Uniform of Honor

Today is ‘National Military Spouse Appreciation Day’. So I'm sharing a different type of dressing, one that's like no other.

 I never thought I’d be married to a US Naval Officer, but here I am proud and honored!

When we started dating 10 years ago, pause for ‘wow moment’, Mr was pursuing a career in medicine and I admired his heart for service and helping others.  But that passion went deeper.  He comes from a family of military service, father, both grandfathers and 3 uncles.  There is over 100 years of service combined!  So, you could say it’s in his blood. As we prepared for our wedding day nearly 6 years ago, we both prayed and came to the decision to join the US Navy where he would serve as a medical officer following the completion of his education.

I was so scared!  I honestly had no idea what that meant.  After leaving my career, my home in Charlotte, my friends and family, I believed my life was over.  Instead, I received the greatest blessing of my life, the privilege of being a military wife!

The sacrifice these service members and their families make for our freedom and protection is selfless, admirable and priceless.

I can also say with great passion and love that it’s the bond among us military wives that’s equally as invaluable!  My military gal pals are my sisters for life.  We support and encourage one another unconditionally.  They will have my heart forever! My gratitude is endless!!

While this isn’t an ‘outfit’ post I ask that you take a moment to recognize those in uniform and their families.  The camouflage, medals and boots represents much more than a job, it’s a symbol of strength, pride and honor!

Every once in a while, we need some encouragement to get through times of great challenge.

Here are some quotes that inspired & helped me through the tough times as a Navy Wife…

·         I’m the girl who waits months for a single kiss. A kiss that make the months apart worth every second

·         I may not be able to fill their shoes but I will always support our troops

·         She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blow her way (and it surely has not), she adjusted her sails -Elizabeth Edwards

·         No matter how far you go, no matter where you go, my heart is always with you

·         No matter how expensive the pillow is it could never be as comfortable as my husband’s shoulder

·         I’ll hold you in my heart until I can hold you in my arms.

·         I won’t give up on us, God knows I’m tough enough, We’ve got a lot to learn, God knows we’re worth it – Jason Mraz

·         I’ll Be Waiting. Every. Single. Time.

·         You are my favorite hello and my hardest goodbye

·         A successful marriage involves falling in love with the same person, many times.

·         The worst part is waiting. The best part is having someone worth waiting for.

·         You’re worth every mile between us

·         A strong woman is one who is able to smile like she wasn’t crying last night.

·         I refuse to sink

·         I keep myself busy with things to do but every time I pause, I still think of you.

·         I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy, I’m telling you it’s going to be worth it

·         Don’t judge that I’m one of the few girls strong enough to live this life. Don’t judge because I’m one of the few girls willing to make sacrifices to love a man half-way around the world. Respect me for giving love and support to a man fighting for our freedom.

·         One day we will won’t have to say goodbye, only goodnight

·         “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. – Joshua 1:9

·         Distance between two hearts is not an obstacle but a beautiful reminder of how strong our love can be

·         I believe in the immeasurable power of love; that true love can and endure any circumstance or reach across any distance

·         Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, “I will try again tomorrow.” – Mary Anne Radmacher

·         He risks his life for people he doesn’t even know, Imagine what he’ll do for me

·         Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, and love him always

·         With you, I’m home.

Dressed Beautifully in Honor, are the Men & Women Who Serve!

XOXO Sarah Louise

The Wives Club

Are you watching 'The Astronaut Wives Club' on ABC Thursday nights??
If not, get online, catch up and program your DVR.
I anxiously awaited it's premiere along with my neighbor, a fellow military wife.

You see, there is a strong and unique bond amongst the wives of men who bravely sacrifice and embark on dangerous missions.  It is us wives that are left behind to faithfully cheer them on, keep our home together and pray for their safe return.
We truly are steel magnolias wearing our smiles while often filled with fear inside.

This show depicts the wives perspective, a point of view rarely conveyed.  Though it takes place around 50 years ago, there are vast commonalities to today's military wives.
Over the past two years I have grown to lean and rely on fellow military wives for guidance, support and lots of laughter (mostly over glasses of wine)!

I served on a boards of non-profits composed of military spouses and was even president of one this past year. We come together in support of our country, husbands, each other and our community, for we know the great social and service needs.

We are often lonely, scared and wishing our husbands were home. I can count the number of days Mr has been home this year and that number isn't high. I know this next year will be a challenge but thank goodness for my 'wives' to get me through!

No matter your circumstance, we all need gal pals to cheers our good times and stand by our sides for the tough times.  If you aren't already, get together with your gal pals and form your own club (we're not too old!) single, married, mammas, what ever suits your fancy.

Book clubs are a great way to get together (supper clubs are great too but we all know the kitchen is foreign territory to me). I failed to share with you my summer readying list a couple months back - but honestly I read all year (the scenery's just better by the beach - Amen?!!)

The Astronaut Wives Club is a non-fiction book (the bases for the tv show).  I haven't read nonfiction since undergrad and surprisingly this was far from boring! It was on my book list as soon as I found out about it.  I read it in just a few days and found myself relating immensely to the astro wives.

I read almost every night before bed ... I find it to be a calming routine.

Here's what's on my list to read ....

I've read all of her books - great beach read

This one is trending on the book scene - I'm anxious to read

I recently met Kristy at a book signing! 

She's a delight and graciously gave me encouragement!

Several of my gal pals enjoy reading Elin's books - It's about time I join in

 Coming 8/4/2015

Jen is HILARIOUS! I literally LOL 

Coming  8/11/2015

Consider adding 'The Astronaut Wives Club' to your reading and watching list :)

Dress Beautifully at the Next Meeting of Your 'Wives' Club

XOXO Sarah Louise

A Life of Giving

Two years ago I left my home, career, friends and family to join Mr as he fulfilled a commitment to practice medicine in the US Navy.  I sit in amazement at the incredible journey it has been.  In the beginning I was a fish out of water, but I made a decision to bloom where I am planted and today I can say that I am a better person for this experience! I took the opportunity to impact the lives of others and embrace my world.  I served as the fundraising chairperson and now president for a non-profit that supports military families.

Two weeks ago my non-profit co-hosted, with a sister non-profit, a luncheon for military spouses.  This luncheon brings together spouses across multiple military bases in the spirit of camaraderie and service.  It involved months of planning for the committee to bring this event to fruition but it was well worth all the hard work. We graciously hosted 150 ladies for a lovely time in sharing special memories.

Our focus was on inspiring our guests to make a life of giving regardless of the circumstances. See, for military spouses we often come second to the job, we move a lot, and we are often separated for long periods of time.  These things can be very discouraging, but they can also be an opportunity.

No matter your situation and responsibilities you are a special and valuable person that has a lot to share.  Each and every one of us has gifts and talents that can be used to give to our family and community. Whether it's at home or to a broader audience, I encourage you to find your passion and use it to give.  There is no gift too small.  As we grow and travel on the journey of life things change and your giving will too, so do what you can when you can!

"We Make a Life By What We Give, Not By Where We Live"

This quote was the focus of our luncheon.  We had four speakers that each had a turning point that brought them to a life of giving.  Each giving in different ways, they were able to provide insight and inspiration for others to find their own way to give.  Rather than stand at a podium, we set up a stage resembling a front porch - they spoke to each other as if we were looking in on a conversation among friends.

Our theme was lemons, linen & lace.  We wanted a fresh, light and simple feel and yellow is the color for friendship. The femininity of vintage linens and a touch of lavender was added for a soft & lovely detail.

Here are some photos from the luncheon

Handmade Keepsakes for Each Guest: Lavender Sachets & Wooden Lemon Coasters 

Centerpieces

 Love these Navy Gals

Dress Beautifully with a Life of Giving

XOXO Sarah Louise

32 & Dancin Like I'm 22

My 32nd birthday was this past Saturday and was such a blessing that I just have to share.

Mr's been away for a month :( he's coming home on Thursday and I can hardly stand it!!! I plan on squeezing the stuffins out of him and basically kissing his face off!! I only have him for 3 days then he's back out but I'm going to cherish each moment.

But I wasn't worried, just as Mr's missed almost all my birthdays for the past 9 years - result of long distance love, my gal pals swoop in every year to celebrate!

It started Friday night with dinner and a sleepover - We watched movies and painted nails - Perfect TGIF!

Lemon Cake with Pink Frosting and Little White Candied Pearls #Perfection

Make a Wish!!!

Check out that candle we had to borrow from the neighbor's kid :) 

I can't tell you how grateful I was not to have to wake up by myself (sorry Scragley but you lack thumbs and ability to respond with words - meow doesn't count) 

I got a surprise FaceTime in bed - BESTEST present!  I hadn't seen his handsome face this month and barely have spoken.  

Then there was the delicious birthday breakfast - belgian waffles, fruit, and black coffee.  If you don't have a waffle maker, go get this one! It's amazing and perfect for hosting brunch as it makes 2 at a time - ultimate crowd pleaser for adults & kiddos. 

I was spoiled rotten with pretty pretty presents!  Even my gal pals from far away sent me love xoxo

Yes I FINALLY got a lemon tree - I've been asking for one for years but my history for killing plants has Mr refusing.  So a gal pal stepped in ...

Last year I spent 31 with my fellow Navy wife gal pals on a trip to Charleston and this year I got to celebrate with them again but this time we were feeling sporty and adventured to try Curling!!

Confession: I've never ever played a sport - unless you count dancing or the marching band and no one ever does. 

I LOVED IT!!!!!

It was so much fun!  And learning together, cheering each other on was the best part.  We even got to play each other in a game once we mastered the basics.  

Yes my birthday #ootd was neon athletic wear!  

We finished the night with pizza and a birthday song! 

When I got home I found my front lawn decorated with a fleet of ships & balloons from the Naval Hospital

Thanks to all my friends near and far for the cards, messages and wishes!  

April 25th really is the perfect date!! - one of my all time favorites! 

Birthdays are special as they are a celebration of the blessing of another year of life.

God still has a purpose and plan for me and I'm looking forward to the adventures 32 has in store! 

Dress Beautifully - Like it's Your Birthday! 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Ladies Who Lunch

Today I hosted a luncheon for a group of lovely ladies and fellow military wives.  We are all members of 'Gourmet Club'. We meet once a month to enjoy a 5 course meal and great company.  There is a rotation amongst the members to host and cook (I clearly host!)

Hosting a dinner party can be intimidating to some, for me southern hospitality is in my blood.  Welcoming others into my home is a way to serve and extend love.  My home isn't grand nor do I have the fanciest of serving ware. Here's the truth: the company is what matters! (and maybe the food, hence I leave that to someone else)

We vary the cuisine each month sampling the delicious flavors of different cultures from all over the world.

I joined this club over a year ago to meet other women and in great hopes of learning to cook.  Regretfully, I still dread the kitchen but I do have a new appreciation of a delicious meal and friendships I cherish.

This month our luncheon captured the cuisine of New Orleans in celebration of Mardi Gras.

For my tablescape I kept it simple but with vibrant colors.  I filled glass cylindrical vases with ornaments I already owned and strung beads throughout.  I added a few masks and used gold for the place settings.  

For the cocktail I made a King's Cup.  It's tangy and includes a topping of champagne and colored sugar! And if that wasn't enough, I was able to use my new bar cart, Cheers!

Tip: to add sugar to the glass rim simply coat a paper napkin with coconut syrup and apply to the rim, then dip into a plate of sugar. I used a mix of purple & green for extra fun!

For the appetizer we nibbled on Muffuletta Skewers and Spinach Balls with Creole Mustard Sauce 

We sipped on a White and Rose Wine. 

Spring Salad with Spicy Sweet Pecans & Strawberries 

Oyster & Artichoke Soup

Shrimp Étouffée with Rice

Banana Foster 

Cheers! 

Tip: straws save your lipstick ... and they add extra fun :) 

Host Gracefully

XOXO Sarah Louise