First let's start with Happy Memorial Day While you may be celebrating start-of-summer-style take a moment to remember those who have fallen in service. We live in a place with so many wonderful opportunities - there is a lot to be thankful for.
Our offices will be closed on Monday in observance of the holiday but we wanted to share some goodies with you.
Have you heard of Sword and Plough? Company founders Emily and Betsy Nunez were born at West Point into a military family. This company uses surplus military material (from clothing tents etc) and turns them into stylish backpacks totes and more with the goal of empowering veteran employment and reducing waste.
They are currently still seeking funding but you can see a few styles here
From Memorial Day through Labor Day participating Blue Star Museums (many here in our area) are offering FREE admission to any active duty U.S. military and their families. The list includes: Army Navy Air Force Marines Coast Guard as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve U.S. Public Health Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Corps and up to five family members. Participating locations include: Gainesville The Harn Museum of Art Camp Blanding Museum & Memorial Park in Starke Lightner Museum in St. Augustine Lakeland Explorations V Children's Museum Orlando & Winter Park Orange County Regional History Center Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College Get a full list here
Let's face it IT's HOT! but what else is new in Florida. Cool down with this awesome recipe for a Cucumber Mint French Gimlet from Oh So Beautiful Paper. Refreshing and easy to make with only 6 ingredients - what more can you ask for!
As far as food we are totally inspired by these burger recipes from Food 52:
Or take a stab (get it? stab!) at these strawberry shortcake skewers seen here on our Pinterest.
Did you visit last week's Watermelon Festival? Grab some cookie cutters and try a fun fruit salad of star-shaped watermelon strawberries and blueberries - perfect for a Memorial Day meal (and little fingers). Try blending a bit of honey sea salt and crushed mint for some extra KA-POW! (Photo from Wit & Whistle)