Chili Cook-Off and Fun Fest

Last night our synagogue held it's 11th Annual Chili Cook-Off and Fun Fest. Since we've never been to one before, we weren't sure what to expect. Jacob was worried that there would only be chili to eat (not a big chili eater) and that he'd have a horrible time. Needless to say, everyone had a blast. I figured we'd be there an hour or so and then head home. We ended up staying for almost the whole thing and only had to leave when Hannah freaked out because she was outbid for a Webkins basket in the silent auction (I was not going to pay $80 for a few stuffed animals...even if it was for a fundraiser).

I have to say that this was such a fun and interesting idea for a synagogue fundraiser. You get a few people to make some chili and sell some tickets for voting for a dollar. Then you get people to drop another few dollars for dinner. Then, sell some tickets for games for the kids. Meanwhile, set up a silent auction and put in a wine garden for the adults (it was strange walking around the synagogue with a glass of wine, though!). Viola! You've got a great fundraiser. I can't imagine how much work this must have been, though. They really utilized the youth group for the Fun Fest, and you could tell that they were having fun doing it.

When we first started tasting, I was very pleased to see that the chili with the chocolate in it was first up. Jacob really wanted to try the chocolate chili. After that, he tried almost all of them, even the one that was more like stew than chili. He and I agreed on the same chili as the winner, while Mike went for the chicken chili. I now have a chili eater, which is awesome since I tend to make it often and he never eats it. The other two would eat rocks if I told them they were food, so they chowed down through the line as well.

I must say that next year, I'm definately entering the chili cook-off. No doubt about it. What a great family evening. Here are some pictures (of course)...


Hannah, Daniel and Jacob try the chili


Is Jacob trying chili with corn and carrots in it? You betcha!


Hannah gets her face painted.


Jacob shows off a bead thing he made.


Daniel plays a form of dodgeball.


Daniel, Jacob and Hannah decorate graham crackers.


A youth group member shows Daniel how to make a special necklace.