Thinking of You

Today being ANZAC Day here in Australia I thought it was fitting to share with you a recent Thinking of You Card I made using a image of Poppies from Paper Cupcakes.

Digi Image:  Poppies from Paper Cupcakes Digital Store, Sentiment:  Darkroom Door Stamp

Paper:  Christy Tomlinson She Art 6 x 6 Petite Paper Pack

Other:  Martha Stewart Border Punch, SU Ribbon, Viva Decor Gold Glitter Liner

The poppy has long been part of Remembrance Day Ceremonies marking the Armistice of November 11, 1918 and now it is also more widely being used to commemorate ANZAC Day.  It was the first flower to be seen growing on the devastating battlefields of France and Belgium during the First World War and soldiers folklore explain that the poppy's vivid red color comes from the blood of their comrades who died on those battlefields.

In searching for an Anzac Themed Poem to also share with you today as we remember those who fought so bravely for their country, to give future generations the life they now lead, I found this poem which seemed fitting as it beautifully describes the interpreted symbolism of the Poppy. I have copied this from http://www.anzacday.org.au/anzacservices/poetry/inquisitive.htm, who have a list of other Anzac and Remembrance Day related Poems.

"The inquisitive mind of a child"

Why are they selling poppies, Mummy?
Selling poppies in town today.
The poppies, child, are flowers of love.
For the men who marched away.

But why have they chosen a poppy, Mummy?
Why not a beautiful rose?
Because my child, men fought and died
In the fields where the poppies grow.

But why are the poppies so red, Mummy?
Why are the poppies so red?
Red is the colour of blood, my child.
The blood that our soldiers shed.

The heart of the poppy is black, Mummy.
Why does it have to be black?
Black, my child, is the symbol of grief.
For the men who never came back.

But why, Mummy are you crying so?
Your tears are giving you pain.
My tears are my fears for you my child.
For the world is forgetting again.

LEST WE FORGET.
 

My First ATC Swaps

Last Month I took part in my first ATC (Artistic Trading Card) Swaps which were being hosted by Shazz the lovely Scrap Lounge Owner.

The first one had an Easter Theme, whilst the second one was a Anzac Theme where we were asked to incorporate the colours Red White and Blue and Stars into our design.  

Today I received the wonderful ATC's from the other swap participants and I have to say I am loving the wide variety of styles and designs I received. Here is the two ATC's I created for this swap and I will post a photo of the others I received for you all to see in the next few days.

I loved creating these mini pieces of Art and now I have more of an idea of what I am doing or can do, I will definitely be on the look out to participate in some more.