The front page article of TDS Issue 11 written by Joy Kuoha is about USA Independence but it's also mainly how we see ourselves and what independence really means to each us - in different countries living different lives. Reading through the answers on Page 2 of the article, we can conclude that all of us want to have the freedom to chose what we want for our own lives.

For me, independence holds a deeper meaning. Brought up by traditional values where parents' words are law, I fought for the choice of college I want and the husband in the eyes of many, a security risk [laugh]. We lead the unconventional life of a modern nomad, like those of the marines but only we can't use that as an excuse since my husband is an independent businessman. For many years, I struggle with my identity, lacking a proper job because of our travel. When I started designing and eventually founded TheDailyScrapper, I finally have the 'career' I can identify myself with. With this comes the value of independence that I didn't even realize I have - the independence of choosing how I can work for a living. When to wake up, when to take a break and when to make a spur of the moment trip for instance. It's a freedom of choices that I am only beginning to appreciate now.

What about you? Tell us what you think independence means to you. Send me an e-mail so I can include it into the article.

We had a chance to call Stacy, owner of Gotta Pixel to talk about the store and how she managed it. She and her team of designers have created a collaborative kit, Tropical Retreat specially for TDS readers in the Interview section. Be sure to get the coupon codes for the scheduled downloads available in the TDS Store.

In this issue too, we introduce TDS Studio. This exclusive club brings you the best kits twice monthly by talented designers and designers from hand-picked digital stores. Our launch issue sees Armina Designs' kit, Radiant Grunge on display. Enjoy the exclusive and classy way of our art work presentation and you can contribute to a layout too when you subscribe to our membership.

Need more great kits for this summer layouts? Head to Products Highlight and Hybrid Projects sections and see what our team of artists have done with the kits. Enjoy special discount when you purchase them through our site.

Happy browsing and as always... enjoy being creative!

Alice Koh
TDS founder & editor

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