Nothing quite says welcome to summer than Memorial Day weekend. While the official start to the season isn’t for almost another month, this is a day to celebrate the imminent sounds, smells and sights of warm weather living. And for me it’s now the count down until my departure for my annual summer destination of Nantucket. As we all plot, plan and dream of our upcoming holidays, I pulled together a little visual inspiration from my photo files of recent summers on Nantucket.
all photos by Stacey Bewkes for Quintessence
But of course this is also a day to remember and honor those who have made sacrifices serving our country, which includes my father, a decorated officer and reconnaissance pilot in the WWII Army Air Corps. Injured by a mortar shell attack at Battle of the Bulge, he spent three years recuperating at Walter Reed Hospital, where he met my mother who was, during the war, an art therapist in the Red Cross. So as we all enjoy the festivities and our long weekend, take a moment to recognize that owe so much to these brave men and women who have and continue to serve.
Lovely post. Thank you for reminding us to remember the sacrifices of so many and sharing the romantic story of your parents.
Lovely post. Thank you for honoring those who gave so much to the nation.
Fredrick Douglass former slave and abolitionist, on Memorial Day:
“Dark and sad will be the hour to this nation when it forgets to pay grateful homage to its greatest benefactors. The offering we bring to-day is due alike to the patriot soldiers dead and their noble comrades who still live; for, whether living or dead, whether in time or eternity, the loyal soldiers who imperiled all for country and freedom are one and inseparable.”
I loved reading the story of your parents, both heroes! Thank you for sharing.
Lovely lovely post. We adore Nantucket! Especially Sconset. And the story of your parents is wonderful and a good reminder of the meaning of the holiday.
We’re (hubby) is rigging the sailboat right now…the water is blue and beautiful view…land of the free!! franki (We’re NAVY 30 plus years!!)
Amazing post! Lovely words! I always saw this as a reborn, a fresh start to life!
Thank you for helping us to remember how to celebrate this day with this wonderful story of your amazing parents!
Stacey, I had the pleasure of meeting your father in March in John’s Island. He indeed represents the “Greatest Generation.” Thank you for recognizing these fathers and grandfathers (and mothers) whose patriotism and service is the reason we enjoy the liberties we have today.