Grateful

Ahhhh, a three-day weekend. After the go-go-go of May, I needed a holiday. My children needed a holiday. We all needed a day on which we could allow ourselves - without feeling guilty and without negative consequence - to just rest.

I realize, of course, that today - Memorial Day - isn't about rest, or about having the day off from work or school; today is about recognizing the brave men and women who have fought to protect our freedom and preserve our way of life.

The rest, and the day off from work and school, are important to me though. The slow-down that accompanies a National Holiday rejuvenates and replenishes me, and the break from my everyday responsibilities provides me with the time, energy, and mental stamina needed to spend at least a portion of my day giving thanks for - and teaching my children about - all those who courageously and selflessly made sacrifices in the name of the American Dream.

I am grateful for it all.

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."

~Melody Beattie