State Fair

Remember the movie State Fair starring Dana Andrews and Jeanne Crain?  It's a fun nostalgic film. I love the State Fair - the Oregon State Fair.

I don't really know when our tradition actually began, but, it became something our family would look forward to each year.

Animal judging - cattle, sheep, horses, pigs....Ron could sit for hours observing the judging process to see how close he can pick the winner.  He usually comes close if not right on.



The Artisan fair - with glass blowing, water colors, beaded work and blues singers.

Peruvian musicians bring their haunting pan pipes and guitars; colorful gardens and cool shade; the smell of cotton candy and the taste of the Oregon Dairy Women's ice cream.  A day isn't complete until we've had a bag of kettle corn.

The air-conditioned exhibits hosting the Oregon authors is my favorite.  I will connect with one or two and listen with interest their joy of discovery in writing their stories.  Hand made quilts decorate the walls - some with blue ribbons and awards; cake decorating, amazing wood carvers - and even Legos designs.


As the kids got older, we'd break up in pairs, or so.  We've mastered how to have a good time without becoming a crowd ourselves!  Everyone developed their own interests of the fair.  Interestingly, none of us really care for the carnival end of things; the rides, games, etc. Although there is a sky lift that takes you all across the fair grounds - one end to the other - giving a sky view - and saving tired feet.

Our family tradition has pretty much run its course.  The kids, bless their hearts, humor us and try to come to the fair - this year being Ron's birthday.  Now that they have their own families and special "others", it's not as much a "don't wanna miss" thing with them as it is just being together.  We love that the State Fair holds special memories for them, though.  Maybe in future we'll bring the grandkids - but, in the meantime, Ron and I'll enjoy returning as long as there is a State Fair.


One Thousand Gifts...Keeps Growing

118….. A son’s hug

            177….. Not knowing what my future holds, but Who holds my future

         182….. Life stories, sharing, revealing