(FFF) Friends, fans and followers- I'm totally coming back to Fenn Valley, MI for next year's Chili Cook-off! It's so ... INTERESTINGLY fun.

But, no, I did not place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd.. no, not even 4th, 5th... However, I was a contender on the WINNER'S TABLE!!! That's right!!!! As a first timer going against the villagers of Fenn Valley/South Haven, it was soooo freakin cool that the judges had to deliberate over my MEXICAN CHILI for the TWO LEGGED category!!! Also, congrats to my other friends. They were also a part of the winner's table. They made a killin' Seafood Chili for the NO LEGGED category. So fierce.

My overall experience besides my ALMOST win... was cool, but interesting.

Interesting because I'm totally not use to being a part of a local community event; an entire community that is probably the size of South Loop. Don't quote me. But, get ready for a small-town feel. Not sure why I got so many stares. Could have been my infamous pointy knee-high boots, uber skinny tights, or perhaps... the asian thing may have thrown some people off and got them all confused... But, everyone was so nice. Super nice. Great wine, great music, great hospitality, and great chili. Great times to be away from the city for the night and honored to have been invited to the contenders table. Totally wearing my boots next year. That seemed to have been a hit with the Fenn Valley folks!