Yes, Fun Poisoning.
I had the pleasure of spending a considerable amount of time with The District Overbeer this weekend in the Great state of Wisconsin. Valis and I had not interacted before this weekend and the Apostafest gathering in Green Bay. I had read his posts and to be honest was unsure of what to expect when we met face to face. I knew he had to be a stand up guy, after all have you ever known anyone that had hedgehogs as pets to be otherwise?
Sheila and I arrived a bit road weary after an 11 hour ride from KC to GB. Upon arrival we were greeted by Xena Warrior and the Overbeer with bright smiles and open arms. I was introduced to the Overbeers Fridge and its liquid bounty. I was humbled by the experience. We spent the day visiting with everyone there, Bil, Jason, Travis, Lisa, and we went to tour Door County. Still haven't figured out why they call it that but it was a scenic and enjoyable afternoon. Valis took me under his wing and began my tutelage. I was instructed as to how develope and nurture a proper apostate attitude. I believe the main ingredients to be the company of good people and vast quantities of intoxicants. I must admit I did indeed imbibe.
Valis, camera in hand documented our adventures throughout the day and then after a chance to change our clothes and freshen up we all met for dinner at a pub called the Stein. Our group grew a bit at dinner as we were joined by Lisa, Oz, Heaven, Star, Searcher, Slippy, and Native. (forgive me if I left some one out, I suffer from CRS). The food was great the laughter abundant and spirits high. After dinner we all got together to talk and have a few drinks. This was the first stage of Fun Poisoning.
Saturday found us all meeting at Xena Warrior's house for a huge Birthday Party. No one in particular, just seemed like a good idea. Again food, drink, fun and fellowship was enjoyed by all. Between the sack races, pinata, pin the tail on the donkey, musical chairs and the impromptu watchtower study, more symptoms became apparent. Boistrous laughter and ear to ear smiles were everywhere. Not a few beers met their maker at the hands of the revelers led by their fearless Overbeer. The afternoon passed too quickly as the merry throng succumb even more to the Fun Poisoning.
Dinner was at 8:00 in the hotel confrence room. We were all presented with ceremonial garb, (Packers T-shirts) and Apostafest memerobelia. After dinner the party shifted into high gear as we all gathered into adjoining rooms on the top floor of the building. While areas were segregated as smoking and non-smoking, it seemed that we all for the most part partied together. The Overbeer took center stage on a table top to oversee the festivities but was cast down momentarily by some inner ear imballance caused by the Fun Poisoning, but he wasted no time in regaining his seat and seeing to it that the fun continued. The music and merriment continued for hours, friends were made and experiences and jokes shared. I even gave a short speech, so they tell me, I honestly don't remember! By then the we had all been overwhelmed by Fun Poisoning.
I wish that the powers that be might see fit to enter the name and causes of this wonderful affliction, dubbed Fun Poisoning, by the Overbeer, into the XJW files for future escapees to have access to. It is an affliction to be shared joyously by all as often as possible.
I for one would never have imagined that there were people out there of the quality and calibur of my new found friends. Between our visit in Dallas a few weeks ago to Green Bay this past weekend, Sheila and I have discovered a family unequaled to any known to us before, and surely never to be surpassed.
I raise a glass to our beloved Overbeer and to all I have met in person thus far. I would like to meet you all, and should circumstances present themselves I will.
Until then I submit the above as evidence that there is indeed Life after the WTS.
Thunder