The Budweiser Clydesdales

A highlight for me this year at the LA County Fair is the Budweiser Clydesdales. They are such spectacular horses and such an amazing sight. They participate each late afternoon in the parade around part of the Fairgrounds when the high school bands from different cities march as communities throughout the area are highlighted and people from each community are recognized. The parade features floats filled with people throwing strands of beads to the crowd (this is a big crowd favorite) and cars both old and new driven by their proud owners. The Fairgoers stop to watch the parade, catch a strand or two of the beads, and smile and wave at the parade participants. My family and I had a wonderful time riding in the parade last week and it was a treat to see all of the people along the parade route. It's a "good feeling" parade and a fun time for everyone.

The Los Angeles County Fair

For pure fun, engaging educational opportunities, and so much to see and do, the LA County Fair is unbeatable! From my first trip to the Fair when we first came to Claremont and a new friend took us to ride the rides to the many trips with the students and teachers at my school, the Fair has been a fun part of my life. To have something this big and exciting and just plain fun right almost in our backyard is unbeatable. This Fair is one of the largest in the country and it is well-planned and well run. The educational exhibits & activities for students are fun & entertaining with a lot of learning happening all the time. The Big Red Barn offers children & adults the opportunity to watch cows, goats, and sheep being born, to see chicks hatch, and to pet goats. There are pig races and goat milking and sheep shearing. California Heritage highlights the history of our state. The many competitions from beautiful handwork and crafts to culinary treats of all types are very popular. Horse races take place daily at the Grandstand. The Budweiser Clydesdales pull their wagon each evening in the daily parade when an area community is highlighted. The high school bands from the different communities march each day, along with cars & assorted floats. Claremont Day is September 23, and my family & I will be riding in the parade as some of the honored citizens. Oh, yes, you can buy almost any food you can think of that has been deep fried. I'll check that out and let you know THE most amazing one this year.

Go Jayhawks!!!

KU stumbled in their opening game, but they came out ready to roll today. They took on Georgia Tech, ranked #7, and they beat them in an exciting game in Lawrence. I've loved football since I was in grade school and so has Butch. Now we're watching Texas play. Have we had the TV on football since Thursday night? You betcha! Go Longhorns! Go Jayhawks! Yes, Derry, I'll root for OU if they're not playing the 'Hawks or the Longhorns. Still owe you that dinner for last year. We will celebrate soon FOR SURE.

The Pool Man Begins "School"

Today was Luke's first day at "school." It's a super place where both his brother and sister have gone. Did he feel like a "big kid" carrying his lunch box just like his brother and sister? Yes! Did he love this new place? Yes! Did his mom have some pangs about leaving him? Yes! Was he a happy camper when she picked him up? Yes! Enough said.

First Grade & First Soccer

Today was a big day! Escorted by Grandpa Butch (the picture taker) Zac became a first grader. Dressed in her favorite color pink (pants & socks & highlights on the Disney shirt), Claire went to her first soccer practice. Exciting times lie ahead!

"They're In School & We're Not" Luncheon

Today we had our 4th annual "They're In School & We're Not" Luncheon for the retired staff members of the school where we all worked. We talked and laughed and talked some more and ate delicious food prepared by the hostess and her husband. It was a treat to see everyone. There were people who retired years ago and others who retired just last year. We always plan this event to take place on THE day that classes begin at our "old" school. We signed cards for some who could not be there due to illness and the hostess told us about others who are working or vacationing. We all signed a poster for the current staff to wish them a fantastic school year. As those of you who've taught know, the friendships that grow and the bonds that are made so often are for a lifetime. Both the men and the women who gathered today are like family. That is wonderfully heartwarming and very special, indeed!

Anniversary # 48

Butch and I have been married for 48 years today. It is fun to remember all of the great times and significant events and wonderful friends that have been scattered generously throughout our 60 years of friendship. Mark and Maria and their families are such a glorious part of our lives. Gosh, we so love them and their children. Claire is a beloved part of our lives still and she lives on in our memories, in the memories so many of you have shared with us, and within those special girls named "Claire." They all grace our lives. We are still in touch with people that we knew way back when and with so many people that we've known and loved through the years. Thanks to all of you for all that you have given to us. We are blessed indeed!