Yesterday Chris and I went to the San Mateo County Fair. In addition to the usual livestock barn (we were offered the chance to buy a choice goat, but Chris said no), the petting zoo (I was attacked by a llama, a deer, a sheep and several small goats--luckily the wallaby was locked up), funnel cake, clowns, hot tubs, and quilts, we saw something new. A knife-sharpening contest.

We just had to check it out. Imagine 10 people at several long tables, each sharpening a tiny knife for twenty minutes, while no commentary is given. One guy finished up in the first few minutes and sat back. Either he thought he had it in the bag, or had mistakenly though it was the My Favorite Cookie contest. Another contestant whipped out an eyepiece (the kind you examine diamonds and such with) and carefully studied his knife at regular intervals.

After 20 minutes, a judge came by, and picked up each contestant's knife, and sliced a piece of paper. Then the carrots came out. And finally.. the tomatoes! Again, no commentary whatsoever. The winner was declared, and ribbons handed out. It was real buy-a-ticket-for-the-whole-seat, but-you'll-only-need-the-edge excitement, I tell ya.