It is so easy as we enjoy a 3 or 4 day holiday weekend to just relax... picnic with our family, go to BBQs at friends' homes, see a movie, or enjoy the Texas Tax Free shopping on Energy Star items... but, please, keep in mind that these are NOT the reasons for Memorial Day.  We have the ability to do these things because of American soldiers who died protecting and defending our freedoms.  They gave the ultimate sacrifice so you and I could raise our families in the greatest country in the world.

 "We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies."

Moina Michael, 1915

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps'".  I am asking everyone who may read my blog to please do this one small favor for the men and women who have given so much for us, without ever even knowing our names.  This is why I am posting this blog early.  So, hopefully, more have time to read it and know of this cherished moment of silence.

The history of this special day dates all the way back to our own Civil War.  It is steeped in the rich culture of our nation with the heart of this holiday being an important reminder of those who have died serving our great nation.  For more information on the history of Memorial Day, Click Here

From my own heart, I wish all veterans, a day of love, gratitude, strength, and more than anything, THANKS.  Without you, this country could not be what it is today.

In loving memory of my grandpa, Gene Harris, Army Corp. of Engineers, Combat Veteran.  We love you and miss you.