BARNSDALL, Okla. — It's been more than six and a half months since Barnsdall was struck by an EF-4 tornado.
Now, as the holidays roll around, it's time for the town to come back together.
In May, 2 News in Barnsdall showed viewers one grandmother's severely damaged home, including two broken Christmas ornaments.
Looking back on that picture of the ornaments sparked interest in how towns hit by disasters celebrate holidays and continue traditions they've built for years.
"It's hard, especially if you don’t think about stuff you lost, especially your homemade ornaments that we don’t have anymore," said Melissa Pearson, the Chamber of Commerce vice president.
She and her family are making decisions they never thought they’d have to make: what to do for Christmas?
"We’re actually we’re not gonna stay in town for Christmas this year just because it’s kind of heartbreaking," said Pearson,
Half a year ago, the Pearsons were among about 75 families impacted by the tornado. While they hope to rebuild in the next couple of months, they've had to make other arrangements.
But despite the heartache of losing their home and belongings, the Pearsons are giving back to the community alongside the Chamber of Commerce.
"I try to be involved as much as I possibly can," said Pearson.
The help comes with a sprinkle of holiday cheer and a little magic. The chamber decided to bring back its Christmas parade. This tradition has taken a hiatus, but the towns' need to gather is bringing it back to the spotlight.
"We would definitely love to have all kinds of floats and people in our parade like come, join us, please," said Pearson.
She hopes all in the community who are still there and anyone who's left will reunite in the festivities.
2 News caught up with Barnsdall Mayor Johnny Kelley. He’s been on the front lines watching his town recover since the beginning.
"You go through something like this; it’s a process that you can’t imagine until you’ve actually been through it," said Kelley.
He said Oklahoma’s helpful spirit is still motivating them to move forward with the chamber's plans to hold more holiday events.
"Hope to always be able to give back and help somebody else you know. I think that's one of the best things you can do in life, is help somebody else," said Kelley.
Their holiday wish is one of prosperity and joy as the town doesn’t look back on a single tornado but on the traditions rooted far deeper.
The Christmas parade will be on December 6, starting at 6:30. 2 News plans to celebrate with the #Barnsdallstrong community.
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