Hoedown

I think it's safe to say that after the church camping trip, the hoedown is the favorite church event. For sure, many prefer the Christmas concert, and far be it from me to dislike anything Christmas related. But at least as far as the kids are concerned, it's tough to beat the hoedown.

There is one drawback to the hoedown. The weather.

The freezing cold, the layers that all have to work individually - because of course you'll be removing them as you dance.

But this year? The sun was warm, and the wind was welcome. Weather-wise, not a more pleasant hoedown has there been to record.

There's a lot for a kid to like at the hoedown.

There's the hay ride, the favorite of many.

You can feel the wind passing by, high-five the bystanders, and throw hay in people's faces, if there aren't too many adults around.

And hang off the back.

It's a great time for all ages.

Then there's the candy scramble.

There's even a "mom round" as it's called, so even the adults can join in the fun.

Yes, that is candy in his shirt.

One must not forget the cats, either. Children are fascinated by them. All fifteen or fifty or 15 dozen of them, depending on the year.

Ana Meyers heads up the squash/pumpkin/gourd painting, which was fun and creative as usual.

Also, there is face painting.

All this is besides the games and fences and horses and friends.

It's fun for a photographer, too, with lots of opportunity for portraits.

Now, there's a handsome hoedowner...

But we have yet to mention...

the chili cook-off, the all-but essential part of the hoedown!

I guess I better amend that. Otherwise I am sure to be corrected.The essential part of the hoedown.

It's always fun,

and often surprising.

Sometimes the atrocious trophy is hardly taller than its new owner for the next year.

(In case you were wondering, the maple bacon chili was prize worthy, even if it wasn't prize-winning.)

It was a great hoedown, as always.

 And sometimes, a photographer has to put down the camera and dance.