Summer is here! Or at least it feels like it in Texas! We are already harvesting potatoes and green beans. Can’t wait for those tomatoes to ripen for a big yummy bacon and tomato sandwich!

Though not official, for many Memorial Day kicks off the start of summer. With long summer days, warm summer nights with fireflies in the moonlight, and fireworks on 4th of July, who doesn’t love summer!?
We also have two opportunities in the summer to remember, reflect and honor those who sacrificed so much for this great Nation. While we are all well familiar with why we celebrate Independence Day, less of us are as familiar with the origins of Memorial Day and why we celebrate it on the last Monday of May.
Memorial Day was originally called "Decoration Day." In 1869, the head of an organization of Union veterans, Maj. Gen. John A. Logan, established Decoration Day as a way for the nation to honor the graves of those who died in the Civil War with flowers, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It is believed that May 30th was chosen by Logan as the day to observe Decoration Day because flowers would be in bloom nationwide.
In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday, placing it as the last Monday in May and expanded it’s purpose to honor all those who have died in American wars.
On Memorial Day at 3 p.m. Central Time, Americans are asked to take part in the National Moment of Remembrance, a time to pause in a moment of silence to honor those who have died serving the U.S.
With my husband being a former Marine, we take our patriotism serious and we always want to remember, honor, and celebrate our Nation’s hero’s respectfully.
Additionally, we want our home to respectfully reflect our patriotism as we gather together with friends and family during these occasions.
We try to keep it pretty simple around our home. Front porch decorations, welcome our guests and set the patriotic tone.
Another simple way to decorate for Memorial Day and Independence Day is with pillows and throws.
One of my most favorite pillow covers we have ever carried is our God Bless America Pillow Cover. Not only is the message perfectly patriotic but the substantial ticking fabric along with the double stitched button closure on the back ensures that this cover is sturdy and will last through years of decorating and actual use. This is not your cheap China made pillow cover y’all!
Pair with our Old Glory Throw and not only will you have “throw”back props to 1776 and Betsy Ross but you will have decor that is equally functional for taking outside on cool summer nights (we don’t have those in Texas, we are very jealous of those of you who do!) or to spread on the grass, lay back and watch fireworks on the 4th of July!
Lastly, the centerpiece for the buffet table (ok so maybe we went a little overboard here but who can blame us)!
If you want to go overboard too, all of our centerpiece pieces can be found in our God Bless America Collection!
We sincerely hope you enjoy Memorial Day and Independence Day with your friends and family while you celebrate America and the freedoms we were given by God and those who sacrificed so much!
FAQ
1- Who wrote "God Bless America" and why?
God Bless America was written by Irving Berlin in 1918 during World War I. However, it gained popularity when Berlin revised and released it in 1938 as a peace song amid rising tensions in Europe.
2- What does "God Bless America" mean?
The song "God Bless America" expresses a patriotic and heartfelt wish for God's blessings upon the United States. It reflects a sense of national pride, unity, and a desire for divine protection and guidance.
3- Who is famous for "God Bless America"?
Kate Smith, a popular American singer, became famous for her rendition of "God Bless America." Her powerful and emotive performance of the song contributed significantly to its widespread popularity.
4- Is "God Bless America" the anthem?
No,"God Bless America" is not the official national anthem of the United States. "The Star-Spangled Banner" holds that designation. However, "God Bless America" is often considered an unofficial anthem, celebrated for its patriotic significance.