What likely started as kids buying chrysanthemum corsages for their dates in the mid-20th century has become a big (and we mean BIG) Texas tradition - the homecoming mum.

If you grew up in Texas, the thing you may remember most vividly about the day of the homecoming game and dance is the sound of countless cowbells jingling in class and the swish of ribbons and silk flowers as girls made their way down the halls trying not to trip on their mums.

I even remember seeing a few guys - mostly football players - with mini-mums worn as garters around their arms.

It's one of those traditions we're proud to call uniquely Texan, and while that's not likely to change (and why should it?), a few students in one Texas town are ditching mums for a good cause.

WFAA-TV reports that some students of Keller High School are encouraging their peers to skip the expensive mums and buy a "Drop the Mum" t-shirt instead. Proceeds from the shirts will go to the local Community Storehouse to feed and otherwise benefit low-income children. So far they've raised about $3,000 so far, and they hope to raise at least $2,000 more. They've teamed up with the Keller High School Marching Band, who will be playing in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year.

Two students interviewed by WFAA wanted to make it clear that they aren't anti-mum radicals, but saw an opportunity to do some good and raise awareness. They did, however, point out how funny it is that some people will spend close to $1,000 on their mums.

That reminded me of a video I saw last year featuring a student from Alvarado who spent $600 on an enormous mum shaped like Texas and featuring light-up stars. Sure it's a little crazy, but hey, she worked to earn the $600 and just wanted to participate in a Texas tradition. Nothin' wrong with that.

So whether you sport a full-body mum or a t-shirt, we hope all Texas kids enjoy some hometown pride this year as homecoming season approaches. Would you want to be growing up in any other state?

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