[Eddy Smiles]

With Hurricane Fay churning through Florida I had lots of time to work on projects today...

A while back I read an article in our local newspaper about a female veteran who once back in the US was diagnosed with PTSD and MS. What got to me as I read her story was her fighting spirit, her concern that she didn't want to appear weak, and that she was determine not to let her illnesses get her down. As a veteran myself the story tugged at my heart strings and I felt that I had to send her a card or something so I sent an email to the newspaper. Much to my surprise, a month later, I recieved a reply from the young woman with her address.

That's when I decided to whittle her one of my bears and send her a card too. The bear is typical of most of my endeavors, carved from laminated 2" x 2" x 6" empress wood and finished in acrylics and water based matte polyurethane. I attempted to duplicate the cammo digital design worn by our troops in Iraq on the T-shirt but found that it's a lot easier said than done.

I cheated on the Army insignia. I wanted it to come out looking professional and be very clear so after measuring the size that I needed I printed out the design on my computer using Microsoft Publisher. Then I sprayed the paper until I wet it all the way through with Krylon Workable Fixtif. After that it was just a matter of cutting it out and gluing it on the bears back using Titebond II.

The cammo was applied after the Army insignia was glued on and the polyurethane was applied over everything.

[catbird]

You are the nicest man...what a sweet story. She will love your bear and especially the thought.
I want to be just like you when I grow up!
Catbird

[Blinky Bill]

He's a real cutie Eddy......and what a boost to the young lady in question. Bet she'll be tickled pink by your gift........That's a really fine thing you're doing there Eddy, and I congratulate you!
Regards
John........Downunder

[Dan Wegiel]

Wonderful story and the carving you did for her has to make her happy. Being a vet myself I know exactly how you feel.

Semper Fi

Dan

[Ron T]

Hi Eddy,

I knew I liked you for a reasaon. Here's another, your big heart.

I'm impressed with the level of detail that you strive for in each of your carvings.

[BrandantR]

Eddie, you are awesome. When I grow up I want to be just like you. I'm sure she will appreciate your thoughtful attempt at brightening her day. Well done my friend.

[Sharon of the Dell]

you're a sweetie for sure! that's really cool. good idea on the army insignia.

[Toffeeliz]

wow. from one soul to another. I bet she'll be dead chuffed when she gets it

[Eddy Smiles]

Catbird... I don't know how nice I am but I do have a special place in my heart for vets. When ever I'm out if I see someone in uniform or if I see someone who is obviously a veteran and wearing a ball cap with his or her service or unit on it I'll go up and thank them for their service. This country doesn't fully appreciate the sacrifices that our young men and women are making for us!

[gene messer]

Well Eddy .. I can see this little guy didnt get blown over from the wind .. the tough get going they always say ..

great job Eddy

Gene