Prelude to Summer~Memorial Day

~ Maine Veteran's Memorial Cemetery ~

Memorial Day weekend was always the prelude to summer. The family gatherings, special holidays and vacations.

Cottages are opened for the season, dates are set for coastal lobster bakes, the cupboards are well-stocked for frequent s'mores and life just becomes a little less hectic and a bit more fun.

It's important to remember the reason for the holiday weekend. The men and women that have fought and continue to fight to keep our country free.

It is a special day to remember those that lost their lives while fighting for our country.

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My Dad fought in World War 2~ he was a very handsome Navy man. Lucky for us, he made it home safely and met my Mom on leave in New York City~ the rest, as they say, is history. And a great love story was born.

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My birthday falls on Memorial Day weekend and back when that holiday was always on May 30th, there was always a parade-much like Memorial Day anywhere, America.

My Dad told me the parade was especially for me- my very own birthday parade.
Isn't that just the sweetest memory for a child?

My parents are both buried here at the

Maine Veteran's Memorial Cemetery.

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It is especially beautiful on Memorial Day.
The lanes are lined with large American flags and there is a flag at each site.

Let's not forget~

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... this parade is for you Dad.