While the Summer season technically starts in June, most of us celebrate officially on Memorial Day weekend.
Memorial Day is the last Monday of May. It is right about this time that the weather is perfect--warm and sunny. The school year is nearly done, the pools are open and the Jersey shore starts hopping. With burgers, hot dogs, and corn-on-the cob on the grill, the holiday allows us some time to unwind and relax with friends and family.
I've always loved the kick off to Summer. This time of year in New Jersey is a special one. The towns grow quieter while folks flock south and east to the happenings at the shore for the day, weekend or longer. Back at home there has also been the idea of lazy Summer days in the neighborhood, sitting outside and enjoying the small moments of good conversation with our favorite people.
As a kid, I recall running around catching lightening bugs and playing in the street at night after a day at the local pool. However, one of the biggest memories is sitting on the curb, watching the Memorial Day parade on the main street of town. Along with my grandparents, the family would watch as the first responders pass by, along with the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, veterans, school groups and other town organizations. The high school band play a tune marching down the road while other participants threw candy at the crowd. Spectators cheered and waved in appreciation.
Of course, we saw friends and neighbors along the way. My congenial grandfather always chatting it up with his fellow senior citizens while getting a Poppy flower (read about the tradition here and pick one up when you see them) and my grandmother handing me a little American flag to wave. My dad would tell me about seeing the town parade when he was a kid and my mom made sure I listened to the opening remarks. And all the adults explained the most important reason for being there.
Memorial Day cookouts are possible because of generations of men and women who sacrificed their lives for their country. We may forget that on a daily basis, but the holiday urges us to reflect on those who gave their all for our way of life. And it helps us understand why they did so. Freedom.
My memories are almost Norman Rockwell. Something you may see in a movie, perhaps. But they represent not only small towns in New Jersey, but all cities across the country that honor and respect the meaning of Memorial Day.
So, with that I say, "thank you!" And, Happy Summer.