That's right, the city of Linton is being spiffed up. Folks are cleaning their porches, trimming their shrubs and making last minute preparations for the traditional Freedom Festival parade.

This will be the first time the Ferree-Puckett clan really experiences living on the parade route.

Last year was our first Fourth of July experience as 'Main Streeters' but it was also our wedding day.

This time we are looking forward to viewing the parade from our front yard. In keeping with past traditions, I'll also be working during the parade.

That's right. I'll need a story from those of you who are in the crowd. I really enjoy talking to people from near and far about their past and present parade experiences.

Covering the Fourth of July parade may be work but it's also a lot of fun. It's like getting paid to talk to people you haven't seen in years. Covering the parade is also important because it allows me to share your story.

Why do you return home for the Fourth? What's your favorite part of the parade? What do you look forward to most? How many years have you been coming to the parade? What does the Fourth of July mean to you?

Everyone has a story -- and I'd be grateful if you'd share yours with me.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July and I'll see you at the parade.

Timberly Ferree is a staff writer at the Greene County Daily World. She can be reached by e-mail at tferree@gcdailyworld.com or by phone at 1-800-947-4487 or (812) 847-4487.