Blogging Again!

Hello Everyone! I'm sorry I have not posted any blogs lately, but now that life has somewhat settled, I will try to be better. We have been enjoying the beautiful fall season--taking advantage of many festivals and soaking in the "culture."(I put it in quotes because what we consider to be culture here may be questionable from the standpoint of non-rednecks!) Anyways, here are a few pics from some of our most recent outings. . .The Ozark Mountain Mule Days held a series of hootin' n' hollerin', rootin' tootin' activities in Ozark, MO. There were wagon races, speed events, and other competitions that are considered reckless and fatal in most other states. Since the mule is the Missouri State animal, this festival is a must-see for anyone looking to laugh their ass off. . .literally.


Lily also went to her first Snub-Nose Club "Bark in the Park" party in Joplin, MO. For any of you who don't know, yes--Lily belongs to an internet club even though she bears no opposable thumbs required for typing. Mommy types for her. . .and maintains her website! Go to the "Lily's Webpage" link at the top of the blog and check it out!


Lily sporedt her authentic festival hapi coat at the Springfield Japanese Festival held in September. I brought it back for her from Japan--she's clearly thrilled about it. A picture's worth a thousand words but this one only needs four: "I hate my life."


Republic, MO also had its "Pumpkin Days" Festival. Our presence was graced with the honor of the state record giant pumpkin. . .oh, what an Ozarkian treat! We had to stand in line so that Lily could get her picture taken in front of it. As if that wasn't enough, there were also giant watermelons, squash, okra, beans, and other large legumes. It was more than the body could bear. . .
We also bought our first pumpkins for the house! I wanted to carve them but didn't want the mess, so instead I created the scariest thing I could think of. . .our crazy dog! No evil spirit will dare enter our home once they realize the terror and mayhem that lies behind our walls! Neither ghost nor ghoul can hold a candle to the turd gobblin', toy shreddin', stinky fartin' evil that haunts this house! Chadd and I actually live in fear all year long. Her "stench" alone is enough to deter the faint of heart.