




I found this easy to make wreath that can be saved and used over and over for all patriotic holidays!
From GardenCare.org:
DIY PATRIOTIC FELT WREATH
Today we are sharing an easy DIY Patriotic Felt Wreath. This wreath is easy to make and the use of felt keeps the cost low too.
You too can easily make this wreath with just a few supplies. The straw wreath form is from Wal-Mart and is under $3.00. It was wrapped in cellophane and I just left it on. I used 5 sheets each of blue, white and red felt and straight pins to attach the felt pieces to the wreath form. Sheets of felt are around 25 cents a piece.

Step 1: Hand draw a tear drop pattern on a thin piece of cardboard. This tear drop shape measures 2 inches long and an inch and a quarter at it’s widest point.
Step 2: Cut out the tear drop shape and use as a template to cut similar shaped pieces from the felt. At first I traced the pattern on the felt with a pencil. I quickly realized that this method was going to take a while, so I started cutting through two pieces of felt at a time, and that made the process go a lot faster. I cut as many tear drops as I could get out of each piece of felt.
Note: Depending on how big your pattern is, and how close you pin the pieces together, will determine the amount of felt pieces you need. I used almost all of the pieces I cut.
Step 3: Fold the bottom edges together to make a petal shape and attach to the wreath with a straight pin.
Step 4: Work in a slanted pattern starting at the outside edge of the wreath form and work to the center of the wreath form. The blue felt was added last.
Step 5: The use of felt makes this a vibrant and colorful wreath! I attached a few white foam star stickers on the blue felt to finish the wreath.
This wreath comes together in just a couple of days. It did take some time to cut out all the felt pieces, but it was worth it!
SOURCE: GARDENCARE.ORG
Pat’s Note: There were no other pictures with this project, sorry.

General Information about Live Oaks:
The Quercus virginiana is also known as the Southern live oak tree.
The live oak tree is a southern symbol of strength.
The live oak tree is the state tree of Georgia.
The U.S.S. Constitution reportedly received its nickname, “Old Ironsides,” during the War of 1812 because of its live oak hull. The hull was so tough that the cannon balls of the British war ships literally bounced off it.
Live oak trees are planted in historical cities for their character and appearance.
Live oak trees weigh over 55 pounds per cubic foot when air dried.
Live Oak Tree Fruit:
Live oak trees product sweet edible acorns that turkeys, ducks, jays, quail, deer and other animals like to feed on.
Live oak trees start producing acorns when they are around 20 years old.
Live Oak Tree Growth & Life:
Live oak trees can live for hundreds of years!
The name live oaks came from the fact that they remain green and “alive” throughout the winter when other oak trees are dormant and leafless.
The name live oak came from the fact that they remain green and “alive” throughout the winter when other oak trees are dormant and leafless.
Live oak trees can grow in forests, in front of buildings such as schools, parking lots, gardens, backyards and more.
Live oak trees also grow by oceans. They do great resisting the salt spray.
Live oak trees support many types of epiphytic plants (including Spanish moss to a point); giving live oak trees more character.
The live oak tree grows 1 inch of caliper and around 2-4 feet overall per year when young.
A mature live oak tree can draw up to 50 gallons+ per day through it’s tap root deep in the ground.
Live Oak Tree Uses:
The live oak tree is the broadest spreading of the oaks producing an abundance of shade.
Live oak tree wood is very strong and tough and is often used for structural beams and posts.
Live oak trees were used in colonial times to make ships for the navy.


These cookies are supposed to be a cross between traditional Sugar Cookies and Snickerdoodles…Cinnamon Cookies!

Ingredients
1 cup sugar (or 1/2 cup each brown and white)
1⁄2 cup butter
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1⁄2 cups flour
1 1⁄2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
cinnamon sugar
Instructions
Combine the butter and sugar in a stand mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla, then mix on medium until blended. Turn the mixer off.
Mix the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Then add it to the mixer.
Start on low, mixing the flour into the butter, until a dough forms.
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for approximately 2 hours. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when molded.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
Portion the cookie dough into 3/4-inch balls. Then roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar, coating well.
Place the cookie dough onto the baking sheet, leaving one inch between each cookie.
Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the edges start to turn brown.
Remove the tray from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool slightly.
Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool them completely.
ENJOY!

What color are flamingos when they’re born?
What animal is known for having 32 brains?
Which animals have rectangular pupils?
What do you call the underside of a horse’s hoof?

What percentage of their lives do cats spend sleeping?
What’s the primary food source for koalas?
What item do toucans toss back and forth using their beaks during their mating ritual?
Which animal can distinguish the greatest variety of smells?
What possession do otters hold onto?

Which sea creature can be broken into five pieces and still survive?
What’s the main way cats show they trust someone?
What animal can only eat when its head is upside down?
How do honeybees communicate to one another that they’ve found the best pollen?
Where are the only two places in the world where lions live in the wild?

Which aquatic animal is the most poisonous in the world?
So, how did you do?

ANSWERS
White-gray
Leech
Many hoofed animals, including goats, sheep, deer, antelope, horses and cattle
The frog
60% to 80%
Eucalyptus leaves
A piece of fruit

African elephant
A rock
Sea star (aka starfish)
By headbutting

Flamingo
By dancing
Africa and India
Pufferfish

Until next month…stay sharp!


Nothing says Florida like a palm tree, so it’s fitting that the state tree is sabal palm. Oddly enough though, the sabal palm is not a true tree, and as a palm, is more closely related to grasses.
The sabal palm, also known as the cabbage palm, was designated the state tree in 1953 and occurs on the Florida state seal. There were actually years of debate before the sabal palm was selected as the state tree. Other trees up for consideration were the royal palm, slash pine, and longleaf pine.
Early Floridians had a variety of uses for the sabal palm. The bud of the tree is edible and is known as “heart of palm” and swamp cabbage, the trunk and fronds were used to build shelter, and various fibrous parts were used to make cordage.
Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) is native to Florida, grows throughout the state, and continues to grow north along the coast to North Carolina. It happens to also be the state tree of South Carolina. Cabbage palm is found growing in pine woodlands, hammocks, and on river banks. These plants are fairly tolerant of salt spray on foliage but are intolerant of salt in the root zone.
Cabbage palms have curved, fan-shaped palm leaves with blades that are 3 to 4 feet long and petioles (leaf-stalks) that are 3 to 6 feet long. A full, round canopy forms atop a trunk that is 10 to 16 inches in diameter and grows to 40 feet tall. Branched inflorescences are produced in late spring and usually grow beyond the leaves, containing thousands of tiny, creamy-white, fragrant flowers that attract bees. Black fruits are produced in late summer and are consumed by wildlife. The immature leaves—sometimes called the “heart”—are edible and have a cabbage-like flavor.


Trip Advisor recommends the following sites if you’re visiting Idaho!
Shoshone Falls

Beautiful waterfalls.
Coeur d’Alene Lake

Fed by waters from three different rivers, this pristine, 30-mile lake offers just about every water sport imaginable.
Craters of the Moon National Monument

An ocean of blackened lava flows holds opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy for all ages and abilities. The monument is an easy day trip from Boise, Sun Valley, and Idaho Falls. Click on the link below to learn more about this unearthly landscape and start planning your visit today.
Silverwood Theme Park

Located in beautiful North Idaho, Silverwood Theme Park has over 65 rides, slides, shows and attractions, including four roller coasters, Boulder Beach Water Park, a steam engine train, live entertainment, restaurants, and more.
SOURCE: TRIP ADVISOR.COM

In honor of the holiday, I brought an article on facts about Operation Petticoat from FACTS.NET.

The movie starred two Hollywood legends.
The dynamic duo of Cary Grant and Tony Curtis took the lead roles in Operation Petticoat, bringing their incredible talent and charisma to the screen.
The film was a box office success.
Operation Petticoat proved to be a hit at the box office, grossing over $9 million in the United States alone.
It was inspired by real-life events.
The movie was loosely based on the true story of the USS Sea Poacher, a submarine that was painted pink in order to camouflage it during the war.
The pink submarine became an iconic symbol.
The striking image of the pink submarine from the film has become one of the most recognizable movie icons of all time.
The movie features a stellar supporting cast.
In addition to Grant and Curtis, Operation Petticoat also features memorable performances from Joan O’Brien, Dina Merrill, and Arthur O’Connell, among others.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award.
Operation Petticoat received an Oscar nomination for Best Writing, Original Screenplay, recognizing the clever and witty script.
The movie was a blend of comedy and drama.
While Operation Petticoat is primarily known as a comedy, it also touches on serious themes such as war and resilience.
Cary Grant had reservations about his role.
Initially, Cary Grant was hesitant to take on a comedic role, but he ultimately embraced the character and delivered a memorable performance.
Tony Curtis showcased his comedic abilities.
Operation Petticoat allowed Tony Curtis to showcase his talent for comedy, establishing him as a versatile actor.

The film features incredible wardrobe creativity.
The costume designers for Operation Petticoat had to create uniforms for a crew on a pink submarine, resulting in imaginative and eye-catching outfits.
Operation Petticoat was a critical success.
Aside from its commercial success, the film was also well-received by critics, praising its witty dialogue and entertaining performances.
It was one of Blake Edwards’ earliest successes.
Blake Edwards, known for directing iconic films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and The Pink Panther, achieved early success with Operation Petticoat.
The script went through several rewrites.
The screenplay for Operation Petticoat underwent multiple revisions before reaching its final form, ensuring the perfect balance of humor and heart.
The film showcases the camaraderie of the crew.
Operation Petticoat highlights the close-knit bonds and teamwork among the submarine crew, emphasizing the importance of trust and unity.
The pink submarine became a tourist attraction.
Following the release of the movie, fans flocked to see the real-life pink submarine, USS Sea Poacher, in Key West, Florida.
The movie was an influence for later submarine films.
Operation Petticoat’s unique portrayal of life on a submarine had a lasting impact on subsequent submarine-themed movies and TV shows.
It is considered a classic of the comedy genre.
Operation Petticoat has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved classic in the comedy genre and a favorite among movie enthusiasts.
The film boasts memorable comedic moments.
From hilarious mishaps to witty one-liners, Operation Petticoat is filled with comedic moments that will leave audiences chuckling.
The movie was a product of its time.

Operation Petticoat reflects the societal norms and humor of the 1950s, offering a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the era.
The movie’s theme song became popular.
The theme song of Operation Petticoat, titled “Operation Petticoat,” became a hit and is still associated with the film today.
Operation Petticoat was Curtis’ favorite film.
Tony Curtis once mentioned that out of all the movies he appeared in, Operation Petticoat held a special place in his heart.
It continues to captivate new generations.
Decades after its release, Operation Petticoat continues to entertain and engage audiences of all ages, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
The movie’s success inspired a television series.
Operation Petticoat’s popularity led to a television series adaptation that aired from 1977 to 1979, bringing new adventures to the small screen.
The film’s humor transcends language barriers.
Operation Petticoat’s physical comedy and universal humor make it enjoyable for audiences around the world, even in different languages.
The film showcases the ingenuity of the crew.
Amidst the chaos and challenges, the crew of the pink submarine displays resourcefulness and quick thinking, leading to creative solutions.
Operation Petticoat is a feel-good movie.
With its light-hearted tone and uplifting moments, the film offers a positive and enjoyable viewing experience.
The movie’s success contributed to its cultural impact.

Operation Petticoat’s popularity helped solidify its place in pop culture, becoming a film that is often referenced and celebrated.
The film showcases the importance of adaptability.
Operation Petticoat teaches us that in a challenging situation, it’s crucial to be open to change and make the best out of unexpected circumstances.
It offers a unique perspective on war.
While Operation Petticoat primarily focuses on comedy, it also provides a lighthearted glimpse at the realities of war.
The movie’s success led to other collaborations.
The success of Operation Petticoat led to future collaborations between Blake Edwards and Tony Curtis, including The Great Race.
Operation Petticoat showcases the power of teamwork.
The crew’s ability to work together and overcome obstacles highlights the importance of collaboration and unity, even in challenging circumstances.
The film contains memorable lines.
Operation Petticoat is filled with quotable lines that have become popular among fans of the movie.
It remains a favorite among fans of the genre.
For fans of classic comedy, Operation Petticoat is often listed as a must-watch film, brimming with laughter and charm.
The movie’s success influenced future war comedies.
Operation Petticoat set a benchmark for war comedies, inspiring later films to incorporate humor into wartime narratives.
The film’s runtime allows for a delightful viewing experience.
With a runtime of just over two hours, Operation Petticoat offers an enjoyable and entertaining escape into a world of laughter and adventure.
The movie appeals to a wide audience.

From fans of classic cinema to lovers of comedy, Operation Petticoat has something to offer everyone.
The pink submarine became an iconic movie prop.
The pink submarine from Operation Petticoat has been recreated and displayed in various film and military exhibits over the years.
The film’s success helped pave the way for future comedies.
Operation Petticoat’s popularity and positive reception contributed to the ongoing evolution of the comedy genre in Hollywood.
The movie’s legacy lives on.
Operation Petticoat continues to be celebrated and remembered as one of the most enjoyable and beloved comedies from the golden age of Hollywood.
It remains a testament to the power of laughter.
Operation Petticoat reminds us of the healing and uplifting power of laughter, offering an escape from reality and a joyful cinematic experience.
SOURCE: FACTS.NET

Armed Forces Day 2026: What It Is and How to Honor It
Armed Forces Day 2026 falls on Saturday, May 17.* This guide covers the history behind the holiday, how it differs from Veterans Day and Memorial Day, and practical ways to honor the men and women currently serving.
Most Americans know Memorial Day and Veterans Day by heart. Armed Forces Day? Not so much. And that’s a problem, because this is the one day specifically set aside for the men and women currently wearing the uniform. Not the veterans who came home. Not the fallen who gave everything. The ones on active duty right now, stationed across six continents, standing watch while the rest of us go about our lives. Armed Forces Day 2026 falls on Saturday, May 17. Here’s what you need to know and how to make it count.
What Is Armed Forces Day?
Armed Forces Day is a federal observance honoring Americans currently serving in all six branches of the U.S. military: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson created it on August 31, 1949. Before that, each branch celebrated separately. Army Day was April 6. Navy Day was October 27. Air Force Day was August 1. Johnson had a straightforward idea: one unified day to recognize everyone in uniform, regardless of branch.
Armed Forces Day vs Veterans Day vs Memorial Day
People confuse these three constantly. Here’s the difference in plain English.
★Armed Forces Day (3rd Sat of May): Honors those currently serving on active duty
★Memorial Day (last Mon of May): Honors those who died in service
★Veterans Day (November 11): Honors everyone who has ever served
The short version: Armed Forces Day is for the ones still in. Memorial Day is for the ones who gave everything. Veterans Day is for every American who ever raised their right hand and took the oath.
All three deserve more than a mattress sale and a long weekend. If you want to dig deeper into the Memorial Day side of this, we wrote a full breakdown of Veterans Day vs Memorial Day that covers the history and protocols behind each one.

* Tomorrow is also a “holiday” so I posted this one today.

“In God We Trust” was adopted by the Florida legislature as part of the state seal in 1868. This is also the motto of the United States and is a slight variation on Florida’s first state motto, “In God is our Trust.” In 2006, “In God We Trust” was officially designated in state statute as Florida’s motto.
