by Melissa Roe

Created on: May 18, 2009

As the days get longer and warm weather once again begins making a daily appearance, it is the time of year to start thinking about the first official BBQ of the season. The community swimming pools will open today, and everyone is in the mood to celebrate the season.

Memorial day is a time to spend with family and friends. It is a day to remember all of those people who gave their lives and made life as we know it possible. Show your honor by proudly displaying the colors of our nation in and around your home.

As we celebrate the end of the school year, and the beginning of the summer season, take a minute to bask in the warmth of the sun as you proudly place American Flags in your flower beds or along your driveway. Dress your entry door with a patriotic wreath, and put your American flag on the pole to fly high in the sky.

Take some time to visit the gravesites of loved ones, and pay your respects by placing grave blankets or flower bouquets on their headstones.

Plan an afternoon of fun by attending a local Memorial Day Parade with your family. Enjoy all the community participants and marching bands who proudly perform in the parade.

Include some American favorites in your Memorial day menu. Plan to serve items such as macaroni salad, baked beans, corn on the cob, hamburgers, hot dogs, and ice tea. Ice cream is also enjoyed by people of all ages, and it is a cool dessert treat on a hot sunny day.

Set up the sprinkler and get the kids in their bathing suits. Enjoy the laughter as the kids run and jump through the cool water. Watch and admire their innocence as their hair begins to glisten with sparkling droplets from the spray of the hose. Set up the volleyball net and get a family game started

Enjoy quality family time by sharing memorable stories with one another around the picnic table. Keep your camera ready as you enjoy the daily events. Make sure your batteries are charged so that you don't miss one opportunity to save a memory by capturing it with your lens.

As the afternoon winds down, the sun begins to fall, and the kids begin to show weariness, relax by listening to some music and start preparing for the evening activities. Light up the sparklers and get out the marshmallows. Build a bonfire and help the kids make s'mores.

Check the local activities in your area and find a fireworks show to attend. Set up your lawn chairs or blankets and lean back to enjoy the beautiful display, a perfect ending to a very memorable day.

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