I recently received the following email:

Heidi,
Hello my name is Teri. I have a son who just enlisted in the Navy on May 29th and my heart is broken. So these past couple of weeks I have been going on line to find ideas to scrap about my son. I have never done this and I thought it would be a great way to keep my mind positive and to show him I am proud of him. But I don't know anyone who scrapbooks and it is very hard to find ideas, even at the craft stores about the military. You have done an awesome job and it was though your pages that I have begun to smile. Do you have links to places that carry military papers, stickers,stamps etc. but most of all ideas? I also love your website and you help explain it very well. It's like you're here to help. Thank you for taking the time to help us beginners and also to show a Navy family that there is a way to get through this very scary time. I will keep you and your husband in my prayers and thank God for your positive view of military life.  Thank you and I hope to hear from you.  Teri
Dear Teri,
I am so glad that you stumbled upon my website and it actually did some good. Finding patriotic/military themed supplies can be a little difficult in the craft stores (Michael's, JoAnn, Target, WalMart.) However, I have listed a few companies that have a great selection of military scrapbook supplies.

K&Company (Great military specific papers and embellishments)
Karen Foster Designs (Awesome Navy paper and stickers)
NRN Designs (Vintage military paper)
Memories in Uniform (military die cuts)

If you cannot find these companies at your local scrapbook store, then they are available at these online stores.

Scrapbook.com
CreatingMilitaryMemories.com
ScrapYourTrip.com
AmericanCroppers.com

And if you want to just see a bunch of military layouts and feel inspired (both creative and patriotic), check out these website galleries.

TwoPeasinaBucket.com (the layouts made by "shmeethebee" are mine!)
MilitaryScrappers.com
ScrapbookMax.com (digital layouts)

Keep your chin up and be a support for your son. The Navy can be a great but challenging learning experience and adventure (for the family as well!) Scrapbooking military memories is a great way to focus on positive memories, mend your broken heart, and put worry on hold. When your son comes home, not only can you tell him how proud you are, but you'll have a heartfelt keepsake that shows him your pride. God bless you and your family and thank your son for his service and sacrifice.
Good luck!
Heidi

Do you have questions about scrapbooking? Email me at heidi@mycroproom.com and I'll publish the answer right here on My Crop Room.