Here is a bit of history about the custom of using the Red Poppy to mark Memorial Day!
Once again, I found this bit of information in the pages of the Old Farmer's Almanac. Very appropriate, and I'm not sure if many are familiar with this small piece of American history!
Red Poppies and Peace
Since World War I, poppies have been a symbol of remembrance at Memorial Day (May 31). The red poppy was used to symbolize the blood of those who died in service to their countries.
The idea started in 1918 when American Moina Michael read the poem “In Flanders Fields,” written by Canadian John McCrae in 1915 during World War I. She began wearing poppies and selling them to others, using the proceeds to help veterans.
After World War I, veterans sold artificial red poppies to help raise money for French and Belgian war orphans. Today, donations to veterans’ groups are often marked with a token paper red poppy.
Just a little something that I wanted to share!
Now, how about some fresh coffee on the patio? Looks like a nice day for it!
