Red, white, and Blueberries!
If you get a chance, please see this important post.
The linked post really sums up my thoughts about today’s significance to me. No matter where you are, please also take a moment to remember all of the brave men and women who are willing to give up their lives to protect our freedom. Never take that freedom for granted.
(This is an old photo. Since it’s only 9am, I don’t yet have any photos from this year.)
Oh wait, yes I do have some Memorial Day photos from this year:
I’m bringing the above dessert to a neighborhood party today. If it’s well-received, I’ll hopefully get the recipe up later this week or next. But tomorrow’s post is even more exciting.
Question of the Day:
Do you know anyone who’s served in the armed forces?
Both my grandpas fought in the army. And a few of my friends–including the girl whose wedding I just blogged about–are married to soldiers. I can’t even imagine how hard it must be for them to say goodbye to their husbands every time they go off to fight. I’m so so grateful to the people who protect the freedom of others they’ve never even met… how on earth can I ever thank them? There are not enough words to convey how thankful I am for their incredible sacrifice.
Tomorrow is Cookie Pie!
Sneak preview: Deep-Dish Cookie Pie
🙂
Kate (What Kate is Cooking) says
Both of my grandfathers are veterans, and two of my uncles have served. I also have three friends and two cousins serving! I can’t imagine being married to someone in the service- it would be so hard to say goodbye!
Hannah says
wow, that deep dish cookie pie looks incredible! can’t wait for tomorrow 🙂
Hannah says
also, just read your post about supporting our troops! beautifully said, and I also wanted to applaud you for your response to “anonymous” about thinking for oneself and not following our leaders blindly. I couldn’t agree more.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Thanks so much, Hannah!
Jennifer JCD says
I live in a military town, so every other person I know is part of a military family. They are some of the nicest, kindest, and humble people I know. They deserve to be recognised and honoured every day. 🙂
VeggieGirl says
Yep, both of my brothers have served – they were Majors.
Mellie says
My grandpa served but that was before I was born so I’ve never had to say good-bye to someone going off to war…I hope I never go through that. How horrible. I pray for all the families of soldiers.
Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine says
Amen. Both my grandfathers fought in WWII, as well as my paternal grandmother, who was a marine and a WASP pilot. Her story is so amazing- though I absolutely am 100% thankful for all the men in our armed services, I think the women deserve special recognition because people don’t realize how many there are!
Carrie (Moves 'N Munchies) says
i dont know any personally who has served. but i still feel that connection to the US even though ive never really lived thre! im a USA gal at heart! ( Cali gal more specifically!) thank u for this awesome post to remind us about this holiday even though its not a holiday here!.. ps.. cookie pie ! my oh my!! 😉
Melanie says
Both of my parents were in the US Air Force. It’s where they met, actually.
Emily says
Gorgeous photo! And that dessert doesn’t look too bad either 😉
Thanks for reminding us what this day is all about!
Melissa says
Both of my grandfathers were/are veterans of WWII and the Korean War. The guy I dated for 5 years was in the Marines. We were together through a tour to Iraq and it was more than tough worrying about him day in and day out when I knew he was patrolling the streets of Fallujah daily. I am so incredibly grateful to everyone who puts themselves out there to protect our freedom. I agree–there are no words that do it justice. The one thing I wish is that the military would do more to re-assimilate soldiers into civilian life after they’ve been on a tour of duty. You can’t see death and war everyday and then just come home and pretend like everything is normal. I think that’s the part of serving that most people don’t acknowledge. It is truly an incredible sacrifice.
Jenny says
I remember that picture! I really like the photo-editing you did on it: highlighting red, white, and blue. You’ve got such a great smile!
I live in Canada, but we still have troops overseas… Someone I work with served recently, and honestly I can’t really fully comprehend what they’ve gone through. I deeply appreciate the fact that there are people putting their lives on the front lines so that those back home can rest in peace, though. My grandfather served in WWII, and ended up with a couple of battle wounds and the like… I agree with another poster who said that the real sacrifice is putting yourself out there to witness death and destruction, and potentially even cause it. 🙁 The thought itself is scary… so yes! Lots of overflowing appreciation from me.
Happy Memorial Day, though! No holiday in Canada today, but thanks for reminding me to remember the troops anyway. Have a great day! Looking forward to your new recipes!
Cait @ Beyond Bananas says
A few uncles of mine have served – as well as both of my grandfathers; my mother’s father was awared a purple heart. My great uncle also served during WWI – and lost his life. He is buried somewhere in the Czech Republic and i would love to be able to get there someday to honor him.
lindsay says
am thankful beyond belief for this freedom. Freedom to laugh, play, and live life with JOY. Without the service of these men and women, we would not have those precious moments. Thanks for sharing this kaite, happy memorial day.
Katie says
Three of my Grandfathers and a great uncle served in World War II and I also have two friends (one in Afghanistan, one in Iraq) who are currently serving. I really admire their bravery. I like to think I am tough, but I’m pretty sure I would be terrified every day if I was there. Please keep my friends in your thoughts and prayers, especially now, their names are Derek and Steve. 🙂
Damjana says
Image widgets are a brilliant idea! They are so cute and yet simple. I looked at the source code to see how exactly they’re done (I might be a copycat but tribute goes to YOU).
Btw. the link to your Foodbuzz profile seems to be broken at the moment. Is it just me or..?
I’m going to make your chocolate chip blondies soon, they mustn’t be missed! 😉
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Thanks for telling me! I need to fix it! Dunno what’s wrong 😕
Siobhan Elizabeth says
Thank you for your post today, and your kind words! They are greatly appreciated. I served in the Air Force from 2003 until last year, and spent all of 2007 in Iraq; my fiance just retired from the Army after 21 years of service (we added up his tours overseas – 10 of those years were spent deployed!); my uncle, grandfathers and great uncles together have fought in every war imaginable; a few days ago my Great Grandmother showed me an ancient purple heart belonging to her brother who died shortly after D Day… It was awe inspiring to say the least. I guess you could say we have a long history of military service in my family… Anyway, I love your blog, and I wanted to say thank you on behalf of my entire family! It was nice to see this morning. =)
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Oh gosh, I have to be the one to thank YOU. What you did for me and so many others… I can’t EVER thank you enough. Ever.
tea-bag says
my japanese (us born) grandpa fought for america during wwii. he went to japan and used his japanese language skills to translate. while there, he met my grandma and they fell in love, had a baby, and eventually moved back to the us!
i’ll never forget his sacrifice. he fought for the us even when his family was being sent to internment camps and his fellow soldiers outcasted him out of racism.
all military members are true heroes – whether they have stars or medals to prove it! 🙂
ps – i hope those bars are well received – i want that recipe! 🙂
Erika @ Health and Happiness in LA says
The majority of people in my family have served! My dad was in the Army, so I was an Army brat. My great-grandpa fought in WWI, my grandpa fought in Korea, my aunt and uncle were in the Air Force, my uncle was in the Marines, my cousin is a Marine and just got back from Afghanistan, and then lots of people from my hometown are currently in the military, too — my mom’s best friend is in the Army, as is my ex-boyfriend, a friend is in the Navy, and on and on… My mom has made it very clear that if my brother ever tries to join the military she will kidnap him and take him to Canada.
Holly @ The Runny Egg says
Yes I’ve had relatives and friends who have served. Anyone who has served deserves to be honored and respected.
Isabella says
I’ll try to put this to good use imeediatmly.
Kathleen @ KatsHealthCorner says
My grandpa served in WWII. I can barely believe how not far in the past it occurred.
Faith @ lovelyascharged says
My grandfather served in WW2 – I’m so proud of him and am always so touched by the service of the selfless men and women who he served with (and those in other wars and endeavors as well!)
Tori (Fresh Fruition) says
I know a few people who have served. It’s awesome that we have a day just to thank them for al the amazing things they’ve done!
Averie (LoveVeggiesandYoga) says
thanks for remembering to thank all our service people in your post, Katie!
My grandfathers both served in the military and my dad went to Vietnam.
I love the red white and blue theme you have going on. And those bars with the raspberry on top….yum 🙂
Emma (Sweet Tooth Runner) says
That post you wrote is beautiful!! You have such a way with words! I have an uncle who died serving in Iraq, and that really made me realise as you said how huge the sacrifice is to lay down your life for those who you don’t even know! My respect for those serving is endless and they’re always in my prayers.
P.S. You’d better share that recipe, or else!! And I am looking forward to tomorrow’s post SO much you have no idea!! 😀
P.P.S. That photo of you and your mum is awesome- you both look so GORGEOUS 🙂
Lorin says
What type of food processor do you recommend? I want one that can also make peanut butter.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Hmmm… I just use a Cuisinart that we’ve had for years!
Serena says
My grandfather served a long time before I was born, but he was an orphan and had no one to send him off. I can imagine how hard it was for women and mothers to send their children and husbands off to war.
Moni'sMeals says
Happy Memorial Day Katie!
Great post and you are so compassionate. (something we both really have in common.)
I remember this pic from last year. 🙂
Love the new side bar too!
Hope you have a nice day.
kaila @ healthy helper! says
I am definitely a big lover of memorial day because a lot of people in my family are in the armed forces….I am so thankful everyday that we have people so many people willing to put themselves in harms way for the sake of others! Happy Memorial day!
Tabitha says
Both of my parents served in the Army. That’s how they met. I also have a grandfather and a few uncles who have served in the military. Over the years, I’ve known and loved several people who’ve served. My old high school love is currently deployed in Kuwait. But currently, my heroes are my sister and brother-in-law. They are both deployed in Iraq right now, and have left their 2-yr.-old daughter for a year while they serve our country. My parents, who should be empty-nesters now, are caring for her while Chelsea and Brad are away. I can’t even begin to imagine the sacrifice they are making. I got to Skype with them today while I was watching my niece, and I was so proud to know and be a part of their lives. Even though this day is meant to memorialize those who have fought and died, I’m just as thankful for those who have made this sacrifice and will come home to us safe. : )
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Wow, please tell them thank you for me. I know they don’t know me, but I am SO thnakful people like your family members exist.
Groff's Girl says
Hi Katie!
My husband has been in the US Air Force for almost 15 years. We just moved to Germany for a four year post. Before this we were in Okinawa, Japan for 3 years (where our 2nd son was born) Korea for 2 years and Vegas for 3 years before that. He will deploy next year, and I often get asked if I will go ‘home’ while he is gone. The funny thing is that my ‘home’ is the home I create overseas where ever we are posted! We a grateful for the chance to travel the world and learn many cultures, while giving our children an amazing sense of the world! It is very hard to be without family, and to go years inbetween visits. We build family everywhere we go because those we are stationed with become the only family we have near us! It is a hard life sometimes and there are a lot of sacrifices, but I don’t think I could ever be more proud of the man I married or more proud to say what he represents! It is truly an honor to see posts like this and hear that people keep our servicemembers in their thoughts no matter where they may be! Thank you, Katie!!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Please give him an extra hug for me!!
And, your son is going to have SUCH an advantage someday when it comes to knowing and understanding the workings of the world… I am so grateful for my own crazy upbringing, where I lived in Japan, China, the Philippines, London, and around the US. I wouldn’t trade it for anything!
Jeanie says
Katie,
Happy Memorial Day to U 2! I have quite a few family members who served in military. Thanks for sharing this!
I defintely want the receipe for the choc chip cookie pie! That looks yummy!
Have a blessed Day!
Eric Jaffa says
It doesn’t make us safer to have troops stationed around the world.
It makes us hated and less safe.
Our military budget is bigger than the rest of the world’s put together. We’d be safer with a military budget proportional to other countries.
With regard to America being a free country: We’re a country in which ordinary citizens can’t board a plane without having their underwear searched with scanners and/or frisking.
We’re a country in which the FBI can write its own warrants called National Security Letters to spy on us.
We’re a country in which the police are allowed to knock down our doors without a warrant if they think they hear evidence being destroy inside.
Kristen @ The Red Velvet Life says
So important to remember our service men and women, Katie! I have family members on my mom’s side who served and an ex-boyfriend who served in Iraq. I spent a great deal of time at Fort Hood when he came back from Iraq and a lot of time on the computer webcam while he was serving in Baghdad. I’m so thankful for the people for fight for our country; it takes so much courage on their part. Have a beautiful day, lovely!
LizAshlee says
Hey Sexy Lady!!
My very good friend was in the Air Force & her husband is still serving. I am very grateful for all of the courageous men & women who have served & who continue to serve our country!
Oh yes I did take a sneak peak…can’t wait for the recipe! How do you do what you do?!:)
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Hehe I dream in cookie dough! 😉
Mary @ Bites and Bliss says
Most ofmy friends, family, and boyfriend have served in the military. My grandfathers served in WWII and my grandmothers were nurses..so it’s all very close. 🙂
Justeen @ Blissful Baking says
I can’t wait to see the recipe for that deep dish cookie pie, it looks absolutely divine!!
Tiina McKay says
Hey Hon!
Love your blog! Haven’t commented on here before but I’ve been eyeing your delicious looking recipes for a while now 🙂 I actually came on here to grab the Blondie Batter Dip recipe for a quick afternoon snack and saw this post (and the link to last years post on supporting the troops). Just wanted to say a quick thank you for the lovely words! My hubby is in the Army and will be deploying in Feb for a year. Obviously I am very nervous but our son and I will have it much better than he will, so I can’t complain. I actually grew up in a communist country. You’re absolutely right, never take freedom for granted.
Well, off to make some healthy dippage 😉
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Will you please give him a hug for me and tell him how grateful I am for his (and your entire family’s!) sacrifice?
Tiina McKay says
Absolutely! And the dip was yummy, the hubs even liked it 🙂 Thanks for sharing all your yummy recipes!
Cait's a Runnerchick says
great sentiment to those who serve our country! my grandfather served and i have a friend with a brother away right now.
i hope your BBQ party is a blast and i’m sure your tasty delights will be a hit. can’t wait to see more about that cookie pie!! 🙂
Tara says
My grandparents are the only people that I know personally who have served. One was a doctor in the navy and one was deployed at the end of the Korean war. I don’t know anyone who has lost their life in war, and I thank goodness for that. I respect soldiers so much for their service and I really feel for people that have lost loved ones in battle.
So excited for that cookie pie 🙂
Errign says
My uncle served and one of my best friend’s brothers was KIA 2010 Afghanistan. Honestly, before Marc was killed, Memorial Day was just a long weekend with BBQ and friends, but now, I truly appreciate the SACRIFICE our soldiers make, whether they are fighting for a cause I believe in or support. Supporting THEM has nothing to do with supporting the war.
I had blueberries & cherries with breakfast 🙂
Alyssa says
Happy Memorial Day! Ate at a great vegan restaurant today in Denver and thought of you!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Aw happy Memorial Day to YOU, sweetie (blueberry) pie! 🙂
Jemma @ Celery and Cupcakes says
Your deep dish cookie pie looks amazing! I can’t wait to hear about the recipe. 😀
Mowenackie says
My husband is Army infantry. He’s been to both Iraq and Afghanistan, both times for a year-long deployment. He just got back from The Stan in December. Thanks for your kind words and appreciation!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Please give him a hug and tell him how much his sacrifice means to me. I know my appreciation won’t really make a difference or make it easier on your family… but I just want him to know that someone really really really appreciates his incredible bravery and your incredible sacrifice to let him go.
Rosa says
Its funny (funny interesting not funny haha) to read some of these posts and remember that the military doesnt play as huge of a role in everyones life like it did/does mine. I grew up in a HUGE mlitary town, my Grandfather served in WW2, 2 uncles served in the Air force, my father was army, my grandfather-in-law was n WW2, MOST of my friends haved been deployed, a couple werent lucky enough to come back safely, a cousin who is currently deployed to Iraq, one brother-in-law was medically retired (recieved an purple heart for injuries while deployed) my other brother-in-law is Air Force, I was in the Marines, and my husband earned 2 purple hearts for injuries he got while deployed with the Special Forces. (he is currently out of the Army but trying to get back in) 🙂 TO THOSE THAT POSTED ABOVE ME (AND THOSE THAT HAVE YET TO POST):: please thank those service members of yours whether family and loved ones for me, my family and I are truley grateful! (especially the military wives, people often forget that its one of the hardest jobs in the world sometimes!) 😉
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
And Rosa, will YOU please thank your own family (as well as yourself) for the enormous sacrifice they’ve made for us? I am 100% sure I speak for more than just myself when I say that there’s no way we can ever repay this sacrifice.
Alex says
i love how thin you are! i use you as thinspo allllll the time, especially this pic of you and the fashion post. whenever i want to eat i read your blog and your willpower rubs off on me!!! thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Becka says
You look skeletal. If you want to gain weight, why do you post such light foods?