Dearest Family and Friends,

For many, Memorial Day Weekend is the opening weekend of Summer, boating, BBQs, time with family and friends, camping, the end of the school year, and remembering our own loved ones who have passed away.

While that is all wonderful, exciting and emotional.....the REAL reason for Memorial Day is to remember and honour the men and women who have died while serving our country in the U.S. military. Memorial Day originated during the Civil War when people placed flowers on the graves of those killed in battle. It became an official federal holiday in 1971.

When I think about the history of our beautiful country and the men and women in the military that have given everything to keep us safe and free, it brings me to tears. We all go about our daily lives handling things both good and bad. Think for a moment, a LONG moment please, of not just our magnificent military but also police officers, deputies with the Sheriff’s department, State Patrol and State Police officers, firefighters, our Border Patrol officers, and first responders… ALL of those selfless people who continue to walk out their doors every day with the reality that they may not come back home, that they may die doing their job, ALL in the name of keeping us safe.

Steve and I think often when we put our heads on the pillow at night of those that have died for this country and those serving right now that enable us to sleep peacefully each night.

Please, without politics, without negative news stories, without malice or gossip, spend time of course, enjoying this first weekend of summer, remembering our own loved ones who have died, preparing an incredible BBQ, but above ALL else give prayer and thanks for those who have made this country the GREATEST country in the world.....The United States Of America and those who gave their lives to make it so.

To all the family members of those who have lost a loved one while they served this country, may God bless each and every one of you, and please know that there are SO many of us who appreciate and love what your family members have done and continue to do to allow us to be safe.

Steve and I send all of you our prayers, for a VERY safe holiday weekend.

God bless everyone of you.