Yesterday was another trip to the Circleville Pumpkin Show. That is a true slice of Americana. Crowded once more and just a terrific fall day with the temp nearing 70 and not a cloud in the sky. The day started off to meet Mr. Mix at the local Tim Hortons. I'd drive 150 miles for one of those Butter Caramel Smoothies. Wait a minute, I think I just did.

This year's largest pumpkin checked in at 1622 pounds.




















It was grown by the guy they call "Doctor Pumpkin". He is near the top of the standings each year and this was his 4th straight win. I don't know if you knew this, but 2010 was a bad year for growing large pumpkins. It's the heat that is a killer. Combined with dampness, well, let's just say a lot of pumpkins didn't survive.

It's hard to believe that the first 1,000-pounder at Circleville was in 2004, so the last few years, they are getting some really large pumpkins. I know last year, rumor was there was one with world record potential. This time around, it was good to see a newcomer in second place with an 1150-pounder right out of the gate. So, maybe there will be some competition for the top spot.

But it's a great day for pumpkins in the heart of Republican country. The street preacher is still preachin' and this year, you could sign a petition to stop mandated healthcare.

The food is still terrific. You can get Pumpkin "Just About Anything". Sloppy Joes, donuts, chili, ice cream, coffee, burgers, etc. Plus the Midway is full of Throw-Up Rides!

Remember, it starts the third Wednesday of October every year. Good times, people.

Meal of Links

Not a happy topic, but interesting nonetheless. What it feels like to want to kill yourself.

Donal Logue and Michael Raymond-James talk about "Terriers". This week featured an appearance of a newer version of the Lone Gunmen. "Why are Finnish people so good at Halo 3?"

Famous screams. Yes, Shatner made it.

R.I.P Chips Cunningham



The one and only Patsy Cline. All the hits are here.

The moon has more water than we thought. Lots of it.

GOP sources blast Palin. Campaign stories, for sure, but the timing here is sorta odd.

A conversation with Hal Hartley. Reminds me, I haven't seen "Simple Men" in a while.

Exercise Yard

The guy who invented the Rally Monkey is out of work. So, he's selling his World Series ring. Best quote in the article: "Monkeys are funny." And that's how a legend was born.

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