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Blog Tour de Troops

Welcome to Blog Tour de Troops. You should have joined me from Mercy Loomis’ blog.  The next stop on the tour will be at D.M. Kenyon’s blog.

It sounds a bit crazy to connect gardening with Veteran’s Day, but for me it’s a natural fit.  It’s the very reason I started a garden, you see, mine one of the many Victory Gardens started several years back.  But what began as a reaction has blossomed into a passion, one I can share with people of all ages.  In fact, I volunteer at my kids’ school garden and you want to talk passion?  The kindergarteners can be the MOST passionate group of gardeners out there! :) (Check them out at BloominThyme.com)

However, being outdoors on a beautiful day with energetic and enthusiastic children is only one reason I garden.  Fact is, growing your own vegetables offers a very tangible reward–a good thing–especially when you’re a competitive, goal-oriented positive reinforcement seeker such as myself!  (But don’t we all need a little positive reinforcement now and again?)

And while I’d never trade my stay-at-home-mom job for the life of a farmer—I will admit my current gig doesn’t come with a lot of praise–or recognition.  You know, there’s no “Employee of the Month” or “Hey Dianne, gold star for a job well done!”

Perhaps it’s just me and I’m raising a couple of wild banshees, but my kids never seem to say, “Great job with the laundry, Mom!”

“Wow, do those floors really sparkle!”  Then there’s my personal favorite:  “Fish for dinner?  AGAIN?” (Can you hear the whine?)

My response is always the same.  “Yes, dear.”  (Learned this from my husband. :))

Fish again, because it’s my job to see that you’re healthy (and your father’s arteries don’t clog).  It’s my job to see that you’re well-cared for and on your way to becoming respectable contributing members of society.  Besides which, macaroni and cheese does not constitute brain food.  I don’t care what the label says.

Then I listen to my kids beg for the Wii or the latest and greatest video game, and it occurs to me that we take so many things for granted. 

“Well Joey has one—why can’t I?”

“I don’t know—because it will rot your cerebellum?  You’ll turn into a video zombie?”

We seem to want what we want, when we want it. 

Crazier still, there are those among us who seem to feel they deserve it!  From the latest and greatest gadgets to the food on our table, we seem entitled to have it all.  Much like strolling through the produce section at our local supermarket, choosing from an abundance of gorgeous fruits and vegetables we give little or no thought to the work that went into delivering the goods.

But let me tell you, when a child learns to plant a seed, feed and water it through to maturity and then experience the thrill of harvesting their favorite vegetables (yes, veggies never tasted so good until you grew them yourself!) and take part in preparing them for the family meal?  An impression has been made—one that won’t soon be forgotten.

And while enjoyment can be found in many things, I believe true JOY comes from the process.  From the spark of an idea to the realization of its outcome, the greatest joy we experience is in the doing.  Something we in America reserve as a right—life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

While we may dance to a different tune—my family sure does!—the one thing we share is our ability to live life as we see fit and for that we can thank a member of our military troops.  Without them, life as we know it could be drastically different.

But don’t get me wrong.  No one wants to engage in war.  As a mother, I particularly don’t want to see our sons and daughters lost in battle.  But I realize that civilized people will disagree, sometimes to the point where one must reign victorious.  Human nature is what it is.  From playground disputes to international relations, when diplomacy fails, battle erupts and only one side will prevail as victor.  One side will determine the rules going forward.

Today we are the land of the free, home of the brave, and there’s no place I’d rather call home than America.  People from all over the world seek our shores, because this country represents the land of opportunity, the land of hope.  And why?

Because our military is willing to do the hard things, to make the sacrifices so that we as a whole may live free. 

On this Veteran’s Day, my heartfelt gratitude goes out to the troops—for their service to this country, for their dedication to a cause greater than themselves and for the simple pleasure of kissing my children goodnight every night—something I may be unable to do otherwise.  Without the peace through strength provided by the men and women of the armed forces, I shudder to think how my life could change.

Have you ever wondered?  Do you have a personal story to tell?  Perhaps a victory garden experience you’d like to share?

I’d love to hear from you! 

And thank you for stopping by.  For those commenting, be sure to add your email address in the body of the comment.  You don’t want to miss out on receiving your copy of LUST ON THE ROCKS!  (Samantha Rawlings is a feisty one!)  Also, if you’re on Facebook or Twitter, by all means let me know–I’d love to connect!  You can find me at http://www.facebook.com/DianneVenetta and Twitter @DianneVenetta

 

288 thoughts on “Blog Tour de Troops

  1. Stephanie Overton says:

    Thank you for taking part in this wonderful tour.

    Fish for dinner sounds YUMMY! but of course, my kids would whine too.

    Stephanie O.
    ladybug07999@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Fish is SO delicious, but kids will be kids, won’t they? :)

      Appreciate you stopping by!

  2. Gina Knight says:

    Thank you for participating! It is wonderful that you love and support the troops.

    Gina K.
    rknightspm@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thanks, Gina! Together we provide some escape for our service members, if only in the form of a novel! A delicious novel… :)

  3. Theresa says:

    Your book looks like a fantastic read.
    Thank you for your generosity and support for our troops!
    tweezle(at)gmail(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Thank you for your kind words!

  4. Wow I felt like I was reading a post from my own life :) The garden, the kids, the wanting, and the lack of recognition, but it being about the process hit it dead on. We thank our troop every day, as he lives with us.

    miranda_lynn2001(at)live(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Thank him for me, too. :) Gardening with kids definitely helps keep us ALL focused!

  5. Supagurl says:

    Really….this quote “I don’t know—because it will rot your cerebellum? You’ll turn into a video zombie?” sounds EXACTLY like me! it’s even funnier when my son want’s to play his zombie killing game LOL

    Thank you so much for supporting out troops this way!
    supagurlheather@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      They make games like that?!?! AGH! LOL Save me!

      Appreciate you stopping by! Today is all about the troops.

  6. Suzy Turner says:

    Wonderful that you associate Veteran’s Day with the garden… it does kind of fit, I guess.
    This is a great way to support the troops… thank you!
    suzy.turner[at]hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      I just hope I don’t have to survive from my garden! Based upon my experience thus far, the grasshoppers, snails and crickets may outlive me! :)

      Thanks for helping in the cause today!

  7. Melissa says:

    Happy Veterans Day.

    mrice6@cox.net

    1. dv says:

      And you. Thanks for your support!

  8. Krissie says:

    Thanks so much for the support of our troops. Would love to receive a copy.

    1. dv says:

      It’s for a great cause!

  9. Anne says:

    I used to watch The Victory Garden on PBS. Just caught a recent episode and didn’t realize it was the same show. They have a new hunky host and male cook. The original guy looked like he was a relic from the original “victory”.

    acm05atjuno.com

    1. dv says:

      Hunk in the garden? AND he cooks? Sounds like my first novel in this series, Jennif’er’s Garden!

  10. Leslie says:

    Thank you for your being so generous. I also want to say “thank you” to the many service men, women, and their families.

    Leslie
    Kindle3.user@verizon.net

    1. dv says:

      Their sacrifice makes all the difference in the world.

  11. Holly says:

    Thank you for participating in this awesome cause :) I would love a copy of Lust on the Rocks! Also I’ve added you on FB, Goodreads and Twitter :)

    shroudedheart@hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thank you too, Holly! Your book is on the way. :)

  12. Berit says:

    Great idea for the tour! Thanks to all Military for serving. And Thanks to all the authors for participating!

    beritlemons AT gmail DOT com

    1. dv says:

      Together we can make a difference!

  13. Ryan Mills says:

    I am sitting here waiting for the stich in my side to go away. My wife posted previosly about hitting it on the head with the kids and yes I do believe i coined the phrase in the house “Yes, Dear” As a soldier i want to thank you for your support. it is my honor to serve.

    1. dv says:

      Thank you, Ryan. I hope my son grows up to be like you–and NOT a video zombie! :)

      p.s. he’ll be thrilled to know a real soldier stopped by his mom’s website!

  14. Thank you for sharing and being part of the wonderful project!

    pamela@pbdesigns.biz

    1. dv says:

      Thanks to ALL of us but mostly to our troops! :)

  15. rhonda laney says:

    thank you troops. we dont say it enough. thank you

    1. dv says:

      We don’t. But ever since 9/11, I now tend to stop a uniformed soldier and thank him or her personally.

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your stopping by!

  16. kalyn says:

    Thank you for participating in this very worthwhile event.

    1. dv says:

      And you Kalyn. It’s our job to let the troops know we stand behind them while some of our family members stand beside them.

  17. Candy says:

    Thanks for your support of the troops
    Candy
    dragonfly1976@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      And to you. It’s definitely a WORTHY cause.

  18. Thank you for participating in this awesome event. God bless all our soldiers and veterans. rinald47@gmail.com
    I am FB at http://www.facebook.com/#!/joseph.rinaldo, and my Twitter handle is @jmrinaldo.
    Thanks again.
    Joe

    1. dv says:

      Thank you Joe! God bless our troops and God bless America!

  19. Kelli says:

    Thanks for joining this awesome cause. Thanks to all our troops who sacrifice everyday for our freedom!!

    kkellijo@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Celebrating the veterans! :)

  20. Karen says:

    Thank you for what you are doing. Happy Veterans Day. karen.honderich@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      We are celebrating together!

  21. Pam Lash says:

    You are to be praised for donating your time and talent to such a worthy event! Thank you for the chance to read your book and pass one on to a deserving soldier.

    I really liked your Victory Garden idea!

    1. dv says:

      Thank you! We love to garden and appreciate the opportunity to follow our passion!

  22. winnie says:

    Thank you for supporting the troops! This tour is a wonderful idea!

    chibipooh(at)gmail(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      I agree. Kudos to the Indie Book Collective AND our men and women in uniform!

  23. books4me says:

    Thank you for participating in this blog hop! What a great idea.

    Home of the FREE
    Because of the BRAVE

    books4me67 at ymail dot com

    1. dv says:

      Absolutely! And I second that! :)

  24. Nicole M says:

    Great Cause! Happy to help!

    nicole at sharearead dot com

    @shareAread

    https://www.facebook.com/npassante

    1. dv says:

      Thanks and look forward to connecting!

  25. Jessica Mclaughlin says:

    Thank you so much for what you are doing for our troops you are such a blessing!

    JessEmilyZack@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      As are you for stopping by… :)

  26. Thank you from a soldiers wife. As my husband is currently serving overseas, having enough reading material to get us through the deployment has turned into a chore. It seems we both are reading so much that there isn’t going to be much left to read by the time he comes home.

    Thank you to all of our service members both past and present. Thank you also to all of their families, without each of us here at home the deployment would be that much harder on the troops.

    betty.vickery.johnson@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      We are well served by not only our military, but our family and friends as we help each other through the difficult absences. Thanks for being strong and I hope you enjoy a little escape!

  27. Just dropping by to say Hi! and get a free copy for a soldier. Have fun on the tour!

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for taking the time!

  28. Quinn says:

    Awesome blog tour for a great cause! Thanks for the read!

    quinnsmythwood(AT)gmail(.)com

    1. dv says:

      Totally agree and enjoy!

  29. Melissa says:

    I know being a mom is a thankless job. Thank you for taking the time to raise your children with love and understanding that just because everyone else has one doesn’t mean that they need one. My husband and I struggle with the same issue. Thank you for taking your time to be part of this great opportunity.

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate the kind words and back at ya! We have to keep focus on what really matters in this life–like freedom and those willing to sacrifice all for said freedom.

  30. Christy says:

    Thank you for making the day of so many soldiers just a little brighter. christygibbon at juno dot com

    1. dv says:

      Never underestimate the power of a smile, right?

  31. Andrea says:

    I’m an organic market gardener so I love the pictures and story behind your garden. My oldest son is a Kindergartener right now so I’m well aware of their passionate love for growing things.

    Thanks to those who have served and thank you for giving some great books to them.

    andreagrendahl AT gmail DOT com

    1. dv says:

      Free books are the least I can do. If I could feed them fresh veggies, I’d give them those as well! Thank you for joining the tour!

  32. D. M. Kenyon says:

    This is a lovely site. Thanks for being a part of this blog tour. As one who grew up on a farm and now live in a big city, I must confess to some jealously here. Best wishes,

    D. M. Kenyon
    author at lotus blossom book dot com

    1. dv says:

      Gardening is a joy! Thanks for taking part in the tour!

  33. Diana says:

    I’m not American so I don’t have any personal story to tell. This tour is very beautiful idea!
    Thank you very much.

    artgiote at gmail dot com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate you taking the time to join us!

  34. heartNsole says:

    Thank you so much for helping the troops!

    nook_heartnsole at yahoo dot com

    1. dv says:

      It’s a great cause! And who doesn’t love books, right? :)

  35. What a delightful post-and a terrific way to support the women and men in uniform.

    nancyg5997@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thanks! We owe them our debt of gratitude–why not a few books, too? :)

  36. latisha depoortere says:

    Thank you so much great blog tour! This is a great cause thanks for all the great Authors and their great books!
    tishajean@ charter.net

    1. dv says:

      In celebration of the troops–enjoy!

  37. Arianne says:

    Thank u so much for doing this! I’m glad I can help by leaving a comment :)
    email: cruz042 at csusm dot edu

    1. dv says:

      It’s a simple way to take part in a great cause! Thank you!

  38. Georgeanna says:

    Thank you so much for helping to get books to our soldiers!!! This is a wonderful cause!! I’m really looking forward to reading your book and I know our troops will appreciate it, too :)
    Georgeanna
    tdf.gb@bucksmont.net

    1. dv says:

      Thanks Georgeanna! I hope my book will bring a smile to both your faces, not to mention a zest to your step! :)

  39. Emily says:

    Thanks for participating in the hop and supporting a great cause! My email is whatbookisthat at gmail dot com. Thanks again!

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for hopping through! A soldier will definitely appreciate it when they receive their free ebook!

  40. This is such an amazing thing you are doing. Thank you.

    carrieannryanwrites at gmail . com

    1. dv says:

      As are you–thanks for taking the time!

  41. Martha says:

    Would love to read your book and it’s amazing what your all doing for the troops!!

    MESchlegel3@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Great cause but it wouldn’t happen without readers like you! :)

  42. Thanks for supporting our troops!! My husband is a former Marine and I’m thankful for all that he has done and for what all the veterans and active members of the miltary are now doing…

    Heather
    earthsbooknook at gmail dot com

    1. dv says:

      You and me both–give your husband an extra hug tonight from all of us! Give him a sneak peek at the book, too. He may enjoy it right along with you!

  43. Hi Dianne- I’m looking forward to your book! Great website! Thanks for being a fellow participant in this event.

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your kind words and thanks for stopping by!

  44. Sapphyria says:

    My father is a former Marine that served in Vietnam. The sacrifices that these men and women make is more than generous. They put their lives on the line so we can enjoy the freedoms that we have. The union I belong to sponsors a platoon every year and each month we send care packages to them.

    Thanks for being part of this!

    Saph
    saphsbookblog at gmail dot com

    1. dv says:

      Wow–wonderful! You of all people will know how important it is for members of our troops to receive these free ebooks. Thanks for helping to make it possible!

  45. Na S. says:

    This is a great way to show appreciation to the troops! I’m happy to make my comment count :) Would like to read your book please.

    1. dv says:

      Definitely a fabulous Veteran’s Day gift!

  46. Melissa says:

    Thank you to all our troops and the wonderful people who are participating in this blog tour :)

    mels2884 @ yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate you stopping by to make it all possible!

  47. Diane, you know I read the book and loved it, so send my copy to a soldier who will enjoy it just as much as I did. It’s terrific that you’re participating in this blog tour–this is such a great cause!
    Marlene

    1. dv says:

      Thanks Marlene! Will put an extra ebook in for the troops! Really appreciate you taking part. :)

  48. miss nyet says:

    Hello! I am a fellow tour de troops author. i am so glad to be a part of this today. Feel free to come and check my page as well so we give even more books to the troops at the end of the weekend

  49. I already have a copy of “lust on The Rocks” so please donate an extra copy instead of sending me one. Thank you for supporting our troops.

    shadow31071 (at) suddenlink (dot) net

    1. dv says:

      You better believe I will! Thank you!

  50. Maggie says:

    Thank you for supporting our troops and thanks in advance for Lust on the Rocks.
    cmhswi(at)yahoo(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      You bet and enjoy!

  51. Erin Klitzke says:

    Another author on the tour stopping in.

    Here’s to a lot of comments, a lot of traffic, and a lot of ebooks for soldiers.

    ~ Erin M. Klitzke
    athensmcleod@hotmail.com

  52. John Thomas says:

    Thanks for supporting the troops. Please send my copy to the troops as well. Thanks again.

    1. dv says:

      Will do, John and thanks for taking the time to comment. :)

  53. CassandraG says:

    This is such a great idea. Great way to support the troops

    1. dv says:

      Wonderful way to support our military — giving them their most requested care package item. :)

  54. joannie sparks says:

    Hi thank you for this, it is for a great cause. I am a War Orphan from the vietnam era which took years to find out what happen to my father and to this day him and his group of men never heard from again. It took ten years to declare them legally dead. It was terible growing up i had seven brother and sisters and my mother never remarried or dated. Anything we can do to show our support today for our troops will be just wonderful compared to the way support was given to my mother back then. Thank you for all you do for every man and women that make up our troops today. Jscddmj [at] aol [dot]com. I use the format for kindle on my laptop i don’t have a reader. Thank you so much again
    p,s i think every night how all the other children had their father at home and we didn’t and why it was not fair. well that was when i was very very young and of course i hope every mother and father come home and be with their kids every night

    1. dv says:

      So very true and so sorry for your loss. It’s men like your father who we celebrate today. Thank you for sharing your story.

  55. Allyson Meyer says:

    Thanks for the free read – I’m excited to get it! Also, thank you for supporting our troops!

    allyreads81 at gmail dot com

    1. dv says:

      I do love a win-win! Thanks for stopping by!

  56. I don’t really have a story, but I remember when my children were small and my daughter asked me why we had 4th of July – it was humbling to explain to a five year old what Independence Day really meant and I think of it each year on both the 4th and Veteran’s Day – – – – the belief that an idea is worth dying for and the willingness to do just that to preserve the ability for the rest of us to live free.

    Thanks for being a part of this great event! Thanks for supporting our troops and remembering those who serve – past, present, and future! I am excited to get the book, but thrilled that a soldier will also get one! Makes me feel good – thanks for that.
    bevsharp@desch.org

    1. dv says:

      So very well said…

  57. Thank you for participating in the Blog Tour de Troops! Such a great cause.

    ~Jesi

    jesilea(at)charter(dot)net

    1. dv says:

      For such a great group of people. Thanks for taking part!

  58. Michel King says:

    I will shamelessly admit that I have attempted a garden numerous times and have had little luck getting anything to survive. Basil and tomatoes are the only things left. I think it is because they are so hearty and can survive without water for a while. Oh well! In honor of two of my brothers and my new sister in law, thank you for supporting the tour and our troops!

    1. dv says:

      Thank YOU for stopping by.

      And I can’t believe your tomatoes and basil survive with neglect–mine SCREAM at me the minute I ignore them! Hmph. Must be the hot Florida climate (or Mother Nature’s sense of humor). :)

  59. Andrea says:

    Thank you for supporting out troops this way (and I have to say that I’m going to enjoy it too). My father, husband and brother-in-law have all served or are currently serving and anything that supports our troops is near and dear to my heart.
    Thanks again,
    Andrea
    a_ariail(at)yahoo(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      I too, have many family members that are either past, current and most likely future members of our armed forces! We do what we can to support and this is one great way. Thanks for taking part!

  60. S says:

    Thank you for supporting our troops. They are truly all heroes.

    1. dv says:

      Undeniably. Thanks for participating to make it all a reality!

  61. Amanda Wimer says:

    Thank you for supporting our troops in such a generous manner! I know that each and every book received will be greatly appreciated! And thank you for allowing me to be a part of it through you!

    iarvd@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Your time today is appreciated!

  62. Sandi says:

    What a great cause – thanks for supporting our troops!

    I look forward to reading your book!

    Sandi(at)Beckman(dot)me

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for helping make it a reality!

  63. SarahM says:

    What a great way to support our troops! Thanks :-)

    smaccall AT comcast.net

    1. dv says:

      Does it get any better than free books? Okay, yes–but not much! Thanks for taking part!

  64. Tracy Riva says:

    You’re so right, we take so many things for granted in our society, seldom thinking of how very fortunate we are. Also, we have to remember we have a voluntary military service, so every man and woman serving is there because they choose to be. What an amazing sacrifice to make for everyone “back home”.

    rivawriter(at)yahoo(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Very good point. Thank you troops!

  65. Angi Gray says:

    Thanks for being part of this great event! I’m also glad to hear I am not the only one who believes a Wii will lead to mass extinction of brain cells :D

    Happy Veteran’s Day. Want to set those little minds churning? Take them to the local VFW for a chat with a vet. It means a lot to the men and women there, and it’s something your kids will remember!

    Angi Gray
    ailishification at gmail dot com

    1. dv says:

      That is an AWESOME idea. Easy for us to do–we live in retirement central! :)

      Thanks for suggesting!

  66. thanks for supporting the troops and participating in a great event. your garden looks great!

    eileen at booksrusonline.com

  67. Maghon Thomas says:

    I think you should meet my grandparents, they are like magically growing faries! Everything they touches grows! :) thanks again veterans!!!
    Magluvsya03@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Way too funny! Thanks for stopping by and YES–it would be good for my garden to get together with them!

  68. Evan says:

    Wow, great parallel there! While I never cared for gardening, I realize the benefits and the good that comes from it. Thanks for supporting our defense!

    evanbartholomew@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Gardening can be such a joy. It can also be a cruel joke of Mother Nature’s. Depends on what mood she’s in. :)

      Thanks for stopping by!

  69. My grandmother had a Victory Garden during WWII while her husband my grandfather was fighting in the Pacific Theatre. I have always loved the idea of having a victory garden but do NOT have a green thumb.

    Loved your story,

    Ardee-ann

    sagemoon_cottage@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      It’s alot easier than you’d think. Stop by my blog sometime and you’ll discover the secrets to keeping it simple! And EASY. Thanks for joining the cause today!

  70. Traci says:

    Thank you for being part of this event.
    Traci
    nebbyATzoominternetDOTnet

    1. dv says:

      It’s a great cause that couldn’t happen without you!

  71. Sarah says:

    Thanks for sharing your book with everyone. I’m not a gardener myself, but your pictures make it look quite rewarding.
    helpersarah2009@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      It’s all in the produce. LOL Call that productivity! Appreciate you stopping by!

  72. Nikki says:

    Thank you so much for supporting our troops!! I’m quite sure it means the world to them…and me!!!
    viajeradelmar@aol.com

    1. dv says:

      If we can bring a smile to a soldier’s face, it’s worth it. :)

  73. Nan says:

    What a great way to honor and give to the people who serve our country. Thanks for participating.
    nwilson@sportsfive.net

    1. dv says:

      And to you.

  74. Margaret says:

    What a wonderful opportunity. Thank you so much! So glad to be apart of it here.

    Margaret
    singitm@hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Couldn’t happen without you!

  75. Sophia Rose says:

    Thank you for participating in the hop and for generously donating your book. The story of the victory garden made a good point. Thanks!

    1. dv says:

      If we can’t take of ourselves, who will?

  76. Tamsyn says:

    I live in an apartment so, no garden. But I would love to have one when I retire! Thanks for a wonderful blog for a wonderful cause.
    tamsyn5@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      When you’re ready to garden–come find me! I’ll be glad to help. :)

  77. hi Dianne! i’m not from the US but America is a strong ally. my late paternal grandfather was a WWII veteran and he served the US troops deployed in my country as a cook. i am proud of him and his contribution during the war even if didn’t wield a gun but used a spatula instead. thanks to you as well for your contribution to the troops through your writing. c”,)

    aobibliophile(at)gmail(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Someone has to keep the troops strong and healthy! :) Stand proud and thanks for sharing!

  78. Enna P. says:

    This is amazing what you guys are doing for the troops! They deserve it!

    ennapenglin(AT)sbcglobal(DOT)net

    1. dv says:

      Absolutely! Thanks for taking part.

  79. Theresa M says:

    Thank you for supporting our Troops!
    t_manfredi@hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      And to you!

  80. Nissie says:

    Thank you for participating in this awesome event!

    1. dv says:

      You’ve sent an ebook a soldier’s way! Thank you!

  81. Brittany Carrigan says:

    Thank you so much for being a part of this!!

    brittanyrose40 AT yahoo DOT com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate you taking the time to stop by!

  82. Barbara says:

    Thank you for doing this for our troops…I look forward to reading your book (kindle format, pls).

    barbbattaglia@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for leaving a comment and hope you enjoy!

  83. Jacqui R says:

    I have little ones that love to help me garden and funny enough they never comment if the house is kept in order ….. its a great thing you are all doing with this tour.

    ticklebear2 at yahoo dot com

    1. dv says:

      Quality time at its best. :)

  84. chingz says:

    Thanks for being part of this tour, enjoy your veteran’s weekend! ^^

    ycelestial@hotmail.com

  85. dv says:

    Will do and thanks for taking part!

  86. BJ says:

    Thanks so much for participating in this! I come from a long line of family service, including father an stepdad (vietnam, Navy), and grandfather and his two brothers (Navy, Army WW II–two of my uncles were involved in D Day and one also Battle of the Bulge). A cousin was a Navy Admiral/ship commander. I grew up with a strong sense of honoring the military and that hasn’t changed.

    Your garden is beautiful :) I was raised by my great grandmother’s two sisters and their husbands. They were very Depression era mentality and we had a huge veggie garden. There was nothing quite like eating the literal veggies of your labors. I wish I was in a position to have more than an herb garden at my home.

    Thank you again! I’d love to read your book. My email address is DiNozzoGibbs @ gmail . com

    1. dv says:

      Gardens are wonderful and veggies taste sweeter when you grow them yourself, don’t they?! Thanks for stopping by!

  87. Rachel says:

    Thank you for participating in the BTDT. I do love gardening flower and vegetables eventually I would like to have a fruit and nut orchard. Unfortunetaly not enough hours in the day to do all that I want. Look forward to your book.

    pefrw(at)yahoo(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      It does take time, but definitely worth the effort! Thanks for taking part in the tour. :)

  88. Vanessa Rivera says:

    My father was born on veterens day and I lost him 13 years ago so this day has always held twice the meaning for me. I want to thank the troops for their dedication including my cousin Danny and dear friend Yves and also tell my father I love him and miss him dearly. 2vr.iver@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      The sacrifice of our military cannot be overstated. Thank you one and all–past, present and future.

  89. Patti P says:

    What a wonderful way to support our troops.
    I would love to thank all of those who do what it takes to defend our country and give up so much so I can live the life I am living.
    Thank you.
    musicalfrog at comcast.net

    1. dv says:

      We are blessed by our fellow Americans!

  90. Pauline says:

    Thank you for being part of the tour and supporting the troops!

    Have a great day!
    pauline@pjhandcrafts.com

    1. dv says:

      Couldn’t happen without you! :)

  91. Thank you for participating in this great cause. I’m in Florida, too, such a great place for gardens. Yours are beautiful

    My father and uncle were in WWII, my brother and brother-in-law in Vietnam, a nephew in Desert Storm, and a nephew in Iraq currently. Veterans’ Day means a lot to my family. My email is lapidaryprose (at) gmail (dot) com; my Twitter handle is @EMitchellwriter. I’ve already won Jennifer’s Garden from you (it was fantastic!), so please don’t feel you need to send me another free book!

  92. dv says:

    Wow–extend a personal thank you to your family from mine, will you? We have several members who have served, with a nephew who recently enlisted!

    And thank you for your kind words regarding my novel, Jennifer’s Garden. You know another one is coming your way! :)

  93. Ruby M says:

    This is a wonderful idea! Thanks for supporting our troops!

    ruby[dot]meek[at]yahoo[dot]com

    1. dv says:

      It’s the brain child of the Indie Book Collective and I agree—totally AWESOME!

  94. Krysykat says:

    My 3 yr old nephew loves to help in the garden, he especially loved the pumpkins this year :)

    Morganlafey86(at)aol(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Boy–were the kids excited about the pumpkins but unfortunately, ours fell victim to fungus. :(

  95. Thank you so much for doing this for our troops. I think it is an awesome way to say thank you to our troops
    Also I appreciate the chance to read your book and to win a Kindle
    Thanks
    Maggie

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for taking part, Maggie!

  96. Kristen says:

    I just that this is a great way to show thanks to the troops. I know as a Marine wife that I love it when I see ways to give back to the troops. So thank you!

    klmullins88@hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thank YOU, Kristen. Yours is one of the most important ways of giving back. :) Holding down the fort back home is invaluable–to ALL of us!

  97. Laura G. says:

    Thank you for participating in this wonderful tour and for the free ebook. I can’t wait to read it!

    Laura G.
    cardinoles@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate you taking the time, Laura!

  98. Carolyn Valdez says:

    I think this tour is great, so glad you all are doing this for the troops.Thank you so much. carolynvaldez51@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      It’s most definitely a great cause. Thanks for making it a reality!

  99. Rebecca says:

    Thank you for supporting the troops this way and thank you to all that have served.
    Becca
    rebeccapoindextergmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for taking part, Becca!

  100. Denise Z says:

    Thank you so much for participating in this event and honoring our veterans on their day by giving to our troops a little taste of escapism into a good read. One my true blessings in this world the joy of a good book. You are appreciated.

    dz59001[at]gmail[dot]com

    1. dv says:

      Thank you, Denise. :)

  101. Kathryn Merkel says:

    Cudo’s for teaching your kids to garden. They may not like it, but knowing how to plant & grow your own food is a skill it is never a waste.

    Thanks also for being part of this tour & giving so much back to our troops.

    drainbamaged.gyzmo at gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thanks, Kathryn! They tend to have the most fun when they’re friends are involved so move over tea party–potato harvest party it is!

  102. Anne N. says:

    Thanks so much for your generosity.

    mynextchapter(at)annenowlin(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      And thanks for your time!

  103. Melissa Sandahl says:

    I’m so glad there’s another Tour de Troops!! Can’t wait to see if there’s more comments than Memorial Day! What a great way to give our troops a little escape in a book while they are away from home and at war. Thanks IndieBookCollective!! Thanks for the free book – can’t wait to read your story!
    Melissa

    missyebookmail (AT) mediacombb (DOT) net

    1. dv says:

      Ditto! Enjoy and thanks for taking part~~

  104. Hellen says:

    Thanks for being part of this tour and I hope your book makes somebody’s day better :)

    I agree with you: vegetables never tasted so good until you grew them yourself! And I’m a person who has always liked vegetables, even as a small child, but the very few vegetables I grew myself always tasted much better.

    hellenlovesbooks (at) gmail (dot) com

    1. dv says:

      The fruits of our labor–how sweet it is!

  105. Meg says:

    Thank you for our troops, and thank you for being a part of this. It is such an amazing thing that all you authors are doing! I cannot wait to read a copy of your book.

    meghan.guarnieri@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your kind words. :)

  106. Missy says:

    This is the best cause ever for a blog hop!! Thank you very much for what you and the other authors in this blog hop are doing for our troops. I think anything any one of us can do for all those men and women serving for our country helps to let them know how much they are appreciated!

    Your book sounds fantastic with great reviews!

    mnjcarter@charter.net

    1. dv says:

      Thanks for taking the time to “hop!” Hope you enjoy the read. :)

  107. Hi great giveaway. Sadly I am not much of a gardener.

    ~Brandy
    brandyzbooks at yahoo dot com

    1. dv says:

      Check out my blog! It’s easier than you think. ;)

      Appreciate you taking the time to tour!

  108. Janey says:

    Thanks for explaining what this Blog Tour de Troops is all about so well.

    Janey
    jandhj2 (AT) yahoo (DOT) ca

    1. dv says:

      For those of us who aren’t serving, we CAN support! Thanks for joining the cause.

  109. ML says:

    Great event. I don’t really have a story but I’m happy to comment in support of our troops. Thanks so much!
    mljfoland AT hotmail DOT com

    1. dv says:

      We couldn’t do it without you — thank you!

  110. so many don’t think of soldiers reading. this tour has to have made a believer of them.
    larriane@hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      I agree. Books can provide such wonderful relief.

  111. Miranda says:

    Wow that was great. For me it is the first time hearing about a victory garden and I think gardening with kids is an excellent idea! Thank you to all Veteran’s and those still serving today!

    miranda.grissomATgmailDOTcom

    1. dv says:

      Gardening is win-win, as is this tour–thanks for taking part!

  112. Tammi Hagberg says:

    Thank you for all the support of our troops . I know they really appraise it, I told my son-in- law, Jeff, about this blog and he said that it was great and that the soldiers will appcaite all the books , thoughts and prayers. When he was in Bagdad he said that was what kept him going.
    tammi.hagberg@sbcglobal.net
    Thank you for all you hard work!

    1. dv says:

      Thank you for sharing that Tammi. It helps to know we can touch a life in a positive way.

  113. Teresa Kleeman says:

    Hi Dianne,

    Thank you for giving back to our Military Personal. I loved how you compared you Victory Garden. As a mother now of a 23 year old. I remember when I had him out working in the garden and doing other things.
    I use to tell him and still do. Nothing in this life is free. And everything good comes with a price. I use to tell him the price we pay for freedom and protection is usually met with death and war. But you never hear our Service people complain. There the true hero’s in our lives. So thank you each and everyone of you who gave up your time, life and health to protect my freedom.

    Teresa K.
    tcwgrlup41@yahoo dot com

    1. dv says:

      Amen. They are the true heroes.

  114. barbara lay says:

    this is a wonderful way to return a little token of appreciation to our troops .. thank you all for giving back to them smiles im so proud to be an america citizen. and thanks for showing once again . that the aurthors have not forgot there service and thank you for give me the chance to read your book as well.

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate you taking the time, Barbara!

  115. Cat says:

    Good luck with your gardening. I’ve never been much for that myself. And I’ve often been thankful that I live here rather than some of the more troubled countries.

    stefscat@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      We are very fortunate to live where we do. :)

  116. Jeryl M. says:

    I am happy to support a good cause.

    1. dv says:

      Thanks Jeryl!

  117. Thank you for being a part of this amazing tour and supporting our troops! We have so much to be grateful for!

    thebookishsnob(at)hotmail(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      I agree 100%!

  118. Monique says:

    Gardening is hard work! Thank you for your participation in this tour.
    asiancocoa94 at aol dot com

    1. dv says:

      Hard and REWARDING–for me anyway! :) Thanks for taking part!

  119. Mary says:

    Thank you for supporting our troops in such a wonderful way!
    I have always found reading to be a great escape. Please donate my copy to a service member.

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your generosity. :)

  120. MJB says:

    My dad had a victory garden growing up in Brooklyn, NY. He said that he learned how to grow tomatoes, which became a great passion of his over the last 25 years or so. He said that everyone in his neighborhood had gardens, too. Thanks for making this such a great event and for your generosity!
    MJB
    msmjb65 AT gmail DOT com

    1. dv says:

      And to you, MJB!

  121. Linda Meza says:

    Thanks for supporting our troops this way. I am sure a soldier would love a good book to escape to while they are away from their families protecting out freedom.
    Thanks again
    Linda Meza

    linmeza@hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Even if the escape is for a little while, it may make the difference in boosting their spirit and positive outlook! Thanks for taking part.

  122. Carol M says:

    Thank you for your generosity! I’m looking forward to reading your book!
    kisstheday @ hotmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Thank you Carol and appreciate you taking the time to stop by!

  123. Elizabeth says:

    Thanks for your support of the troops. They are great and really deserve this!
    egstanley(at)gmail(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      You bet and appreciate you stopping by!

  124. brooke says:

    Thank you for doing this tour. I absolutely love the chance to help.
    elfinfaerie(at)msn(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Win-win for all of us!

  125. Karen says:

    Thank you for your support and the ebook

    kolists at gmail dt com

    1. dv says:

      Great to be of service and support!

  126. Sue says:

    This is such a great thing. Thanks!

    1. dv says:

      Truly wonderful — thanks IBC!

  127. Linda K. says:

    Thanks for supporting our troops. I’m looking forward to reading your book!
    wanda72(at)aol(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your comment on all counts!

  128. Carla S. says:

    Thank you for taking part in the tour.
    Carla63@windstream.net

    1. dv says:

      And to you for stopping by… :)

  129. Pinky says:

    Hi Dianne,

    Thanks for being part of the tour. I’m just here to show my support for the troops, I would love it if you would please give my copy to the troops too.

    To all of the women & men of the military, thank you for everything you do, the sacrifices you make, and for keeping our country safe! To the families of those in the military, thank you for the sacrifices you make each and every day.

    Pinky
    pinkmaiden821(at)gmail(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      No worries and will send your copy to the troops! :)

  130. Joan Wigg says:

    Thanks to all the troops for their dedication and patriotism. Thanks also to the authors who are showing their support!

    1. dv says:

      We’re all winners this week!

  131. Jessica B says:

    I think that the kids today are a little more spoilt then kids in the past. My teenage brother is like one of your kids, wanting the new game and this and that because all of his friends have it. The garden sounds awesome and I’m going to look forward to doing one next year. The troops are awesome and people to look up to.
    jessangil at gmail dot com
    -Jessica B

    1. dv says:

      Stop by my garden blog if you need help or tips with your garden and good luck!

      And thanks for supporting the troops today. :)

  132. Susan says:

    So happy to participate in this wonderful blog tour. Thank you!

    1. dv says:

      It’s really a super opportunity. :)

  133. JCDonelli says:

    Thanks for supporting the troops. Lust on the Rocks sounds like a great book.
    JCDonelli at yahoo dot com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your kind words!

  134. Danielle says:

    What a wonderful way to let our troops know how much we respect and appreciate them! Thank you for doing this :)

    Dani
    mdavis24@ec.rr.com

    1. dv says:

      So happy to help anyway I can. :)

  135. Chelsea says:

    I’d love a copy, thanks! :) etitameh(at)q(dot)com

    1. dv says:

      It’s on its way!

  136. Kat H. says:

    Thanks so much for doing this! It’s such a great event. My dad and hubby are Marine Corps veterans. Semper Fi!

    kathleen_howard2003@yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      They couldn’t do it without family support like yours! *Thank you.*

  137. Isolabella says:

    Thank you so much for supporting our troops and for participating in this blog tour.

    thenarcissuslibrary at gmail dot com

    1. dv says:

      Great to have you join the cause!

  138. Linda Spencer says:

    Thank you for participating in this wonderful project, and thank you to our veterans for their service!

    lindaspencer@mac.com

    1. dv says:

      Our veterans are some of the best!

  139. ann says:

    Thank you for taking part in the Tour and thank you to all that have served our country.

  140. Barb A says:

    Thank you Dianne & IBC for such a wonderful program. What a great way to show support for our troops.

    ackleybj {at} verizon {dot} net

    1. dv says:

      Agree — IBC is AWESOME!

  141. Diane U says:

    My dad was a WWII vet and landed at Omaha Beach on D-day. He didn’t live quite long enough to go on one of the Honor Tours and he didn’t talk about the war but he looked very dashing in the pictures. : )
    Thanks for the book and thanks for supporting our troops
    OmahaUrbanec AT aol Dot com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate your family’s contribution. Hope you and a member of our service enjoy the book!

  142. Norrie says:

    If it weren’t for all the weeds, I’d love my garden as much as you love yours! Actually, I like to plant a variety of herbs, and am now trying to decide how and where in the house to do that indoors for the winter.

    A heartfelt thanks to our troops who have been protecting–and continue to protect–our country. Please let them know how truly grateful we are for the sacrifices they make to maintain our safety and to provide security to so many individuals caught in war-torn areas of the world.

    lotsareading at yahoo dot com

    1. dv says:

      Herbs LOVE sunny windows! And we are truly grateful–and should count our blessings everyday.

  143. Roxs says:

    Thanks for participating!

    Roxs
    roxburysnoopy-blogtourdeforce at yahoo.com

    1. dv says:

      Couldn’t do it without you — thanks!

  144. Marty says:

    Thanks for supporting the troops.

    Marty
    puccagirl73@gmail.com

    1. dv says:

      Appreciate you stopping by, Marty!

  145. Carmen says:

    I love gardening, too. ;-)
    Thank you for supporting our troops like this.

    carmenbartATgmailDOTcom

    1. dv says:

      Gardening is a delight! :)

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