Oftentimes, Memorial Day is viewed as a long weekend of relaxation and fun, maybe a time to get spring cleaning and other household projects done. And as much as it is all of those things, it is also a time of reflection and remembering, remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we could have the freedom to pursue all of those aforementioned things.
As homeschoolers, we have been reading a lot about wars in our history lessons: the two world wars, the cold war and the war on terrorism, and the impact they had, not just on our nation but in shaping the world we know today. The bravery and loyalty of the millions of people who have given their lives reminds me of the verse John 15:13, which says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
My grandfather, a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, recently passed away at the nice old age of 93. Thinking of him reminds me of all of the families who have had to live without their loved one, whether it was a son/daughter or father/mother, sometimes both. How different life would have been. Or those who came back from the war, but forever changed and not able to ever live a life free from the effects of what they experienced.
Because of their sacrifice, we live in freedom to pursue whatever we can imagine. It is the ultimate “pay it forward.” It’s a great time to reflect on what we’re doing with that freedom. Let’s not waste it!
So, in honor of that freedom, I’m announcing a new shopping platform for Legacy by Design! Now, along with etsy.com you can find my artwork and digital products at spouse-ly.com.
Why this addition? I recently learned about spouse-ly.com while listening to a podcast and loved their mission: to support those who support us. The home page of their website describes it best: Goods from families who give. Spouse-ly is dedicated to showcasing the amazing goods and services of military spouses, veterans and first responder families.
So, while being similar to etsy.com in their offerings, the vendors are all military or first responder families. In case you’re wondering, we are a military family. My husband has served for over 20 years in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, Reserves and National Guard. While I am proud of the legacy my husband is creating, it is HARD. I remember the time when he was deployed and I had an infant and a toddler on my hands. I felt weary to say the least. Without friends and family to get me through, I don’t know what I would have done. Now, although deployments still happen, our children are older and more helpful ever. This is what’s given me the chance to pursue my dream of being an artist.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s still difficult when he’s away. Homeschooling a teen and a tween is challenging for a family, let alone solo. That’s why spouse-ly.com has really connected with me. It brought two things that I’m passionate about together: my family and my art. I’d love it if you would check it out and possibly even shop with me there!
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