My thoughts

Next Monday, September 4th is Labor Day, which is a holiday for us in the U.S. Most companies give their employees the day off, so it is a three day weekend. The holiday is to honor workers. Many people travel over the weekend to other cities, go camping, or hang out with their friends. Many cities have festivals. In Seattle, we have Bumbershoot, which is a music festival.

One reason that it is a big weekend for us is because most public schools and some colleges and universities start right after Labor Day. Most students have had three months off, and Labor Day is the last part of summer.

It is also a big weekend for “back-to-school sales,” many parents have to buy clothes and school supplies for their kids. Over the summer, the schools send out lists of school supplies that the students should have. Often schools do not have much money for supplies, so the parents are asked to buy things for the whole class such as Kleenex tissues, glue, pencils, etc. In many countries, children wear uniforms to school, but not in the U.S., so it is a big shopping weekend. Some families spend a lot of money on clothing, especially if they have teenagers.

I am not sure what my plans are yet, but I will probably get together with my friends and perhaps go to a county fair. Do they have these in your country? Think of the book and movie “Charlotte’s Web.” The purpose is for farms and people in rural areas to compete against each other. The competitions involve animals, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, art, clothing, and other contests. You can see the results of the competitions displayed with the ribbons for 1st, 2nd , and 3rd place. There is also good food and fun exhibits, and rides for the kids. Some fairs also have a rodeo. You can see real cowboys in action!

Whatever your plans are, have a good Labor Day!