Chili Cook-off

One year ago I started this blog with my first post cheering the fact that I lost the hottest chili contest for the first time in many years.  We recently completed this years chili cook-off, but this time there was a twist.  My main competitor for the hottest chili had a death in the family that week and would not be entering.  With my greatest (only) competition out of the way I decided to make my favorite chili, which is also very hot but much more flavorable.  [As a side not, I have several preferred chili recipes:  Southwest, White (2003 winner best chili, http://thecabin.net/stories/031803/sty_0318030035.shtml), Hot and my Favorite.]  The results of this years cookoff?  I didn't win the hottest chili, but I got second place for the best overall.