Beautiful, Birgit.

Thank you, Jen. I'm glad you like it!

Our Town Acres subdivision in Troy has planted American flags in each front yard for the second year. It's a somber reminder every time we drive into the sub that this holiday is much more than the weekend that marks the beginning of the summer.

The Civil War produced more than 600,000 deaths: 10% of Northern males age 20-45, and 30% of Southern white males age 18-40. The horror of this war included the bloodiest day at Antietam in September 17, 1862, almost 150 years ago, and led to the first Memorial Day observance at Arlington National Cemetery in 1868.

The deaths are fewer today, but no less painful for the families of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we often take for granted. Let us never forget them, their families and the wounded warriors who carry the battlefield memories in their minds forever.

Thank you! I always set aside time to remember those who didn't get to come home, like I was able to do. I don't complain about getting older as I know many who never had the opportunity to do that...

Very nice.

Thanks all for your sincere comments. Yes, Memorial Day isn't so much about Bbq's and hot dogs!