Memorial Day – Food, Friends & Loved Ones
Often the first thing we think of on Memorial Day is food! BBQ’s, cookouts, picnics, grilling at the beach or packing a cooler for a day on the boat. Sometimes we can lose sight of why we celebrate Memorial Day and what it’s all about. Here are a few tips to help honor our fallen soldiers and their families while enjoying a delicious meal and making memories with those we hold dear.
Take the time to teach your kids what Memorial Day is really about.
What we now know as Memorial Day began back in 1868 when a Union general declared May 30 as the day to decorate the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers. After World War I Memorial Day became a holiday to honor Americans who died fighting in any war. In November we celebrate Veterans Day honoring those all who have served in the military.
Let the kids help with a patriotic dessert!
Make a batch of berry and whipped cream parfaits with strawberries and blueberries – layering in a red, white and blue pattern. Or try making some red white and blue marshmallow pops – just dip the marshmallows in chocolate and hand over for the little ones to decorate with sprinkles. And everyone loves chocolate covered strawberries – simply coat in white chocolate and dip in blue sugar sprinkles for a fun patriotic kid friendly dessert.
These recipes are super simple and cost effective, here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 1 bag of jumbo marshmallows
- 1 bag of milk chocolate melting discs
- 1 bag of white chocolate melting discs
- 1 container of red, white and blue sprinkles
- 1 container of blue sugar sprinkles
- 2 containers of fresh strawberries
- 2 containers of fresh blueberries
Send a care package to soldiers.
The men and women currently serving in the armed forces will appreciate hearing from you on Memorial Day. Kids can make cards or write letter thanking the men and women for their service, send a handmade craft, and ship everyday items soldiers need. Many items can be found at the dollar store along with clear cellophane bags the kids can stuff and tie up with red white and blue ribbon. Operation Gratitude is a great organization to use – here is a link to what soldiers currently need Operation Gratitude Wishlist.
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