. But their backs were turned to Lilly and she had turned her face and body the opposite way, pretending not to notice or even care that she was eating alone. But--I know she cared. I wanted to scream down to the students and tell them to notice this girl. I wanted to go sit by her and chat with her and tell her I wanted to be her friend. But--at 44 years old I couldn't really do that. For the first time in my life, I wanted to be back in eighth grade. I felt helpless as I stared at her. Then I saw my cute neighbor--Jess who's in the seventh grade. She was sitting at a table near the girl's table. I walked over to her and quietly said, "Hey--do you know that girl?" She knew Lilly's an eighth grader but she didn't know her name. I told her I'd been watching her and that she was eating alone and challenged her and her friends to eat with her the next day. Jess took my challenge and I'm excited to hear about the results. (I spent the ride home bawling. I hate seeing people left out.)
I know this experience seems small, but it got me to thinking how the little things mean so much. Also, how kindness goes such a long way. It inspired me to go visit a friend who's going through chemo and take chocolates to a librarian who recommended a good book.
Then it got me to thinking about all of you--the kindness you showed to my friend, Brian Nishimoto (he's still receiving stickers and loving it) and to the Amish community last year. You are a powerful force for good and I feel so blessed to be associated with you.
Then I started thinking, wouldn't it be cool if we started an "Angels Among Us" club. I'll be on the outlook for a need and you all will go into action and respond to the request.
Okay--so here's a gal who needs our support.
Nadine is a lovely mother of three boys who is an AVID scrapbooker and wonderful mom. On January 22nd, 2008, her youngest son, two-year-old Nate, tragically died in a freak accident.
Despite this horrible lose and the overwhelming sadness it brought, Nadine has reached out to others to comfort them in their trials and hard times. One of my friends told me about a hard situation she was going through and how Nadine reached out to her. I was deeply touched.
I have been in contact with Nadine and have been amazed how she and her husband have chosen to live life with love, forgiveness and kindness, rather than bitterness and hostility. It has been a privilege to get to know her and call her friend.
Nadine loves homemade cards and handwritten sentiments. Let's shower her with cards and let her know that scrapbookers around the world are thinking of her and her family.
The two-month anniversary of Nate's death will be March 22nd. Try to send your card before or around this date. Post a comment when you've put it in the mail so we can feel this amazing support too.
Nadine doesn't know what we're doing but has given me permission to post her address:
Nadine Fenchak
7422 Brookwood Ave
Baltimore, MD 21236
One of my favorite songs by Alabama goes like this:
"Oh I believe there are angels among us.
Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hours.
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give.
To guide us with a light of love."
You truly are angels! Thanks for your support!
Sincerely,
Lisa
P.S. My friend is helping me make a special surprise for Nadine. I'll post it on the 22nd!
I know this experience seems small, but it got me to thinking how the little things mean so much. Also, how kindness goes such a long way. It inspired me to go visit a friend who's going through chemo and take chocolates to a librarian who recommended a good book.
Then it got me to thinking about all of you--the kindness you showed to my friend, Brian Nishimoto (he's still receiving stickers and loving it) and to the Amish community last year. You are a powerful force for good and I feel so blessed to be associated with you.
Then I started thinking, wouldn't it be cool if we started an "Angels Among Us" club. I'll be on the outlook for a need and you all will go into action and respond to the request.
Okay--so here's a gal who needs our support.
Nadine is a lovely mother of three boys who is an AVID scrapbooker and wonderful mom. On January 22nd, 2008, her youngest son, two-year-old Nate, tragically died in a freak accident.
Despite this horrible lose and the overwhelming sadness it brought, Nadine has reached out to others to comfort them in their trials and hard times. One of my friends told me about a hard situation she was going through and how Nadine reached out to her. I was deeply touched.
I have been in contact with Nadine and have been amazed how she and her husband have chosen to live life with love, forgiveness and kindness, rather than bitterness and hostility. It has been a privilege to get to know her and call her friend.
Nadine loves homemade cards and handwritten sentiments. Let's shower her with cards and let her know that scrapbookers around the world are thinking of her and her family.
The two-month anniversary of Nate's death will be March 22nd. Try to send your card before or around this date. Post a comment when you've put it in the mail so we can feel this amazing support too.
Nadine doesn't know what we're doing but has given me permission to post her address:
Nadine Fenchak
7422 Brookwood Ave
Baltimore, MD 21236
One of my favorite songs by Alabama goes like this:
"Oh I believe there are angels among us.
Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hours.
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give.
To guide us with a light of love."
You truly are angels! Thanks for your support!
Sincerely,
Lisa
P.S. My friend is helping me make a special surprise for Nadine. I'll post it on the 22nd!
110 Comments:
Hi Lisa - I just finished writing my note to Nadine. What a tragedy. Was he sick or was it an accident?
I love the idea of "Angels Among Us" - there are so many people who WANT to help, we just don't always know what to do.
Hi Lisa,
Welcome back to the USA. Hope Brecken is feeling better and happy late birthday to her!!!! I am sending Nadine a card. What a horrible thing to have to go through!!! Memories we scrapbook hold our loved ones close in our heart!!!
Beth in Chapin, SC
Wow, I have tears in my eyes after reading Nadine's story about losing her little boy. I have a little boy and I would be completely and utterly devasted if anything ever happened to him.
I'm not much of a cardmaker but I WILL send one to this amazing woman! A project for the weekend
Lisa,
You are an amazing person and I would be honored to be part of your Angels Among Us Club. I would love to write Nadine a card. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to make the world a better place. Isn't it amazing how scrapbooking really puts life in perspective? I notice the details and savor the moments with my children even more since I have started this incredible hobby. Thank you for your blog and the inspiration you share with us, your online friends!
Have the best day!
Lisa,
I just read your blog and my heart aches. It was a wonderful thing that you did for Lilly,and very sweet of your neighbor to sit with her at lunch. If only we could impart our wisdom on all of these teen-age kids....but,like us, they will learn in due time(hopefully). I hope that Lilly will make some new friends thanks to you caring enough to make a difference.
As for Nadine, I am so sad. As a mother of four,I cannot fathom such a heartbreaking loss..he was an absolutley beautiful boy,truly and angel. I am going to take some time to really think about something appropriate to do for this family and will let you know what I come up with.For now,thank you for making me want to hug my boys a little bit tighter today,and continue to encourage them to be kind,compassionate people.
Keep up the good work.It is a blessing that you were able to create your magazine and not only inspire us creatively,but use it as a forum to reach all of us and help so many others.
Barbara Parnell
mikebarbara@optonline.net
Count me in - i'm headed to my scraproom to make a card for Nadine as we speak.
jenjen in Michigan
Hi Lisa - what a simply beautiful idea, sign me up as a member of the AAU club. We have a regualr card class on Thursdays at the store, and I look forward to sharing this Angel call with them and I know that those girls will be creating cards for Nadine straight away :) I thought I would share with you about John Farnham, one of our talented Australian performers - he sings a beautiful song called Angels, it was written by Tom Kimmel & Jennifer Kimball, here is an extract of the lyrcis: Close enough to heaven
Above the rain Darkness cannot reach us Let the angels teach us Only love remains We're lifted up by angels Given wings to fly. I was sad to have missed you at the booth at CHA this year, I brought you Tim Tams too - so will post them to you should I send them to the the office? Glad you loved Japan, Do hope Brecken is feeling better now. Hugs to you and yours, Ruth Sprague, Scrapbook Central, Joondalup Western Australia.
This is SOOOOOOO Cool! I loved your post. Thank you. On Monday night here in our town-30,000 people--we are having a fundraiser--Spaghetti Feed--to help a young girl, 9, who has a life-threatening illness. I am so proud to be apart of a town/city where people still care about each other and are so willing to help.
We took your challenge last month for Brian and the stickers. We made it our monthly service project at church and this week I will be sending him a great big envelope full of stickers. It's amazing what one person can do.
Thanks again for reminding us what life is truly about.
Ann Snider, Kearney, NE
Lisa - Let me be the first to say...what a great idea! I have met you twice up in Seattle and automatically knew that I would love to be your friend. You exude such a sweet spirit, that you make everyone around you feel special. Thank you for the reminder to be kinder and more aware of those around us...great advice for all to live by!
What a lovely thing to do - I went into my stash and filled out a card - I will put it in the mail next week - I live in NJ.
Tina
Done... What a wonderful idea so sign me up for your Angels! I love reaching out to others when they might need a little bit of a spirtiual lift because it not only reminds me of how blessed I am in my life but it allows me to pass on a little bit of God's love in this lifetime. Thank you, Lisa, for giving us the opportunity to make this world a little bit smaller.
As a mom of 3 boys too, I can't imagine what it would be like to loose 1 of them. I'll make a card for her today as a fellow scrapbooker and mom. Thanks for helping us reach out to someone in need.
Hi Lisa:
I just wrote Nadine a letter along with a homemade card. Thank you very much for creating "Angels Amoung Us" I think it is a great idea.
Thanks, Lisa, for creating an outlet for us scrapbookers to help others. I enjoyed sending a huge stack of stickers to Brian and will send Nadine a handmade card. I admire her strength after losing a child. I'm going to go hug my little boy!
Emilie from St Paul, MN
Hi Lisa, thanks for creating an outlet for us scrapbookers to help others. I enjoyed sending Brian an envelope of stickers and will send a homemade card to Nadine.
I admire her strength during her time of loss. Time for me to be grateful for my little boy!
Emilie from St. Paul
Lisa,
You are one of the most caring and genuine people I know. What a wonderful idea. It is so true that the little things mean so much. I just realized that yesterday when I got the tragic news that a dear friend of mine was killed in a horrible car crash. I will miss the "little things" she did, her sense of humor when she knew you needed cheering up, or her compliment when I had lost a few pounds. She was one of my favorite people at church, and now I can only hope that she knew that. It is POURING rain today here in SC/GA....I can't help but feel heaven is crying with all those who knew and loved my friend, Cindy. I am going to try be so much more consious of others now. If I love them, I will tell them. If they are hurting, I want to help. So count me in! Thanks, Lisa!
Lisa,
What a great idea! Loved your story about Lily...I feel the same about my son Brennan...he's so shy and though he sits at a table with his classmates, no one seems to engage with him...I pray each day that there would be someone that would be his angel...Thanks for your amazing heart and being so inspiring! I will work on a card this week for Nadine...what a woman of courage she must be.
Hi Lisa!
I can't express my sorrow in words for the loss Nadine and her family have suffered.
I am attending an all day crop event in Columbia, SC on Saturday. One of my projects will be to make Nadine's card.
I wish her family peace and comfort.
Lisa,
This is so sweet of you..
As for the girl at school and you being the age you are.
You can go sit by her..
I am going to be 53 soon. I started writting to alittle girl of 11 who has leukemia. I found her web sight on line and started writting to her. I now send her things each week, it might be a letter or just a cute pen I see. But at first I thought this 11 year old girl wont want to hear from a 53 year old lady. Lisa she loves it. She tells he mom how much it means to her I write her. She is also picked on at school and has no friends. Because of the Chemo and other meds she is heavy and cant do lots of things.
Any way I just wanted to share that with you... We can as adults be friends and help any one. I love it...
Take care and have a great weekend. I look forward to seeing what happened with this girl and your neighbors..
Terri E
Ventura Ca
I LOVE the idea for an "Angels Among Us" club. I had so much fun sending Brian stickers, and would love to make Nadine a card. I admire her so much for her strength. Thanks for sharing with us, and giving us the opportunity to give to others.
Dear Lisa,
I've wanted to leave a comment on your blog for quite some time, but I knew it would be a lengthy one so I always put it off. But after reading this post, I can't put it off any longer!
You are such an inspiration to me. My mother passed away 8 years ago from brain cancer, when I was 20 years old and my first daughter was 2 months old....and I know it sounds ridiculous, but I see so much of my mother in you! My mom was a devout LDS, and struggled to teach me to live by those prinicapls, even though my Dad wasn't a member of any church and made it kind of difficult. My mom was very very crafty...she didn't scrapbook though, although she was an avid photographer. When she died, I was just coming out of my defiant/rebellious teenage phase (mine lasted longer than most kids) and I miss her more now than I did when she died because I know now we would have been such great friends. And I just feel somehow connected to her, as if I'm seeing what she would be like today, when I see or read about you.
And lastly, the reason I HAD to comment on this post:
A few months before my mom died, when she was bed-ridden but still coherent, she had me copy a song onto tapes and give them to all her friends that were loving, kind angels to her through her sickness. We also played the song at her funerals (she had 2, one here in San Diego and one in Ogden, Utah where she was burried). And that song was "Angels Among Us" by Alabama.
Thank you for being an example of what a mother should be, of all the best things our church has to teach, and for bringing a little bit of my mom to me now and then. :O)
I can't imagine experiencing Nadine's loss, I will surely be sending something her way.
I'm really sorry this was so long.
Hello Lisa! And thank you for another wonderful idea to touch someone's life! Count me in as a member of the "Angels Among Us" Club.
While reading your message and getting tears thinking of her story, I had to stop and jump up because my 22 mth old son had fell off of the rocking chair and started crying. He's going to have a mark between his eyes where the pointy wooden rocker slat caught him. Had to just sit and hold him with his tears and mine being thankful, it was only a fall! I can't even imagine losing him or my oldest son (4 yrs), they are my life!
I am not much of a card maker, unless it came from one of your kits ;o), but I will get one made for Nadine and sent so that it arrives close to her anniversary date. Hope my simple words from a mother of 2 boys will touch her heart and she will feel the Lord's love coming to her from my prayers!
Thanks again Lisa, it feels so good to help someone else!!!
Off to fix by sweet boys some lunch (after I wipe my new tears away!)
Pam in Montana
Lisa, your blog post brought tears to my eyes this morning.
I love the idea of Angels Among Us! Sending stickers to Brian last month put a little extra something into me. It feels amazing to help others, whether it's big or small. I'm an avid card maker so I'll pull out a card from my stash and send it off to Nadine. Thanks for sharing the opportunity to help lift another. I feel for "Lilly" and hope an lunchtime angel blesses her.
Hope your darling daughter Brecken is feeling better!
Lisa,
Thank you for sharing this opportunity with us. I love love love to do this sort of thing for others...just don't always have something present itself to me. I LOVE that song by Alabama and even have it as one of the songs on blog! It just says so much. I have tried to teach my children to be that kind of person. We went to Prom the other night to see our daughter promenade and witnessed something so sweet. Two of my daughter's good friends who happen to be beautiful girls and in the popular crowd had prom dates many others would have turned down. These girls had been asked; one by a mentally disabled boy and the other by a boy in a wheel chair. They had both happily said yes to these boys and they were showering them with attention at the Prom. The one in the wheel chair is a Junior and so this girl even did promenade with him. Ahh... it was so sweet to watch. These girls could have gone to the prom with anyone but they said yes to these boys and they made sure that they had a prom they would remember with fondness. I was thankful that I had the opportunity to witness such kindness in action.
Again, Thank you for the opportunity to share of ourselves with another. I will work on a card this weekend and get it out to Nadine.
Mimi
Lisa I had tears in my eyes as I read your post. Count me in as a member of the "Angels Among Us" club. I will definitely make a card and have it arrive by around the 22nd. Thanks for being the vehicle of generosity, compassion and caring.
nancy in Ca
Hi Lisa!
This is my first time commenting on your site even though I visit it regularly. I just felt drawn to participate in this "mission". I would LOVE to be part of your Angels Among Us. I LOVE the fact you wrote out the lyrics to that Alabama song...I love Alabama. :)
I'm going to get a card made today or over the weekend but I'm not going to send it until maybe the middle of next week.
I can completely understand you bawling the whole way home. I do the same thing when I see someone being left out. I'm a big softy for little old men. Even though nothing may be wrong, I just cry when I see them. I was adopted by my maternal grandparents when I was an infant and grew up with my dad being older and all his "cute" little old friends. I wish kids could see what they say or do can impact someone either negatively or positively depending on their actions. I have a 5 year old daughter and I'm trying to engrain kindness into her but it's hard to teach something like that, so therefore I need to SHOW her how to be kind and love and be an example.
I just love you, Lisa and am happy for the wonderful things you do!
Heather
ALREADY GOT MY CARD READY.
WILL MAIL A LITTLE LATER.
I JUST LOST MY MOM ON FEB 24. SHE HAD BEEN TERMINALLY ILL FOR A FEW YEARS. I'M COMFORTED TO KNOW THAT SHE IS NO LONGER IN PAIN. SHE WAS ONLY 55.
{VICKI}
Lisa,
I'm also a regular visitor to your blog and I have always been lifted by the kindness you always always show. I love that your family is so tightly knit together; and that you all show such great kindness to everyone.
I want to be a part of your Angels Among Us club! Without a doubt. You are such an inspiration to me. You are an angel among us!
I visited earlier and read your most recent blog and was moved to tears I couldn't even type a response. What a beautiful sweet-looking little boy. I'm making myself cry now. I will definately get a card out to Nadine this weekend.
Thank you for being the person you are and such a wonderful person to admire and aspire to be like.
In the mail today 3/7/08.
I will send Nadine a card as well. Wow what a terrible thing but you are doing something so wonderful. Hope Brecken is feeling better...and Happy Birthday to her!
Amie
In the mail and what a great idea to make sure some one feels loved in those dark times.
Your blog was so touching today - it made me cry. This is really what it's all about - reaching out and touching others. It's all about the people and the relationships - they are what really matter not all the "stuff". Sometimes I can't wait for heaven because I know that then it will definitely be all about the people and the relationships. I will definitely be makind a card for Nadine and saying some special prayers for Lilly. Thanks for all you do!!
Lisa,
Count me in, absolutely. This is an amazing thing and I'm so honored to have you as a friend. I love that you can affect so many people, and in turn, give us the opportunity to affect someone too. You are incredible. You inspire me. THANKS!
See you soon! Tresa McKenna
Oh, the pain of losing a child! I know first-hand how difficult it can be. My card will be in the mail tomorrow. Count me in as a member of the Angels Among Us group. What a fabulous idea! God bless your kindness, Lisa.
What an amazing idea! You are so thoughtful! I feel lucky to be apart of this great opportunity to Scatter a little Sunshine! Sometimes it blesses our own lives just as much as those we are serving! Thanks again! My card will be in the mail tomorrow! :)
Thank you Lisa for the inspiration to bless another mom. I am completly moved. I am going to share this story with my 11 yr. old...I hope he is reminded of it when he notices another student being left out.
My card is addressed and I will send soon.
I can't even imagine the emptiness of losing a child. My heart goes out to Nadine. When perfect strangers reach out to comfort those in pain makes me regain my faith in mankind.
Mine card is in the mail! Hang on Nadine!
PS I didn't realize there was a CKU - Japan! My family lives in Korea, we are stationed here with the Army. I would have really gone to that one!
What an awesome idea Lisa I will be sending Nadine a card!and see ONE person can make a DifFEerence!Nadine is blessed to have a special friend like you.
Please count me in to your "Angels Amoung Us" club. We conquered project Brian and it is on to give Nadine the hug that will be felt forever. WTG team! Lisa, you are amazing. My card will mail next week.
A card is the easiest way to tell someone that you are thinking of them and even better a hand made one. Who doesn't like to receive happy mail. I have made one up and dropping it in the mail today.
God bless your sweet friend, Nadine, and her family. I can't even imagine what she's going through. Count me in for a handmade card around the
22nd. Glad to help out!
p.s. we got even more snow here in Dallas this week! hee.hee. only sticks around for a few hours :(
Lisa,
I am inspired to get other people involved in the cards for Nadine. I am the Activity Days Leader in my ward and we combine with another ward in Ft. Lauderdale. We meet this tuesday. I will have my girls make an individual card for Nadine's Family. What a perfect service project this will be for us. Thank you for being such an angel yourself!
that is soooo sweet. :)
i was just at my kid's elementary school setting up for Science Fair and popped over to the cafeteria to see if my kids were in there eating lunch. They were still in the lunch line so i waited for them to come back - they are only in 2nd grade so they can sit where they want as long as it is with their class - i too saw one girl all alone :( i about cried when my daughter came up and sat with her - i think we've all been there at one time or another - no one wants to be left out, and everyone could use some positive thoughts directed their way.
thanks for organizing.
My card is made and will be in the mail on Monday. Thanks for the invite to Angels Amoung Us club. Count me in. You truly are an inspiration!
Lisa~
Thank you, thank you, thank you for coming by last night and for all the great stuff! You and Angela are amazing. I copied off Nadine's address and made sure everyone had a copy before they left!
Thank you so much for all you do to make the world a better place!
Rachel
I was able to make a card for Nadine today. Prayed for her family the entire time I was making it. Hope it touches their hearts. I feel blessed to be a part of this. Thanks, Lisa, can't wait to send it!!!
Lisa,
As always, you amaze me by your kindness and generosity. I would love to be a part of your Angels Among Us organization. I will mail my card on Monday. Thanks for always watching out for others and giving us an opportunity to serve along with you.
I hope that you are doing well and have enjoyed some time back with your family! I hope that Brecken is feeling better!
Thanks again Lisa!!!
Lori
Thank you. You are an amazing person. Count me in to the AAU group. And my card is going to be mailed out on monday. I don't think anyone really understands what this will mean to this sweet mom.
Lisa, I admire you and all the wonderful things you do for others. You are a great example. My heart goes out to Nadine and her family. My own 2-year old son died in a tragic accident just a year ago, so I know the pain she is experiencing. Although I live overseas, and my card may not get there by the 22nd, I will put a card in the mail for her today. Thanks for letting us be a part of someone else's healing.
I am dropping my card in the mail tomorrow. I am so proud to be a part of this group. I love to give and think of others. Thank you so much Lisa for being the person you are. You truly are the salt of the earth.
I'd be happy to join the "angels"!
Ingrid
Hi Lisa,
I'm not sure how to contact you directly so I hope this works. Could you please read this post on the CKMB? Another opportunity for the angels to shine :-)
http://www.creatingkeepsakes.com/mb/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=90528
Thank you!
Lisa
LBOregon on the CKMB
So done!! What a tragic thing to have to go through! I have a two year old son and this made me hug him close for a while. Nadine sounds like a true woman of faith that gives her great strength. I am honored to participate.
I wanted to bring your attention to sonething that some of the gals on the CKMB are doing. LBOregon (that's her MB name) came across this story here in Portland, Or. http://www.kptv.com/news/15537722/detail.html
We as a group have decided to flood this little girl with RAKs. We are going to try and do as much as possible for her. I know it's short notice but we are going to try and get the supplies gathered by March 19th. For more info you can just check out the CKMB. The post title reads Scrapbook Supplies Stolen. Thanks for your time Lisa!
Lisa, I will put my card in the mail on Monday. I am a cardmaker and scrapbooker and love to send cards to people who need a pick-me-up. Thanks for letting us help someone in a time of need.
Joan
Lisa,
The song "Angels Among Us" was the theme for my boys school Christmas program. They sing it at each event while signing the words right along with their voices. Every time I hear that song it makes my heart ache.
I will do my best to send out a card to your friend and to remember to teach my kids to look out for those who are in need.
Thank you for your inspiration.
Lynn
Marion, OH
Hi Lisa
My heart goes out to Nadine! I just can't even imagine how difficult it must be!!
Thank you so much for doing this! What a blessing you are to so many! Thank you for including all of us in this mission as well!!
I will definitely get my card out in the mail soon!
So thankful for the "Angels Among Us" Club!!
Thank you!
Cindy
Michigan
I'm almost done with my card. Being an angel gives you a wonderful feeling, doesn't it?
Lisa P
Long Island, NY
Lisa,
You simply are amazing! You have such a generous and caring heart.
I am so excited about your idea of "Angels Among Us" Club. I would be honored to be a part of that club!
I will definitely get a card out to Nadine. What a sad story, but she sounds like an amazing woman.
Hi Lisa!
Great idea. I will send the card today.
Greetings from Finland.
Lisa-
What a sweet,kind gesture in a time of such sorrow.....I would be honored to make a card for this dear mother. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve. Heavenly Father often blesses us through the acts of people around us....I will put together my card today.
Christa
Wanted to drop a line and let you know that a couple of cards were sent today - I left the insides blank to allow her to reuse if she so desires. Thanks for letting me be a part of this.
Nicki Lundeen
Lisa, I have sent a card. Plese pass along http://grievingwithguinever.wordpress.com/ to Nadine. Guinever is a friend who's precious two year old daughter died three years ago. She is a magnificent person and a great writer (scrapbooker too).
Tiffanycn
Lisa, what a wonderful idea for Nadine. You inspired me in scrapbooking and just in life.
Thank you for that.
Please post about Lilly- I, too, hate to see people left out. Hugs to Jess for being brave and stepping out of the boat.
Deb C
Crawfordsville, IN
First off Lisa, I'm glad that I'm not the only sappy one out there. LOL YOur story about the girl being all alone made me cry too. In elementary school there was a boy (actually my age) but he was deaf & had a drooling problem b/c he had spinal meningitis as a baby that caused him to lose his hearing & have some other troubles. Well, kids used to tease him & treat him badly on the bus so the bus driver had me sit with him. He taught me the alphabet in sign language & some other signs & I tried my best to communicate with him on the 20-30 minute bus ride. when kids would say mean things I used to tell them that he's a nice boy, sure he drools but if he could stop it he would and just last week I saw his mom & him at the store & he stood & talked to me for awhile. He recognized me (even after over 12 years)and it was nice to see he has found some meds to help improve some of his issues. Oh I get sidetracked... the point is, I'm glad that you were able to find a doable way to help out that girl that was all alone. High school can be strange enough without adding lonliness from no friends.
And since I'm being wordy today (your post hit close to home in a few ways), I may as well say you got me with the Alabama song too. When my daughter was born in December of 2006 she had breathing trouble & was put on a ventilator and shipped to a NICU (neonatal intesive care unit) a few hours away from home. Thankfully I had 2 sisters that lived in that town that we could stay with. I digress, the NICU had Christmas music playing softly in the rooms and the 'Angels Amoung Us' song came on & I just sobbed. I still do sometimes even though our little girl is strong & healthy now. It is sort of a reminder of the month we spent with her in the NICU and God knew exactly what nurses to have taking care of her. When she was first there & having the most trouble she had nurses that were very detailed & kept her calm & quiet. ANd then as she got better & started eating from a bottle instead of a tube, she had nurses that were more patient & willing to spend the time to get her to eat her food from the bottle so she could come home. Sure that could have been someone scheduling the nurses the way they were but I felt and still feel that we had angels amoung us at those moments.
I am sorry for your friend's loss of her sweet boy. I will do my best to send her a personal note of encouragement and hope in the next week or so. It's nice that even though she has faced such a tragic loss that she has helped others, especially so soon after.
I would love to be a part of your Angel group - I will be making my card for Nadine and her family tonight!
Thank you!
Leslie in CA
I have a child close to Nate's age and cannot imagine the feeling of loss! My card will go out tomorrow.
-C
Hello,
I have a 2 yr. old daughter, and an 8 yr. old son, and I can not imagine life without either one. I keep looking a Nate's sweet little face and I just start to bawl. So, yes, my card is going out tomorrow.
You have such a big heart. I am going to send a little sunshine her way also.
I posted this on my blog so I hope some of my friends so this as well.
Hi Lisa,
Angela told me today about Nadine. With tears in my eyes, I set to work immediately. You can see the card I made for her on my blog if you want to - I just posted it along with a link to your blog to help spread the word.
As a mother of 3 boys myself, my heart has been heavy all day. Baby Maddox (whom you all watched last summer) is now 18 months old, and I simply can't imagine life after such a tragedy. I know time will help them heal, but thank you for the opportunity to send her a hug in an envelope.
I hope you are all doing well - I miss you guys! I plan to be in SLC in late July for a SU! convention. Hope to see you then!
Yes, I will send a card and thank you for the opportunity!
Lisa you are such an inspired woman! I love the Angels Among Us idea. Thank you for starting this. I just finished my card and thought to Nadine. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve.
I just sent Nadine a card. How sad. I hope the cards bring her some comfort.
This is so sad! I'm so glad so many people are eager to help.
Thank you once again for the inspiration to reach out to others.
I had just printed out some card layouts from an old class last week. Now I know why....Four cards are arriving. Thanks for always inspiring me to be the best I can be.
Cary
Washington State
Thank you so much Lisa for your example of what a Latter-Day Saint should be like! Your story brought tears to my eyes. As a new mother, I can't even imagine would it would be like to lose a child. I would love to be part of the Angel Club and my card is going out soon!
It is always hard to scrap with tears in my eyes, but I am off to make this wonderful woman some cards. I think that this is a great idea. It is nice to be able to do things for someone. My husband had brain surgery recently. We do not live near nay of our family. It has been so wonderful to have the support of friends and neighbors. I love to see that people really care about each other. Thank you for setting such a good example for us all.
Malinda
Lisa:
What a great idea to start a AAU group. I would be love to be a part of it.
I would also be honored to send Nadine a card. She and her family will be in my prayers. My son is a St.jude patient (Memphis), but actually had a BENIGN bone tumor which was removed 3 years ago. It was such a surreal experience but we had SO many people being so generous to us and I would love to give back.
I am an artist/art teacher living in North Louisiana. I have been playing with watercolor pencils lately. I will make Nadine a special personalized card.
Again, thanks for starting the AAU. What a great idea. I love Oprah's Big Give, but sometimes it's good to give small. I think scrapbooking helps you to notice and enjoy the little things in life.
Suzy Allen
toddsuzy@bellsouth.net
Lisa, Once again you have shown us the strength of the human spirit. I would love to be a part of the Angels Among Us and I will get busy on a card for Nadine right away. After all she's endured it's the least I can do.
Thank you Lisa for your warm and loving heart! Without you we would not learn of others among us who need a little sunshine in their lives.
This is so sad!!
My card is on the way.
Greetings from Finland.
I'm speechless... I read the beginning of your post.. and the only thing I can see is my son.. sitting alone eating lunch. He's "chubby" and kids are cruel.. and for a mamma it's quite heartbreaking.. Just today someone told him they should sue him for not being in the "weight watchers club".... Breaks a mamma's heart...
and if those kids only knew in the years ahead.. that all of this will mean nothing... and more than likely... their lives will go seperate ways... Why can't they all show kindness... Life is precious and most kids wish it away with hurtful words.. :( I'm hoping I'm raising my kiddos better than that!!
On to Nadine... Poor dear!! YOU BET a card will be on it's way!!
Hi, Lisa. I read your blog often, but have never posted before. I have my card in the mailbox to mail to Nadine tomorrow. I live in Arkansas. Thanks for this message. I think your club is a perfect idea!
Yes! A card from me...and stickers for Brian. And. I have to tell you...my son had two of the very best teachers in primary elementary school. In kindergarten the teacher had the kids do a project every week with a different child. By March she said, "I have completed my goal. We have a community. Every one of your children is comfortable and friendly with every other child." Loved that. Then in 3rd grade he had a special needs child in his class. Ms. Precht worked SO hard to rally the community of kids around him. It really worked. My son is a junior and still looks out for Zach. I have shared those stories with my 8 year old daughter's teachers. I believe it starts really young. Good for you, Lisa, for giving the nudge.
and p.s. have you seen "Penelope"?
That is the nicest idea: angels among us! I just dropped a california hug card in the mail!
Lisa such a great and thoughtful idea. I send cards each month to two little girls who have siblings with serious or terminal illnesses. It is a way to let the girls know that even though all the focus seems to be on their siblings that there is people out there that also care about them. It's through a wonderful group called Cards of Aloha. If you want the e-mail address just e-mail me at deneen03@aol.com
I am off to complete my card for Nadine now.
Hugs
A new proud member of the Angels Among Us team.
Deneen
I would be honored to be part of the group. My card will be in the mail 3/14/08.
I just dropped my card in the mail to Nadine. How my heart aches for her! If getting a bunch of homemade cards gives her just one moment of happiness, that makes it all worthwhile. What a great feeling and what a great idea!!!
Lisa,
Thank you so much for doing this. Nadine is a friend of mine. She is the most amazing, talented scrapbook artist. At Nate's viewing, her beautiful scrapbook pages showcased every moment of his 2 years of life. Nate's memory will live on forever because of her dedication to scrapbooking. She is an inspiration to others and has inspired me to finally scrap the pictures of my children that I have put off for so long. With every page I make, I will think of sweet Nate. Thank you again.
We need to look for more chances to strengthen each other. When we do, we usually get blessed, too.
p-SA
So we did our activity days with the girls making cards for Nadine. I was touched by how they responded to the idea of making a card for a person who they dont know that has suffered in such a horrible way. I was taken back by a card that one of my 8 year old girls did for her. She could have written a novel. Her feelings just poured out onto that paper and she was so eloquent in the way she wrote it. I was amazed.
My card has yet to be finished or even started due to an overwhelming amount of stuff I had on my plate. This sunday i will take time for Nadine and send my warmest love to her and her family.
Thank you again Lisa for what you have done, not only for Nadine, but for all of us who's hearts are softened by helping and loving Nadine.
Lisa,
I think this is great that you are doing this. I have seen first hand the comfort and hope that all of these anonymous cards will bring. I have posted this story on my website as well, so that anyone who would like to send Nadine's family a card can have the chance. I've done this before, and I've seen as many as 5,584 cards sent. I hope it helps. We'll send many prayers of love and hope her way.
Celeste Casey
Lisa,
What a sad, sad tragedy. I just read about Nadine and her loss and I am mailing her a card out right away. I know how it helps to have support from people who care!
Kim C. in MD
You are truly an angel, Lisa!
I sent my card yesterday.
hugs
Helena
HI Lisa,
I was really touched by Nadine's story - I honestly couldn't imagine such a loss. I mailed my card out today - hopefully she'll be able to find some joy this coming anniversary by knowing that there are people out there that care about her and want to try & brighten her day in some small way.
:) jessica m. in texas
Lisa,
Thank you for gathering so much support for Nadine and her family. It has truly been a difficult time for them. She is a close friend of mine and I know she will be touched by everyone's cards and prayers.
Scrapbooking has been Nadine's passion. She dedicated most of her creations to her 3 beautiful boys, with Nate being her youngest. Nadine is an amazing mom -- even in her busiest of schedules, Nadine recorded every single moment of Nate's adventures and milestones through her scrapbook pages. There seemed to be not one month of Nate's precious life that Nadine didn't have a scrapbook page for. That is how much of a devoted and loving mother Nadine is to her boys. Because of her dedication, Nadine will forever have Nate's beautiful memories imprinted in those special scrapbook pages. Nadine is a true inspiration to us all.
My love, prayers and support go out to Nadine and her family.
I just sent a card to Nadine, but I'm wondering where is everyone seeing Nadine's story?
Thank you for doing this. It's nice to put aside your own issues in order to pray for someone who is going through a harder time.
Hi Lisa, What a wonderful idea to reach out to someone you have never even met and give then hope in times of dispair. I love the idea of the angels among us club, trust you Lisa to always be thinking of ways to help people and make a difference, no matter how small, you are an amazing and inspiring role model. Thank you. I will send a card to Nadine, not sure if she will reach her in time for the 22nd as I live in the UK. I have ordered a stamp especially for this card, it's a picture of an angel, looking out of a window surrounded with beautiful flowers and says "God's Window from heaven is always wide open". Loved the meaning of that as I truly believe that loved ones never really leave us, they are always all around us and live on in our hearts, they have just gone to a better place. Hope Nadine finds some comfort in these cards at such a difficult time. My heart goes out to her and her family. Keep up the good work. P.s I was a little behind with catching up with my blog reading, so will send Brian some stickers too!
Hi Lisa,
Thank you so much for giving us all the opportunity to spread some cheer to those who really need it! I love the idea of Angels Among Us club....thank you for being such an inspiration!
Joanie
Lisa ~ This was such a great idea! I have made and mailed Nadine's card. Do you have any idea how often you'll be posting these requests? It's an awesome way to be creative and to bless others. Thank you for your thoughfulness and for letting us all be a part of it too.