Memorial Day

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Family, Holiday, inspiration, Life, Memorial Day, relationships

I won’t be spending Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery this year and I feel a little guilty about it. As a child growing up in New England, I remember my family’s tradition of gathering at the cemetery to honor our relatives by straightening tombstones, clearing brush and debris, and finally decorating the graves with fresh flowers. We said prayers for the dearly departed before eating “dinner on the grounds” (quite literally, on a blanket.)

It was a family reunion of sorts – between both dead and living relatives. I never considered it strange that we were picnicking atop the graves of our ancestors. It was simply a peaceful, all-day event, which included sharing stories and laughter.

Today, I live too far away to continue the tradition, but part of my heart will be in Washington DC and Brookline, Massachusetts, on this holiday.

May they all rest in peace.

 

Renee Garrison is the award-winning author of The Anchor Clankers.

Memorial Day chairs

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Chairs, Conversation, Family, furniture, Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a great time to remember that chairs are great places.  They hold us.  Indeed, they can hold great conversation too.

 

 Furniture is one step beyond clothing:  It fits our bodies as it does our moods and our homes.

 

 Consider this: When it comes to chairs, owning a variety of sizes will allow everyone a choice of the best fit.

 And don’t leave this planet without having owned a wooden rocking chair!

 

Patriotic thoughts

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Homes, Memorial Day, Residence

• Both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson designed, built, and loved their own homes.  If you currently feel overwhelmed by yours, remember: The Founding Fathers also ran the country at the same time…

• The personal residences of every U.S. President are still standing, except one belonging to William McKinley.