A team in the previous Homestead Chamber of Commerce Chili Cook-off and Outhouse Race.
Yes, those in cold climates are welcome to start chuckling whenever you wish as we fuss about temperatures plummeting into the low sixties. The cold front that wreaked havoc to the north is blowing in and while definitely milder than what it was, is bringing us lowered temperatures, wind, and apparently rain tomorrow. With our usually sunny, warm weather, all winter long we have many different festivals and events planned for each weekend and today is no exception. There are at least six here or in the nearby area. One of them is the 19th Annual Chili Cook-off and Outhouse Race which I realize is not your usual combination. It’s sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and as you can imagine, this is not on the professional competition circuit. It is a local one though with plaques going to both the chili and outhouse race winner and placers. The outhouses, by the way, have to be pushed as a means of conveyance. Teams can be really creative with some of their design and construction. It’s basically the same as a “bed race” for a frame of reference. The origin of “outhouse” versus “bed” is a bit muddled though.
Anyway, this year there is also a business expo and I’m going to have a booth as much to promote the March 13th Book-give-away and the pending release of Small Town Lies as to try and sell books. After all, this is not the sort of event that people attend thinking, “Gee, maybe there will be some good books to buy today.” With the high temperature of only 70, that means you’ll find us bundled in sweaters and jackets for at least the morning. Since it is outside all day long, we are now also the owners of a 10 x 10 canopy that allegedly will go up with no assembly and no tools. My husband, wonderfully supportive as always, will no doubt bring his tool box, and a roll of duct tape, however, to be on the safe side.
So, have a wonderful weekend whatever it is that you have planned, and if you’re in the Homestead area, come on down to Harris Field for the Chili Cook-off and Outhouse Race.
Chili Competitors (Images from Chamber of Commerce.)
