Memorial Day

Memorial Day, always the last Monday in May, is a holiday in which we remember our military men and women who have died in service. Not to be confused with Veteran's Day, where we honor all the people who have served in the military - on this day we are paying special respect to those who have given their lives in the course of serving our country. Which is, of course, the ultimate price those brave soldiers have paid for our freedom. (War sucks.)

In addition to the quiet moments of reflection and the speeches at Arlington National Cemetery, Memorial Day is known as the start of summer for most of us. And we do it in the usual patriotic way, like July 4th and Labor Day, with flags and banners stuffed in and around our outdoor picnics and sizzling barbeques.

Well, they might not be so sizzling in Seattle. Especially if it's cloudy and raining, which looks like our usual weather forecast. But we'll still try to make red, white and blue cupcakes and jello shots or something, just to be festive. If this is the beginning of summer, then we need to get our party started.

Happy Vacation Monday - at least we can celebrate a 4-day week!