Seize the day!

Hi neighbors. Bushwhacker Days are here again! There's lots going on this year as usual.

Nevada/Vernon County's annual celebration has something for every age and interest. If you like flea markets and unusual crafts, there are plenty of booths offering those things.

There is also educational (and fun) entertainment with Civil War re-enactors, at least one Native American 1800s lifestyle representative, craftsmen (and women)giving demonstrations of how early settlers survived and thrived in early Vernon County.

There are also contests for everyone. From baby shows to horseshoe throwing competitions to lip-synching contests.

There is lots to see, do and hear. Several singing groups and bands will be performing.

The best part of Bushwhacker Days is "running into" old friends you haven't seen in a while. There are several local clubs and organizations that will be selling meals and snacks on the square. Take a chair, a hat, a bottle of water and some sun screen and walk or sit to your heart's content.

This year there will be a great carnival with unique rides as well. Everyone loves a carnival! Big rides, games, things to see; all the entertainment you could want right here in downtown Nevada.

Don't forget to step into some of the local shops and stores around the square that you may have not been in for a while. These folks give up their customer parking spaces every year to help you enjoy Bushwhacker Days.

Of course, there is the prima-destination for Bushwhacker Days -- the Bushwhacker Museum. Half a block off the square on Walnut Street, the museum offers a lot of information, special attractions designed just for Bushwhacker Days visitors and many exhibits to see while enjoying the comfort of air-conditioning! There will be a parade again this year of course.

Another good reason to get on the Square early so you won't have to search for a good spot when the parade starts. Any place on the Square will be a ring-side seat.

Even in the midst of Bushwhacker Days, life goes on for all of us. Here at my home we've acquired a new family member. "Mittens" is a little black kitten with a big attitude. She is generally fearless, but will meow for help when dangling off the couch by front paws three inches above the floor.

My daughter called and said Des Moines, Iowa, is in danger of being flooded as a result of all of the rain. She was out buying bottled water and canned goods in preparation. I reminded her she might have to switch from her primary cooking device (the microwave oven) if the electricity went off. She assured me they had lots of charcoal for their secondary cooking device -- the barbecue grill.

My granddaughter's birthday will be this month as well so I'm 'stocking up' myself on things to send her.

Least we forget, this Sunday is also Father's Day. All the dads who've probably walked their legs off all week at Bushwhacker Days, can relax and sit in the patio chairs while they watch the steaks, hot dogs and burgers cook over the grill.

But Dad shouldn't have to just cook on his special day. Take him to a ball game, fishing, out for a movie or game of golf.

Go visit him if you no longer live with him or if he no longer lives at home. Ask him what he enjoys doing (and what he likes doing may have changed since the last time you asked) and do what he likes to do with him.

Most of all, Dads enjoy spending time with their family. Whatever activity they do isn't as important as who they do it with.

Until the next time friends remember, many events come around only once a year. Birthdays, Father's Day and Bushwhacker Days to name only three. Don't let them pass by without enjoying them.