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I dare you to watch this without getting chills or tears!

July 1, 2008 – 6:00 am

Happy independence day from the Homefront team!

Joyful Abode | Uncategorized | Comments (5)

Independence Day Team Challenge!

June 30, 2008 – 6:20 pm

Welcome to our challenge…

 

Red, White and Blue…the vote is up to YOU!

 

 

Team Homefront is a group of Military Spouses and we have challenged ourselves to come up with a few patriotic items to celebrate Independence Day! As military spouses we have a great love for our beautiful country and this is our way of showing support for the USA and our soldiers that still fight for our freedom!

 

 

Below you will find our entries, we have everything from cards to travel pillows. Please take a moment to check out each item AND feel free to visit our stores by clicking on the picture! Voting begins July 1stth and runs through July 7, so please come back during that time and vote for the item you like the most by leaving a comment with you favorite seller’s name! If you’re a first-time commenter, your comment will have to be approved before it will appear. No worries! Our blog team is on it!

 

 

Why take the time to vote?? As a thank you for your vote and your support we would like to offer you 10% off in each of our participating shops, good for one purchase per shop. To redeem your 10% off just enter “vote” in the notes to seller. ALSO…each shop that votes receives a chance to be entered in a treasury! These will be done at random from the shops that have voted and may be in regular Treasury or Treasury West.

 

 

The item that wins will be featured here on our website for the month of July including an etsy mini. Please visit back after July 7th to see who one and learn more about them and their shop!

 

 

Thanks for supporting Team Homefront and Happy Birthday, USA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

This card is representative of the US and our flag, made of cardstock and craft paper. We’ve been married to the Navy for 13 years. We are proud Military Family, Submariner Family…American Family.

 

www.bubbarye.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

 

These include hand assembled bottle caps, curled ribbon, brads and sequins. I also used cardstock, dye ink, and monoadhesive as well as watercolor pencils.
My husband is in the Navy. I am a Navy wife stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii and that I am a stay at home mom of a two year old little girl. www.cardsbylu.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

“My husband has spent the last 20 years in the military, first jumping out of perfectly good helicopters, then flying them. As his wife and the mother of his 5 kids, sometimes the road is tough – especially during his recent year-long deployment to Afghanistan (Thank God, he’s home now!). Making soap is my therapy when life gets crazy (which is pretty often around here!).

 

Our American soldiers are our heroes - we support our troops 100 percent. We could think of no better way to honor them than with a bar of soap in our favorite colors.”

 

www.swanmountainsoaps.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

This is a set of 5 charms to be used on any glass that has a stem or a place for the charm to hug. You will never lose your drink again as long as you can remember what your charm looks like. :)
I am an USAF vet and am married to an ARMY pilot. We are a very pround american family and the kids and I are are extremely proud of what their daddy does for us and the USA.

 

www.cojocreations.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

A cool vinyl covered dimensional checkbook cover to show off your US Army pride. Fits standard checkbooks and works with duplicates. Also available for Navy, Marines, and Airforce, just convo me and I can make one for you. Any other themes you’d like to have? Just ask!

 

This item was made for the Homefront Team challenge for Independence day! My husband is active duty Army, so I wanted my challenge entry to reflect pride in him and his service.

 

www.bethjt.etsy.com

 

 

 

Being a Military spouse, family member and friend to several soldiers who have taken that unsacrificial journey to war, I have been guilty of not keeping proper correspondence. The sincerity and thankfulness of, yes, an old fashioned “letter from home” to a hero you know could never be explained in words. I have created this “Soldier Pack” to help you get them through a yearlong deployment. Allow this “love in action” to speak as loud as the expressions you send along with each card. Let’s never forget those fighting for our freedom!

 

www.mrsdstahl.etsy.com

 

 

 

As a military spouse we travel from station to station about every 3 years, make time for a family trip home, and even those well deserved rest & relaxation vacations we tend to only dream about. With my family of six it’s important to have happy travelers. All four of my children sleep comfortably in their seats giving me the freedom to drive the distance without the worry of floppy heads and necks. From one mother to another you’ll be thankful you stopped by Sygnet Creations for all your Unique Fabric Needs.

 

includes:
4- Pillows (2 Adult, 2 Child)
1- tote bag

 

www.sygnetcreations.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

 

Red, White, and Blue for Two!

 

This patriotic duo is especially designed for twins, siblings, or best friends! Mini polka dot fabric is used for these fun and sassy summer suits in a one size fits most toddler design. An old fashioned design with a patriotic spin, these suits represent our love for this country and my husband’s duty as he inters the Navy!

 

www.tuliptreebaby.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

 

I have made a set of ten A9 folded cards in beautiful Luxe White paired up with a khaki A9 envelope. This is a fairly large card! It’s a full sheet folded in half, plenty of room to write to those you love :)
My husband is in the Navy and we always send out letters while he’s gone. A letter was the most important thing he ever received while at Boot Camp. I was going for the Rustic Americana look mixed with a Letterpress feel.

 

www.flyleafbooksstudio.etsy.com

 

 

As a combat veteran, I understand the drab and dreary environment my deployed husband is surrounded by. That’s why I spend long hours to pretty myself when he finally redeploys. What better way to pretty oneself, and support deployed loved ones than with a 4 1/2 foot patriotic memory bracelet. This bracelet is beaded in red, clear, blue, and silver glass seed beads with accents of clear glass faceted beads.

 

www.twoseasidebabes.etsy.com

 

 

My husband is in the United States Air Force. We have been a military family for quite some time now and love to celebrate Independence Day! I decided to make a special shirt and hairclip for my daughter to wear to celebrate the holiday, it’s also perfect to wear when your loved one is returning from a deployment! It’s so important to teach our children the importance of this holiday and to honor those that have sacrificed so much so that we can enjoy our freedoms. Please visit my shop for more patriotic items!

 

www.cutesieclips.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

The Stars and Stripes represent this country we proudly live in. Semper Fi, short for Semper Fidelis, means “Always Faithful”. This is a motto worth modeling in our family, home, and service to our country, whether we are Marines or not.

 

All constucted by me, buttons and tan fabric came from a Charlie shirt, blood stripe ironed and then stitched on.

 

www.camillam.etsy.com

 

 

 


 

My husband is a soldier in the US Army and one of my favorite things is to watch the fireworks on The Fourth of July with him. There’s something magical and romantic about it. I created these earrings to capture that feeling. They’re easy to wear and move playfully with bursts of color. Can’t you just see yourself in these while you’re all snuggled up and gazing at the sky together?
These earrings measure just under 3 3/4 inches (9 1/2cm) from the top of the ear wire to the bottom of the blue crystal and can be shortened upon request.

 

www.tinystorm.etsy.com

 

 

 

This Patriotic Bib and Burp Cloth Set was sewn with the US Army in mind. We live next to Ft. Rucker, AL, and I wanted to create something pretty, patriotic, and Army for the little ones on post! This one has two flowers–one for the USA, and one for the US Army! Happy 4th of July!

 

www.monsterbugblankets.etsy.com

 

This adorable summer outfit is the perfect answer to what to wear from beach/pool to evening. The a-line top is open in the back and laced up, it can double as a dress with bloomers for smaller girls. The Capri length pants are made with an elastic waist.

 

 

My husband is disabled vet, Special Forces (Green Beret), every male in both our families has served so it’s just natural to me. Just remember whenever you complain about having to pay taxes, my husband might be needing another surgery! At least there’s one good thing your taxes are working for!

 

www.1maddieandme.etsy.com

 

 

 


 

This is a trio of stars that are carefully crocheted and embroidered with the patriotic USA. Can be hang as a door knob hanger or a baby mobile! A tribute to our great country. The stars measures about 5 inches (12.7cm) wide and 15 inches (38.1cm)in total length.

I am a military wife of a marine officer. He is currently working as a commander of the light armor vehicles (LAV) and he is scheduled to deploy to Iraq in 2009.

www.homemadezen.etsy.com

 

 


 

This photo was taken in honor of my husband who has been deployed on a undisclosed mission with the United States Military. Sometimes letters and prayers are all we have to communicate with each other. It’s a rough life to live but somebody’s gotta do it.

 

I’m Army wife to Sgt. Riggins FL Army Nat’l Guard. He’s been deployed one year this month, 2 more to go.

 

www.HRPhotography.etsy.com

 

 


 

I used varying gosgrain ribbon and hand sew this large bow together and added lots of sprays. It’s on a royal blue crochet style 1.5″ headband. I started making bows for my daughter while my husband was deployed and fell in love from there. My husband joined the Marine Corps in 2002 when he was 17. Every time that he deploys I find that keeping my mind focused on crafts and talking to other military wives helps get me through each one. Which is why I cherish Etsy Homefront so much. It’s more than a team, it’s an extended military family.

 

www.EllaBearBowtique.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

 

I saw this fabric at my local fabric store and knew that I would be making my kids’ 4th of July outfits out of it this year. One of the few, the proud, my hubby’s a Marine! We are one of those families that recognize the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, September 11th, D-Day (June 6th), and Pearl Harbor Day (December 7th). For us, it’s a way of life. Our children are growing up with a Daddy that continues to fight for our freedom and independence. And one way we show him and his fellow service members is by wearing these patriotic colors.

 

www.PeanutsBoutique.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

Red White and Blue Christmas Set of Ten Original Design Christmas Photo Cards.

 

This little blue spruce was given to us by a neighbor after my husband’s 2nd tour to Iraq ended. We’ve named it “Soldier’s Tree”, in honor of all those who have served in the Military. For the last two Christmas’ we have added miniature sparkling Red/White/Blue lights and adorned it with small American Flags; our neighbors and friends add yellow ribbons in honor of their military family members who are serving and won’t be home for Christmas. It has become quite a neighborhood attraction and tradition.

 

www.CreationsAnew.etsy.com

 

 

 

 

Being an Army wife of a Drill Sgt. in the U.S. Army, Independence day is extremely important in our lives. It has always been one of my favorite holiday of a celebration of the sacrifices our military members past and present! This Stars-N-Stripes tablerunner was constructed of patriotic colors and pieced to represent the U.S. flag. This patriotic tablerunner is made of 100% cotton fabric, batting, and backed with natural muslin. Measures 24 1/2 by 32 1/2 inches.

 

www.teristreasure.etsy.com

 

 


 

The fourth is a special day for me (my birthday) so when the challenge was chosen as red/white/blue (v. fitting) I had to do a rocket! Red nose cone and bottom with a white body and blue stars. The four fins are red/blue. Being a Navy wife and mom to small kiddos, we now enjoy the fireworks together. Ooooo, Ahhhh, Impressive!

 

Rocket is 8.5″ tall, 15″ around. Fins are 2.5″, Stars are 3.5″. Has 2 buttons with stars around them.

 

Enjoy blasting off with this purse!

www.mayraecrochetnknit.etsy.com


This piece is a 3/4″ cube pendant inspired by the poem “It is the Soldier.” This is a four sided piece. Three sides feature silhouettes of sodiers overseas and the fourth is the flag.

I love the military, its in my blood. I was an Army brat for 10 years and most of my friends are in the military now. I have sent numerous letters to boot camps all over the country. I met my husband almost 3 years ago, I saw him through basic and now I’m a Military Wife. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

www.iheartlupin.etsy.com


Procrastination Away Spray is “A Kick in the Bum in a Bottle” It is an invigorating fun little citrus scented spritz that’s sure to wake the senses and get the creative juices flowing! This spray was originally made for Robin of Creations Anew (who I put off for several months… as a joke).

My husband is disabled vet, Special Forces, every male in both our families has served so it’s just natural to me. Just remember whenever you complain about having to pay taxes, my husband might be needing another surgery! At least there’s one good thing your taxes are working for!

www.mommyslittlehelper.etsy.com


I love being apart of the Homefront Etsy team. I am proud that my husband is currently serving our country in the Air Force. I love the US, the military, our freedom, and cupcakes! : )

I have made 6 total patriotic cupcakes! They are chocolate cake with vanilla frosting topped with the perfect summer fruit (strawberry and blueberries)! They are pretty much life size of a small cupcake.

www.BeckyM.etsy.com


This one-of-a-kind drink cozy represents several of my passions – recycling, sewing, and our wonderful USA! It is made from a pair of recycled denim jeans and some lovely homespun cotton scraps; lined with a pre-quilted cotton remnant; and embellished with cotton appliqué, rick rack and a vintage button. It’s designed to fit over a Starbucks Venti coffee cup, but is also great for 16-ounce bottled drinks. You can fold down the cuff for smaller sizes. I keep one in my purse, one in my car, and one on my desk as a pencil holder cover.

www.recycledjeans.etsy.com


I have been an Air Force wife for 17 of my husbands 20 years. I was a young German girl from a tiny town, thrown into the miltary way of life. What helped me was the military communities. Since the other families were going through the same things, they understood and somebody was always there to help. I love the military life and I know, even though it was hard at times, it is the right thing for me. Now, the difference is, that I am here to support younger spouses and help any way I can.

www.butterflydesign1.etsy.com

Joyful Abode | Promotion | Comments (91)

4th of July Traditions through out the USA

June 30, 2008 – 6:43 am

Decorate the house in red, white, and blue. Grab a few barbque essentials from the local store. Load up the kids and travel down to the marina for an awesome fireworks show. These are just a few of the things my family does to celebrate America’s Independence Day. Communities around the USA celebrate in all different ways. I did a search of some great events happening this year.

In Seward, Alaska there is a huge foot race at Mt. Marathon. Main street is completely blocked off to accommodate a very large crowd of race participants and onlookers. Hordes of vendors gather to sell their goods and the food is always plentiful.

Macy’s in New York City puts on a spectacular Fireworks display with over 120,000 burst of color to light up the skies. Can’t make it…Don’t worry NBC will give you front row seats at approx 9pm.

Boston Harborfest has historical tours, reenactments, and childrens’ activities. This years show ends with the best of the best chowder concoctions best known as Chowderfest.

New Orleans offers “Go 4th On The River” a great free show of fireworks over the Mississippi river. There’s also music and food.

Virginia celebrates our nation’s birthday with Fifes and Drums, militia parades, and Colonial Williamsburg’s famous Historic Area fireworks.

Austin, Texas has The Austin Symphony which entertains the people with Stars and Stripes Forever, and other favorites. Grab a blanket and food and come prepared for fun.

These are just a few of the happenings around town this Fourth of July. Share with us your plans or the traditions of your hometown. Have a wonderful and fun filled family day!

~Amanda, Sygnet Creations

SygnetCreations | Military Monday | Comments (2)

Friday Feature - HeidisHandmades

June 27, 2008 – 7:12 am

 

If you’ve ever ventured into HeidisHandmades you know that Heidi Prices products don’t just look good — they ARE good.

With items such as body butters, frostings, soaps and sprays Heidi has found her niche in the massive soap world of Etsy - creating products that are true to her sweet self.

As a military spouse Heidi is a proud member of Homefront, a place she came to find comfort and commaradere with others who understand her situation of running a business and family.

As a mother of three, she finds inspiration in her children, creating fun whimsical products for them to test and enjoy. She takes pride in her work and it shows.

Q. How long have you been making soaps?   

A.I have been making soaps since 2000 when I took a small soapmaking class that just taught the basics.  My husband and I have had 3 children since then and I’ve been making soaps with them to play with in the tub.  

Q.What inspires you to create your items? 

A.I am inspired by the seasons mostly, for instance when I think of summer I think of fresh oranges, lemonade and watermelons so I try make creations along those lines.  And for Fall I choose pumkin spice types scents etc…and winter are Christmas scents and Spring are blossom floral scents.

Q.Do you have any  major influences? 

A.Not really, I just enjoy doing it for myself, and making others happy with my creations.

Q.When did you decide to start your own business and what prompted you to do so?   

A.I was selling Avon for a few years and enjoyed it, but was sort of bored with just sellling.   I wanted to get my hands into it, making the creations!  Then my husband went on a deployment and I had all kinds of free time in the evenings to experiment with different recipes and formulas for making my own bath & body creations.   I loved doing it, it really helped me get through the deployment!  I especially fell in love with lavender the most, very calming and a natural antidepressant.

Q.Has being a military spouse had an impact on your business ? 

A.I don’t think so.  Except that we live in base housing and I could use a little more space!  Ha!  Also moving a lot is tricky, but luckily etsy is a good marketplace for that type of thing.

Q.How so? 

A.Because with etsy I can close my shop whenever I need to, it’s not like a 9 - 5 job or a B & M store.

Q.How did you find ETSY? Has it been beneficial for your business – good /bad? 

A.Someone mentioned it in a soap forum.  Heck yeah, it’s been awesome for me!  Most of my sales have been from etsy! :)

Q.How did you come up with the name of your store? 

A.Well, I like to make all sorts of things, jewelry, sock monkeys etc… and most of all soaps.  So, I tried to think of something that I could incorporate everything, and came up with HeidisHandmades.  But, I got so busy with the bath & body part of it, that I have not been able to make the other things. 

Q.Do you sell outside of ETSY? If so,  where? 

A.I sell at a local gift shop, All Season’s Curio Shoppe located in downtown Milton, FL, also at the Farmers Market when it’s not too hot for my things to melt!

Q.Is your work outside of your business? 

A.My work is Mommy to 3 little ones.

Q.How do you juggle being a military spouse and running your own business? 

A.I feel blessed to be a military spouse, because it allows me the freedom to be able to stay home with my kids, and do what I love with my soapmaking, and provides us with a nice place to live in a wonderful military community, and great healthcare (especially since one of our children has a heart condition).

Q.How did your spouse/family react to you starting your own business? 

A.My Mom, Dad and siblings were totally happy for me.  My husband and kids not so much….it was taking me away from them for a long time when I started getting busy.   My husband was actually quite jealous of etsy for awhile, but we have since worked through that.  Now I give them 100% of me on weekends, and only prepare and ship orders twice a week instead of every single day.

Q.What are your hobbies? 

A. I love to swim, make bath & body stuff (of course!) and I like to make jewelry, crafts, cookies and artwork.

Q.What is the best and worst thing that has happened after starting your business? 

A.When my husband and I had a very serious dissagreement over my etsy business.

Q.Is there anything you would change? 

A.Wish there were more hours in the day for more family time and creation time!

Q.If you had one wish what would it be? 

A.I would LOVE to get big and be sort of famous, like Burt’s Bees, but I would need to hire a good accountant and business manager, so all I have to do is create.  :)

Q.What is your goal for the next 6 months? 

A.No goals really, just to continue doing what I love

MooseThreads | Friday Feature | Comments (0)

Checklist for Family Deployments

June 23, 2008 – 4:30 am

Military spouses are often required to take over the family during the sponsor’s absence. Although it can be hard to manage and account for all things that could happen while the military member is away, below is a checklist of items to take into consideration before the deployment.

  • Create a long-range budget to include once-a-year expenses 
  • Establish allotments, up to four months in advance if possible 
  • Checkbook maintenance: who will write checks, balance accounts
  • Update or create a will 
  • Locate important records, what and when bills are due 
  • Insurance - car, life, renters, or home. When are premiums due 
  • Power of attorney - do you need a general or specific POA 
    • GENERAL: Allows holder to act in all matters on sponsor’s behalf
      SPECIAL: Allows holder to act on sponsor’s behalf in special transactions.
      MEDICAL: Authorizes holder to obtain medical care for family members under 18 years of age.
  • ID Cards - Check expiration dates and obtain new ones if needed.
  • Telephone calls: length of calls, budget bills
  • Duplicate calendars: note special events, birthdays, and school activities. Keep each other updated
  • Establish rules regarding children’s discipline, chores, curfew, etc. 
  • Gifts: buy in advance and leave with a friend or family member for anniversaries, birthdays and special events 
  • Recognize and accept the range of emotions you are feeling, talk about them with your spouse
  • Local military unit’s name and phone number: keep this information close at hand for emergencies and current and accurate information
  • Family Readiness Center: find out how their programs and services can help you survive deployment 
  • Develop a good support system: family, friends, church, school, co-workers, family readiness support groups and hobbies
  • Plan once-a-week outings for the parent manning the homefront 
  • Plan family days with quality time and no interruptions
  • Establish a routine that can be maintained before, during and after deployment
  • Plan family activities that help maintain the deployed parent’s presence – send photos, map your unit’s itinerary, videotape everyday activities

Activities to Do
There are many simple things the parent at home can do to have fun with their children. I have also included some ways to help explain the time line of deplyments.

  • There are 52 cards in a deck of cards and 52 weeks in a year. Have the child write a letter each week and include one card from the deck. When you are down to the very last card the year is up! *Kids can decorate the cards with crayons or pictures.
  • Make a paper chain with a message on each slip (it can be love note, miss you, or what you did that day) attach them together for a fun homecoming banner. The military member will enjoy readying all the special notes when they return.
  • Assign new roles: If dad took out the trash, assign a helper to take over during the seperation. Change them up a bit as the time progresses. Younger children enjoy being “adults”
  • Make a scrapbook with pictures and events with your child.
  • Before you leave, write as many short messages to your children as possible and put them in a large jar, can, or box. Tell your child to pull out one message a day while you are gone.
  • Before you leave, record yourself reading special stories to your young ones. They will anticipate night time and can read along with you.

Remember you are not alone. This is a family affair that will bring you closer not only as a parent but as a family unit. There are support systems in place to help you ease the time apart. If all else fails the Homefront is always here to lend a helping hand and a shoulder!

~Amanda, Sygnet Creations

SygnetCreations | Military Monday | Comments (1)

Friday Feature - Teris Treasure

June 20, 2008 – 7:00 am

Teri’s Family

Teri Keys is a mother, military wife, quilter, and Etsy shop owner.  She runs the stunning shop Teri’s Treasure and shares her life on her blog (there’s a great video on there of her husbands company).  When the founder of  the Homefront Team put in a call for help, she was right there to jump in.  Always there for support, to share in triumphs and sorrows, a quick quip, and a friendly cybersmile, she keeps us inline.  Teri has pride in her husband, who graduated yesterday from Drill School, her beautiful daughters, her mother and her craft.   

How long have you been quilting and sewing?I hand quilted my first quilt when I was about 8 years old, it was a corny panel with “country ducks” on it. At the time I thought it was cute but now, makes me cringe thinking of having that up in my house! haha I have been crafting all my life but I did my first quilt when I was 23 years old, red white and blue, log cabin blocks. From there, I have learned more and more about quilting and almost 7 years later, love the products I am putting out.

What inspires you to create your items? My main inspiration is amazing fabrics. I go into a quilt shop and gaze at all the amazing fabrics, I have to walk through them over and over before I decide what I like. After picking out the fabrics, I then see what I will be making. Its like the fabrics tell me what to make.

Do you have any major influences? My mother is my biggest influence. She has taught me amazing techniques, she sends me patterns. She has showed me the basics of quilts all the way to the up to date techniques quilters are doing now. I come from a HUGE line of crafters and quilters. My aunts are amazing quilters. I have one aunt that has met thService Quilte president because of her work, a published author of craft books and owns a shop. I feel it is in my blood to do what I do.

When did you decide to start your own business and what prompted you to do so? My family and had just moved from Fort Wainwright, Alaska and we had been hit hard financially. It was a hard time for us and we had thought about me getting a job and it killed me to imagine leaving my 2 year old (at the time) at a day care. After a lot of prayer, it hit me to try to sell my quilts and quilted items online. I was going to have my own website but ran across Etsy and thought it was perfect for what I wanted to do.

How did you find ETSY? Has it been beneficial for your business – good /bad? I was researching websites that I wanted to “rent” a site to sell my products and ran across Etsy as a search through Google. I had never heard of it before so I started checking it out. I thought it was amazing how it was a community within itself and would bring in outsiders to my shop. It has been very beneficial to my business. Joining the Homefront Street Team through Etsy has been so helpful for my business and personal life.

How did you come up with the name of your store? I went through a huge list of names and decided on Teri’s Treasures but when I tried it on Etsy, someone already had that name so I had to settle with TerisTreasure.

Do you sell outside of ETSY? If so, where? NO

Do you work outside of your business? I don’t have an official job outside of my business but I feel staying at home with your children is a FULLTIME JOB! It is the most rewarding job you could ever have and an honor to be able to stay at home with my girls and watch them grow up! You have to weigh the pros and cons of having more money in your pocket or being able to watch your girls doing amazing things! I pick watching my girls. You will be rewarded in a different way then money, that is so much more to me!

How do you juggle being a military spouse and running your own business? Well I don’t feel like being a military spouse and running my own business is very hard. I feel my work keeps me focused on the normal day to day things of our lives and the military world. I still am working on finding a happy medium of being a stay at home mom, military wife and running my business… if you have any ideas, convo me! haha :) I just feel pulled in a lot of different directions during the day Seaweeds Large Tablerunnerand have to make my priorities.

How did your spouse/family react to you starting your own business? My 8 year old daughter, Alyssa, was so excited for me! She started drawing patterns for quilts and things, totally supportive! My husband backed me up 100% and is so proud of me. I just want to be a Etsy Success story so I can let my family see that their support was worth it!

What are your hobbies? Well quilting is my hobby, or shopping at the quilt shop for fabrics to quilt. As you can see, I turned my hobby into a profession.

What is the best and worst thing that has happened after starting your business? I love the fact that I am helping financially with my family. I have the best of both worlds, I get to stay at home with my girls and make money doing what I love to do. Those are the best things to me!

Is there anything you would change? honestly, there are times I am like, I wish things were like this or that but when you stop.. step back and look at the whole picture, I wouldn’t change a thing! I am so blessed to have such an amazing husband and girls!

If you had one wish what would it be? As far as my business is concerned, I wish that I would have more buyers, I don’t sell as much as I would like but I feel that comes with a lot of time and always changing up my designs, trying new things and fabric.

What is your goal for the next 6 months? To have a more successful shop. I define success as having 1 sale a week, no matter how big or small.

Teresa | Friday Feature | Comments (5)

Happy Father’s Day

June 16, 2008 – 8:26 am

 

Okay I am a daddy’s girl! I talk to my father several time a week. We joke and pick and socialize and I love that I am his “poopy-loopy” (Yes I said it, the wonderful nickname from birth). My dad was a big part of my life even when the military took him to places out of my reach. I remember when he put together my first bike. I was 5 years old stationed at Wurtsmith AFB, Michigan. My bike was pink with a white basket and those cool tassels. I had no idea how to ride it and I was scared to death I would fall. My dad twirled me around the parking lot until I could balance. He never let go that whole first ride. After a few days I was off like a rocket. It was one of the best days we spent together. I don’t remember the holidays he missed or the birthdays when we were apart. I only remember the fun I had when he was home and I have a lot of those memories to share. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there. Remember its not about the time you spend its about what you do when you are together! Make the most of every moment!

  {By profession, I am a soldier and take pride in that fact. But I am prouder – infinitely prouder – to be a father. A soldier destroys in order to build; the father only builds, never destroys. The one has the potentiality of death; the other embodies creation and life. And while the hordes of death are mighty, the battalions of life are mightier still. It is my hope that my son, when I am gone, will remember me not from the battle field but in the home repeating with him our simple daily prayer, ‘Our Father who art in Heaven.’}- Douglas MacArthur

~ Amanda, Sygnet Creations

SygnetCreations | Military Monday | Comments (2)

Needs of the Navy: Separations, and What Helps?

June 15, 2008 – 12:24 pm

Part I 

I know all branches of the service require separations at times. However, because I was a Navy Brat who married a Navy guy… I always think of it as the “Needs of the Navy”. I remember my mom being sad at times, especially when Dad would be gone (Vietnam era), and when I would ask why, she would say something like… “You will understand when you are married”. Well, I kind of, understood then, Dad was gone, Santa wasn’t there for Christmas and how could Dad miss his birthday or mine again this year? It would be a tiny sting in my heart, but I would remember when he got back how we would have Thanksgiving, more Christmas, and extra birthdays on that following week.


(photo from http://flickr.com/photos/yourlocaldave/67628096/)

He usually got some time off and we would play “hookie” from school, just to spend a few days with him. He was a totally present father, when he was home he would seek us out and take us fishing, sailing, skiing, or just out to eat. He was a southern gentleman and would tell us stories of his own growing up, and teach us how “young ladies and gentlemen” should act. He had a lot of class! I think my mom was a pretty good example of how to deal with it. I remember her volunteering for the Red Cross, being involved in the local club, on the decorating committee at church, and just going out with other wives to stay busy and engaged with life. She had two girls to rear and kept the finances balanced. Those sad times were not too often, but they did come and she didn’t hide them from us. She found ways to cope.

Part II

Then I got married to a Navy guy. I thought I was pretty prepared for the separations to come, I did have my ups and downs, and the downs were more than I expected. I also was not prepared to be so mad at him personally for being gone. In my view, he got to go have adventures while I was “stuck” at home with the messes and kid. Especially during our first separation, I suffered. I had my share of “pity parties”, and then I got motivated.

I realized it was my attitude that needed changing most of all. I was married to this guy who would be going off, and I needed to deal with it. I joined the wives’ club, took the phone list, and started doing my own thing. I invited everyone (especially those who were also geographically separated) to my house for pot lucks, (I hate to cook) and quite a crowd showed up. We began rotating houses for pot lucks and soon there were many girls’ nights to the movies and babysitting swaps. I volunteered at the local food bank. I took a quilting class. I went to jazzercise class. During other deployments, I took college classes, I started a sewing business. I went to work part time. Some others of my friends did other volunteer work, especially for the USO and Navy Relief.

There were many times we were separated over special occasions and an anniversary (or several). Besides the obvious sending cards, flowers, or (no emails during my day) making phone calls…. here are a few ideas I have heard of and a few I have actually used. It is a good time to get yourself motivated again, to be the best you can be, and make the time apart productive. Each of us knows what sort of fun will make us happy: either a nice quiet day with friends at the coffee shop, a hike on the local trail, or drinks and a movie with a few of the girls. Don’t feel you have failed if you find yourself at a pity party or two. We ARE human.

In no particular order…..

  1. If they are near you …get together with your wedding party, or those who were with you on that day. Have a little dinner party, if you can.
  2. Take today to plan a special romantic outing for the two of you when you are reunited, (a few days or a week after he gets back) a weekend at a bed and breakfast or even a simple camping trip to the local state park… Actually make reservations and call those who could watch the kids (I did this one and it was fantastic!)
  3. Work on a scrapbook page or two of all the fun things and adventures you have had together…. or a “look how far we have come.” Something to pass down and share with the in-laws.
  4. Volunteer at a battered women’s shelter, or get involved with other volunteer opportunities in your community such as USO or Navy relief society. Volunteer at Church or Chapel, they need good VBS helpers in the summer, and the choir could use another alto.
  5. Call up other wives who are also separated now and start a “girls night out”. Twice a month works great. (I did this and we had pot lucks at each others houses… nearly free and little or no cooking for me!)
  6. If you live near your parents, and they are happily married, take them out for dinner and celebrate their good marriage, talk to them about how they have made it work. (Mine were married for 35 years before he passed, he was career Navy)
  7. Visit that Museum or park you have been wanting to and haven’t found the time yet, make sure to formulate a plan to return with him when he is back.
  8. Join a bridge club or bowling league, if that’s your sort of thing.

Whatever you decide to do, try not to dwell on negative thoughts. Focus on the future and remember how proud you are of him and his choices. Hey! We are not dependent just because that is what the Navy calls us; we are independent and strong. Be proud of yourself for your own sacrifices for your country. I am proud of you for remaining steadfastly loyal during a difficult time, it can be done and it can be a positive, growth producing, maturing process. You will be glad if you make the time productive and as fun as you possibly can. He will really appreciate knowing you can handle the stresses of military life, and will be excited to return to an independent, strong, and reliable woman.

Some other reading on the subject:

  • http://www.amazon.com/Military-Spouse-Finance-Guide-Financial/dp/0595477771/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213134308&sr=1-
  • http://resourcecenter.militaryministry.org/products/hope-for-the-home-front
  • http://www.amazon.com/Homefront-Club-Hardheaded-Raising-Military/dp/1591142288/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213134135&sr=1-6
  • http://www.amazon.com/While-Theyre-At-War-Homefront/dp/0618773452/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213134135&sr=1-4

Other web resources:

  • http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil
  • http://www.operationhomefront.net
  • http://www.milspouse.com
  • http://www.cinchouse.com
  • http://www.militarysos.com
Joyful Abode | Uncategorized | Comments (2)

Friday Feature - Getting to Know CreationsAnew

June 13, 2008 – 8:50 am

creationschurch.jpg  The Etsy shop CreationsAnew is not only full of amazing prints, notepads and paperweights but the quality of her products and her artistic eye make her art especially unique. From gorgeous pictures of rustic churches and crosses to bright and eye catching prints of spring’s bounty, Robin Hall, the artist behind CreationsAnew, always has something awe inspiring and inspirational in her shop.

A brief introduction from Robin herself: “My name is Robin Hall and I reside in Florence, Colorado with my husband and 2 sons. Florence located almost in the middle of Colorado as is known for its prisons, antique shops and Big Dog High School Football.
I was born an “Army Brat” and then married a soldier, so the last 45 years has been spent traveling the world and being part of a special “community”. My husband retired from the ARMY 2 years ago and retirement has been a huge adjustment, but I think we are finally settling into it.
We have two wonderful boys 19 and 17. My oldest in attending College in Lakewood, Colorado and the youngest will be a Senior at the local High School. I homeschooled both boys from Kindergarten through High School and with them almost grown, I have found extra time on my hands. That is where Photography and ETSY has come in.”

How long have you been photographing?
I started this “hobby” about 5 years ago. We live in such a picturesque part of the country and every season has something to photograph.

What inspires you to create your items?
I really love to take photographs when I’m outside walking which is good for photography not so great for exercising. We live in a old town with grand old homes, falling down barns, abandoned dirt roads and wide open spaces. It’s a wonderful area for taking photos. You do have to be careful when taking pictures of residences. For the most part people pretty much ignore me when I’m snapping pictures of their homes, but one time, I was taking a picture of an old gate in front of a house and this guy came running out and began screaming at me…“who are you“ and “why are you taking a picture of my house?” That was scary!

Just this past year I began doing portraits. My nephew wanted senior pictures taken and he only wanted me to take them! So I gave it a whirl. So far, I have completed two sets of senior portraits and a “baby’s first year portrait. You can see some of those photographs on my flickr page:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/creationsanew/

When did you decide to start your own business and what prompted you to do so?
I began to create cards and calendars with the purchase of my first computer about 20 years ago. My first calendars were literally typing and printing words out, then cutting and pasting them onto computer generated calendars. I would then take the calendars to a copy shop and have them photocopied onto colored paper…IKES! After buying my first digital camera, which was a Fugi 3.0 pixel, I was hooked on photography! There is something rewarding about taking a photo and being able to view it immediately. I think it was a natural progression to incorporate my love for creating on the computer with my love of photography. I designed calendars, cards, banners and flyers for family, friends and church; I always heard “You should sell theses.”

About a year ago, after attending a “How to make money on Ebay” seminar, I decided that I could do e-commerce marketing my craft. I gave eBay about 6 months and learned many in and outs of e-commerce; however, eBay left me feeling really isolated. That is when I found Etsy and learned about a community of “sellers’; I was hooked!

Do you sell outside of ETSY? If so, where?
Yes, I have my own website at http://www.creations-anew.com
I sell many of the same type items on my website as I sell on Etsy but again, just selling on my website left me feeling like a small fish in a big pond; Etsy helps make that ocean a bit smaller.

My website includes my blog, A Photographer’s Expose, writings about photography, faith and family the three things I love.

I just recently added “FREE on-line Greeting Cards to my website. These on-line greeting cards feature some of my photography. I’m really enjoying creating card ideas and adding photos to the site. http://www.creations-anew.com/products364808.html

How did you come up with the name of your store?
It’s a variation of our Homeschool Name which was “A New Day” We took that name from scripture where the Lord told his people in the Old Testament “ It’s a new day; see I do a New Thing.” Though the LORD is unchanging He is constantly moving, growing and changing us hence A New Day Photography and Design. Unfortunately, it was taken somewhere on the web and so “Creations Anew” was born.

Has being a military spouse had an impact on your business?
My husband has been retired 2 years this month. So the military hasn’t directly affected my business, but being a part of the Homefront group has really been a blessing. After spending 20 plus years as a spouse and before that 20 years and dependant daughter, I have a heart for these young military families. I constantly find myself thinking after reading posts in the threads… “I remember those kind of days, hang in there”, “You can do this” I can relate to the pain of separation and the loneliness of being a single parent trying to do it all.

Military families are a distinctive breed and I think we bring that uniqueness to Etsy. We eagerly welcome and get to know new people because we know how it feels to be a stranger; we are open to change and can quickly adapt to all sorts of situations. One thing that Etsy does for us, is that no matter where the military send us, we are still united and connected on the Homefront.

Do you work outside of your business?
Yes, but not for pay! I still home school our youngest son part-time; this is his last year of home school as next year he will be a full time senior. Our family is very active in our local church. We attend Lincoln Park Church of the Nazarene where I head up our Ladies Ministry, play the piano and teach a young adult Sunday School Class; right now we are studying Revelation. I also lead a home Bible Study where we are currently going through the book of Isaiah.

What are your other hobbies?
I love to read the Bible, especially the Old Testament. Jane Austin is my favorite author with “Pride and Prejudice” being my favorite book/movie. Lately, I have read several books on Henry the 8th and his wives; we don’t get Showtime but I enjoyed watching “The Tudors” in reruns.

If you had one wish what would it be?
I have been so richly blessed in my life; I really can’t think of one thing that I want or even need; The LORD has been so gracious to me and my family! We’ll okay, maybe more sales!

What is your favorite item in your shop?
The set of 4×6 photos called, “I’m Not a Donkey, I’m a Stallion; these photo’s seem to be everyone’s favorite. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11192105

This little herd of donkeys are so fun to watch; there are 5 of them and they are typical donkeys: obstinate, bull headed and foolish. Hmmm, those seem to be some of my characteristics too! There is a scripture that tell us not to be stubborn like the donkey who will not be bridled and led, but to be more like a stallion who is spirited and trainable. I have a sign in my office that reads:
“Are you afraid to fail or are you determined to Succeed”

What is your goal for the next 6 months?
My goal is to be trainable and unafraid of failure with my on-line business; to take risks and to be determined to succeed, but there are some days that I can be such a …..donkey.

FrayBabyBibsandMore | Friday Feature | Comments (3)

Military Jargon - What did you say?

June 9, 2008 – 6:35 am

Could you imagine a conversation like this: 

“After receiving my LES and realizing an increase in BAH I headed over to the CDC to get Johnny and then to the BX to pick up some new ABUs for my TDY.” 

An outsider might think you are crazy but to a person who lives with a military member this is just common conversation.  Acronyms are essential to the flow of the military. They stand for rank, job, organizations, or even a state of awareness. My favorite term is BRAT. This is the name given to a child whose parent or parents served fully in the armed forces. Derogetory as it may sound, BRAT is a title we wear proudly.  In actuality BRAT was not created as an acronym. These came into play when the word alone was associated with an awful child. Military culture reclaimed the military brat as a term of endearment with these translations; Born Rough And Tough , or Brave Resilient Adaptable and Trustworthy. 

Many acronyms are shared between branches but there are a great deal more that are clearly their own. Way to many to list here! I compiled a few common terms but feel free to post a comment with more.

AAFES - Army Air Force Exchange Service
AFC - Air Force Career
AKO - Army Knowledge Online
BAS - Basic Allowance for Substance
BAH - Basic Allowance for Housing
BX - Base Exchange
CDC - Child Development Center
CMF - Career Management Fields
COLA - Cost Of Living Allowance
DeCA - Defense Commissary Agency
DEERS - Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System
EFMP - Exceptional Family Member Program
ESC/EWC - Enlisted Spouses/Wives Club
FAC - Family Assistance Center
FCP - Family Care Plan
FLO - Family Liaison Officer
FRO - Family Readiness Officer
FSA - Family Separation Allowance
FSC - Family Support Center
FSG - Family Support Group
FRG - Family Readiness Group
HOR - Home Of Record
ITT - Information, Tours, and Travel
LES - Leave and Earnings Statement
MOS - Military Occupational Specialty
MPF - Military Personnel Flight
MWR - Morale, Welfare, and Recreation
NEX - Navy Exchange
OPSEC - Operations Security
OSC/OWC - Officers’ Spouses/Wives Club
PCS - Permanent Change of Station
POA - Power Of Attorney
POC - Point Of Contact
PX - Post Exchange
RMO - Round Metallic Object aka unit coin
ROE - Rules of Engagement
SGLI - Servicemembers Group Life Insurance
TDY - Temporary Duty
TLA - Temporary Living Allowance
TLF - Temporary Living Facility

If you ever come across a tricky abbreviation check out this website MilitaryWords.com. It is a great little tool to decode just about any acronym. Well its about time to get off the PC and spend some R and R with the DD before the AM …. Oops that is a whole other post … lol =)

~Amanda, Sygnet Creations

SygnetCreations | Military Monday | Comments (5)