MEMORIAL DAY

Thank you to all the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom.  I think sometimes people forget that Memorial Day is not really about honoring those who are currently serving our country, but more about remembering those who died while serving our country.  It is truly the ultimate sacrifice. We owe them our freedom and our respect.

Our family observed Memorial Day by attending our local parade.  I encouraged our children to wave small American flags and to applaud the veterans as they marched by.  We wore red, white, and blue.  I always make sure our children have red, white, and blue they can wear for Memorial Day and the 4th of July (I love patriotic holidays!).

Also, at Mass this weekend, the organist played a medley of patriotic music, including the hymns of the armed forces, before Mass began.  The prayers of the faithful included a prayer for all those men and women who died while defending us.  The recessional song was America the Beautiful, which I thought was perfect.  I have heard that some people do not like patriotic music played at Mass, but I have no problem with it.  The Mass had ended and it was just beautiful to all sing that song and remember those who lost their lives.

In addition to observing Memorial Day, our family also had two family gatherings this weekend.  One was a graduation party for a family friend.  The other was a birthday party for a niece turning 4.  Both were fun events, and it was so nice to just relax and visit with family.

Today, we were hoping to just spend the day outside in our yard, just the 4 of us.  My husband and I were going to mow the grass and weed, while the kids played around us.  Then, we planned to grill our dinner and eat on the patio.  Unfortunately, the weather has not cooperated.  It is rainy and grey outside, in contradiction to the weather prediction.  We got to the parade in between showers and are now spending some time inside, which is fine, too.  And, my loving husband offered to go grocery shopping for me, which is so kind of him.

I hope you have all enjoyed the long holiday weekend.  Remember to offer a prayer for all the deceased soldiers and remind your children of the meaning of this holiday.