Here I am at the ripe old age of 17 swearing into the United States Coast Guard...I know I don't look happy, but I was very excited and serious! As some of you already know, I met my husband while in the CG and when I got out, I followed him around so I was never too far from the military life I wanted... just in a different capacity.
Here is my husband (in the middle) getting his Warrant Boards pinned on by myself and his Warrant. I was and am so very proud of him. We have been relatively fortunate as to not have to be separated very much during his 24 year career and so when I place my hand over my heart, my thoughts are with all the other families who have not been as fortunate as myself. It was particularly hard for me during my daughter's college graduation as the realization struck me that so many would not be able to be present for their children this year. We are very fortunate indeed and I am always appreciative of that! Every year I take time to decorate my home from Memorial Day to the 4th of July with Red, White, and Blue. Here are some items that can help you do the same... 
After 9-11 I designed "Home of the Brave" but it took me a few more years before I could put design into fabric. I have been asked why there is a flower on it? That is actually my stylized version of fireworks. You can read more about it here:http://www.etsy.com/listing/76400399/home-of-the-brave-wall-hang-quilt
"A Hero's Light" was designed in response to the WWII style stars I was seeing in the windows of neighbors when the war continued on. Since I am a fan of candles, I made candle mats so that a light could be lit for a loved one.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/76665490/a-heros-light-candle-mat-quilt
The premade mats will come with a votive holder.
Kits to make your own mats can be found on my website here: http://nestlingsbyrobin.com/gifts_kits.html I love these because they come with a hand-etched votive holder that has my logo on it.
If you know a military family, send them a special message this 4th of July and if you don't, send out a special message on Facebook or on one of your email lists. IT will surely touch another family!HAPPY 4TH OF JULY to all the military members, family members, spouses, and children dependents and THANK YOU!!!
Please take some time to check out my fellow UWIB members' blogs:
TrudyMiller http://mommagoddesstreasures.blogspot.com/
Janet Bocciardi http://thehoneyfromthebee.blogspot.com
12 comments:
Thank you for your service Robin! I love your quilt with the fire works flower. My best friend's husband is in the coast guard. They just finished up in Kodiak, AK and are back in Port Angeles now. Do you know about the American Hero's Quilting groups? My mom is in one of the groups and they make a lot of quilts for injured military.
Oh Robin, I'm so glad you posted these photos...aren't we all so cute in our younger, thinner days?! You wouldn't even recognize me if you saw my photos! You're so cute! Anyway...flower, fireworks...they remind me of...teardrops....which gives it a whole other meaning,eh?
Love ya'
Your quilts and candle mats are amazing! Each one is so unique and beautiful in its own way. Thank you for sharing your story about serving in the CG and your husband's role in the CG as well.
I tear up every time I hear the Star Spangled Banner, too. Even at ball games I can't keep the tears and emotions from welling up. My thoughts are with all the military families and those in harm's way this holiday and always.
I adore your quilts!! They're gorgeous.
Your creations are soooo beautiful Robin! I especialy love the Home of the Brave quilted banner!!
I grew up in the military and like you, I rarely make it through the pledge of allegiance without getting choked up thinking of what sacrifices have been and are being made for our freedom.
Happy Independance day :)
Audrey
http://AudreyGardenLady.blogspot.com
http://AudreyGardenLady.etsy.com
Thanks for sharing your history with the Coast Guard. I love your candle mats and your quilts and your patterns! I do so love your work!
Thank you for my freedom! Love this blog, learned something new about you.
Semper Paratus. :)
Have a wonderful 4th!
Linda :)
http://capecodjewel.etsy.com
http://craftymakings.etsy.com
http://capecodjewel.blogspot.com
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It is so important for us, not only to remember to have fun on 4th of July, but to remember other's service to insure that we have that freedom. Thank you and yours for your service and for creating such wonderful items!
Thank you all for your lovely comments. Some of you had no-reply as your return address so please don't think I didn't want to respond:)
The military life is definately an adventure!!
Now off to enjoy all of your blogs:)
Thank you and your family for your Service.
I also adore your Quilts.
I love your post today! It was fun to see you at such a young age and it's nice to know I'm not the only one that gets emotional during the National Anthem.
Your quilts are lovely too!
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