Memorial Day

I think this is the very first year that Memorial Day meant more to me than simply a "day off."  I have spent 27 years being blind to what this day really means.  Now, with a brother in the service, currently stationed overseas, I have a heightened awareness as to what this holiday means to so many families, who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

So although we spent the day with friends (at their gorgeous, seaside home, seen throughout this post), eating clams and hanging out with the kiddos...we also spent time listening to stories on NPR, stories of our servicemen and women.  We took time out of our day to remember and reflect, and to wish our troops, especially my brother, a safe return home.