Back in Texas

It is going to take me a good while to get everything written that I would like to write about the NRA Annual Meeting and Exhibits.

First, let me say that the NRA media relations group were very supportive of the bloggers and provided us with access that we could never had had without their support. There were a couple of crossed wires here and there, but those issues were minor.

V and I both had a great time and we hit the ground running. Basically we went straight from the airport to the Celebration of American Values leadership Forum on Friday, and didn't stop until Sunday afternoon when we visited the last exhibit booth before running back to the airport to get home.

V and I talked about our favorite parts of this weekend over dinner, and there was lots to talk about. V really enjoyed talking with the folks who had a real passion and love of their life's work. Folks like David Young, who's love of history and enthusiasm for sharing that history with others is contagions. And craftsmen like Bill Alexander of Alexander Arms, Martini Cadet craftsman Robert J. Snapp, and master engraver Mike Dubber, folks who's love of their craft is as evident as the color of their eyes. I will have to agree with V, being around people like that is, for lack of a better word, exhilarating. We spoke with MR. Snapp and Dubber on Sunday afternoon, and they were as energized and enthusiastic as if it were hour one of day one. This sort of dedication was evident throughout the hall.

For me, the best part was being in the midst of 60,000 gunnies. There were 40 or so of us gun bloggers there amongst this mass of people were there for pretty much the same reason, to hang out with other gunnies. That is just goodness in and of itself.

This is an event that you really should try to get to. The atmosphere, the people, and of course the firearms, make for an experience that you will remember for quite awhile. Might as well start making plans for 2009 now.

OBTW, while we were gone...

The Stars win again!!!