Today is Memorial Day here in the United States.  While it’s really nice to have a day off of work or school to spend having fun with family or friends, or to score some great shopping deals, let’s not forget the original purpose of Memorial Day – to remember and honor the brave men and women who have died while serving our country, protecting the freedoms that Americans enjoy.

Today’s card is dedicated to those who are currently serving in the military.  Thank you to all of them for working to make our world a better place.  Thank you especially to those who are separated from their families and loved ones, serving tours of duty in faraway countries.  You are not forgotten; you are very much appreciated.

The layout for this card is Freshly Made Sketch #36.  I had a hard time getting started creating something with this sketch; none of my first several ideas seemed “right”.  I came up with an idea using a different floral stamp, which led me to these designer papers, and then I thought about using the Prima flowers, and that led me to this stamp set with the thank you sentiment.  It came together pretty easily after all that got sorted.  Weird how the creative process works sometimes, don’t you think?

If you haven’t yet had a chance to check out the Operation Write Home Memorial Day Blog Hop, it isn’t too late!  My card for the hop can be found at this link: OWH Memorial Day Sketch Blog Hop!  Click on the graphic below to be taken to the list of all the participating blogs.

The supplies for today’s card are all from Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted:
Stamps: Best Blossoms
Cardstock: Old Olive, Naturals White, Bali Breeze designer papers
Ink: Old Olive
Other: flowers (Prima Marketing); brads (Making Memories)