Time to fire up the old BBQ because today is Labor Day in the US and its territories where we celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of workers. Always celebrated on the first Monday of September, today we honor labor and union movements (if you work 40 hours or less a week, you can thank unions for that) and the role all workers have made to the strength and well-being of the nation. For many of us, we may have the day off from work and the first holiday of the new school year. Many consider Labor Day as the unofficial last weekend of summer with backyard get-togethers. Wilson is hoping someone will pass the chips or better, a hot dog.
A brief history of Labor Day shows that as trade and labor movements began to grow, calls for a day commemorating workers’ contributions were proposed. Colorado was one of the first five states to enact legislation recognizing Labor Day, with Oregon being first to officially make it a public holiday back in 1887. Labor Day became a national holiday in 1894. Our Canadian friends likewise celebrate “Labour Day” on the first Monday in September.
Historically speaking, it wasn’t all roses and candy to get where we are today. Following the deaths of workers at the Pullman Strike of 1894, Congress unanimously approved legislation making Labor Day a national holiday and it was signed into law by Grover Cleveland shortly after the end of the strike.
We had our family reunion with all 5 siblings and scores of grandkids over the weekend gathering to celebrate my Dad’s 95th birthday. Tacos were a-plenty along with Cerveza and Margaritas, appetizers as well as a customary birthday cake. It was so much fun seeing nephews, nieces, cousins and family friends that I don’t normally get to see. The weather was perfect with mild temps-you couldn’t have asked for a better day capped off by a lovely shower and beautiful rainbow on the way home.
Even though it’s a holiday, it’s still a Monday, which means we’re going to start out the day with a shared chuckle. Let’s hear it for pigeons!
We hope your holiday weekend was great and today keeps the streak alive. Happy Labor Day and Happy 95th to my Dad.
Live, love, bark! 🐾
It’s the Monday after all hell broke loose this weekend. Wilson here…what is IT about you American chaps that you enjoy setting off fireworks…for days on end. Ugh, I’m completely exhausted after listening to boomers for the past three days and while I don’t get as terrified as many dogs and cats do, I still hate them. If I had any say, I’d ban all the noisy ones. Life is ruff enough-we don’t need things to be more stressful. Anyway, let’s start the week out with a smile. Mum was saying how she could use an acupuncture session to relieve some tension in her neck but I told her to stay away from Ed telling her that she probably wouldn’t find his treatments very restorative or relaxing. Aren’t I a good boy for warning her? I hope she appreciates me for looking out for her.
Live, bark, love! 🐾
