Happy Memorial Day!

Yes, it is Memorial Day. But do you really know what that means? Do you know how to explain it to your kids?

Studio 1621 on Etsy.

To many, it just means whoo hooo summer is beginning....an excuse to go camping and have a barbecue. And while that is a great benchmark, there is so much more to it. 

We need our children to understand why Memorial Day is a holiday. What does it mean for our country's history and to the families of those who have served our country. Our kids have less and less respect for our country, and although imperfect, I can think of many places to live that are much less desirable.

pillow by Joshua by Oak on Etsy.

The holiday actually started on May 30, 1868 when Union General John A. Logan declared the day a good opportunity to visit the graves of those who died while fighting during the Civil War. About 20 years later the name was changed to "Memorial Day". And then in 1971 President Nixon declared Memorial Day a federal holiday to be celebrated on the last Monday in May.

So what is Memorial Day? It is an occasion to honor the men and women who died fighting for our country. Fighting for YOUR freedom. Fighting to give ME the life I am accustomed to...a life of FREEDOM.

Statue of Liberty embroidery by GraceyMay on Etsy.

So what can we do? How do we share with our kids the significance of this holiday?

Well here are a few ideas:

1. Teach them honor and respect. Go visit a war memorial. Fly your flag half mast at noon.
2. Celebrate! Go to a parade.
3. Create. Make a patriotic craft. Family Fun has great ideas!
4. Get to know a soldier. Write a letter to someone serving overseas. Send a care package. There is Operation Gratitude, or Any Soldier.
5. Honor those who have served. Bake something and take it to a Veteran's home.
6. PRAY. Take time to pray for our country. Pray for our President. Pray for those serving.

Definitely enjoy your holiday today, just don't forget why it is that you have a day off. Take time to explain it to your kids and honor those who have served.

Today, I dedicate this post to my nephew Adam who is currently serving in the United States Army and will be deployed soon. I'm so proud of him. His willingness to serve for the sake of MY freedom, and YOUR freedom...that is amazing. Thank you Adam...I love you! 

What are you going to do today to celebrate Memorial Day? Tell me, I want to know...picnics and barbecues and parades and all!

BE creative,

lisa