Once again we have conquered the 4H fair and all it’s dust, heat and all-around summery goodness. It was much like last year, except now, we have a personal interest with Susan’s club, Sew, Bake and Bloom. It’s a club for those interested in sewing, baking and gardening. Like, duh, Monica.

There is much to remember here, but I’ve been unmotivated to write. The summer is almost over and yet it feels like it’s finally begun. Too much rain!

A pause button on life would be welcome right now.

Quickly, Fair Thoughts. Because if I don’t jot them down, I know 20 years from now I’ll wonder what it is I can’t remember:

1. We love the food. Funnel cake ($5 each!), ice cream, cotton candy.

2. We love the rides. Merry-go-round and that “fake car” ride for Lucy. She kept running back and forth between the two. Big kids getting into the faster rides now. The fair is small enough to let the three of them go free-range. Niiiice.

3. When it rains the night before, all the straw in the world won’t keep the mud at bay. Wear old shoes or boots next time. Remind myself kids are washable.

4. When it rains the night before, beware parking in the field. Van not too keen on thick mud.

5. When it rains the night before, having Uncle John with us helps tremendously when the van gets stuck. He’s great at preventing further emotional meltdowns. (Don’t mention Susan’s tearfest here; she won’t like it. Write about my own frustration.)

6. A beautiful summer Sunday is no guarantee the fair will be a popular place to be. Where were all the kids? The teens? Moms and Dads and grandparents? The fair grounds not at all well populated. Sad. Will the fair survive or is it a dying tradition?

Goodbye, 4H fair! See you next summer….