Saying Goodbye Again

We've had a rash of retirements at my workplace.  This isn't because the place is so hard to work at- although we are growing greatly.  It is largely because there is a group of individuals who have been employed for decades and they now see that they can have a life outside of the workplace.  Once I made the first few cards, I was cornered as the card maker.  Darn!  (healthy sarcasm, if you can't hear it)

Here's the details on this lovely:

• The flowers were made using my Heartfelt Creations Arianna Blooms die on white cardstock.  I colored the flowers with Worn Lipstick and Scattered Straw Distress Ink and then spritzed with water to create this cool look.  The centers are Heart of Gold prills.  
• The leaves were cut using my Heartfelt Creations Classic Leaf die and colored with Peeled Paint Distress Ink spritzed with water as well.  
• The lace was cut out of white cardstock which I had colored with Worn Lipstick Distress Ink (also spritzed with water to blend the color) using my Our Daily Bread Designs Beautiful Borders die.  
• I printed the sentiment out on the computer and cut with my Timeless Rectangles die.  While the cut was still in the die, I used a dauber to color the edges of the frame with Worn Lipstick Distress Ink.
• A corner punch and some foam squares finish out the card front nicely.

Inside I couldn't resist the opportunity to place one final flower.  They are too precious.

I will hope that Flory enjoys her well-deserved retirement.  We'll miss her cheerful willingness, but know this is the next, best thing for her.

I'm entering this card into the following challenges:

Simon Says Stamp's Monday Challenge: Pastels

Word Art Wednesday's Challenge #177: Family Friendly Challenge

Shabby Tea Room's Week #248: Beautiful Blooms

Come join the fun or just stop by to view some pretty inspiring projects!