Monday, June 30, 2008
You’re never going to believe my luck! I found that paddle that I was usin’ back at the Governor’s Fishing Opener to play baseball with! I’ve been searchin’ high and low for that thing ever since the ladies at the Brainerd Lakes Chamber got ahold of me and told me that they needed it for Bean Hole Days. And I pretty much found it just in time since Bean Hole Days is just about a week from today on July 8th and 9th. Wow are they going to be happy! Now I just need to make my way back over to the Pequot Lakes Welcome Center to bring the paddle to ‘em. But it may be a few days before I get it to ‘em… I’m going to be busy in the coming days with all of the 4th of July festivities!

I suppose I’ll bring the paddle up to Pequot when I attend the Stars and Stripes Days on July 3rd and 4th. There are so many fun things to do and see there in those two days. There’s a rodeo that I may try to get involved in. Maybe they will mistake me for a bull and let me participate! I also can’t wait for all of the live music, carnival games, parades and most of all…the food! And how can you forget the fireworks?! Wow…there’s going to be lots happening in Pequot Lakes to celebrate the 4th….I don’t know if I’ll have time to venture to any other town festivals or not.

There are celebrations all over the Brainerd Lakes Area though…so I’m going to try my hardest to get to all of them. Maybe on July 4th I’ll trot down to Brainerd for their American Celebration and parade. Then after the fireworks that night, I think I’ll hike up to Crosslake for their fireworks display with is on July 5th.

Man…do I have a lot of planning to do to get my schedule organized so that I can participate in all of the fun going on in the area! It’s going to be an exhausting, but an exciting weekend for me!

Monday, June 23, 2008
It’s the weather we’ve been havin’ been great? Woohoo! This is what summer in the Brainerd Lakes Area is all about! I’m havin’ the time of my life gallivanting around the area!

I’m just thankful that the weather has been cooperatin’ with me lately because I’ve been havin’ to search high and low for that darn paddle that I lost back a few months back… I gotta get that back to the girls at the Brainerd Lakes Chamber in time for Bean Hole Days which is only a few weeks away now! Pressure is on! I’ve been retracin’ my steps, but the darn thing hasn’t showed up yet. Keep your fingers crossed that I find it sooner than later!

So I’m thinkin’ that my theme for this weekends entertainment is going to be music and theater… I’m going to start off the weekend by going to Central Lake Colleges performance of the “Wizard of Oz” on Friday night. Man do I love that movie! I’m sure that the performance will be great too. Those actors and actresses from the college never seem to disappoint! Then on Saturday night I’m going to check out the drive-in theater again. It’s kind of a sweet deal for me because I’m too big to sit in a car, so I just get to sprawl out on the grass, relax and enjoy a good show under the stars. Nothin’ beats that! Then on Sunday night, Lorie Line is going to be in concert here in Brainerd! I can’t wait to see her! I’ve heard her music but never seen her live in concert, so I’m really looking forward to that.

What a fun weekend I have ahead of me! If you’ve got time, you should think about joinin’ me!


Monday, June 16, 2008
Well, it looks like we’re going to have a nice week of warm and dry weather up here in the Lakes Area! I’m excited about that! There’s nothing better than a Minnesota summer day…

So this past weekend I went to the Glenn Frey concert at Manhattan Beach Lodge and what a blast that was! The concert was great, the weather was superb and the atmosphere was amazing! I think they’ve got another concert up there this weekend. I heard Rockie Lynn will be appearing there…so I may just have to make my way back up there to check it out.

I may just continue my trek north and check out these duck races that everyone’s talkin’ about that take place in Pine River every Friday night during the summer months. I thought they were racin’ real ducks down the river…which would have been hilarious…but I hear that they are just decoys. But none-the-less, I hear that people really get inta the racin’ and it sounds rather entertainin’.

I may just see if I can get out on the water this weekend too. I’d love to find a boat big enough to chart me around the water for a few hours. I have to call a few of the boat rental places in the area to see if they can help me out. I’d love to have a day of fun in the sun on the water and it sounds like this coming weekend would be perfect for that!

And I’m still in search of that darn paddle that’s used to stir the beans for Bean Hole Days in Pequot Lakes. I can not for the life of me remember where I left that darn thing! Hopefully it will show up before July 8th, which is the start of Bean Hole Days!

Monday, June 9, 2008
What an excitin’ weekend I had! I took in as many of the area festivities as possible! I checked out The Brainerd Jaycees Street Fest of 7th, the Annual Tour of Lakes Bicycle Ride, the Cherry Car Show and I even went to the Stamman Scandinavian Festival up in Nisswa. The fun just never ends up here in the Brainerd Lakes Area!

There’s a lotta fun things goin’ on throughout this coming week in the area too… I was checkin’ out the Events Calendar at explorebrainerdlakes.com and came across a few things that I just HAVE to check out…like the Wednesday Night Street Drags at Brainerd International Raceway. I also think I’ll try to get to another Brainerd Blue Thunder game. Those games are so much fun and I just love seeing the reaction of all the fans in the stands when I walk in. It’s hilarious! I usually end up gettin’ a seat right down on the field because people complain that I block their view if I sit in the stands. But that’s fine by me! The closer to the action, the better, in my opinion!

This weekend I think I’ll try to make my way over to the Gull Drive-In Theater. I heard that is a pretty neat place. I wonder if they will let me in without a car? I’ll have to check on that. But honestly…I don’t think that there IS a car big enough for me!

I’m also going to check out the Glenn Frey concert up at Manhattan Beach Lodge on Saturday night. I hear that’s going to be a great time…and you know how I love music. If you haven’t got your tickets yet, there’s still time! Call or stop by one of the Chamber offices… Maybe I’ll see you there!

Monday, June 2, 2008
Ah man! I’ve been sooo looking forward to this upcoming weekend! I’ve been hearing all about The Brainerd Jaycees Street Fest on 7th that’s taking place this Friday and Saturday! I here this is going to be live music, lots of good food, a car show, pony rides… Sounds like a good time to me! I may even see if I can sneak in to participate in the pony rides. I think kids would enjoy an ox ride too, don’t cha think?

I also hear that the Annual Tour of Lakes Bicycle Ride is going on in Crosslake on Saturday. That might be kind of cool to check out. Plus I love Crosslake and I haven’t been there in awhile, so I’m about due for a visit. While I’m up there I should also look around for that darn paddle that I lost… I gotta find that thing and return into the Brainerd Lakes Chamber so that they can stir the beans for Bean Hole Days! I only have about a month left to find it…hopefully it’ll turn up.

There’s also the Cherry Car Show and the Farmers Market goin’ on this weekend in Pequot Lakes…so maybe I’ll try to hit that up too. Then I think there are a few Brainerd Blue Thunder games takin’ place this week too… How am I ever going to find the time to do everything?! There’s just so much goin’ on here in the Brainerd Lakes Area! You should get on up here and experience the fun with me!

Monday, May 26, 2008
Woohoo!!! What a wonderful day it is today! It’s Memorial Day…the end of a three day weekend…and we’re having gorgeous weather up here in the Brainerd Lakes Area! I couldn’t ask for more! I’m really enjoyin’ myself this weekend and have been mingling with all of the people that flocked to the Lakes Area this weekend. It’s great seein’ all the smilin’ faces of tourists, seasonal residents and even year-round residents as they enjoy all the wonderful things there is ta do up here.

I kicked off my weekend by going to BIR for the Lucas Oil Points Race…then I mosied over to Paul Bunyan Land to help them kick off their season…and rumor has it that I only missed my buddy, Paul, out there by about five minutes! Thank goodness I got out of there when I did…I’m still not ready for him to catch me. This game of hide-and-seek is pretty darn fun if you ask me….but Paul may beg to differ.

So I got a call yesterday for one of the ladies that works for the Brainerd Lakes Chamber and apparently I lost the paddle that they used to stir the beans for Bean Hole Days that are comin’ up at the beginning of July. Ugh. So now I have to retrace some of my steps and hope that it turns up. Otherwise, I don’t know what I’ll do…but I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it. Hopefully it will turn up. If you see it, be sure and let me know!

Looks like this weekend will be consumed with my search for the darn paddle for the beans. But I may find time on Sunday night to check out the Brainerd Blue Thunder baseball game. I’ve never been to one of those games before, but I’ve heard they’re a lot of fun…so I think I’ll work that into my schedule. Maybe I’ll see some of you there!

Monday, May 19, 2008
What a beautiful weekend we had, eh? It was wonderful to get outside and to enjoy the wonderful weather and to mosey around the Brainerd Lakes Area! Now that the weather is gettin’ nice I can REALLY have some fun here in the lakes area…

I think that I’m gonna make my way over to Brainerd International Raceway (BIR to the locals) for the Lucas Oil Points Race that is goin’ on May 23-25th. I hear that they draw a rather large crowd for that event…and I also hear that they have a statue of me painted up like a race car by their front entrance! Someone even told me that I have a spoiler on my rear! HA! I can’t wait to check that out! I’m sure it will give me…and many others, including Paul…a good laugh.

On Saturday, May 24th I was told that Paul Bunyan Land opens for the season. I may just have to partake in those festivities. What a surprise that would be for everyone that goes to the park…to find me, the one and only, true Babe the Blue Ox at the park opening! I think I could have some fun with that. I may even offer to give the kiddos a ride around the park on my back or somethin’…they always seem to love that. They also love swingin’ in my horns and using my tail as a jump rope. Gotta love those little rug-rats!

I was also contemplatin’ goin’ swimming in one of the area lakes this weekend. But I think it might be just a little too cold for me yet. I may just have to settle for a boat ride. The problem there is finding a boat big enough for me… I wonder if I could fit on the Mississippi Belle? Hmmm…somethin’ for me to think about.

Enjoy the weather and the fun that’s at your fingertips in the Brainerd Lakes Area! Until next time…

Monday, May 12, 2008
What a fun weekend I had with all the festivities surrounding the Governor’s Fishing Opener this past weekend! I checked out that Community Picnic in Pequot Lakes and man, was that ever a good time! I got myself some free ice cream (I can’t ever pass that up), I mingled with the locals, partook in a couple minnow races and even gave a few kiddos a ride around the park on my back…they get a real kick out of that. I also picked up a map with all the ox statue locations, modeled after yours truly, from a guy dressed up as my buddy, Paul. That gave me a good laugh! Paul would think that was funny too. I wonder if he got up there to see ‘im?

Now I gotta start thinkin’ about what I’m going to do this next weekend… I did just check out the Brainerd Lakes Chamber website for some ideas and I came up with a few options…

I may hoof my way around Brainerd for the Brainerd Historical Walking Tour. I thought that might be kind of neat considering I live here and don’t know too much about the history of the town.

Then I hear that The Johnny Holms Band (yet another one of my favorite bands) is going to be performing at the YMCA Charity Ball. I may just have to put on my Sunday-best and head tot hat Saturday night.

Who knows what the weekend will bring…but one things for sure, I’m gonna have myself a good time in the Brainerd Lakes Area like I always do!

Monday, May 5, 2008
Ahhh….This is the week I’ve been waiting for! The Governor’s Fishing Opener is going to be held up in Pequot Lakes and Breezy Point this comin’ weekend! There are always so many fun and excitin’ things associated with that event! I personally am really lookin’ forward to the Community Picnic which is happenin’ on Friday afternoon. There’s going to be free grub, fun games, activities and boat loads (literally) of people to chat with. It doesn’t get any better than that…

I’m also searchin’ for my buddy Paul’s bobber…I lost it awhile back when my lady friend, Besse, and I were playin’ catch with it. I guess I didn’t realize my own strength and I tossed that thing a little too far. I thought I’d do my best to try to find it so that Paul could partake in the festivities of the weekend. I figured I could do something nice for ‘im since I’ve been playing games with ‘im for the last few months. I was hopin’ I could find that darn bobber and leave it at the registration desk as a surprise for Paul. That’d make his day!

Know what else I’ve heard?! I’ve heard that the statues resembling yours truly are startin’ to pop up all over the Brainerd Lakes Area! HA! I’ve heard about a few of the designs, but haven’t personally seen any. I’m hopin’ to go out explorin’ this week to check ‘em out. I also heard that the 2008-2009 Brainerd Lakes Area Maps are in at the Chamber now and it highlights all the statue locations. I’m gonna have to stop by and pick one of those up to make my trek a bit more tolerable.

Now here’s to hopin’ that Mr. Nature gives us a good weekend for the opener and so everyone can get out and see my likeness all over the Brainerd Lakes Area!

Monday, April 28, 2008
Can you believe the weather we’ve been havin’? One day I’m wearing my sunglasses and flip-flops and the next I’m bundlin’ up in a parka! Whoooeee! Only in Minnesota. Let’s hope that we’re done with the snow for the year and that warm weather is right around the corner. I’m ready for it.

But I must admit, the colder weather was kinda nice for the marathon up in Nisswa this past weekend. I heard all the runners sayin’ that they’d rather run in weather like this than in the heat. I guess the winter blast was good for somethin’.

Know what I just heard? I heard that there are gonna be statues of me in and around the Brainerd Lakes Area this summer! HA! Who knew I was such a likable guy. Paul always tells me that, but told me not to get a big head about it. Ahhh…that Paul, he’s always lookin’ out for my best interest. Anyway, getting’ back to the point… I think it’s going to be great to see my likeness in the area throughout the summer months. I’m personally excited to see the artist interpretations of me!

So this weekend there is a great singing group in town – Tonic Sol Fa. They are one of my favs! I say that a lot, don’t I?! But I truly do love my music! I can’t wait for the concert on Saturday night! Maybe I’ll run in to some of you there!

Monday, April 21, 2008
As ya know, I’ve been trying to work off some of my winter weight by gallivanting around the Brainerd Lakes Area over the past few months. I was hoping that I’d be in good enough shape by this point that I’d be able to able to participate in the Brainerd Jaycees Run for the Lakes Half Marathon that’s comin’ up this weekend. But I don’t think my big, blue bod is up for that yet. But, I might see if I can be an honorary family member to some local family so that I can be in the 5K Family Fun Run. I think I could handle that. One thing is for sure, I do plan on checking out the Health Expo at the Nisswa Community Center. You can usually pick up some sweet free stuff at things like that.

I also heard that one of my all-time favorite country singers, Loretta Lynn, is performing at the Grand Casino Mille Lacs this comin’ weekend! Yee-haw! I can’t wait to see her in concert! I also can’t wait to make my way through the buffet line there at the casino. Man, do they make some good grub! (Now you can see why I’m not able to run the half marathon, I like food too darn much!)

As fun as this adventure around the Brainerd Lakes Area has been for me, I am startin’ to get kinda lonely. I heard through the grapevine that there’s gonna be a singles dance on Saturday night at the Brainerd Eagles Club. Who knows, maybe I’ll be able to find me a big, blue companion. But if nothin’ else, it will help me to meet more folks in the area and I’ll be able to kick up my heals for a few hours to some good tunes.

Monday, April 14, 2008
Do I dare say it? Is Spring finally here?! I’m hopin’ so. I’m gettin’ mighty tired of the snow and cold weather. I’m ready for the nice weather to roll in so that I can take full advantage of all of the wonderful warm weather activities that the Brainerd Lakes Area has to offer. It’s during this time ‘a year that the Brainerd Lakes Area really goes through a transformation. Everything goes from bein’ white and snow-covered to bein’ green and full of life!

I’m excited to hoof my way round the area to work off this extra winter baggage (aka: pounds) that I’ve been carryin’ around. Y’know, nothin’ feels better than breathin’ the fresh Minnesota air and getting’ my heart racin’ by exercisin’! I can’t wait to go swimmin’ in the lakes and I’m lookin’ forward to improvin’ my golf game too. However, I’m not holdin’ my breath on that one…it’s not very easy for a four-legged ox to swing a club. I gotta hold the club in my mouth and crank my neck pretty good to hit the ball. I’m a much better caddy than I am a golfer, that’s what Paul tells me anyway.

I’m lookin’ forward to this comin’ weekend, let me tell you! There are lots of events for me to attend. I’m thinkin’ I’ll hit up the Brainerd Lakes Chamber Spring Auction, maybe I’ll check out the Just for Kix Spring Show and who knows, maybe I’ll even make my way up to Pequot Lakes to attend the musical “Flora, the Red Menace” at the high school. I haven’t really sat down to plan my weekend out yet, but one thing’s for sure…there is plenty to do and see!

Monday, April 7, 2008
Whata weekend I had! I managed to keep myself busy yet again. There’s always somethin’ fun goin’ on in the Brainerd Lakes area. That’s why I love it here so much. No matter the season there’s always somethin’ excitin’ happenin’ here.

This week I think I may hit up a cookin’ class or two at Chef & Company. I could use a little help in that area. I’m not the best cook in the world, but Paul sure seems to enjoy the tater-tot hotdish that I throw together. I think it’s pretty lip-smackin’ good myself. But I suppose a little help with my cookin’ wouldn’t be a bad thing.

Speakin’ of food… I just remembered! There’s goin’ be a fish fry at the VFW! I’m gonna have to hit that up. If my memory serves me correctly, it’s an ALL YOU CAN EAT fish fry! I bet they never thought they’d have a big blue ox comin’ to the event, cause if they did, they never would have said it was an “all you can eat” event. I could probably eat every last piece of fish that they fry all by myself! But I suppose I’ll have to mind my manners and save some of the grub for the locals.

After the fish fry, I may mosey on over to Central Lakes College to check out this show that they’re doin’ called “Eye to Eye.” I guess it’s full of music from two of my favorite singers – Elton John and Billy Joel. I just can’t help myself when I hear their tunes…my body starts a swayin’, my hoofs start a stompin’ and my head starts a bobbin’.

If you can’t think of somethin’ to do this weekend, I’d love to have you come and join me. You know my plans and I’d love ta spend the weekend with ya!

Monday, March 31, 2008
Ahh, don’t ya love springtime? The buds are poppin’ and the birds are singin’... pretty nice place to be, the Brainerd Lakes Area. The kids are all comin’ out to play in the parks now too. I love to romp around with the little shavers. And I love to play tricks on their moms and dads!

Oh, by the way, I never did figure out a good trick for the Commerce and Industry Show, so I skipped it. Good thing too, because I heard Paul had that covered pretty good. He loves meetin’ lots of new people anyway, so I bet he had a good time. If you see him, just walk on up and tug on his pants leg. Don’t worry. Nobody’s been stomped on yet. He’ll be happy to shoot the breeze for awhile.

One time he met a nice old couple visiting from Sweden, and it turned out they were Paul’s relatives— Axel and Inga Bunyanssen! Paul spent the whole weekend with ’em, and showed ’em all around. That was fun, because that thick Svedish accent rubbed off on Paul, and for weeks, everything Paul said sounded like he was tellin’ an Ole and Lena joke! HA! Ya gotta admit though, it is kinda fun talkin’ like dat. Bun-Yun-Sun, yah sure den anyvay!

Uff-da. Hey, I’m pretty excited about the Children’s Art In The Park comin’ up next Saturday. More little kids to play with— and plenty of moms and dads to mess with! My favorite is the face painting. All little kids love that, and they’re always so giggly and happy. I like to get my nose painted and take pictures with the kids. Boy does that tickle!

Here’s what I’m gonna do this year. Y’know almost every little kid who comes up for a picture has somethin’ good to eat. Popcorn or a corn dog or cotton candy... or, my favorite, one of those big giant lollipops! Then, just when mom or dad is gonna snap the photo, I’m gonna stick out my tongue and lick it!

Now that’s a great idea! The kids’ll think it’s funny, mom and dad’ll think it’s icky. Then I get to keep whatever I licked, the kid gets another treat, and mom and dad get a photo of me lickin’ their kid’s lollipop! Everybody’s a winner! Why not come up and join us? Don’t forget to bring the kids... and the camera.

Monday, March 24, 2008
Another great weekend up in the Brainerd Lakes area! Hope you had a chance to get in on some of the fun. Well, Paul’s still lookin’, and I’m still hidin’ out. Talk about a good time! I bet he’s gettin’ miffed, just missin’ me those couple of times.

Last Saturday I peeked over Ski Gull Hill and watched the WSA Hillcross races for awhile. That was really cool! You should’a seen those crazy snowmobile guys blastin’ up the hill. I heard Paul checked it out on Sunday, but I was at the Easter Egg Hunt at Lum Park in Brainerd. Gotta love those little kids... and the chocolate Easter eggs!

This week I’m gonna try think up somethin’ fun to do at the big Commerce and Industry Show at the Brainerd Civic Center. Thousands of folks show up to see presentations and demonstrations from all the great businesses we have here in the Brainerd Lakes Area, and I bet I can come up with a trick or two.

Movin’ cars around in the parkin’ lot is always fun, but that’s gettin’ old. Oh, here’s a good one! Once me and Johnny Inkslinger used my tail like one of those parking gates and we charged a bunch of folks a buck to park in the lot. We made enough to buy all the root beer we could drink! We got in trouble for that too. Oh well, I’ll think of somethin’.

Oh, guess what! Next Saturday night, over at Grand Casino Mille Lacs, it’s the one, the only... Gordon Lightfoot! He’s one of my favorites, and Paul’s Number One favorite! That’s because he’s a manly-man, just like Paul. But just between us, Paul couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket... off key... and jeepers he’s loud! It’s still fun though, the whole loggin’ crew singin’ around the campfire. I get to sing the Moo-Wops in the background!

Anyway, come see us! Even during the week. There’s always somethin’ fun to do, and this is a great time of year to do it in!

Monday, March 17, 2008
Don’t you hate it when St. Patty’s Day falls on a Monday? You’ve been partyin’ all weekend, and then, right when the big day comes around, you have to go to work! Oh well, we had ourselves a shanty-singin’, shillelagh-shakin’ time up in Crosslake on Saturday and Sunday! And Paul almost caught me!

See, here’s what happened. First of all, I had a little help from some of the fellas back at camp. Sourdough Sam always orders green dye for makin’ green beer on St. Patrick’s day. We have quite a few Irish guys on the crew... you know, guys named O’Jeepers and O’Lordy and O’Golly... and they gotta have their green beer. So anyway, I got ol’ Sam to dye ME all green. And then I got Johnny Inkslinger to paint “Kiss Me I’m Irish!” on both sides of me, and then I got Ole the Blacksmith to rig me up some giant roller skates.

I bet you can see where this is goin’. I just joined the parade! I got the seven Elmers to pull me along with a rope, and I just stood real still. I looked just like a big green Babe float! The Elmers pulled me right down the street, right in plain sight, and Paul even watched me roll right by! HA! Fooled him again!

When Paul finally left, me and the Elmers joined the party, and we all had a grand old time bein’ Irish for a couple of days. Frankly, I have a little headache this mornin’. But at least I don’t have to go to work, because I’m still playin’ hooky!

Hey, y’know what’s up next Saturday? Easter egg hunts! And there’s three of ’em— one in Brainerd, one in Pequot Lakes and one in Crosslake— so I might be able to mess ol’ Paul up one more time. He knows I’ll be at one of ’em, but which one? I’m not even gonna tell you guys this time.

And no pranks this time either. I just love watchin’ those little kids havin’ such a good time, runnin’ around lookin’ for Easter eggs. I kinda like to help ’em out sometimes, especially the ones that aren’t havin’ much luck. I just sniff out the eggs and point at ’em with my tail. Then I get a big nose hug from a cute little kid, and who doesn’t like that!

So load up the little tykes and join us! Maybe I’ll see ya there!

Monday, March 10, 2008
Nah-na-na-na-naaahhh-naaahhh, Paul still hasn’t found me! Is this a good time or what! I’ve got him runnin’ around like old Oscar Odegaard chasin’ his chickens— and believe me, that’s a hoof-stompin’ hoot!

So, what should we do this week? Lotsa fun stuff to choose from, just like always up here in the Brainerd Lakes. The Vacationland Figure Skating Club has their annual Ice Show today, and that’s really fun, with all the little kids. And the Chamber’s got a big Job Fair comin’ up on Wednesday, but that’s kinda serious. I’d get in big trouble there.

I know! I haven’t played any ice fishin’ pranks in awhile, and they’re always fun! Plus, with so darn many lakes and so darn many ice fishermen up here, there are always plenty of victims... er, people... to choose from!

The tough part about ice fishing pranks is findin’ a place to hide, but there’s one trick I’ve been chewin’ on for quite awhile, and this just might be the week to try it out. The key to this little caper is findin’ just the right lake, and I think I’ve got it figured out.

See, the lake’s gotta be pretty round, and it’s gotta be big enough so I can sneak in there without bein’ spotted. Mille Lacs is perfect! Not to mention, the perch are bitin’ like crazy, so there’ll be lots of folks out there. See whatcha think about this.

In the middle of the night, I’m gonna bust through the ice down on the south side of the lake. I’ll take a big, all-day-long breath, and I’ll crawl out under the ice right into the middle, and wait till all those hundreds of fishermen are out there catchin’ fish and havin’ a good ol’ time. Then, say about noon, I’m gonna stick my horns up into the bottom of the ice and just sorta slowly turn my head back and forth so the whole lake turns like a big giant record player!

The only bad part is that I won’t be able to see the surprised look on all those fishermen’s faces when they think the shoreline is spinnin’ around! Sound like a good plan to you? C’mon up and see for yourself. What the heck, even if the plan doesn’t work, you’ll still have a blast with some of the best ice fishin’ ever! Hope to see ya out there!

Monday, March 3, 2008
SHWEW! It’s gettin’ harder and harder to stay one step ahead of Paul. He almost caught me a couple of weeks ago up at Breezy, and he had me pegged for the ice golfin’ last weekend. He just picked the wrong golf tournament!

By the way, I never did get a chance to spit all those tennis balls at the golfers out on Gull Lake. I had my chance with these four guys from out of town— they were havin’ a pretty good time at Ernie’s when they came out to hit a few. One of ’em sliced a shot right over toward where I was hidin’, and I was all set to let ’em have it. I had those 500 tennis balls stuck in my cheeks, and right when I was takin’ a big deep breath to shoot ’em back, some lady on cross country skis saw me and hollered “Hey Babe!”

Well, that lady startled me so bad that I swallowed all those tennis balls! Now, I don’t know if you’ve ever swallowed 500 tennis balls before, but take it from me, you don’t wanna do it! They were bouncin’ around in my tummy like crazy, and I got so urpy, I had to go lie down. I got that lady back, though. I belched so loud that all the snow fell off the trees— right on top of her! That was almost as fun as the tennis ball bit would’a been!

This coming weekend, I’ve got a good trick planned. It’s the big National Pro Snocross race at BIR, and that’s really somethin’ to see! A lot of the top pro snowmobile racers in the country are comin’ up to show off their stuff, and I’m not gonna miss that. Here’s what I’m gonna do.

See, they have snow making equipment at BIR to make sure there’s plenty of the white stuff for the racers, and they make snow all night long right before the race. I’m gonna go lie right in the middle of the course and get all covered up in snow. Then I’ll look just like one of the hills that the guys jump over to get that big air that folks like so much.

Now here’s the fun part. My tail’s gonna be buried in the snow right under the straightaway, and right when those racers are zoomin’ along my tail, I’m gonna flip it up into a big loop-de-loop, just like a giant blue roller coaster! HA! That’ll be great! I’m only gonna get one chance though, so I’ll save it till the last race. If you come up, be sure to stick around for the big finale! It’ll be somethin’ to remember, that’s for sure! But don’t tell Paul, OK?

Monday, February 25, 2008
Howdy folks! I hope you’re havin’ as much fun as I am this winter. But then, I live right smack dab in the middle of one of the funnest places there is, with loads of stuff to do and see, every day of the week, any time of year. And I’m pretty darn proud to say that ol’ Paul hasn’t caught me yet!

I can’t wait for next weekend! It’s the annual Gull Lake Frozen Fore! Y’know, the Brainerd Lakes Area is known worldwide for great golf, and this wintertime event is one of the greatest! All weekend long you can go hit tennis balls with golf clubs out on Gull Lake.

Everybody has a terrific time kinda bein’ silly out there, and there’s nine different spots around the lake that make up the course. There’s prizes, and a scavenger hunt, and it’s all a big party, since every single stop is at a great place to eat and drink! And there’s no real schedule, so you can party and play at your own pace, and you can drive, snowmobile or take a shuttle bus between locations.

I missed it last year, but everybody I talked to said it was tons of fun. That’s why I’m definitely gonna be there next weekend. Where? I’ll never tell. But I bet I can come up with a prank or two to play.

Here’s what I’m thinkin’. I’ll get about 500 tennis balls and stuff ’em into my cheeks and hunker down behind Squaw Point. Then when a big group of partiers tee off at Ernie’s, I’ll spit all those tennis balls right back at ’em! That’ll be funny— just like rainin’ tennis balls! Might be kinda icky though, what with ox spit all over ’em.

Maybe I’ll have to think up somethin’ else. Or maybe not. Depends on how frisky I’m feelin’. Why not come on up and join us. You’ll have a great time, and you might even get to see your buddy get bombed with slimy tennis balls!

Monday, February 18, 2008
Well, I got myself in a little hot water up at the Nisswa Jubilee this weekend. Remember how I was gonna pose as a snow sculpture and wink at the folks? I thought it was a pretty good plan, and everything was goin’ great for awhile. I was surprisin’ the heck out of a whole bunch of people and havin’ a good old time.

That’s when the Cub Scouts showed up. About 20 of ’em! Well, they wanted to take a picture of the whole troop standing by the “Babe Statue,” and they all lined up right in front of me. I was so pumped, because I was gonna wink right as they snapped the picture, but this one kid’s scarf was blowing in the wind and it was ticklin’ my nose somethin’ awful!

You can see this comin’ I bet. Right as the photographer hollered “Say Cheese,” I sneezed! Blew those little kids right over! You should’a seen ’em, slidin’ across the snow into a great big pile. Actually, the kids thought it was fun, but I was busted, so I hightailed it outa there in one big hurry.

I think I’m gonna lay low this week and head over to the Primetime snow tubing hill in Breezy Point. That’s always fun, because it brings the kid out in everybody— all havin’ a blast slidin’ down the hill on inner tubes. And I can play right along!

What I do, see, is I lay my tail down the hill in kind of an “S” shape, and the kids start slidin’ down, right along my tail. Then I just flick my tail and they go spinnin’ around like crazy all the way down! It’s loads of fun for the sliders, and I have a good time watchin’ everybody laughin’ and stumblin’ around in a dizzy tizzy!

Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Boy Howdy, have I been havin’ fun playin’ hide and seek with ol’ Paul! I bet he’s gettin’ steamed. Oh, he knows I’m just yankin’ his log chain, and I think he’s havin’ fun too. Yup, I’ve been havin’ a blast playin’ my little tricks on folks, and I haven’t been caught yet!

This week is the big Relay For Life pancake supper, and I really like pancakes. But I’m pretty sure Paul will have that staked out, and I don’t want him to catch me just yet. He’s probably got a bunch of work for me, and I’m havin’ too good a time for that!

Hey, talkin’ about good times— next weekend’s gonna be great! It’s the 36th Annual Winter Jubilee up in Nisswa— and believe you me, that’s a JUB-I-LEE in capital letters! It’s fun alright, with three days of special events, like a medallion hunt and a fishin’ derby, and lots of good stuff to eat and drink. There’s dancin’ and live music— and best of all, plenty of folks to have fun with.

Just between you and me, I’ve got a good trick planned this year. See, they’re havin’ a snow sculpture contest, and the night before they do the judgin’, here’s what I’m gonna do. First of all, I’ll snort out a few big clouds of hot breath till frost forms all over my face. Then I’ll lie down on my tummy and lay my chin right down on the ground next to the other snow sculptures.

January 31, 2008
Did you ever have one of those pesky itches right in the middle of your back? You know, the kind you just can’t reach, and no matter how you wiggle and squirm, you just can’t get rid of it? Well I had one of those yesterday, and it was drivin’ me crazy!

Then I had an idea. I hoofed it over to the Pillsbury state forest, where there’s some of the best snowmobile trails in the whole state of Minnesota. I kinda hunkered down between two hills, right in the middle of the trail, and swished my tail around to cover my whole back with about a foot of snow.

Now that snow felt pretty good all by itself, but that dang itch was still there, and I was gettin’ pretty flustered. And that’s when the darndest thing happened. Turns out the Halvorsons from down Iowa way were up at Cragun’s for a big family get-together, and they were out for a snowmobile ride. All 14 of ’em!

Well, they were zoomin’ down the trail, and right up and over my itchy back they went, one after another. Well, boy, I wanna tell you, that felt good! Those nice folks had a blast scratchin’ my back for about an hour, and then we all sat around a campfire and drank hot apple cider and ate some of those yummy honey granola bars.

Yup, it was another great day up here in the Brainerd Lakes Area, and everybody had a good ol’ time! I guess it just goes to show ya... if ya got an itch for adventure, there’s no place like this place to get it scratched!

Wednesday, July 2, 2008
So what do you think my chances are to run into Babe this coming weekend? I know he’s going to be checkin’ out all of the 4th of July celebrations in the area because he LOVES the 4th of July and everything that goes along with it – the fireworks, the fun and most of all…the food! I’m hopin’ that I’ll run into him at some point this weekend. It’d be fun to celebrate with him this weekend… I honestly can’t believe that I still haven’t found ‘im!

Ok…so here’s my plan of attack for this weekend. I’m thinking I’ll head up north at some point tomorrow… Probably take in the festivities in Nisswa on my way up to Pequot Lakes. Tomorrow all the fun starts in Pequot. I’ll probably hang out there for most of the day and night and then venture down to Brainerd to participate in their festivities and fireworks. And even after July 4th there is still more celebrating to do in Crosslake because they shoot of their fireworks on July 5th! I can’t believe how many fireworks displays I’ll be able to check out! It should be a lot of fun!

Just thinking about all that there is to do up here this weekend is getting’ me all excited! I can’t wait for tomorrow! Maybe I’ll see you out and about this weekend celebrating the 4th and hopefully I’ll run into Babe too!

Wednesday, June 25, 2008
I can’t believe that it’s already been a week since my last blog entry. My goodness…time sure does fly when you’re havin’ fun!

What a great week I’ve had so far… On Monday, I headed up to Cragun’s for a round of golf… Then down to Pirate’s Cove that night for some mini golf. Then on Tuesday I went to the “Wizard of Oz” production at Central Lakes College. It was just wonderful! I hope Babe knows that they are putting on that production cause he loves that movie! He’d get a kick out of seein’ a live performance of the “Wizard of Oz”! Tonight I think I’ll head over to Brainerd International Raceway for their Wednesday Night Drag Races.

Not sure what’s on the agenda for this weekend… I heard that Madden’s is hosting a thing called “Artists Week” that starts this weekend… So I may have to check that out. I guess you can take classes on photography, decoy carving and lots of other things. Sounds like something interesting to check out.

I also heard that Lorie Line is in concert in Brainerd on Sunday night! I’m going to see if I can’t round up some tickets for that. Apparently the show is sold out…but maybe I can sucker someone in to takin’ me. Here’s to wishful thinkin’!

Wednesday, June 18, 2008
So my wish came true! The weather has taken a turn…for the better! It has been gorgeous the past couple a’ days. It’s been so nice that I’ve even considered tradin’ in my signature red and black plaid shirt for somethin’ cooler. I bet ya never thought you’d see that day come, did ya?! I hear that the Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center has some nice Brainerd Lakes apparel…so maybe I’ll make my way down there sometime this week to check it out.

There’s a fishin’ tournament takin’ place this weekend on Pelican Lake. I believe it’s the 34th Annual Pelican Lake Fishing Conservation Club Contest… I suppose I could swing by Pequot Lakes and pick up my bobber on my way to the event…that way I can actually participate. Hmmm…that could be a good time!

Then as long as I’m in Pequot Lakes, I could check out that Farmers Market that people are always ravin’ about. I believe that takes place every Saturday during the summer months.

That Babe is still on the run from me….and I’m still on the search for him. I have a feelin’ this is going to continue for awhile longer though…but oh well, it’s been fun making my way through the Brainerd Lakes Area and seein’ things I haven’t seen before and meetin’ all the wonderful people I’ve encountered.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008
I’m really wishin’ that the weather would turn around. All this ran is really gettin’ me down. But it’s forced me to move my search for Babe indoors, which has been kind of fun actually. I’ve been able to visit and see a lot of places that I normally would not have.

For example, I did something that I thought I would never do…take a cooking class. I know, I know…the big axe man in a kitchen. Not a likely combination…but I really did have a good time and learned a lot too. Those ladies at Chef & Company sure do know their way around the kitchen!

I also had the opportunity to venture over to the Paul Bunyan Waterpark at The Lodge of Brainerd Lakes. I figured I should know what that place is all about since it’s named after me. It’s a pretty neat place and the kids sure seem to have a good time there splashing around in the water. The kids thought it was great that I was spending the day at the waterpark because I’d life them high up in the sky in my hand and they would use my hand as a diving board of sorts. It was pretty hysterical!

That’s one thing I love about the Brainerd Lakes Area… No matter what the weather conditions are, you can always find something fun to do.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Well, here I am again…another week has passed and it’s time for me to sit down and write my weekly blog. Let’s see what I can recap for ya…

This past week I’ve been testing out a lot of the local dining spots and have been doing a little shopping around the area. It’s been kind of rainy out the past few days, so I thought I would take that opportunity to do some things inside rather than outside…and man, have I kept myself busy. I have eaten a ton of great food and have experienced some really neat stores and shops in the area. It’s been a lot of fun learning about the Brainerd Lakes Area and experience all it has to offer.

Oh and I also went to a few Brainerd Blue Thunder baseball games. What fun that was! The games were jam-packed with excitement and the people watching was great! You should check out a game sometime… Maybe I’ll see ya at one. And maybe if I’m lucky, I’ll see Babe at one too.

That darn ox is still on the run… I’m hopin’ he gets sick of me chasing him sometime soon and let’s me find him. I never thought he was this good at hide-n-seek.

So have you gotten out to see all the Babe statues throughout the Lakes Area? If you haven’t, you’ve gotta! You’ll get a good laugh. It’s a pretty neat campaign that they’ve got goin’ on.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Well I missed him….again! That darn Babe! He was at Paul Bunyan Land this weekend and left about five minutes before I got there. I was hopin’ that was gonna be my chance to finally catch ‘im! I KNEW he would be there this weekend… If I only would have eatin’ my lunch a little faster. Ahhh well…what can I do about it now…

I’ve been making my way around the Brainerd Lakes Area to check out all of the Babe statues that are displayed in front of the local businesses… What a funny thing that is to see a likeness of my buddy displayed throughout the area! A few of the statues have given me a really good chuckle… For example, the scuba ox! I think that is just great! Too bad the REAL Babe can’t swim. Then there is the Babe up in Crosslake that was made to look like a bluegill fish! That actually does look more like a bluegill than it does an ox! What a neat deal this “Oxtrot” has turned out to be. If you haven’t picked up your new Brainerd Lakes Area Map yet, you need to do that! It shows ya where all the Babe statues are. I know I’ve really relied on that during my search for Babe.

Anyway…hasn’t the weather been great lately?! I love seeing everyone out and about and enjoying the outdoors…biking, hiking, walking, golfing, fishing, boating, gardening…there’s something for everyone here! Get outside and enjoy!

Wednesday, May 21, 2008
How long has it been now that I’ve been searchin’ for Babe and I’m still comin’ up empty handed?! I can’t believe how long this is taken me! I’m getting frustrated and I’m sure Babe knows that and that’s why he’s still on the run… That darn Babe…he knows how to push my buttons!

But like I said before…there is one good thing that has come out of my search for Babe – I’ve been able to get out and explore this wonderful area in which I call home. I’ve been to many places that I didn’t know existed and seen many things I haven’t seen before. So I guess that this ox-hunt has actually been a fun thing for me…I just wish that Babe was WITH me and not RUNNIN’ from me. Ahhh well….

So this weekend Paul Bunyan Land is opening up for the season. I got contacted by the owners and they asked me if I’d like to take the place of the Paul Bunyan statue that greets you when you walk in for the weekend… I told them that I’d be more than happy to do that! And what a surprise for all that come to the park! They are going to have the REAL Paul Bunyan there to greet them rather than a talking statue that just LOOKS a heck of a lot like me. Should be a fun time. If Babe heard about the park opening, I’m sure he’ll be there. Maybe this will be my opportunity to finally catch ‘im! I can only hope.

I’m lookin’ forward to this weekend… There are usually a lot of people out and about in the Brainerd Lakes Area over Memorial Day weekend and I love that! I love talkin’ to all the locals and really enjoy talkin’ to all the tourists tellin’ them about the Brainerd Lakes Area. They always seem to ask me the same questions though…everyone wants to know how Babe and I actually did make all the lakes in the area and what size ‘a shoe I wear. I don’t get why my shoe size is so interestin’ to people, but it is.

Well, I’m off to keep searchin’ for Babe. If any of you see ‘im, tell ‘im I’m still hot on his tail!

Wednesday, May 14, 2008
What a beautiful day it is today! Now here’s to hopin’ that it stays like this! I’m ready for spring to be here and to stay here! There are just so many things that I want to do outdoors…I’m chompin’ at the bit to get going with my spring and summer plans…one of which is to find Babe.

Can you believe that I STILL haven’t found ‘im? He’s gettin’ good at playin’ these games with me…

As you probably know, the Governor of Minnesota was in town this past weekend for the fishing opener. I was lucky enough to be able to meet ‘im and to get my picture taken with ‘im at the Community Picnic in Pequot Lakes. He also told me that Babe was there just about an hour before I was and that he took a picture with Babe as well. That big blue ox is always just a few steps ahead of me!

I believe I heard that the annual plant sale is going on this weekend at the Northland Arboretum, so I may just have to hit that up. I love going there and talking to people about plants and trees. That’s somethin’ I know somethin’ about. Plus, if it’s a nice day, I couldn’t think of a better place to spend my Saturday than walking around that Arboretum. It’s such a pretty place…I know that doesn’t sound very manly to say that, but it’s true. I really like it there.

Anyway…I’m rambling, so I’m going to close for the day. I hope you all get out and enjoy this beautiful weather we’ve been havin’! Make the most of it and go out and explore the Brainerd Lakes Area!

Wednesday, May 7, 2008
HAHAHAHAHAHA! Boy did I just have a good laugh… I was wandering around downtown Brainerd and saw a few life-like statues of my boy, Babe. One place made him look like a piggy bank…another had him dressed like he was a scuba diver… Babe will have Halloween costume ideas for life because of all of these clever design ideas!

So this weekend is the Governor’s Fishing Opener up in Pequot Lakes and Breezy Point! Should be a good ole time! There are a lot of fun events associated with the fishing opener that I’m hopin’ to participate in. One thing I’m hittin’ up for sure is the Community Picnic on Friday afternoon. Sounds like they have some fun things planned for that there event. I hear you can even by raffle tickets to win a pontoon! Wouldn’t that be swell to win that thing!

I personally was hopin’ to do some fishing myself this comin’ weekend, but my buddy, Babe, lost my bobber. So I’m not sure I’ll be doin’ any fishin’ myself. I wish I could just go out and buy myself another bobber, but I had to have it made especially for me and my fishin’ pole since a little bigger than the average fishin’ pole. I wonder if I could find a way to borrow the bobber on top of the Pequot Lakes water tower…. Hmmm…now that’s go me thinkin’!

Hope to see you all out at the picnic on Friday!

Wednesday, April 30, 2008
So it’s the last day of April and there are still a few snow piles on the ground. I personally can’t believe all the snow that got this past weekend. What a mess it was around town. However the snow was good for one thing in my opinion… I could see Babe’s tracks, so it made my search for him a little easier on Saturday and Sunday.

Even though I didn’t find Babe, I believe I was close. I followed his tracks up to Nisswa and low and behold, he was there, but he took off before I got there. I talked to some of the marathon runners and they said that Babe started out participating in the 5k Family Fun Run, but ended up dropping out about a mile into it. Apparently he decided it was too cold and nasty outside, so he opted to stop for a cup of hot chocolate instead. That guy… He always says he’s all about exercisin’ and losin’ some weight, but when it comes right down to it, he just doesn’t have the motivation.

Not sure what’s in store for this weekend for me…but one thing is for sure – I’ll still be in search of my buddy, Babe. I did hear of a few concerts going on in the area, so I may have to hit those up. Babe is a sucker for some good music, so who knows, maybe I’ll even run into him there. I’m hopin’ so. I miss hangin’ out with him. Until next week…

Wednesday, April 23, 2008
All this wandering through the Brainerd Lakes Area has really helped me to drop some pounds! It’s amazing what walking for over two months straight can do for your figure! I feel like I’m in good enough shape to run the marathon (well, maybe just the half marathon) that’s takin’ place this weekend up in Nisswa. I think I’ll head on up that way to see what I need to do to get involved. I’ve always wanted to run one of those things, but I just never had the time to train for it or the motivation to do it. But I’m gonna do it! It’s gonna be a busy weekend up there in Nisswa. They are hosting the Brainerd Jayees Run for the Lakes Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K Family Fun Run, Post Marathon Party and Health Expo! I can’t wait! I wonder if I’ll run into Babe there? Nah, I doubt it. That Babe…he’s kind of lazy and isn’t much for exercisin’, but he sure does love eatin’!

Oh…I almost forgot! I have to head over to Gregory Park on Friday for the Arbor Day Celebration! I was asked to be a special guest and to speak to the kiddos about the importance of trees. Somethin’ I know lots about due to my background as a logger. It should be a good time. I love teaching what I know to the young folk and answerin’ all their questions. However, most of the time their questions don’t deal with the topic at hand…they usually ask me about how I grew so big or what size shoes I wear or if they can have a ride on my shoulders. But it’s all in good fun.

I also heard that the Franklin Arts Center is going to be open to the public this Sunday for the Artists of Minnesota Spring Show. I’ve heard some great things about what the local artists do and would love to check out there work first-hand.

Ahhh…there’s just so much to do and so little time. I better get to it!

Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Can you believe this weather that we’ve been having? One day we get snow…the next day it’s so windy out that it almost blows me over (you know that wind has to be strong to knock a man of my size off his feet) and then the next day is warm and sunny. Only in Minnesota can you get such a variety of weather conditions in one week. Ahhh…but that’s one of the things I love about this place.

So I’m still in search of my buddy, Babe. He’s gotta be playin’ games with me. He must think this form of hide-and-seek is fun or somethin’. Ahhh…whatever…I’ll find him sooner or later. At least I hope that I do. I miss ‘im!

I’ve been tryin’ to figure out where Babe might be this comin’ weekend. I checked out the Calendar of Events on www.explorebrainerdlakes.com and I’ve come up with a couple ideas… As I mentioned before, Babe loves music and dancin’…so I might be able to find him at the Just for Kix Spring Show or possibly at the musical in Pequot Lakes. I wish I could read that guys mind. You wouldn’t think that findin’ a big, blue ox would be such a hard thing to do! You’d think he’d stick out like a sore thumb…but he’s not. So the search continues…

Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Another weekend gone without findin’ my big blue buddy. He must think this is a funny game or somethin’. I don’t necessarily think it’s funny, but I do think it’s fun to get and explore the Brainerd Lakes Area and all that it has to offer. I’m learnin’ a lot, seein’ a lot and meetin’ a lot of swell people.

I started out the weekend by headin’ over to a fish fry at the VFW. I thought for sure Babe would be there…and he was, but he had cleared the VFW out of food within 30 minutes and was on his way…or so I was told. I knew he couldn’t resist an all you can eat fish fry. That big ox can hold his own when it comes to eatin’…and he needs all the free food that he can get, because he can’t cook for anything. I humor him by tellin’ how much I enjoy the tatertot hotdish that he makes, but honestly, it ain’t that good. It’s just the only tolerable dish that guy makes. Ah well…we all have our weaknesses and cookin’ is Babe’s.

As I’ve mentioned before, Babe loves music. So I thought I’d check out the Central Lakes College “Eye to Eye” musical performance that they were puttin’ on. Unfortunately, I didn’t find Babe. He could have been there, but the place was packed, so I didn’t see ‘im. But I did get to listen to some great music! I’m not much of a dancin’ man – due to my size I’m a little clumsy and Babe says I have two left feet – but the music got me up out of my set! Thank goodness Babe wasn’t there to see that!

Wednesday, April 2, 2008
No luck. No Babe. I thought for sure he’d be at the Civic Center last weekend, but nope. I had a good time talkin’ with all the folks though. Somethin’ kinda funny happened there too. I had to chuckle, because Babe would’a loved it.

I was greetin’ all the folks goin’ into the show, and I thought I saw the big ox out of the corner of my eye so I hollered, “Hey Babe!” Well about half the women in the crowd turned around and gave me quite a look. They must’a thought I was there tryin’ to pick up chicks! That was hilarious! Now, I’ve picked up some chicks in my time, but just to lift ’em up to take a picture. Never once been hit by a purse, neither.

So what’s up for this week? The big Home Show is at the Civic Center next weekend. That’s another big attraction. And then there’s the Children’s Art Show, and the Garden Expo, and the concert. Hey, that might be it!

The Heartland Symphony Orchestra is puttin’ on their Classical Masterworks concert, both Saturday in Little Falls and Sunday in Brainerd. Babe’s a huge classical music nut. Mozart, Wagner, Beethoven. Beethoven especially. Big, powerful music... and the Heartland Symphony is really, really good.

Babe likes to pretend he’s conductin’ with his horns. It’s really somethin’ to see, wavin’ his head around to the music. One time they had a concert outdoors and they were playin’ the William Tell Overture. Ol’ Babe got so carried away, he conducted all the leaves right off the trees! He got a big hand though. The crowd loved it!

I’m definitely gonna check that out one of the nights. You should too. I might even sit in with the saw or the jug. And I can crank out a pretty mean Flight of the Bumblebee on the harmonica! Come on up and see for yourself.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Still no Babe. Oh, I know where he was last weekend— the Easter Bunny told me. But I didn’t want to bother him. Those little kids at the Easter egg hunts have too good a time huggin’ Babe’s nose and sharin’ their chocolate Easter eggs that I didn’t wanna butt in.

Oh yeah, I know the Easter Bunny personally. He’s a good guy. So’s Santa Claus. Santa told me once that Rudolph can be just as much of a pesky critter as Babe sometimes, wanderin’ off for weeks on end, gettin’ into trouble. Roof damage mostly. He likes to practice his high speed landings, and scope out the houses with the best sugar cookies.

I wish Babe had a bright red nose. It would sure be easier to spot him at night. I can’t believe nobody’s seen him with all the fun events goin’ on up here. Or maybe they’re just not talkin’. Are you guys in cahoots with that big blue bamboozler? Aw, never mind. I’ll get him. Maybe this week.

Hey, the Chamber’s big Commerce and Industry show is this weekend. Babe can’t resist that kind of crowd. Lots of people, lots of food, lots of fun stuff goin’ on for two whole days. I’m gonna stake that out, for sure. Come on up and see for yourself. Maybe we’ll have a chance to say Howdy!

Did I ever tell ya that I had a booth myself at the very first Commerce and Industry show? I had this company called “Big Doin’s”. It was for big jobs, like straightenin’ out rivers and stompin’ out lakes and stuff. Well, that went over like a stack of soggy shortcakes. But over the years I’ve done pretty well just bein’ a lumberjack boss and part time spokes-giant.

Anyhoo, I guess all I can do is keep lookin’. If anybody sees Babe, gimme a call. And if I find out you’re cahooting, I’m gonna be mad. Not really. I’m always jolly. It’s in my contract.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Doggone it, I thought for sure I’d spotted ol’ Babe at the Crosslake St. Pat’s Day Celebration last Saturday. I saw this giant ox goin’ right down Main Street, but when I got up close, he was green instead of blue! Then I saw the “Kiss Me I’m Irish” painted on his side and all the Elmers pullin’ him along. It was just one of the floats I guess. Had me goin’ there.

Then I left to check out the Brainerd St. Patrick’s parade, but he wasn’t there either. Wonder where he was hidin’ this time. I talked to the Elmers this mornin’ back at camp. They were feelin’ a little under the weather, and their beards were all green, and all they could do was giggle when I asked ’em about Babe. Whatever. Those guys are goofy half the time anyway. I could tell you some stories about them, boy!

But back to Babe. I’m not havin’ much luck, am I? But I’ll get him. He still hasn’t showed up at the Hunt Beekeeping class, and if there’s honey around, Babe won’t be far. I haven’t caught him at the cooking classes or pancake suppers yet either. Go figure.

Hey, did you see in the news how the whole ice sheet on Lake Mille Lacs spun around last week? Those ice fishermen didn’t know what the heck was goin’ on, and it tangled up the fishin’ lines somethin’ awful. I bet I know who’s behind that, and his initials are B. the B.O.

Remember that mysterious black hole in the ice on North Long a couple years ago? That was Babe too, and nobody even figured it out till Babe told us about it later. Here’s the story on that, in case you were wonderin’.

See, a bunch of my loggers were haulin’ these giant barrels of maple syrup in to camp, and they shortcut it across the ice. Well one of the skis on the sled broke through, and they spilled about 300 gallons of syrup. It soaked in, just like a big maple popsicle! Turns out Babe snuck out that night and licked out the whole darn hole!

And folks thought it was aliens! HA! Anyway, I’m gonna keep lookin’ for Babe. Holler if you see him!

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
So did anybody spot Babe last week? I was up at the lumber camp haulin’ logs, and as much work as that is without Babe’s help, it sure felt good to sleep in my own bed again. This mornin’ when Sourdough Sam brought me my flapjacks, he said I was snorin’ so loud it sounded like the sawmill was runnin’ all night long! Now everybody’s grumpy because they didn’t get any sleep, but I feel great! And hey, I’m the boss!

I was kinda expectin’ a phone call from somebody who might’a seen Babe. The Brainerd Chamber’s got my cell number if you do see him somewhere. Aren’t these new-fangled cell phones handy? I love mine. And since I go way up in the woods sometimes, I even have my own cell tower. I just wear it on top of my hat, and if I stand up, I get perfect reception no matter where I am!

But back to the Babe problem. I heard about that loop-de-loop stunt he pulled at the BIR Snocross yesterday. I freaked out when I heard what happened, but it turns out all the racers loved it. They wanna make it part of every show! Must’a been somethin’ to see.

This week I’m gonna concentrate on all the food places Babe likes to visit. You know, the pancake places, the doughnut places, the coffee places. Oh yeah, Babe likes coffee. Used to be he’d just drink it black, like the rest of us lumberjacks. Hot and and strong. But now that we have Caribou and Starbuck’s and Coco Moon and the like, he’s turned into a cinnamon mocha latte-lappin’ snoot! Me, I’m more of a Mrs. Olson, mountain grown kinda guy.

Oh, I just thought of somethin’! Next weekend is the big St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration up in Crosslake. Babe’s bound to show up for that! Besides the parade, there’s gonna be all kinds of games and prizes, and a big treasure hunt, and even a big bonfire with live music! Yessiree, Babe sure likes to get out for the wearin’ of the green to shake his shillelagh! And here’s the clincher— the whole thing starts out with the firemen’s pancake breakfast!

That’s gotta be it! I’ll catch him there, sure as shootin’. Besides, he’s a sucker for green beer! Come up and join us. Irish or not, you’ll have a great time!

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Well, I had the right idea. Just the wrong ice golfin’ place. I was up at Moonlite Bay for that one, and Babe was down at Gull for that one! Dang it, this is gettin’ ridiculous! I am havin’ a good time though, meetin’ all the nice folks— especially the ones from outa town.

Did ya ever notice that people havin’ fun are always in a good mood and fun to talk to? And that’s the way it is up here all the time! It’s a great place to be, that’s for sure, and I’m mighty proud to call the Brainerd Lakes Area home. Babe’ll second that, if he ever shows up!

Soooo, what’s the plan this week? Just between you and me, I won’t have much time to look for him for the next few days. Those logs are pilin’ up back at camp, and somebody’s gotta take care of business around here. Babe’s been shirkin’, and he’s runnin’ out of vacation time pretty fast!

You guys could really help me out by comin’ up and keepin’ an eye peeled. There’s always somethin’ fun to do. Hey, check out ExploreBrainerdLakes.com and click on the Calendar of Events. That’ll give you a whole run-down on all the neat stuff that’s goin’ on, and it’s a great way to plan your visit.

Meanwhile, I’ll keep thinkin’ of places Babe might show up. Seems I’ve been doin’ a lot of that lately. In fact I got hollered at for thinkin’ too hard last week. I was layin’ down over on Beaver Dam Road, just a ponderin’ away, and it turns out I was thrumpin’ my fingers on the roof of the Brainerd Ice Arena! Whoops. Bet it got pretty loud in there for the skaters. Oh well, I’ll catch that ox eventually.

Say, next weekend is the big annual Commerce and Sports show over in Aitkin, and that’s a great time! There’s historical exhibits and wildlife artists sellin’ their prints and cool sporting goods and food and, well, all kinds of Up North stuff. Aitkin’s a fun place. You should come up for that! Anyway, I’ll keep lookin’. Come and help me out. I could sure use a little back-up here.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Rats! I almost had him last Thursday! I was up at the Commander Bar and Grill in Breezy Point— they have this famous Garbage Pizza that’s about the best dang pizza around, and folks always make it a point to chow down on one of them every chance they get. Including me! And boy, do they love it when I stop in, because I order ’em by the dozen!

Turns out Babe was right around the corner playin’ with the kids on the Primetime snow tube hill! I don’t know how I could’a missed him, but he’s a pretty good hider. But I’ll get him, or my name isn’t Paul Allouishes Bunyan. Oops. Nobody’s s’posed to know about that Allouishes part. Kinda sissy, and I get all sorts of grief from my giant axmen. But hey, they should talk— they’re all named Elmer, and if you ask me, Elmer’s just as silly as Allouishes!

But anyway, that darn Babe is still on the run. Where do you think he’ll be this week? C’mon, a little help here. Whaddaya think? How ‘bout ice fishin’? Maybe snow shoein’? There’s too many lakes and trails to cover, even for me, so why don’t you come on up and give me a hand lookin’ for him? Even if we don’t find him, you’ll have a great time!

Aha! Next weekend’s the Iced Tee Golf Tournament up at Moonlite Bay in Crosslake, and that’s always a real good time. Golfin’ on the ice! There’s gonna be prizes and a silent auction and plenty of great food and drink at Moonlite Bay. I bet that’s where he’ll be!

Babe loves golf. But he cheats. If he misses a putt, he just goes over to the other side of the green and sits down real hard. The shock wave just shoots right through the ground and the ball rolls right in the cup! Heck half the bunkers around here are from Babe’s big ox butt. And then I get in trouble all over again!

Well, maybe I’ll have better luck this week. C’mon up and see us if you can. We’d love to have you visit. Oh, and don’t tell anybody about the Allouishes thing, OK?

Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Doggone that Babe! I still haven’t found him. But I heard about that little incident with the Cub Scouts at the Nisswa Jubilee. I was stakin’ out the Hot Air Balloon Crossing over on Mille Lacs. You should’a seen those big colorful balloons with the sun shinin’ through ’em up in that big blue sky. But no Babe.

He wasn’t at the pancake supper either. Oh well, I’ll track him down sooner or later. I’m bound to find him at one of the fun winter doin’s we have up here in the Brainerd Lakes. Hey, maybe he’ll show up at the cookin’ class. It’s Hearty Winter Soup this week, and boy can Babe lap up the soup! His favorite is navy bean, and he can eat about a zillion gallons of that. But you don’t wanna be around after, if you know what I mean.

Or maybe he’ll be at the theater. There’s two live performances this weekend, one at Central Lakes College, and another one up in Pequot Lakes by the Greater Lakes Area Performing Arts group. Those are some talented folks, and it’s always a good time. Plus, Babe looks pretty snappy in his bow tie and cummerbund.

Y’know, I haven’t checked Ski Gull in a couple of weeks. He likes to make a ski jump out of his tail, and man oh man can he get those skiers and snow boarders flyin’. He wouldn't do that without me though, because I gotta be there to catch ’em.

Oh, hey! The Cab Calloway Orchestra’s up at Northern Lights Casino this weekend too. It’s a dinner dance with all that great old swing music. I love that one about Minnie the Moocher. Babe the Moocher, more like. If he doesn’t get his big blue butt back to camp pretty soon, I’m cuttin’ off his Tootsie Roll allowance.

Anyway, I’m gonna keep lookin’. There’s a beekeeping class on Tuesday up at Hunt Technologies, and you know what they say: where there’s bees, there’s honey... and around here, where there’s honey, there’s a big blue ox named Babe! See ya!

Monday, February 11, 2008
Well, I still haven’t found Babe. I thought I’d run into him last Saturday up at Northern Lights Casino. M-M-M-Mel T-T-T-Tillis was singin’ up there, and Babe’s a huge country music fan. You should see him do the two-step with his girlfriend, Lucy the purple cow! Now that’s some hoof stompin’ there!

But nope. No Babe. Mel even asked about him. Then after the show, I talked to some nice folks up visiting from Iowa. They’re stayin’ at Cragun’s, and they said they ran into Babe— or ran over him— last week while they were snowmobilin’ over in the Pillsbury State Forest. Said they had a great time, but Babe ate all their granola bars. Probably the honey ones.

Typical. Anyplace there’s food! Hey, maybe I’ll find him at the cooking class at Chef & Company in Baxter. This week it’s sushi! Babe’s not much for the raw fish, but he can eat all the sticky rice you can shovel at him! Or maybe he’ll show up at the Brainerd VFW fish fry next Friday. That’s always a good time, and it supports our veterans!

Oh, wait a minute— I bet I got it! Next weekend the Minnesota Vikings are coming up to Grand Casino Mille Lacs for their annual Arctic Blast! It’s a great snowmobile party with lots of the biggest Vikings stars. Babe likes to get some autographs and then take a picture with all the Vikings and cheerleaders sitting on his horns. I’m excited about that myself. Especially the cheerleaders! Hey, you should come on up and join us too!

Well, I’m off to keep lookin’. If you see Babe, tell him the logs are stackin’ up, and I’m gettin’ mighty tired of haulin’ ’em out of the woods all by myself. He’s gotta start payin’ attention to where his flapjacks and maple syrup are comin’ from.

February 4, 2008
Hello out there in cyber land. Paul Bunyan here, and I’m kinda new to this bloggin’ stuff, but I thought you might be able to help me out. I lost Babe. He’s my ox. About yay high... big horns... did I mention he’s blue? Well, you’d know if you saw him, believe me. Anyway, he’s been gone for some time now, and we’ve got a lot of lumberjackin’ to do. Besides, I miss the big fella.

Y’know, even after all these years, I still can’t figure that big ox out. Sometimes he just up and leaves for weeks at a time, and I get worried. Not so much for him, but for the folks he comes across. See, he’s kind of a scamp, and he likes to play tricks on people. Especially tourists.

One time he snuck over to Pequot Lakes during Bean Hole Days and in the middle of the night he dug up all the bean pots and lapped up all the beans! I got in big trouble for that, and I wasn’t even there! Then another time he did a belly flop into North Long Lake and splashed all the people having lunch on the patio at Iven’s on the Bay! That’ll put a damper on your dinner.

I tell ya, I’ve been everywhere tryin’ to track him down. He usually sticks pretty close to home here in the Brainerd Lakes Area. He likes it here. Hey, who doesn’t? But it’s a big place, and there’s a whole lot of fun places to go and see. He could be anywhere, pullin’ his pranks and raisin’ a ruckus.

Anyhow, I’m gonna head up to the Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous. That’s in Pequot too. Babe likes to move cars around in the parkin’ lot when people aren’t lookin’. Drive’s ’em crazy! If you see Babe, call the Brainerd Lakes Chamber. They have my cell number.