What a day! I picked up 9 unique beans I have never heard of, most from Jackson County Kentucky. Bill had warned me to bring extra seed, glad I did as many of the items went fast. I even ran out of small seed bags and certain labels. Bill told me the other day there were between 250 and 300 people as many did not sign in. The parking was all the way up the driveway and out into the field by the road. It has taken 10 years of swaps and with the beautiful weather and extra publicity, it really came together this year.

We all appreciate what Bill, his grandson Brian and the family does for all of us. This is a major undertaking and expense to host this. All the cleanup (before and after), the portable potties, etc. Bill asks nothing from any of us but to show up with seed and to enjoy the day with friends.

That evening, Mary and I get together with Rodger and Caren Winn and Caren's brother and sister-in-law for dinner before they headed back. It was very enjoyable to sit and talk with them. I wish we could get together more often.

Rodger and Caren brought with them a watermelon that until recently was thought to be extinct. "Bradshaw" is very large, dark green, ribbed (like a pumpkin), light colored seed, sweet and this thing was picked 6 weeks ago! It was just starting to get mealy from age but I was impressed. It has been grown by the same family for 8 generations (I think) and is one of the base genetic stocks for modern watermelon. Listed in literature going back to the 1840's. Rodger has more information on this (and correct any miss-information I have).

Overall...a fantastic time and BUSY.

Good to see everyone.

Tony