Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

It comes around every year. It's a day off work for most if not all. It's a day for picnics, BBQs, pool parties, parades, and flags. But while we're all enjoying these things does anybody really stop to think about why? Sadly, probably not. The true meaning as to why we all have a day off in May has largely been lost. So, I bring you a reminder today. :)

Memorial Day was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. It was originally called "Decoration Day" as it was a day set aside for all citizens to decorate the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers. By the late 1800s, many communities across the country had begun to celebrate Memorial Day and, after World War I, observances also began to honor those who had died in all of America's wars, not just the Civil War. It became a federal holiday in 1971 and it unofficially marks the first weekend of Summer.

So, now that you've had your history lesson, let's talk about celebrating with thanks to all of those that sacrificed so we could all have a day off. ;)

Central 214 Memorial Day Patio Party Benefiting N. Tx Food Bank:
Central 214 at Hotel Palomar Dallas5300 East Mockingbird Lane Dallas, TX 75206214-520-7969 - Sunday at 7:00
Good Food, great friends, and it benefits the North Texas Food Bank!

Memorial Day Car Show:
Monday, May 31, 2010 from 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Lynn Smith Chevrolet, 925 N. Burleson Blvd., Burleson, Texas 76028
There's a $10 entrance but profits go to D & D Christmas for Kids 2010 Project.! Hosted by D & D Rockin’ Rods Classic Car Shows. I know there are some car buffs reading this. Hey, you went to Hot Rods and Heels, didn't ya?

Dallas Symphony Memorial Day Concert at Flagpole Hill
Flagpole Hill 8100 Doran CircleDallas, TX 75238
Monday, May 31, 2010 at 8 p.m.
This one is a family fun freebie. Take a blanket, have a seat, and enjoy some Memorial Day tunes!

20th Annual Memorial Day Run, 20K and 5K Runs
Monday, May 31, 2010 at 7 a.m.
Bath House Cultural Center parking lot, White Rock Lake, 500 E. Lawther, Dallas
Get your run on for your health and for your veterans!

And of course most suburbs will hold parades and picnics. The Spring Creek subdivision in North Dallas will hold its annual Memorial Day parade and family picnic at 10 a.m. Monday. Check out www.springcreekonline.net for more info!

I will be traveling to Granbury to see my buddy from waaaaay back...yeah...elementary school! He just put in a pool so it will be a weekend of laying out like a lazy bum, swimming, and grilling fresh veggies and (mmmmmmm) salmon for us. Most people have the same plans...grilling, pool, friends, and sun. No matter how you choose to spend your day off take a second to reflect on why you are enjoying a burger on a free day from work. Hang a flag in remembrance or visit a cemetary to decorate a grave. It's ok to be Patriotic! ;) However you choose to say thanks be safe, well, happy, and free. After all, that's why they fought in the first place.