What happens when you’re working in the garden on a Sunday, and you hear a Johnny Popper? For me, it means running to the house, grabbing my camera and heading to the road. Tractor cruises are one of the many perks when living on a farm or simply in the country.

I’ve seen many tractors drive by my farm — some headed to the field for work, others on a Sunday drive. This year, the Warren County Old Threshers Association Tractor Cruise passed by my farm. It is always great to see the collection of tractors in every color, shape and size.

Even better is seeing familiar faces seated on those pieces of agriculture history. But while capturing photos and video for the short clip above, one thing struck me — just how many of the next generation participated.

Perhaps it shows a little of my age, but the faces seemed younger. Many went to school with my own daughters. Some were still in high school. All brought a smile to my face, and I’m sure the faces of the tractor cruise organizers.

It is important that these young tractor enthusiasts carry on this tradition. Our agriculture industry needs them to show others the relevance of farming throughout history and into the future.

So, the next time you hear a tractor coming down the road, grab a lawn chair, head down your driveway and take a seat. Enjoy the equipment, but encourage that next generation to continue cruising the countryside — tractor-style.

Click on the video at the top of the screen to see the sights and hear the sounds of a tractor cruise. Share it with your littles. It received a “More. More. More” from my 2-year-old grandson.