52 Weeks of Blogging with a purpose

My friend, over at One Feisty Family, sent me a link to this "52 Weeks of Blogging with a purpose". Becky (From Mrs. to Mama) came up with the idea. It sounded fun and what a great way to keep up weekly with blogging.



I'm a little behind, so this week I'll play catch up over the next few days. I hope you all enjoy this and encourage you to do the same if you are a blogger.

Va.Ca.tion

Right now we are on our 2nd annual family vacation in Florida. Last year we stayed in Destin for a week and this year we are in Pensacola for over a week. Last year we decided a week was a little too short. Can I just say, that I LOVE the Gulf Coast. I would live here if I could. The water is beautiful, the sand is white and soft between the toes. 

So you are probably wondering, why is she blogging while in paradise? Well today we have had continuous rain and at times downpours. The camper is a little small after a few hours. 

Anyways, if you've never been to the Gulf, it's a bucket list must. So far during our stay we have visited the lighthouse here in Pensacola (that's supposedly haunted), had a date night in Gulf Breeze, visited Ft. Pickens, visited the beach-several times- deep sea fishing in the gulf, and toured the Naval Aviation Museum. On top of all that excitement we have had the privilege to watch the Blue Angels practice, since they are so close to our campground. Stay tuned for more fun pictures and stories. For now I will leave you with this:

Memorial Day

Today is Memorial Day, as we all know. I'm going to be honest for a minute here with you. When I was a child I knew what Memorial Day was, but I mainly focused on the idea of having a day off from school and barbecuing. Then I married a military man. Now Memorial Day is a day of reverence. A day to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our country and the families that have made the same sacrifice. 

I think of my dear friend Emily. I remember we had just moved into our home in Washington. I was new to the "active duty Army life" and I saw this woman setting up her own fence in her back yard. I thought to myself, "wow! that woman is tough and strong". Unfortunately only a month later, Emily's true strength would be tested. Tom was killed May 28, 2007 in Iraq. I never met Tom, he deployed before I had the honor or knowing him. Emily has done such a wonderful job of honoring and remembering Tom that I feel as if I have always known him.  Tom was a father, brother, son, friend, and husband. Emily is not the only one who has lost the love of her life - there are others. Fathers who have never met their newborn/unborn babies, sons who will never marry and have families of their own. 

Today, please stop whatever you are doing, pause for just a moment, and remember those who have given their lives for you. Remember the families who have lost their loved ones. Today is not a day to thank those who currently serve our country (that's Veterans Day) but to remember those who have died serving. 

Yay Baby Seester

I was on a roll with this blogging thing, then bam! The door is shut and silence. I went to Montana to see my sister (baby) graduate from college. Since being back home I had my final week of classes, my parents here, Christian's birthday, Mother's Day, volunteering at the kids' school, and trying to put my house back on the clean list. So....that's why I've been bad about blogging.

Back to my sister's graduation. I'm so proud of here. She has such a heart for children, especially those with special needs. She has struggled through school her while life and had to take a break from college to care for our mom at one point. She is so selfless and giving. It was such a great opportunity to celebrate her and her achievement together a a family. My parents were very gracious and bought me and my brother plane tickets to come see her graduate. I wish we could've all been there- but it was neat to have the "original family" together again. I think the last time it was the five of us, it was 1999.

Dairy free Ranch Dressing

I found the best Dairyfree/Vegan Ranch Dressing recipe. I make it all the time and in fact, I found a dairy free ranch at the commissary but everyone loves this one. Click here for the link.

The only product you may not have on hand is the veganaise. I have found it at Publix or any specialty super market.

Five favorite smells

I find it amazing that a particular smell can remind you of a special event, make you feel safe, or turn your tummy. Today I'm going to share with you my five favorite smells and please comment what your five favorites are. This will be fun!

1. Gain 

2. Rain/thunderstorm after a hot summer day

3. Clean babies

4. Flowers (but seriously, who doesn't like the smell of flowers)

5. My husband

This is going to be gross, but I love the smell of his deodorant and body wash. When he is all clean, his smell relaxes and comforts me.

Pineapple/banana smoothie

I found this smoothie on Pinterest and had to share since it was so stinkin' good.

1 1/2 cup pineapple (fresh is best!)
1 banana
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup ice
1/2 cup water or pineapple juice (I use water)

Blend and enjoy!