About four years ago, I found out my Mom had cancer. I was scared. I was looking for something. I was looking for something to ease my pain and confusion and for something to momentarily bring a smile to my face.
And I found it, when I stumbled across blogs. Now, I know that sounds stupid, but it was just seeing what others where doing, taking in the creativity and being inspired by it all. It was just a bit of peace in an otherwise stormy time of being surrounded by uncertainty. And the unknown.
One of the first blogs I ever found and read, was Alicia. She just sounded like the nicest person. And she had a cute shop and she made things, just like I wanted to do. And so I dropped her a note, told what my life was like at the moment and that her blog had made me smile. And I thanked her for that.
And she sent a note back! It was sweet and simple and kind. And I was touched. That someone I did not know would be good enough to take a few minutes out of their busy life to answer an email from me, a stranger in who-knows-where and connect with them...if even for a moment. Well. I was blown away. And as they say, hooked.
So I tumbled, heels over head, into Alice's rabbit hole. Finding more and more blogs that offered inspiration, crafty tips, art and more smiles. I begin to leave comments here and there. Then I started one myself and that is when the real wonderland of blogs began. I begin to make more comments. Email more people and to make friends. One of those first contacts was a girl named Tina.
I can't really remember how it started, we just began to email back and forth. Yakking about this or that. Then, we started talking on the phone. Boy, did we yak. LOL. Then she came down for a visit and it was like I had known her all my life. Like we had been friends for ever. It was non-stop chat, laughter and bouncing ideas off of each other. And again, I found myself scratching my head in amazement, that someone, I did not know from Adam, would to take a few minutes out of their busy life to become a friend to me.
But she and I became great friends. And its been that way ever since. We had a crazy idea to host a Southern Art Retreat, because we could not afford to go to one of the big ones in another state. And even though the odds were against it, even though we were told we could not do it, we did! We did it. And what is the old saying, if at first you succeed, try to hide your amazement. Yeah it was like that. But so cool, we had to have a second one. And it was even bigger and badder. As we liked to joke.
We cheered each other's success. Encouraged each other's ideas and just laughed until our sides hurt sometime. Who would have known, that two people could became great friends because of a silly blog. Funny huh?
And now, I need your help.
If you are so inclined, could I ask for a bit of prayer for my friend? I found out last night that she has cancer. And once again, I'm in the scary place. Of uncertainty and fear.
And I know if I am, she must certainly be. So, if you don't mind, say a little prayer for Tee. For her, and her family. Leave a little comment or note on her blog. She could use the love and encouragement right now.
And really, isn't that what blog land is all about?
Love ya Tee, from my lips to God's Ear's that we will kick this thang!
Hugs, your friend, Cee.
Becky emailed me to let me know as Tina and I have been working on a project together (currently on her blog). I am stunned and have the wind knocked out of me, heart in my throat. We were just emailing Tuesday. Please let Tina know I am lifting up unending prayers for her and sending all of my biggest bestest wishes for her and her family and you too, my friend. Though I have not known Tina long, she has touched and affected my life and I know, I KNOW she can kick this too. FAITH! Love to you all. Please let me know if there is ANYTHING else I can do.
marsha
Posted by: Tumble Fish Studio | September 11, 2009 at 12:55 AM
Cindy, i will pray for your friend!!!
Posted by: Lori | September 11, 2009 at 02:44 AM
My thoughts are with Tina and her family and friends, Wishing her nothing but the best.
Alison
Posted by: Alison Gibbs | September 11, 2009 at 02:48 AM
Oh no! What awful news!
I'd be happy to include Tina in my prayers. Thansk for letting us know Cindy...prayer can work miracles.
Posted by: Cami @ Creating Myself | September 11, 2009 at 05:48 AM
Oh Cindy, I will keep Tina in my thoughts and prayers as she begins this battle, I will pray for complete healing dear heart, hugs and love, Dawn
Posted by: Dawn @ The Feathered Nest | September 11, 2009 at 05:55 AM
I am crushed by this sad news and will keep her and her family in my prayers. I plan on leaving a note on her blog too.
Posted by: Robin | September 11, 2009 at 06:45 AM
I will pray for Tina! Tina, the prayers of blogland will be lifted up for you & you won't believe their power!!!
Posted by: Kim | September 11, 2009 at 06:48 AM
Cindy I will pray for your sweet friend and post on her blog also -- There is an Artist -- Lani Kent(google it sorry it is in my file somewhere ) -- that is a beautiful artist -- but also had many hurts in her life -- She promotes healing in her art . She reposted a letter that she had written for 9- 11 to those who had loss. I read it yesterday and I thought what it said was perfect for anyone who is hurting and knew that it would be great for a friend of mine also , who has had a 3 yr battle with a hard situation in her life -- YOu might read it and decide if it is appropiate for your friend -- my fav scripture over my computer screen is Jeremiah 29:11 Blessings -- Kathy - ga ♥
Posted by: kathy lowry | September 11, 2009 at 06:48 AM
I am praying for complete healing and recovery for your precious friend, Tina.
Posted by: Lisa | September 11, 2009 at 06:53 AM
Oh my.
Takes ones breath away.
However, having kicked cancer to the curb (SIX years ago, yeah!).
I know that modern medicine coupled with prayers and miracles...it can be beat.
I will add my sincere prayers for your sweet friend.
And a prayer for you to have a calm and encouraging heart as you help her along the way............Arlene
Posted by: Arlene | September 11, 2009 at 07:33 AM
Blogging has been the same for me, Cindy, and it has brought healing into my life also. You're a good friend, and I will lift Tina up, and go over to her blog and let her know we are with her in this.
Debra
Posted by: Common Ground | September 11, 2009 at 07:42 AM
Cindy, Let me know if you need anything. :) I'm not that far away... I can run to Waxahachie if you need a hug & a cookie.
Tell Tee we are thinking of her. I'll say a special pray for her & her family. Safe travels! xoxo, Joanna
Posted by: Joanna {sweet finds} | September 11, 2009 at 12:13 PM
As I wrote in my email...We will be praying for her not just for today but for everyday and in every new situation she finds herself in, for her family and for her friends that are like family. I have only known you through emails/planning Fall PC and I have met Tina at The crafty scrapper. I already felt a kindred spirit among us....Let me know what I can do.....
Posted by: chantal johnson | September 11, 2009 at 02:43 PM
Cindy, you are such a sweetie how could someone NOT want to be your friend and now you are being sweet again asking for prayer. I will most definately say a prayer for your sweet friend. Talking to God right now...
Posted by: Theresa-Garden Antqs Vintage | September 11, 2009 at 02:50 PM
What a devoted friend you are, I am very touched by your plea for help from the ladies of blog land. We can feel so helpless in these situations and I really think asking for support and prayers from other women is a way to provide Tina with emotional support, which can be healing. I am hoping we can in some way make a difference.
Posted by: Mitzi Curi | September 11, 2009 at 05:57 PM
My prayers are with my good friend Tina...and my heart is with her and you Cindy. The two of you made my summer complete. I loved being with y'all. I am sending all energy to Tina right now. BIG HUGS! :)mendy
Posted by: Mendy | September 11, 2009 at 05:57 PM
Oh, my heart is broken! Tina has such a beautiful, fun and creative spirit. I hate for her to have to face this, but I know her loving family and many friends will cradle her with love! I am praying HARD and will not stop!
Blessings and love to our sweet Tee!
Posted by: dale | September 11, 2009 at 05:58 PM
I'd be happy to pray for your friend, her family, and you!
Posted by: debbie | September 11, 2009 at 06:10 PM
This is sad news, but I am going to be optimistic, and pray that she will be well. Big hugs to you, Cindy!!!!
Posted by: Lisa Hessabi | September 11, 2009 at 09:02 PM
Tina will be in my prayers! we certainly are an amazing community of women, aren't we???
Posted by: Diva Kreszl | September 12, 2009 at 12:23 PM
Sweet Cindy, we'll be sending so many prayers and well wishes to both you and Tee!! I hope you can feel how much positive energy is around you now. Your story was so sweet, so touching. You are both such great girls, I just know this will all be OK!
Love, Andrea
Posted by: Andrea at Opulent Cottage | September 12, 2009 at 03:32 PM
i will keep her & her family & friends in my prayers. i understand hom much you can feel connected to people you've never met, it's amazing. hugs, susan
Posted by: susan | September 12, 2009 at 04:07 PM
How great is blogland? I'm telling you it's a lifesaver sometimes. Glad I found your blog.
I will keep your friend in my thoughts and prayers.
As always, thanks for visiting me Cindy, I'm always glad to hear from you.
Rosemary
Posted by: Rosemary | September 12, 2009 at 04:27 PM
Praying!
Posted by: cathy | September 12, 2009 at 06:31 PM
dear cindy, oh sweet friend, you and tina will both be in my prayers!
meleen
Posted by: Meleen Dupré | September 12, 2009 at 07:42 PM