There were carnival rides, of which my daughter is still too short to ride most. She loved riding the horse and rooster on the carousel though! I just love watching her face light up.
There were 4H barns full of poultry for us to see. Booths and booths were lined up with everything from turkey legs and pulled pork to roasted peaches, root beer, and fresh squeezed lemonade. We had quite a feast. My daughter even ate a footlong corndog!
My favorite part was watching as my friend's son tried his hand at Mutton Busting. It was his first time and he didn't make it very far but it was fun to watch him try. Seeing the little kids out there being brave and just going for it was inspiring.
I'm grateful for a wonderful night out with friends. I'm grateful to get swept up in the energy of the atmosphere and the childlike excitement of the fair. I'm grateful for the size and variety of activities offered at a larger fair like Gardner's. I'm grateful for the delicious home cooked food and treats. I'm grateful to have my eyes, and taste buds, opened to roasted peaches! I'm grateful to find inspiration in the kids and to celebrate the little victories.
What was your favorite thing about the fairs and carnivals as a child? When was the last time you allowed yourself to be swept up in the excitement and energy of one of these kind of events?
May today energize us and reconnect us to the playfulness of youth. May we choose something new to try and hang on for the ride. Have a beautiful day!