I’m not going to lie- my first thought when I see Memorial Day creep up on the calendar is this:

(Don’t do it, girlfriends.)

And then my mind wanders to this:

And then, finally, to this:

Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer and the woman’s plight to work the white shoe into her wardrobe and is generally a day spent barbecuing with family and friends.

But, above all, this day is dedicated to remembering the men and women to lost their lives serving our country.

While I plan on spending today with my girls at the lake, soaking up the sun and breathing the fresh air (weather permitting- finger’s crossed), my thoughts will never be far from the members of the Armed Forces and their families. I am humbled by their sacrifice and dedication and my heart is heavy with gratitude.