Living in western Maine, there are so many campgrounds all around us.  My brother-in-law, Dan, and his wife have a seasonal site at an area KOA less than 20 minutes from where we live.  While I still have a hard time calling living in a luxury RV where your neighbors are a lot closer than our actual neighbors are "camping", Sue and I have enjoyed visiting them a few times during recent summers.  Our most recent visit also included a show.

Joannie, Dan's wife, working in activities at the campground for a break in their rental fee, and when she planned a carnival weekend for the camp, she immediately asked if I'd do a show.  Of course I agreed.  Given the fact that it was for an activity at a public campground, I didn't do my usual Gospel presentation.  I rarely do that, but this was for family.  Furthermore, I did speak briefly about what my show is usually like as I introduced my devil sticking routine to the Blacksmith's "Near the Cross". I also explained that it was an old hymn some might recognize, although put to a more contemporary melody.

But mostly it was just a chance to entertain a very large turnout in the rec building (there's something to be said for cool, overcast days when it comes to drawing a crowd.)  I made sure I included a lot of audience participation for kids who were in attendance, and a good array of juggling routines as well. They were a great audience.

Before the show, there were carnival games, facepainting and food for all.  My wife, Sue, demonstrated her balloon sculpture skills to many eager kids of all ages.  I'd like to say I helped her with this, but she's the artist of the family.  Mostly I practiced my handful of balloon animal shapes and talked up the show that would be later in the day.

Once all the balloons were made, the show was over and the props were back in the car, we went to Dan and Joannie's campsite to visit and enjoy a ham dinner Dan made on his campstove.  And, although I may not perform there again this summer, I;m sure we'll get back again to visit...especially if he keeps cooking like that!