Commemorating Memorial Day has come to take on many forms and traditions over the past 156 years.  Americans began to recognize Memorial Day in 1868, and the country established it as a federal holiday in 1971.  Originally known as “Decoration Day,” the holiday started with communities coming together to decorate the graves and honor all of those who those who died during military service to America.

When our nieces and nephews (now in their 30’s) were young and our parents were all still living, Donna and I lived in a small town in a house across from one of the oldest cemeteries in Massachusetts.  It contains the resting places of people who died in almost every if not every war our country has seen.  Commemorating the day with our nieces and nephews at the parade and memorial service at the cemetery was a moving experience that tied us to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  Afterward, we would cross the street to our home and share a meal with our loved ones trying my best not to embarrass myself by incinerating the meat on the grill.

Memorial Day also heralds the coming season of summer and outdoor celebration.  There was a time when people held tight to the fashion rules about white shoes, pants, and belts but that is less true now.  It heralds the season of sunshine and warmth and a lighter feel to life.  As wine lovers it is the season of chilled white wine, Rosé, and lighter red wines.  As we look forward to these lighter days, we first toast the women and men who gave their lives in service to our country.  Here here…