We knew it was homecoming weekend because for the last couple of weeks, city dump trucks have been rumbling past our house with wood for the bonfire. So, today, Thursday, September 26, the road was all quiet. The bonfire was ready.

We put out our Mules flag, which hung limply on the flagpole-not even a breeze-and I waited for vehicles to once again stir up dust as people arrived for the event. And I waited and watched for the fire trucks to come with the cheerleaders and the team so I could take their picture like I have done in the past. And as it got dark, I feared I had somehow missed them, and that they were already down by the bonfire. So I walked down there, to the back of the golf course driving range where the bonfire was located, only to then hear the fire trucks coming with the kids! And about that same time, they lit the fire before the team arrived. So, things were not in the same order I remember them being before, but I took pictures anyway.

A good crowd had gathered, and I was behind them all and hated to get in front of parents and others who knew someone on the team, so I just listened as Coach Jason Richards welcomed everyone and thanked the band, cheerleaders, and flag team for coming out. He introduced the team, the band played, Coach Richards encouraged everyone to come out to the game tomorrow and support the team. They have had a great beginning season, winning the games against Brownfield, Lamesa, and New Home by impressively wide margins, but losing to Canadian in last week’s game at the very end of the 4th quarter. But I propose they didn’t lose; they simply rain out of time. Clyde is the opponent tomorrow, and the Mules are ready to play.

The night ended with a display of fireworks that is always impressive. I took lots of pictures and will share a few with you.

After the last burst of color in the sky, as I was walking away, I looked back for one more view of the fire which symbolizing the team’s desire to fire up and beat Clyde.

The pregame meal is Nacho Pile-on, always my favorite pregame meal, so go support the Freshman class, have supper, see the Homecoming Queen crowned at halftime, and watch the Mules beat Clyde.

It’s a great time to be a Mule.

Mule Up!