The Days of Dragons

The Dragon Boat races have returned to Oshkosh, and this is the first year we ventured out to witness them. Held on the Fox River in Oshkosh, alongside the Leach Ampitheater, the Dragon Boats carry a crew of 20 paddling to the beat of a drum. Three or four boats race at a time, and over 50 boats participated this year. It was quite a sight. Teams were very colorful in their presentations, wearing clown wigs, cow hats, face paint, and lots of team spirit. Various Oshkosh organizations sponsored the teams, and a walk through Athlete's Village gave spectators a glimpse into community supporters.

I took Jarod and Maria to see the Dragon Boats this year, and in addition to the races, many stands were created to offer face painting, children's tattoo's, a fun house, and book sales. Another one held a guy bearing a 30 foot boa constrictor. We avoided that tent COMPLETELY. Snakes are instruments of the devil.

After getting their tattoos, and after bouncing in the fun house, we wandered to the riverside banks and took a seat to watch the action. The kids cheered loudly for the teams we saw racing, and had lots of questions. After two hours, the kids had had their fill and the high noon sun and heat called us home to enjoy a little lunch.

Meanwhile, Natty and Chris journeyed to Menards for a new toilet seat, and to Festival Foods for groceries. She digs the car carts and was happily "racing" through the aisles with Daddy.

Saturday night brought swimming at an Appleton hotel with Steve and Virginia, and family, as they are in town for Virginia's half marathon run today. As I type this, she should be within 2-3 miles of finishing, and we're very proud of her. We splashed in the pool of the Country Inn and Suites, and Steve took all of the kids to play video games. Valorie has a special talent for winning animals out of those claw machines, and Maria walked away with one of them, thanks to Val.

Today my work takes precedent for me as I work to finish freelance assignments and prep for school. We're taking the kids to Washington School's 50th birthday party this afternoon, and we're cleaning up the house.

I'll be posting pictures here, or on facebook, eventually, of the races and of my adventures during spirit week for North's homecoming. For the last few years our team has won the faculty spirit contests (judged by our ability to dress up for the dress up days), and we intend to continue the tradition. Wish me luck!

In the meantime, it's back to family time. Be well, friends.