To be honest, I usually think of a 3-day weekend and BBQ’s.
But when our Miss Priss asked me, “What do we DO on Memorial Day?”, it made me really stop and think.
We decided that this Memorial Day it was important to teach our children what it is we are really celebrating.
Thanks to a tip from a friend we found out about a really well done Memorial Day event at a huge cemetery in downtown Indy.
This cemetery houses the mortal remains of President Benjamin Harrison and many fallen soldiers from Indiana, all the way from the Civil War to the present day.
It was near record temperatures (91 degrees, 63% humidity!)
but we're glad we braved the weather anyway.
Miss Priss at the Confederate Memorial, prisoners of war
captured in Indiana during the Civil War.
This area was set up a lot like Arlington National Cemetery.
These are some of the fallen war heroes of World War I.
Setting up our picnic lunch while we waited for the
Indiana National Guard Band to play some patriotic tunes.
A huge shade tree and a tiny breeze helped us stay somewhat cool.
Lots of sticks and dirt kept the kids busy to at least stay for the band
and the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance portion of the program.
So it’s not like our trip was a smashing success…the kids got pretty hot, tired, sweaty and cranky…but we are glad we took the extra effort to plant the seed of patriotism in our children.
…Miss Priss learned to put her hand over her heart and show respect when the National Anthem is sung or played and the Pledge of Allegiance recited.
…Our children were exposed to great patriotic music.
…We were able to teach gratitude and respect for those who have sacrificed and risked their lives to protect our freedoms.
…We had a great Family Home Evening discussion where we explained the meaning of the words in the Pledge of Allegiance and the story behind “The Star Spangled Banner.” Our family goal is to have those memorized by this year’s 4th of July!
…And Miss Priss can now tell you what we DO on Memorial Day…and she won’t even know to mention a 3-day weekend and BBQ’s.
8 comments:
That is awesome! I have not been to a cemetery since we went to DC in high school. That was an amazing experience and that's really cool that your kids got to experience that!
You are such a good Mommy this looks like fun and I'm sure your kids learned something from it too.
Yay for you! You seized a great opportunity to teach cool things to your kids! :)
Candace, you and Jun are awesome!! It really is SO important to teach our children about the sacrifice many have made for our freedom's. We must never forget them!
Yesterday I thought about our next door neighbors at Ft Benning who are members of the church. The father lost his life in Afghanistan a few months ago. He was a wonderful husband and father and such a great guy. I know we will always think of him and the many others who have fallen in memorial day.
What a wonderful idea!!! So few children are growing up with any idea of patriotism, I'm so glad you are passing it on!
That is pretty awesome. We sure missed you at the reunion! Hope you guys are doing well.
What a great idea! I'll have to keep this in mind for future Memorial Days! I'm sure many cemeteries have similar programs. Sometimes hon, you totally inspire me to be a better mom!
Sounds like a fun experience, Can! Good job teaching your kids about that important day. I agree that we tend to forget the true meaning of it. Your kiddos are so grown up & CUTE! I can't wait to see them again "LIVE". = ) Oh, and you are looking so adorable, Prego! Love you guys!
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