Traditions

Last weekend the small town of Puxico, MO (pop 881) celebrated its 67th annual Homecoming. This celebration is organized by the local VFW. It closes down Main Street from Tuesday through Saturday of the 2nd week in August. Carnival rides and booths are set up along with concession stands selling typical carnival food. 

The locals use this celebration to organize family reunions and class reunions or just take the time to travel back 'home'.

Homecoming is surrounded by traditions, particularly in my family. Outside of my parents attending alumni events, there is their annual attendance at the Methodist Men's Pancake Breakfast on Saturday morning. This is followed by the annual question, "What time does the parade start"? (The answer is 1 o'clock - every year.)

The parade is a tradition in and of itself. It always starts with the color guard followed by the PHS marching band. Then, it's an assortment of contest winners - Miss Puxico and her attendents, Little Miss Puxico, Grandparent's Delight winners in various age groups, emergency responders from the surrounding area. Then it's Shriners, antique cars and tractors. The horses, horse-drawn wagons and mules bring up the rear (for obvious reasons). 

This year our family had 4 generations watching the parade. My great-niece was exposed to it for the first time. She may not remember this year specifically; however, if the Good Lord is willing, she'll repeat it for many years to come. 

We're not done with Homecoming traditions. Saturday evening is set aside for a swim in nearby Lake Wappapello, followed by pizza for dinner. 

My family has traditions around both Fourth of July and Christmas as well. I'm not a big fan of 'we've always done it this way" in everyday life, but the legacy of traditions on special occasions bring their own kind of comfort. 

Think about your family and friends and the traditions you maintain with them.