I always try to note the signs of spring as they go by. Today, I heard the pond peepers for the first time. The tree frogs, I’ve been hearing for a couple days. When I say I’m hearing the peepers, I mean that they’re incredibly loud. It was 71 in town, more like 61 here on the deck after work, but still warm enough to sit out and take in the sights and sounds. It’s been a while since we’ve had any good porch time, and it felt good.
Our major winter festival is coming up, Fire & Ice. That’s the chili cookoff and ice carving show in downtown Blue Ridge. This year it’s February 13. Sponsored by the Blue Ridge Business Association, it was designed to break the winter tedium, and it’s become a major festival. Here’s the official description:
“6th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off February 13, 2016 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm 790 Block of East Main St & Downtown City Park Cook-Off will happen come rain, snow or shine so see you on Saturday. Mark your calendars for live music, ice sculptures and amazing chili! Buy a $10 Tasting Card to sample the competition and vote for the People’s Choice Award. Featuring Live Music and entertainment from the Blue Ridge Community Theater actors. An amazing display of individual and unique ice sculptures from the award winning, National Ice Carving Champion “Rock on Ice” including several ice carving demonstrations. Blue Ridge Business Association: Cory Bryant at 706-455-6800 and/or Pam Fink at 706-258-2432”