Celebrate the Red White and Blue!!

What does the Red, White, and Blue mean to you? Do you swell with pride when you hear the National Anthem as you place your hand over your heart? I not only swell with pride but I often don't make it all the way through without a few tears as thoughts of others' sacrifices come to mind. How many military families do you know? There are quite a few military men in my family in past generations. My father was in the Navy and then joined the Coast Guard.
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:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/4511768079/home-of-the-brave-pdf-quilt-pattern

"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.

Lastly, I wish I could remember where I saw this pin! It was on etsy somewhere and it is a vintage CG pin that an officer's wife in the 1940's would have worn. It has crystals on it and was way out of my price range but man o man would I have loved that pin!!!

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!!!