Traditions and Celebrations
Everyone loves a party. Many major cities have celebratory events that become traditions on a massive scale. Louisville, Kentucky is such a place. It’s rich, Derby history stretches back to 1875 and has continued through the Great Depression, World Wars, and the crazy covid mania of recent times. The actual race is only about 2 minutes. The festivities surrounding the event last about a week, but it is prepared for all year around.
It is a great money maker for the locals whose houses surround the track. Yards become parking lots, food booths are set up along the sidewalks, and restaurants are packed to the gills. Because this is also Bourbon country, I’m assuming that industry also thrives as tourists flock to the area.
Amanda lives close to the Kroger store that has made the ‘Garland of Roses’ since 1987. Roses in water vials are hand sewn into a garland that weighs about 40 pounds. Only the best roses are chosen for the award, but this Kroger has every kind of red rose bouquet imaginable. This store and every other grocery store around town have cakes and cookies decorated with roses. The grocery stores we’ve visited have horse shaped balloons, toys, and other Derby themed items for sale.
Of course my favorite is the hat display. Grocery stores at the beach have sun bonnets and straw hats. After last year’s big win for the Braves, every store sold Braves caps and other merchandise.
BUT!!!
None can compare with the sheer beauty of the Kroger grocery store hat display. Hoops of netting and feathers, droopy brims and sophisticated bows called to the costumer in me. But not to the tune of 30 bucks!
Though if one cute little blue fascinator is still there and goes on half price after the Derby, you can bet your sweet life, I’ll have me a new hat to play dress up with Josie along with any of the other daughters and granddaughters who want to join in a Grammie Tea Party! I have pictures of each generation which document my penchant for pretending to be sophisticated!
Whether it’s something as important as a birthday party or wedding or something trivial and ordinary, look for something to celebrate. My ‘Celebrate Life Party’ each fall has become tradition for our neighbors and friends. Amanda and Andy have made Halloween into a traditional crazy game night with lots of contests and giggles. Missy and Jeremy are establishing the ‘holidays at home’ tradition. Stephanie and Mark have a long time tradition. As they gather for evening meals, they do the ‘Roses and Thorns’ which recaps the best and worst of each family member’s day. They are able to celebrate each other’s wins for the day and sort through the angst.
Traditions and Celebrations bring a sense of community and bonding that is important as the elitists try to separate and destroy strengthening connections among humanity. Please don’t let fear mongering or perceived hate and other governmentally condoned rhetoric weaken relationships.
Sorry for the rant. I couldn’t help myself. But I love parties and excuses to have fun together.
There is one special party I want to make sure you are invited to – the one our Lord is hosting in heaven for all who believe. I’m sure it will be the best ever. Can you imagine living eternally in total joy and peace? Psalm 16: 11 says God will show me the way of life, grant me the joy of His presence, and the pleasures of living with Him forever. Can you imagine that kind of endless celebration? Whoop! Whoop!
Blessings
KB
