Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed on the last Monday of May. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor soldiers of the American Civil War, it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action.

Memorial Day has become traditionally known as the start of the summer season. Picnics, outdoor events, and family gatherings are favorite Memorial Day past-times. For our family, it marked the baptism of Ava Marie. Ava's godparents - Nikki, her husband Jay, and Jason's brother Ryan - traveled from Wisconsin to participate in Ava's big day. Unfortunately, Ava was not feeling her best. She was running a high temperature and nothing, except mommy, could make her feel comfortable. Like the little lady she is, she managed to get through the entire church service without uttering a whimper. Poor baby girl. I may be a tiny bit biased (what grandparent isn't?) but I believe Ava is the most beautiful baby I've ever seen.

Click the arrow to begin the slideshow; once the slideshow has begun, click the square in the lower right corner to maximize your screen. At the end of the slideshow click ESC to return.