When I was in school, today was known as Decoration Day. I was in the band and we marched to every cemetery in the area and played patriotic songs. A trumpet would play taps and then I would steel myself for the gun salute. Each time I would vow not to jump out of my skin, but it never worked. After the cemetery ceremonies, I would join my family, putting flowers and plants on the graves of loved ones. That was followed by a huge community meal at the community center. This was a ritual and now, it seems that we hardly remember what this day is for.

Today, I have thought a lot about the number of young people who have been buried in the past four years, taking part in an illegal and senseless war. This month is turning in to one of the most deadly so far. More of us than ever want this madness to end. Last night, I watched the 60 Minute show about the Iowa National Guard. When they were deployed two years ago, men and women volunteered, feeling it was a just war. Their loved ones at home were proud of them and felt it was a just cause. Now, in the face of having their tours of duty extended, most are having second thoughts.

I have failed to let you know the source of the bumper stickers that I am sending out. They are from MoveOn.org, Democracy in Action. You could get one bumper sticker free, but I made a sizable donation and received 100 of them. If you want one, I still have some. Just fill out the contact form at the top of this page with your snail mail. Click on the Bumper Sticker here or in my side bar. I have added some more photos. Join the Virtual Iraq War Protest by sending me a photo of your bumper sticker.

Today was a family day for us. I scored big points with M and M with these nifty Razor Scooters. Miles finished his dinner and said, “I’m gonna scoot, scoot, scoot until you cut the watermelon.” We have nice long walkway and a fairly quiet street for them to scoot around. We also took them over to Reed College Campus.

Of course, some booboo’s accompanied the scootering. Between the two of them, I think we used 5 Hello Kitty and Blues Clues band-aids.

We had a Mediterranean dinner, lamb kabobs, lentil salad with feta (from Stephanie), steamed artichokes, sweet potato frites and of course, watermelon.

Isn’t this a site to take your mind off the cares of the world?