labor day

Each year, the first Monday in September is set aside as a national holiday to celebrate the hard work of citizens across the U.S. Along with providing many employees with a three-day weekend to wrap up the summer season, it's also a time to recognize the contributions of workers, both past and present.

Recognizing Labor Day isn't new. The observation began in the late 1800s after New York labor unions hosted a parade to honor their employees. The idea took root and President Grover Cleveland signed a law officially designating Labor Day as a federal holiday in 1894. Cities across the U.S. participated by hosting their own parades, picnics and gatherings to mark the occasion. More than 130 years later, the tradition still continues today. 

Holiday at Home is an annual celebration in my home, Kettering, Ohio. It is held the Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend. Activities include a 5K, Arts & Craft and Auto Shows, children's activities, parade, and entertainment, The parade starts at the intersection of Stroop and Far Hills with a huge American flag suspended from a crane flying over the intersection. 

This year no flag flew over the intersection and it looked so empty. It had been moved down the road to fly behind the grandstand. It didn't have the wow factor of hanging over the intersection but at least it was still there. I'm curious as to why this long lasting tradition changed...gotta do a little digging. 

Todd and I did not go to the parade this year. We're plowing through some house projects and labored through those on Monday. It was a beautiful day to have the windows open. We live close enough to the parade route that we did get to hear the marching bands warm up and the police car and fire truck sirens wail at the start of the parade.