I Hope This Post Will Bless Your Heart & "Lighten" Your Day

Thank you to everyone who has lifted me up this week. I love my brother, Eddie, so much. What you may not know is that he died on my 60th birthday this week. That does not ruin my day as others may think.

Eddie was full of laughter and making others laugh. You may not understand this when I tell you that I'm glad he died on my birthday. Because Eddie was always a jokester. And I'm sure he got a good giggle out of picking my birthday to be the day he leaves us for Jesus and his forever home.

Eddie told me when he surrendered to Jesus when we were just kids. That Jesus loves us, and Eddie wanted me to follow Jesus too.

He always made everyone laugh. No matter the situation. Thank you, Eddie, for teaching me about Jesus and wanting me to know, live, and love like Jesus does. Eddie leaving me for Jesus on my birthday, is just a reminder to all who need to hear it..... Jesus is real. God is real. The Holy Spirit is real. He will never force anyone to follow Him. It has to be your decision. I asked God into my heart when I was 8 years old because of Eddie. No matter your age, it's never too late to get to know God.

So, enjoy your July 4th weekend. Love your family. Let go of old wounds. Forgive others, because none of us are perfect. God loves you. Trust Him.

Have a happy and safe July 4th. To "lighten" up your day, here are some cards I made for July 4th. Be safe. Love your family. And God bless every single one of you reading this message.

Thanks for stopping by,

Janis

🌸 Pause Dream Enjoy

🌸 Crafting Happiness Challenges

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BOOM - TASTIC!

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Boom-Tastic

Nothing says July 4th quite like fireworks lighting up the sky and reminding us how blessed we are to call America home. This card is full of stars, bright colors, and a little extra sparkle to celebrate the freedoms we often take for granted.

As we gather with family and friends this Independence Day, may we remember that every freedom, every blessing, and every opportunity comes from the hand of God.

A Pause-Worthy Thought: 

Freedom is one of life's greatest blessings, and gratitude is one of the best ways to celebrate it.

Share Your Thoughts:

Do you prefer watching fireworks, attending a parade, or spending the day with family and friends?

Bible Verse:

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!" — Psalm 33:12 (ESV)

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings You have poured out on our nation. Thank You for the freedoms we enjoy and for the people who have sacrificed to protect them. Help us to honor You in the way we live, love, and serve others. May our hearts always be grateful for Your goodness. Amen.

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

I've been using The Stamps Of Life products since 2017! 

Take a peek at their products with my referral link to Clubs.

Janis - Referral Link to Clubs

Inspired By You (Patriotic)

• Cute Space Storybook PNG Clipart
• Pattern Paper - The Stamps Of Life, Wonder Collections
• Ink - Stampin' Up, Real Red
• Sentiment - Stampin' Up, Cheerful Basket - Inspired By You
• Die Cuts - Stitched Squares, Stitched rounded rectangles

Inspired By You

This sweet little astronaut reminds us that the people we admire and appreciate often inspire us to dream bigger and reach higher. Their kindness, encouragement, and example can make a lasting difference in our lives.

We never know how our words or actions may encourage someone else. A simple act of kindness can inspire another person more than we realize.

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up." 

— 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Dear Lord, thank You for the people who encourage and inspire us. Help us be a source of kindness, hope, and encouragement to others each day. 

Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Hope Each Moment Of Your Day Is As Special As You Are

• Whimsical Birthday Girl Clipart Art Set
• Cardstock - Pear Pizzazz
• Pattern Paper - Echo Park, It's Your Birthday
• Ink - Pear Pizzazz
• Sentiment - Stampin' Up, Garden Birdhouses: Hope Each Moment Of Your Day Is As Special As You Are
• Die Cuts - Stitched Sentiment Banner

Today feels extra special as I celebrate my 60th birthday and step into a brand-new decade.

This beautiful card, with its joyful balloons and heartfelt sentiment “Hope each moment of your day is as special as you are,” feels like the perfect reminder to pause and celebrate God’s goodness through every season of life.

If there is one thing I have learned, it is this — each decade truly does get better. There is a sweetness that comes with time, a deeper gratitude for simple blessings, and a greater appreciation for the faithfulness of God through every chapter.

To those who are younger, believe me when I say there is so much beauty ahead. Each season carries its own gifts, lessons, and joys. Growing older is not something to fear, but a blessing to embrace with gratitude.

Today my heart is full of thanksgiving for the love, grace, and countless blessings God has poured into these sixty years. Every moment has helped shape the story He is still writing.

Scripture
“You crown the year with your bounty; your wagon tracks overflow with abundance.” ~ Psalm 65:11 (ESV)

Pause with me for a quiet prayer.

    Father God, thank You for the gift of life and for Your faithfulness through every season. Thank You for sixty beautiful years filled with Your love, guidance, and grace. As this new decade begins, fill my heart with joy, peace, and anticipation for all You still have ahead. I also lift up the person reading this today. Bless them in whatever season they are walking through. Fill their heart with hope, their days with Your peace, and remind them that every year is a gift held securely in Your loving hands. Help each of us walk forward with gratitude, trust, and joyful expectation for all You have prepared. ~Amen

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Have A Happy Day

• Summer Boys PNG Clipart Set - (I know it says boys, but they have some girls in this set as well.)
• Pattern Paper - The Stamps Of Life - You made My Day Collections
• Ink - Stampin' Up, Pacific Point
• Sentiment - The Stamps Of Life, Have a Happy Day, Squirrel2stamp
• Die Cuts - 
• My Favorite Things, Banner and Dies
• Stampin' Up, Scallop Square
• Stitched Banners
• Other - Foam tape to add image and give dimension

Have a Happy Day

This sweet curly-haired cutie enjoying a slice of watermelon reminds us to savor life's simple pleasures. Happiness often comes from appreciating the little moments God places in our path.

A smile, a favorite treat, a sunny afternoon, or a thoughtful card can make an ordinary day feel special.

"A cheerful heart is good medicine." — Proverbs 17:22

Dear Lord, fill our hearts with joy and gratitude today. Help us notice the small blessings that make life beautiful and share that happiness with others. Amen. 💕🌸🍉

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Lazy Days Of Summer

• Summer Beach Animals Clipart PNG
• Pattern Paper - Echo Park, Away We Go
• Ink - SU Garden Green
• Sentiment - Cardz TV "Fun In The Sun", Lazy Days Of Summer
  
• Die Cuts - Deckled Rectangles

Lazy Days of Summer

This relaxed little cow enjoying watermelon perfectly captures the slower pace of summer. Sometimes we need reminders that rest is important too.

God created seasons for work and seasons for rest. Taking time to slow down allows us to appreciate His blessings and restore our hearts.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened." 

Matthew 11:28

Dear Lord, thank You for times of rest and refreshment. Help us slow down when needed and find peace in Your presence. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Awwww You Really Are The Best

• Cherry Girl PNG Clipart Set
• Cardstock - Stampin' Up, Flirty Flamingo
• Pattern Paper - Stampin' Up, Design a Daydream
• Ink - Balmy Blue
• Sentiment - Happiest Hippo, Awwwww! You Really Are The BEST
• Die Cuts - Mod Stitched Rectangle Dies

You Really Are the Best

Sometimes people need to hear that they are appreciated. A kind word can encourage someone more than we may ever know.

God calls us to build one another up, and a heartfelt compliment can be exactly what someone needs at the right moment.

"Therefore encourage one another." 

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Dear Lord, help us notice the good in others and freely share words of encouragement. May our kindness reflect Your love today. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Hooray For Today

• Storybook Whimsy Cow Life Clipart
• Stampin' Up Cardstock - Smoky Slate (gray)
• Pattern Paper - Echo Park, Away We Go
• Ink - Flirty Flamingo
• Sentiment - The Stamps Of Life, Hooray For Today
• Die Cuts - Stitched Postage Stamp

Hooray For Today!

This adorable traveling cow is ready for adventure, and it's a wonderful reminder to celebrate the gift of today. We don't need a special occasion to be thankful for the blessings around us.

Every day is an opportunity to experience God's goodness and create joyful memories.

"This is the day that the Lord has made." — Psalm 118:24

Dear Lord, help us appreciate the gift of today. Fill our hearts with gratitude and joy as we walk through the opportunities You place before us. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Happy Trails

• Rustic Camping Illustrations
• Cardstock - Stampin' Up
• Pattern Paper - Pink & Main, Pumpkin Spice
• Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black
• Stamp & Sentiment - Lawn Fawn, Happy Trails
• Gems - Sequins
• Die Cuts - Stampin' Up, Circle & Scallop Circle

Happy Trails

This charming camping card reminds us that life is one big adventure. Every day is another opportunity to explore, learn, grow, and trust God along the way.

The road ahead may not always be clear, but we can move forward with confidence knowing God is guiding our steps.

"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." — Psalm 121:8

Dear Lord, thank You for walking beside us on every journey. Guide our steps, protect our paths, and help us trust You wherever the road may lead. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Sunshine Girl

• Whimsical Hawaii PNG Clipart Bundle
• Cardstock - Daffodil Delight
• Pattern Papers - Echo Park, I Love Summer
• Die Cuts - My Creative Time, Scallop Circle & Stitched Circle)

Hello Sunshine

This bright and cheerful card instantly brings thoughts of warm days, laughter, and simple joys. Like sunshine breaking through the clouds, kindness has a way of brightening even the hardest day.

God's love shines into our lives in much the same way. His light brings hope, comfort, and peace when we need it most.

"The Lord God is a sun and shield." — Psalm 84:11

Dear Lord, thank You for being our light and our source of hope. Help us shine Your love into the lives of others and bring encouragement wherever we go. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Sending You Love & Blessings

• Cherry Girl PNG Clipart Set
• Pattern Paper - Stampin' Up, Awash In Beauty
• Ink - Merry Merlot
• Sentiment - Sending You Love & Blessings, Fall Mice - Gerda Steiner Designs
• Die Cuts - Banner Sentiments, Stitched Heart

Sending You Love & Blessings

This sweet image of a little girl carrying baskets reminds me of the blessings we gather along life's journey. God's goodness often appears in simple, everyday ways.

When we share encouragement, kindness, and love, we become a blessing to others. What a beautiful way to reflect God's heart.

"The Lord bless you and keep you." — Numbers 6:24

Dear Lord, thank You for Your endless blessings. Help us share Your love generously and be a source of encouragement to those around us. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Have A Dandy Day

• Quirky Girl Peeking Clipart
• Cardstock - Blue
• Pattern Paper - Echo Park, I Love Summer
• Ink - Sot Succulent
• Sentiment - Have a Dandy Day, Scrappy Moms - Walking on Sunshine
• Die Cuts - Deckled Rectangles

Have a Dandy Day!

This delightful card is full of cheerful colors and happy vibes. Sometimes the best gift we can give someone is a reason to smile.

Life is made up of ordinary moments, but God has a way of filling those moments with unexpected joy. A kind word, a beautiful flower, or a thoughtful card can brighten an entire day.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." — Psalm 118:24

Dear Lord, help us notice the beauty and blessings around us today. Fill our hearts with joy and give us opportunities to share that joy with others. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

You Got This

• Quirky Summer Animals PNG Set
• Pattern Papers - The Stamps of Life
• Ink - Stampin' Up, Cajun Craze
• Sentiment - You Got This!, The Stamps of Life - squirrel2stamp
• Gems - Yellow
• Die Cuts - Fancy Tag, Sentiment Banner

You Got This!

This cheerful parrot holding a pineapple is bursting with encouragement. We all face moments when a challenge seems bigger than our abilities, but God often uses those moments to help us grow.

Don't underestimate what God can accomplish through you. Take the next step, trust Him with the outcome, and keep moving forward.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." — Philippians 4:13

Dear Lord, when we feel uncertain or overwhelmed, remind us that You are our source of strength. Help us face challenges with confidence and trust in Your guidance. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Give Thanks With A Grateful Heart

• Spring Animal Pack Clipart
• Pattern Paper - Echo Park, Away We Go
• Ink - Stampin' Up - Mossy Meadow
• Sentiment - The Stamps Of Life, Oct 2017 Kit Club - Give Thanks With A Grateful Heart"
• Die Cuts - Stitched Circle, Stitched Square

Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart

This happy little bee is hard at work, gathering sweetness wherever it goes. What a wonderful reminder to look for blessings in our own lives.

Gratitude changes our perspective. Even on difficult days, there is always something to thank God for—a kind word, a sunny afternoon, a good friend, or simply His faithful presence.

"Give thanks in all circumstances." — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Dear Lord, open our eyes to the blessings that surround us each day. Help us cultivate grateful hearts and remember that every good gift comes from You. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Hello Friend!

• Watercolor Vintage Train Clipart
• Pattern Paper - Pink & Main, Pumpkin Spice
• Ink - Stampin' Up, Pacific Point
• Sentiment - Hello Friend!, Cardz TV Stamps - Favorite Phrases
• Die Cuts - Postage Rectangle

Hello, Friend!

There's something comforting about a simple greeting. This sweet card reminds me that friendship often begins with a warm hello and grows through shared moments and caring hearts.

God designed us for connection. Whether we're meeting someone new or reconnecting with an old friend, every interaction is an opportunity to share kindness and encouragement.

"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." — Romans 12:10

Dear Lord, thank You for the people You bring into our lives. Help us be welcoming, kind, and encouraging to everyone we meet. May we reflect Your love through simple acts of friendship. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

Call Me On My Shell

• Summer Boys PNG Clipart Set 
• Pattern Paper - The Stamps Of Life (Sea)
• Ink - Poppy Parade
• Sentiment - Call Me On My Shell, The Stamps of Life (sehlls2stamp)
• Die Cuts - Deckled Rectangle, Sea Shells (The Stamps of Life)

Call Me On My Shell

This adorable little diver looks ready for an underwater adventure. Sometimes life gets busy, and we lose touch with friends and family. A simple phone call, text, or handwritten card can reconnect hearts in a meaningful way.

Relationships are treasures worth nurturing. Reaching out doesn't require grand gestures. Often, the smallest acts of connection leave the biggest impact.

"A friend loves at all times." — Proverbs 17:17

Dear Lord, thank You for the friendships and relationships that enrich our lives. Help us make time for those we care about and remind us to reach out with love and encouragement. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!

You're One Of My Favorite Earthlings

• Butterfly Fairies Clipart P1
• Cardstock - White
• Pattern Paper - Recollections, Field Journal
• Ink - Blushing Bride, Flirty Flamingo, Soft Suede (Antique Technique)
• Stamp - Gerda Steiner Designs, Alien Invasion
• Sentiment - You're One Of My Favorite Earthlings
• Die Cuts - Stitched Circle, Speech Bubble

You're One of My Favorite Earthlings

This whimsical fairy tucked inside a flower brings a smile and a reminder that friendship is one of God's sweetest gifts. Sometimes all it takes is a simple message to let someone know they are appreciated and loved.

We often underestimate the impact our kindness has on others. A thoughtful word, a card in the mail, or a quick note can brighten someone's day more than we realize. Never miss an opportunity to tell the people in your life how much they mean to you.

"Encourage one another and build each other up." — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Dear Lord, thank You for the wonderful people You place in our lives. Help us be generous with encouragement and quick to share kindness with those around us. May our words reflect Your love today. Amen.

Thanks for stopping by, 

Janis

YouTube Channel: Pause Dream Enjoy

Blog: Pause Dream Enjoy

Challenge Blog: Crafting Happiness Challenges

*Note: I have a subscription to Creative Fabrica and use tons of their images for my different crafting needs. If you want to check out their affiliate program, click here for details: Creative Fabrica! 

I also use other items from various sources such as Stampin' Up!, Pink & Main, Cardz TV Stamps, The Stamps Of Life.... the list goes on. LOL Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate your comments and visiting with me to see my latest creations. God Bless You!