decoration, decoration day noun An occasion on which a family or church congregation gathers on a Sunday to place flowers on the graves of loved ones and to hold a memorial service for them. Traditionally this involved singing and dinner on the ground as well as a religious service. Same as memorial day, this event was held at various times in the Smokies, usu in the late spring. The term and the occasion have been replaced by homecoming, which is usu celebrated anytime from early May to late September, with each community having its designated day.
—Dictionary of Smoky Mountain English
Decoration Day was held at the church where Pap, Granny, and Miss Cindy are buried a couple of weeks ago. I’m glad folks in my area still observe the tradition and I hope the following generations will continue it.
We had flowers on their graves already, but I wanted to bring something special to add.
The laurels are blooming so I cut a few branches. The perfect accompaniment to them was a few limbs of Granny’s giant oak hydrangea that was in full bloom.
I had planned to add more flowers, but once I seen the two together I knew that was enough.
To see a couple of wonderful old photos from decoration days go here.
Tipper
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