Home Sweet Home

Most of you know I was born and raised in the great state of Kansas. But what some of you might not know is that Kansas is more than just wheat fields, Bob Dole and obesity. In fact, it's a rich source of social gems that I happily rediscovered on my recent trip back home.

For starters, Dad and I managed to hit up the farmer's market Saturday morning. Now, I realize farmer's markets are known for having unique (and occasionally quirky) merchandise, but this particular market far exceeded any I'd previously seen.

Take this lovely article of clothing, for example. Tired of being limited to just pants? Want all the dazzle of a skirt but the security of individual pant legs? Introducing the Pant-Skirt--Pirt, if you will. And I think you will.


After marveling at the Pirt for a while, I moved on to the 'yard' section of the market. It seems my people have discovered the newest trend in lawn-ornament decor: Tree Stumps. It's amazing that the rest of the world has for centuries overlooked these...thingies. I didn't catch the price but I'm sure they're worth every penny.


Other lawn decor items included clever/patriotic garden signs.


And what's a trip to the market without shopping the poo-bag section?


Here Dad is bartering with a couple who are passionate about eating buffalos. That passion must have been contagious because Dad bought about $50 in Buffalo Steaks.


Neither of us were sold on this, however.


These people had an unhealthy obsession with the Duke. That's literally all the booth had to offer--photos of John Wayne...and secretly I kind of wanted to buy one.


And of course, there was the kiddy area of the market, where a clown named 'Troubles' and a creepy lady with a chicken hat laughed and made balloon animals for the little girl in a halter-top with a fake tattoo.


So, needles to say, the market was splendid. Dad and I also managed to tour around the rural parts of Kansas a bit, visiting family along the way. Which is when I saw this.


We also visit a small town called Durham Kansas, with one operating business: a restaurant run by Menonite farmers that serves German food. My dad swears it's the place to be on a Friday night. Too bad it was Thursday.


I think the best part about the trip was spending time with my family. It just reminded me how important family is and how lucky I am to have such a great one. Here are some photos of the fam--unfortunately I didn't get everyone but these are still fun :).