The official, unofficial start of summer begins this weekend.  Many people get a long weekend to make it even more sweet.  What I love about holidays is that it takes an ordinary weekend and gives us a reason to make it memorable – and how appropriate that this one is called Memorial Day!  Don’t let this weekend pass you by without taking an opportunity to do something extraordinary.

Members to ListPlanIt will find the lists they need in Holidays & Occasions to plan for a memorable Memorial Day.  Not yet a member?  Join today and get organized for summer cookouts, parties, and fun.

Here is a list of things to look for or try.

• Camping
  Make a reservation at a favorite campground nearby or take a short drive to explore a new location.  Camping is cheap and a great way to connect as a family without all of the gadgets that steal our attention (unless your campground has wi-fi).
• Swimming
  Even though we live in Maine where it takes longer to warm up, we’ve had nice enough weather the past 2 Memorial Days to head to the beach.  If you don’t have a beach nearby, then try the swimming pool.
• Picnic
  I remember watching Mickey Mouse when I was a kid and the picnic basket that Minnie Mouse packed still makes my mouth water just thinking about it!  Food never tastes so good as it does when you are outdoors.  Try crusty bread, deviled eggs, crackers & cheese, a variety of fruit, and some ice cold lemonade.
• Hiking or Letterboxing
  I love getting exercise outdoors with my family and a new trail or park always excites me.  There is no better way to discover new places in your area than to try letterboxing.  You’ll follow clues that will take you to places you didn’t know existed – even in your hometown!
• Barbeque
  While many would argue that Americans do not have much of a food culture of their own, I say that one of our best examples would be a summer holiday barbeque.  What child does not have a memory of hamburgers or hot dogs on the grill, chips, and watermelon during festive summer holidays?  Make some potato salad.  Add a new seasoning to the burgers.  Celebrate with just your family or invite the neighborhood for a potluck.

How will you celebrate this Memorial Day weekend?