Memorial Day began as Decoration Day, a day on which soldiers' graves were decorated with flowers. The tradition began in 1868 when Civil War General John Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic chose the original date of May 30. It was in 1971 that Congress set Memorial Day on the last Monday of May. Since then, many others have died in Vietnam and other foreign lands. With the war in Iraq, over 4,000 new graves have been created for our soldiers. We should all take time out to remember these valiant warriors who have given their lives to our country, and celebrate their memory and service. Then, after we do that, we can celebrate the first weekend holiday of the summer.
So, now let's go! It's a holiday weekend in the Wood River Valley and we have it all going on. There's no good reason for leaving town, what with the high cost of gasoline and the nightmare experiences of dealing with commercial airlines. Forget about spring cleaning—it's a holiday. As one friend of mine put it, "A clean room is a sign of a wasted life." I say stay in town and join in on all the unique activities that are available to you and your family.
Where else can you obtain a session with a life coach? I only wish I had had that opportunity decades ago. I really needed a coach to monitor me then. I'm also interested in procuring an animal communicator for several dog friends I know. I would like to get lessons in kayak rolling, hay hooking and how to get rid of "raccoon eyes" on Tuesday morning. All of these are available to us all this weekend at the Wellness Festival and other venues throughout the county.
In Hailey, Springfest will be held in Roberta McKercher Park on Saturday and Sunday with a huge line-up of talented local musical acts. My old friend Teddy Daley started this event in 1985. Love her. It's a great time to see folks for the first time since the snows. Actually, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if it snowed all weekend. It has before.
So turn off your TV's, gather up your clan and get out there and press the flesh. We are allowed to be happy after we remember not to forget.
Nice talking to you.
