I had my first experience with the NC state fair this past Friday on opening day. Jim Reklis gave the staff a half of a day off. We all headed to the fair with our families. I took the four kids. Arielle and Donna very kindly helped out with my kids. Nana went back and forth: fair or stay home to a peaceful home? By Tuesday, she decided to definitely stay home for the peace.

Do you like the picture of Gabriela riding the merry-go-round? It's the 21st century folks. You have to chat with Mom on the cell phone before taking off. Nathan Fancher came along and hung out with the boys and me. The food was great: caramel apple, steak sandwich, hamburgers, French fries, cotton candy, and probably more. :-)

Nana cooked up a mean chili for the Grace Church chili contest at the picnic. Although she didn't win, I was definitely a beneficiary.

My poison ivy is finally clearing up. It's much better, but still hanging on. I decided to spare everyone by not posting a picture of my arm. My bow hunting has not yet produced venison in the freezer. I went out this morning. I had three deer in close range, but never got a shot. Bow hunting is very different from hunting with a gun.

- posted by Kendrick @ 2:49 PM