Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Making the Most of Your Memorial Day Weekend

guest post from Kevin Pearia
 
Memorial Day is one of our country's most solemn holidays, a day set aside for Americans to take time to think about the men and women who have given their lives for the preservation of law and liberty.  While for many Memorial Day does evoke memories of those who have given their lives for our country, it is important that Americans use their time off to truly appreciate the sacrifices of those who have served and continue to fight for freedom.  It may seem like a difficult task when money is tight, but fun and respectful Memorial Day weekend activities that don't break the bank are plentiful:

Host a Potluck
The ability for friends, family, and even strangers to come together and contribute to a shared cornucopia has been an American tradition for centuries and is a product of both our appreciation for personal freedom and our economic success.  Both of these would never be possible without sacrifice.

Make That Big Home Improvement Purchase
If you've been saving up for some appliance updates or other big home improvement purchases, Memorial Day Weekend may be the perfect opportunity to spend the money.  Sales are abundant, as anyone without DVR is well aware.  All the while you're taking advantage of the economic freedoms others fought and died for, and better yet, doing so for the sake of responsible and necessary updates.

Hit Up the Nearby Museums and Zoos
If you live near a heavily populated part of the country then pay a visit to the closest art museums, history exhibits and science centers.  The cultural freedoms these institutions represent are some of the most important aspects of American society protected and preserved by those who have died serving her.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors
The United States is home to countless acres of virtually untouched beauty and wonder.  Plan a weekend camping trip or bike the trail if you seek an inexpensive way to appreciate the natural gifts of this great country.

Attend a Parade
The classic Memorial Day parade remains a great way to honor the memory of fallen soldiers without withholding fun and excitement.  In addition a parade is an economical event so long as you find a free place to park your car.

In addition, don't forget to perform a simple web search for free and inexpensive events happening Memorial Day Weekend in your area.  When it comes to choosing what to do this Memorial Day, simply taking the time to remember those who paid the ultimate price is enough to know you're doing the right thing.


Kevin Pearia is a writer for Veterans United Network (VUN), a source for veterans’ benefits and information.  VUN is proudly sponsored by the nation’s leading VA Home Loan provider, Veterans United Home Loans.  

1 comment:

Katie Hire a Hero said...

Great idea for a blog post - our military heroes deserve to be honoured on memorial day, but often ex-service personnel find it a very difficult day to deal with. So many memories of fallen firends and difficult and testing times. Some fabulous ideas to keep us busy while still remembering them.

They will never be forgotten!

Katie - Hire a Hero
www.hireaherouk.org