Lathrop, Missouri. Midwestern Heaven. Located in the middle of nowhere, it goes unnoticed by many people. Most aren't impressed by our extensive knowledge of farm life, our revolving door of local businesses on Main Street, or our Friendship Festival that takes place in the middle of the summer (although I have to say, I think it's pretty impressive.)
Located 45 minutes north of Kansas City, we're close enough to take a day drive, but far enough away that we don't get the hustle and bustle of city traffic. Most people I know hated living in Lathrop. If you don't like partying in a field or hanging out in the parking lot of Fast Break, then it definitely wouldn't be for you. What they don't understand, though, is that it is much more than that.
Lathrop is the people that are there.
It's my grandparents, who have lived there for 35 years and have no intention of leaving.
It's the history teachers that are also your coaches.
It's the stands filled with screams as our football boys compete in the playoffs for the second year in a row.
It's knowing everyone. Their mom, their cousin, their neighbor's aunt Sally. Good luck walking into the grocery store looking like trash, you're going to know every single person that you pass.
Most of all, it is love.
It is the mayor fixing a woman's hot water heater, the superintendent driving around to pick up students at the bus stop when it's excessively cold, the entire town coming together to support residents in times of need.
Look on the local Facebook page, there's always a fundraiser going on for someone. Almost all of the time, they raise the goal and then some.
Small towns in Missouri tend to get a very bad reputation. Although I can't necessarily dispute that some of the people aren't the most open-minded, they are open-hearted.
They welcome people with open arms, and once you come in, you join our family.
That's really what Lathrop is, a family.
As sappy and cliche is that is, I know it's true.
When I go back home, I will be welcome there. I will be welcome for the rest of my life. Someday, if it comes down to it, I would love to show my children how wonderful it is to live in a community like Lathrop.
