Community spirit evident at Spirit of Hodges festival

There’s always something special about a festival in Franklin County. This year’s Spirit of Hodges festival took place on Saturday, and I look forward to it each year. I always enjoy that it’s held in October, as that month is one of my favorites.

With music and food and lots of folks sitting around and catching up and otherwise enjoying each other’s company, it’s a good way to spend the day. After taking photos for the paper and talking to several people I knew, I decided a snack was in order.

After buying a lemonade from some children with a stand, I bought nachos and melted cheese from a nearby vendor and made my way to a bench in the sun to enjoy my snack. It’s a nice spot, though I don’t recall sitting there before, and I reasoned the sun might help keep the cheese warm.

That reminded me of all the times I spent eating lunch outside while attending Russellville High School. I often liked to sit on a step outside. That was one thing I loved about high school, that we were allowed to eat outside.

I had a black lunch bag, and I’d put my brownie on top of the bag and leave it in a sunny spot next to me. By the time I finished eating my lunch, the brownie would be the perfect temperature. It also made it easier to get the nuts off, as I’ve always felt chocolate and nuts, while fine on their own, should remain separate.

I enjoyed the drive back to Russellville and later that day had a pleasant evening with my dad at another nearby festival where I ran into someone I know from Franklin County and enjoyed a nice chat. All in all, a good day. I can’t complain.