Memorial Day

Memorial Day! 

So what does your typical Memorial Day look like?  Is it a bbq with family and friends?  Do you go to your local parade?  Do you celebrate at the VFW?  Do you go to the beach or pool?

Whatever you choose to do on this day, take a moment to remember why we really get a 3 day weekend.  The biggest way to say "thank you" and remember those who we have lost is to display your American Flag!  

So...let's plan a party with ways to do that!

Food!  

The more foods you can make in the red/white/blue theme, the better!  Of course you want to have the appropriate summer foods: hamburgers, hot dogs, steaks, chicken, corn on the cob, watermelon, fruit salad, potato salad, pasta salad, cole slaw, baked beans, chips, apple pie, ice cream, strawberry shortcakes, star shaped cookies, lemonade, sweet tea and beer!

But then there is always the "flag cake" or "jell-o layered parfait"!  They look so fun!

Decorations!

Well, we already know what our color palette is, so now we just have to figure out how to execute it.

Well, here's some inspiration...

So flags everywhere is one idea! You can fill up little buckets of sand and stick in some flags and you've got a centerpiece.  You could also make pom poms or paper lanterns to hang.  Pennant banners always have a big impact when strung outside.  Also, white and red petunias in festive planting pots would be a great centerpiece.  If you're planning a kids party, fill clear jars with different red, white or blue candies!  They will love it and it will make a huge statement.  I also love the idea of buckets full of red, white or blue bottled drinks!

Love this centerpiece with combining flags with an old American tradition of baseball.

Also, decorate your home!  Purchase some cotton bunting material that you can re-use each year and go crazy!

Music is also a great way to get people celebrating!  So make a fun CD of your favorite patriotic songs and blast it loud!

Also, support our military by attending your local parade.  Wave some American Flags and say thank you to each of the military soldiers!

Let's remember why we get this 3 day weekend.  It's to remember those who lost their lives fighting for our freedom.  At 3pm (EST), pause for 1 minute to remember those who we have lost during the National Moment of Remembrance.