The Miss-Lou started off last week with a freshly blessed crop of critters, and things only got better.

Last Sunday’s blessing of the animals at Grace United Methodist Church was a cute way to start a busy week.

Let’s review some of the other good headlines last week brought to our community.

Kayaks filled the Mississippi River Saturday for the eighth annual Phatwater Kayak Race. The event has grown each year and become a great, unique local event. And this year, yet another speed record was set — 3:41:53.

The Natchez Visitor Reception Center is 10 years old, but has a fresh look for all to see. The center — one of the best small town visitor centers we’ve ever seen — just finished installation of a new exhibit about the area. If you haven’t done so, check it out soon.

Concordia Parish students got the chance to learn more about area colleges Wednesday at College Day. A wide range of schools were represented, and the school-board-sponsored event showed students exactly what opportunities are out there.

The coming week is arguably the best in the Miss-Lou. Hot-air balloons will (weather permitting) hit the skies of the area Friday morning and fly throughout the weekend. Bands, rides and food will fill the bluff starting Friday night. And an influx of people will be making local cash registers sing. Get ready for a great week!