County Fair

I have such vivid memories of our small town Vermont fair. A herald to fall and harvest, cool nights and the imminence of winter. We drove in, brimming with excitement as our car bounced along the dirt entrance, winding our way to park on the infield. Impatience made the drive last forever. Finally, the car was parked.
My first stop was always the horse barns. I probably would have stayed there all day if I was allowed. But, the pull of Mid-way noise and the temptation of fair food eventually led us to other areas.
Local craftsmen and housewives displayed their wares. My Grandfather could be found among them, sitting on swinging-chairs of his own design - always with a tan zip cardigan over a button-down shirt with dark tan pants. In the homemaking section, shelves lined with plates of yeast rolls were colorfully paired with jewel toned jars of jams and jellies. Ribbons dangled from the neck of select jars.
When the aroma of hot sugar and fried food became much for my young tummy, my parents would treat me to cotton candy swirled around a paper cone - such an amazing cloudy delight. This one a year treat was something to be savored for as long as possible. Later, I would have Italian sausage drenched in mustard and watch the evening's entertainment.



Now, I am bringing my kids to the fair. Cotton candy is still a must, and so are candied apples. Rides are the main attraction and we spend about 2/3 of our time defying gravity and common sense. (At least the kids do. After child #3, I lost my appetite for thrill rides - or maybe it was turning 30. But now, I stand by and am the keeper of hats, glasses, and hard won stuffed animals while the more adventurous spin and whirl. I love watching all the expressive faces as they ride.)
I still love spending time looking at the home, garden and arts entries. It was a special treat this year, since it is the first time my own children have made entries into these departments. We were thrilled that the three old enough to enter each won ribbons! They are already planning entries for next year. Each one wants to win more prizes than the other. Thankfully, they are in different age groups so they are not being rated against each other.

I hope they are able to carry pleasant memories as I have.