It is interesting to watch as the community of Decorah Iowa undergoes the transition from a Midwestern agricultural town, as they prepare to host one of the largest influx of Nordic folks---mostly Norwegian Americans.  The day before the festival (when many vendors like Smultron Publications arrive) striped blockades appear in some of the main streets of downtown.

The bunting and flags have already gone up and many residences, located in the blocks around downtown Decorah have brazenly put flags in their front yards, representing their nationality, as if in defense from all the Norskes about to take over the town.

It's all VERY friendly though.  The festival begins on Thursday evening with bands and food vendors set up in the street, just waiting for the opening ceremonies to end.  Then the crowd finally disperses and hustles down to the action on, they're ready, with music, food and other items of interest.

Early Friday morning, heading downtown for the first "depth charge" from the local coffee vendor, I see vehicles cruise past with drivers dressed in folk costume. Here and there a gaily-clad worker moves past.  As we head for the middle school where the arts and crafts (and book) vendors have already set up, there's plenty of activity as last minute set-up and rearranging of wares is carried out.  Promptly at ten, the doors open and the halls begin to fill with buyers and Nordic Fest is off and running.

Every evening is a repeat of Thursday evening, with more general entertainment in the evening ceremony with food, dance and camaraderie to follow on Main Street.

Folks who had purchased books last year stopped to pass along compliments and take a look at Vallkulla, books one through three.  We missed the printer's deadline by only a day for book four, so had to mail out those orders the following week.

Jerry says thanks for the kind words from past readers of My Enemy's Child and for passing along their  experiences.  That still remains the best part of authorship...hearing your special stories.