Twin Falls Air Show

This year was meant to be the year for the air show at HAFB. Unfortunately the Thunderbirds had a scheduling conflict, and the show was cancelled. Being extremely disappointed, we began a search for other air shows that were nearby. We found Twin Falls was to have a show in July with the Blue Angels, and we made plans. Earlier this week, we checked up on the show, and found that for "security" reasons, the airport would not allow umbrellas, more than 1 water bottle per person, and NO coolers; and that to enter was $20 per person! As we are capitalists, that feel full capitalism should be in effect, we made the decision to find the closest park and watch the show there. No fees would have to be paid, we could have our umbrella, as much water as needed, and all the food we could pig out on.

Our adventure began early, with us leaving at 6 am. The drive to Twin Falls was nice as the traffic was sparse and had no other Utahns on the road. We arrived around 9 am and began to look for a spot to park and watch. The road next to the airport was closed to parking, one more socialistic "perk". We headed further south to the next road, and found a sign that directed us to the Lucky 7 ranch. Here was G Mack. He made his land available to the public for a fee of $5 a car and you could park anywhere, stay as long as you want, and provided water, popsicles and Johnny Cash. It was a blast at the Lucky 7; we had the perfect view of the airfield, had almost every plane fly over us, with a buzz from the F-16, and 3 from the Blue Angels (with the last buzz being all six jets!). We also got to meet "Old Lucky", G Mack's mustang. He was beautiful, and skittish about my umbrella, but curious to no end.

Most of the air show was down time, as Twin Falls was poor at the scheduling. However, the show that each pilot provided (from the jets) were amazing. I've never seen a Mig sordie performed so well, and the F-16 had a blast coming out to see our large gathering at the Lucky 7. We also had the perfect horizon view to watch where all the jets headed to prepare for each manuever. And being buzzed by the Falcon and Hornets was the ultimate experience. Most air shows don't provide this heart-pumping phenomenon. The only disappointment, we wish we had a flag to wave to the pilots. We'll definitely remember next time.

The Ace of Spades, the Ace of Spades

One of our friend's has an overly mature 4 year old. He recently had a friend at his house for dinner, and both began to out-do the other with the best possible story. Hayden mentioned some place he'd been, and Brad fired back with a better place. Hayden then said he'd been to St. George and Brad aimed with Disneyland. That's when Hayden pulled the hidden card. He asked "Do you know Bryan and Jen?" The friend looked puzzled and said, "No." And Hayden finalized the conversation with "ohh!" Who would have thought we'd be the ultimate one-up? :) (Now would be the perfect time to listen to "The Ace of Spades" by Motorhead.)

Here at Ten

I never would have guessed simple flirting would find the love of your life. It all started with an invitation to go swimming at a cousin's house. Which turned into sharing a Hagen Daaz Ice Cream carton at Barnes Park in Kaysville. The close proximity was perfect for a first kiss, and was much enjoyed. The next day I was invited to spend time with the extended family, which was a big step for only the "third" date. As true soul mates do, love was professed and returned, and the beginning of Crimson and Howitzer was initiated.
A decade seems like an eternity, but time keeps ticking and it passes by. It's nice to know that your best friend is always by your side, through wonderful and horrible. Many more decades will pass, and we know each ten year mark will be as significant as this first one.

Jimmie's in Town

For the annual Cache Valley Car Show, Howitzer worked with Hendrick Motor Sports and was able to get the Lowe's Chevrolet Impala 48 in town. Donny (the driver who was in charge of the car) showed up Saturday with the trailer. Having just experienced the DeWalt car in April, we didn't expect the awesome show that Lowe's put on. Donny actually fired up the 48 to back out of the trailer, and then shot down the street to the car show entrance. Howitzer was able to get in with the car, and help lead Donny to his spot. We then spent the day at the show, and spent a lot of time by the 48. We also had the special treat of having a "real" race car. The car that was brought was the backup for the Sonoma race. Due to the geographical location, bringing the regular show car was not cost effective.

We also were the help in leading Donny back to the trailer, and giving him an escort to the Lowe's store in Logan. The employees and customers were anxious to see the car. Although the parade did not turn out as hoped, the 48 was still able to make a streak down Main and back. It was more unique to see an illegal street car amongst all the regular Logan traffic. Overall it was a great experience, and we can't wait to go to Charlotte in October and see the Bank of America race (and watch Jimmie win!!!).