I just got back from the gun show.

And no, I wasn't flexing in the mirror again.

I went to the actual gun show at the Central Florida Fair Grounds. I know, I know... All my northern and left coast friends just got that uneasy feeling down in their belly again, but down here in the south, it's something we do from time to time. There's something about seeing a good looking middle class family walk by strapped to the teeth that screams America. "The grip on the Glock 17 9mm is really comfortable for Johnny Jr and it doesn't have nearly the recoil of Grand Pappy's Smith & Wesson! It'll be the best 13th birthday present ever! "

Ah yes. Freedom. I didn't have any cash on me or else I would have picked up some chinese stars and a fake switchblade. It also turns out, that I don't actually own any camo. I had to wear my Get Up Kids shirt instead. I was left with the strange feeling of not fitting in, but luckily our visiting neighbors from St. Cloud and Kissimmee sure do bring with them a sense of southern hospitality. Everyone we met was mighty kind. Mighty kind.

I've never really made up my mind about full on assault weapons. On one hand, they're made strictly for offensive purposes and that seems to be a bit much these days. On the other, we really do have a growing deer problem here in Orlando. Anyway, people were walking around with straight up AK's hanging around their back. I also saw a number of folks who didn't strike me as the responsible type buying all sorts of machinery. Thankfully, none of them seemed frazzled or in a hurry in any way. Then again, maybe they were relaxed because they knew theres no waiting period at gun shows....

I didn't buy anything, just walked around and enjoyed the humanity of the event. I talked Gavin into buying me a corn dog, but unfortunately they didn't have any. We were pretty sure it was a fair grounds requirement to have corn dogs, but felt it best not to argue. You have to pick your battles. We were a bit outmatched.

We're debating on going back tomorrow and taking the concealed weapons course. It starts at the same time as church. I don't own a weapon, but I do want to learn what the laws are, and even how to properly handle / clean / maintain / shoot a gun. I kind of figure it's one of those rights that we are afforded and should take advantage of at some point in our lives. I'm even planning on visiting a shooting range and trying some things out. You never know, I may end up purchasing some camo.

Oh, and a holster...

And a hat.