military Archives - Popcorn and Pandas

Dress: Free People – last season, but view current dresses here / Jacket: Macy’s – old – I also like this one / Shoes: Aldo – similar here / Bag: TJMaxx / Sunglasses: Calvin Klein / Ring: Forever 21 / Tiger Cuff: BaubleBar / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Skull Chain Bracelet: OiaJules / Necklace: H&M / Earrings: Aldo / Lip: Kat Von D Homegirl

Photos by: Zack Notes

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We spent the holiday with my cousins, and I must say I am still stuffed! Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce (my fav), green beans, corn, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, chocolate pie, pumpkin pie (yes, I had two desserts) – what’s not to love? After a night of gluttony, I am looking forward to getting a little exercise today. I think a few trips around the neighborhood is definitely in order.

Anyone going out to fight the crowds for the Black Friday sales? I must admit that rather than try to brave the madness at the Annapolis mall, I am going to be in the comfort of my parent’s living room with my computer in my lap doing all my Black Friday shopping. Why stress out in long lines when I can just click my finger and poof! – a package arrives at my doorstep next week? The decision is all too easy.

These photos were taken last weekend in the East Village before a big birthday brunch at the Sunburnt Cow for my favorite Aussie mate. After a delicious meal and unlimited mimosas and bloody mary’s, we headed off on a little bar crawl to continue the celebration. This Free People dress is probably the most comfortable dress that I own, and I decided to pair this soft boho look with a more tailored military jacket and combat boots. Flat shoes were a must with all the walking we would be doing. I think the birthday girl would agree that this day was a “great success!”

Happy Weekend everyone.

XO,

Gina

271765_457932974229917_121548844_o — Photo Credit: Alexandra Chioini

Since today is the federal observance of Veterans Day, I am dedicating today’s post to all the servicemen and women that have fought so bravely to protect us and our freedom in this country. Growing up close to Annapolis near the Naval Academy, spotting a man in whites was pretty much the norm, but back in those days we were more focused on how hot they looked in their uniforms and not really the work they were doing to serve our country. Both of my grandfathers were vets, but they served well before I was born, and although I had heard a few stories, I still didn’t understand the full capacity of what it was like for them and their families. As I got older, I started to see friends my age going into the service. Classmates of mine, both men and women, graduated high school and went on to the Naval Academy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, the Air Force, and the Army. They were shipped across the world on many different missions across the globe, and some came back with stories you wouldn’t believe. Most of them came home safe and sound after deployment, but I do know a couple who were not as lucky. Hearing of these losses was extremely difficult, and I cannot even imagine what their families must have gone through. It takes an unbelievable amount of bravery and courage to join the service, and I have the utmost respect for these individuals. I want to thank all of you, especially my family and friends who I know personally. You are all truly heroes.

My cousin, Alexandra Chioini, is a graphic designer and military (almost) spouse who has recently started a new company called Welcome Home. She creates original, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted signs for military homecomings. Having been through a deployment period where her boyfriend was gone for 9 months, she has first hand knowledge of what it feels like to be left at home while your loved one is out in (who knows where) fighting for our freedom. It’s such a joyous day when the companies return to home base and reunite with their friends and families. A sign from Welcome Home is a wonderful way to tell your loved one that you missed them while they were away, their service is appreciated, and you are happy they made it home safely.

Check out these photos by Marisa Crider of Misa Me Photography from a military homecoming. God bless the Vets. And God bless America.