With the 4th of July just around the corner, I’ve been thinking lately about the things that we celebrate and the reasons we celebrate them. It is so easy, really, to lose sight of those reasons when a holiday like the 4th of July means a day off of work (a big deal for me!), an opportunity for family and neighbors to gather for a BBQ, and the one time of the year that fireworks will light up the night sky (where is the best view, will you get a good seat?). Having never been in the military myself, I don’t often think of the sacrifice, the hardships that others have endured on my behalf, or the things I have gained as a result; I think mostly of my tired self and the chance for a paid vacation day.

In talking to Karen of Snickerdoodle Designs about the kits she had planned for this summer, I was delighted to learn that an old favorite would be on special this 4th of July. Until They All Come Home is ideal for layouts of veterans, Memorial Day, trips to Washington, DC, and for the 4th of July. I was intrigued by the title of the kit and asked Karen about her inspiration. It was a song, she told me.

The song, it turns out, is by Ray Boltz from his album Honor and Glory. That song, An Honor to Serve, is dedicated to Jeremiah Denton Jr., a United States Senator, retired Admiral, and POW of the Vietnam war. You can read about Jeremiah Denton here. The chorus of the song reveals the powerful emotions that inspired Karen to design Until They All Come Home:

Its an honor to serve
To join in the fight
To lift up my voice
And to lay down my life
Giving glory to God
Seeking none in return
Its an honor, an honor to serve

This 4th of July, take a moment to remember the meaning behind the day. You might even consider sharing your thoughts and emotions through journaling on a scrapbook layout, even if that layout contains pictures of fireworks and BBQ celebrations. Celebrate today with the understanding that the sacrifies of yesterday have made today possible.

Below is a layout I did using Until They All Come Home, which is on sale for 40% off now through July 14th. The glitters, word art, and clusters are also on sale for 40% off, and the entire collection is 60% off. Note that for today only, the kit and the entire collection are the featured DOTD and are set at 70% off! I’ve turned my layout into a QP for you to download as well.