Friday, Melanie Wilton hosted the annual 4th of July community get-together at the Oak. For about 10 years now, Melanie has organized a pot luck dinner and “block party” for the friends and family of area residents. Everyone brings a dish or two, something to drink and plenty of fireworks to keep the youngsters busy and put on a show after dark.
There is always plenty of food and good conversation. The children run amuck playing in the park, finding bugs and toads, and playing basketball while the adults catch up and take a break from regular day-to-day. Pastor Keith of the Oak Community Church, and his family, have been a welcomed addition the past few years. The pastor blessed the meal before everyone dug in. My Dad told me no matter the event, the pastor and his family are always there and lend a hand wherever needed.
I look forward to the event and am grateful Mel thought of the idea long ago and continues the tradition every year. There is not much going on in the sleepy town anymore, and the block party brings it alive again. I enjoy seeing a new generation of littles in town, enjoying all the silly things I did as a child. My children commented it brought back memories for them as well.
A few things may have changed in Oak, but much is still the same, and for me, it will always be home.
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