Remembering an old tradition - Marty Coffin EvansMarty Coffin Evans

Remembering an old tradition

“Happy May Day,” I wished Jessie, Dog Tag manager, when leaving Simba and Simon for boarding. “Oh, I forgot about that,” she replied.

Jessie quickly began to describe her actions from many years ago as she remembered May Day. Hers involved collecting flowers, putting them in a basket, leaving them on a neighbor’s doorstep, ringing the bell and then running away. Her children had enjoyed that tradition although she doubted her son now in his late 20’s would be doing that this May 1.

I too remembered that tradition from decades ago. I don’t know the source or kind of flowers or if I used a basket. With three neighborhood boys from whom to select for my floral bouquet deposit, I chose Bruce who lived around the corner from me. I have no recollection why Payson or Pinky (AKA Burl), who lived nearby, didn’t receive that springtime bouquet.

If I recall correctly, I made my stealthy deposit safely. I think being caught might have involved a kiss. I certainly never got a kiss or knew if my identity were revealed then, or ever.

I offered that “Happy May Day” greeting to another later on this year’s May 1^st. This time I was with my husband Robert in a follow up medical appointment. Once again, this greeting generated memories of times past for Josh, the medical tech, who met with us. He too recalled all the components of this springtime tradition — flowers, baskets, doorstep deliveries and running away. Josh even remembered sharing this tradition with his young children.

It’s funny how memories of traditions in times past bring smiles. I enjoyed these unexpected conversations which ensued throughout this year’s May Day. Through it all, we chuckled remembering fondly the details of those earlier experiences.

Makes you kind of wonder about the simplicity of those years gone by, where welcoming spring came in a different form.

May 2026