Hey beautiful soul,
Happy Memorial Day weekend.
While a lot of us are firing up the grill or packing for a quick getaway, it’s important to pause and honor what this day is truly about. Memorial Day is a time to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. It began after the Civil War and was originally called Decoration Day, when people would decorate soldiers' graves with flowers, flags, and love.
So today, while we celebrate freedom in all its forms—let’s hold space for both gratitude and joy.
🇺🇸 Memorial Day Fun Facts You Might Not Know:
- The red poppy became a Memorial Day symbol from a WWI poem called In Flanders Fields.
- It was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 1971.
- The National Moment of Remembrance takes place at 3:00 PM—wherever you are, pause for a moment of silence.
And then, go live—because that’s the best way to honor those who no longer can.
🧁 Cool Whip Frosting & Fruit Dip (It’s a Two-for-One, Baby)
This one’s a hit at cookouts, kids' parties, and yes—even solo spoonfuls in the kitchen when no one’s looking.
Ingredients:
- 1 tub Cool Whip (thawed)
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding (or cheesecake flavor—chef’s kiss)
- ½ cup milk
- Optional: a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of lemon zest
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes and enjoy with fresh berries, sliced apples, graham crackers, or slathered on cupcakes.
Yes, it will make you the hero of the picnic.
🌞 Summer’s Calling—and I’m Answering with Flip-Flops On
Here are a few things lighting me up this season:
- A big family trip to Summersville Lake, West Virginia for a long weekend of cabin “camping,” nature, and belly laughs.
- Fireflies, watermelon, beach days, and porch-swing evenings.
- A slower pace that reminds me to breathe, feel, and be.
💸 Budget Travel Tips (Because Freedom Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive)
Whether you’re road-tripping or planning a retreat, these small tweaks go a long way:
- Buy gift cards early. Toss a $10 Airbnb, Target, or Visa card into your cart each grocery trip—they add up fast.
- Plan meals/snacks in advance. Fewer impulse drive-thrus = more cash for experiences.
- Research deals using discount travel sites, off-season options, or lesser-known destinations.
- Look for free fun—local parks, community events, beach days, and library passes can stretch your budget and still feel luxurious.
✨ From Grief to Growth: Two Stories You May Need Today
This past week, I lost a neighbor in a sudden accident. She was a beautiful soul—trying to heal, rebuild, and reconnect with her children. And then… a freak accident ended it all on a quiet Tuesday morning.
We always think we have more time… until we don’t.
That’s why this week, I’m sharing two pieces of my heart:
🦋 “We Always Think We Have More Time…Until We Don’t”
🔥 “This Is Not a Midlife Crisis—It’s a Rebirth”
For every woman feeling restless, unrecognizable, or stuck… this one’s for you.
Read it here →
☕ Just a Little Love from Me to You
💖 If you love what I share and want to fuel my writing, my mission, or just my next cup of coffee (truth), you can do that here:
Buy Me a Coffee on Ko-fi →
🧭 My “Build Your Escape Plan” course launches in just a few days! It’s your step-by-step guide to break free from toxic relationships and reclaim your life—practically and powerfully.
Check it out before the price goes up! →
🌟 And keep your eyes peeled for Sacred Visibility, coming soon. Because it’s time for you to be seen—without selling your soul.
Oh, and there’s more goodness in the works (think: a fresh summer challenge, juicy printables, and maybe a sassy, soul-led freebie or two).
Take this weekend to breathe deep. Laugh loud. Dip your strawberries in something sweet. And live in a way that feels like freedom—whatever that means to you.
With love and fireflies,
Jessi 💫
Your resident joy-seeker, rebel coach, and soul-whisperer
P.S. Got a summer bucket list? Hit reply and share what’s on it—I’d love to feature a few in next week’s newsletter!
