Honoring Heroes and Embracing Joyful Connection This Memorial Day
- Kayla Myers
- May 24
- 3 min read
Hey Operation Flourish Fam!
As May draws to a close, we arrive at Memorial Day, a time for solemn remembrance and heartfelt gratitude. While it’s a day steeped in honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, it’s also an opportunity to connect with loved ones and embrace the simple joys of being together.
A Day of Remembrance:
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, originated after the Civil War and became a federal holiday in 1971. It’s a day specifically set aside to honor and mourn the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It's a time for reflection on their courage and dedication.
While we hold these heroes in our hearts, the spirit of community and connection can also be a meaningful way to spend this day as we balance remembrance with the #ChooseHealth pillars.
Ways to Meaningfully Observe Memorial Day:
Attend a Memorial Day Ceremony:
Many towns and cities host parades, memorial services, and moments of silence to honor fallen service members. Participating in these events can be a powerful way to show respect.
Visit a Cemetery or Memorial:
Take time to visit the final resting places of veterans or local memorials. Placing flowers or flags can be a simple yet profound gesture.
Reflect and Educate:
Spend some time learning more about the history of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by our military. Share these stories with your family.
Connect with Veterans:
If you know any veterans, reach out and thank them for their service. Offer support and a listening ear.
Enjoy Time with Loved Ones:
Gather with family and friends. Cherishing these moments of connection honors the freedoms that were defended.
To make your Memorial Day gathering both enjoyable and aligned with my #ChooseHealth principles, here are a couple of delicious and nutritious picnic-friendly recipes.
Healthy Memorial Day Picnic Recipes:
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad:
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled), 1 cucumber (diced), 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (halved), 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Toss gently to combine. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This salad is packed with nutrients and refreshing flavors!
Watermelon & Feta Skewers with Mint:
Ingredients: 1 small seedless watermelon (cut into 1-inch cubes), 4 ounces feta cheese (cut into 1-inch cubes), fresh mint leaves, balsamic glaze (optional).
Instructions: Thread watermelon cubes, feta cubes, and mint leaves onto skewers. Arrange on a platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving, if desired. These skewers are hydrating, salty-sweet, and incredibly refreshing on a warm day.
And for some joyful movement and outdoor fun for all ages:
Outdoor Games & Activities:
Giant Jenga: Use large wooden blocks to build a tower, then take turns removing blocks without making the tower fall. This game encourages strategy and gentle movement.
Badminton or Volleyball: Set up a net and enjoy a friendly game. These activities get everyone moving and promote teamwork (or friendly competition!).
Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of things to find in nature (different types of leaves, rocks, flowers, etc.) and send participants on a fun exploration. This encourages mindful engagement with the outdoors.
Let’s make this Memorial Day a day of both heartfelt remembrance and joyful connection, embracing the freedoms we cherish and the well-being that allows us to fully appreciate them.
Cheerfully yours,
Kayla Myers
P.S. How will you be honoring the fallen heroes this Memorial Day while also connecting with loved ones?
Share your plans in the comments below.
I think a nature scavenger hunt sounds amazing!