Every summer Zappos puts together an event to celebrate the warm weather and enjoy each other's company outside of a work environment. This event is not just for our Zappos family, but the rest of our families are invited to share in the activities as well. This year, our picnic was at the Louisville Zoo! We had our own roped off area with all kinds of activities for all ages.

There were artists drawing caricatures, face painting, a strong man game, jumping bouncy structures, clown competitions, even wacky, waving inflatable arm flailing tube men! We had cotton candy, popcorn, hot dogs, burgers and plenty of sides to eat! We were also able to walk to the Zoo and see the animals free of charge if we wanted to. It was a beautiful day and it looked like everyone, and their children were having a really great time. All I can tell you, is if you forgot your sunscreen, you were regretting it!

Below is an e-mail from Loren, he participated in last years hot dog eating contest and is doing so again this year in about a week! Here is his e-mail that he sent to the masses at Zappos (with some pics from last years fetivities).

Hello Zappos,

I have heard a lot of people talking around the office about taking the hot dog eating title from me. First off, I welcome the challenge and look forward to the competition, however talk is cheap without the follow through. I was informed earlier today that only one person had signed up to challenge me. If that one person is not you,
please refrain from telling me you are going to "take me down" or "this is the end of your reign" or "Watch out, I'm gunning for you this year." This type of taunting should be reserved for people with the intestinal fortitude to put their name on the dotted line and step up to the challenge. I hope this email inspires some of you trash talkers to give it a go and try to beat me, but as you can see below my technique is unbeatable.