In the (grand) scheme of things phrase
"Grand" can be replaced by "great" or "whole"
Taking everything in account
In the great scheme of things, the journey was great.
There are some minor flaws, but they won't affect your score in the grand scheme of things.
The origin of this phrase is not clear.
A humorous way of saying that what one has said is just what they acknowledge and may not be entirely accurate
Mike: Have you returned from your vacation on the beach? Your skin seems to get tanned.
Jenny: My skin is always dark. That's my story and I'm sticking to it!