When we think about Memorial Day, it is usually thoughts of the start of summer, weekend parties by the pool and getting ready for outdoor living. But Memorial Day is much deeper than that. I was reminded of this in at least one way this weekend.
The long Memorial Day weekend was a great time for us to catch up on house projects and yard work. We had purchased an inexpensive outdoor teak bench that needed to be assembled and oiled, there was a section of fence that needed some extensive repair, new rails needed to be put in on the screened in porch to prevent our young children from plunging off of the porch and into the backyard below, and the downstairs bathroom floor needed work (the old sub floor to be removed and replaced, leveling compound applied, and new vinyl tile installed). So, needless to say, the holiday focus was on our home and our needs.
On Saturday, we did get away to a free music concert with a famous Sousa (marching) band. While we all enjoyed the show, especially when the theme from Indiana Jones played and the man himself came out brandishing his whip) there was a poignant moment. The band began to play the various themes for the armed forces as members and veterans of those forces stood to rousing applause. It was a great moment to explain the sacrifice to our kids, and I swear I wanted to hug every one of those men and women who reluctantly stood for acknowledgment. Without them, we wouldn’t have the opportunity to be concerned about fixing a fence or installing a new bench, let alone be free to own a home and raise our kids in a safe place.
How blessed was I to get that reminder. So today, we will hang our flags and remember those who did and continue to protect our freedom.
How are you honoring Memorial Day at home?
p>Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now managing relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.
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