Last night we visited our local county fair. It’s a pretty big deal around here. Our first summer in the area, we were invited to the fair by a local “Big Wig”. Chuck had been working at Lowes, and met this generous man who treated our whole family to the fair. We were spoiled forever by that experience because the kids got to ride on as many rides as they wanted, as many times as they wanted! It was really special. As much as we enjoyed that experience, we didn’t know if we’d ever go back because we knew it would be pretty expensive, and really- what was all the hype about? 

We’re about to hit our 5 year anniversary of living in The Valley. As we were walking around the fairgrounds as a family of 5 now, plus our niece last night, I spent a good deal of time reflecting. For me, it wasn’t about the (cheesy) rides, or infamous fair food (cotton candy, snowcones, deep fried oreos, and funnel cake were our treats of choice!), or even the shows (the wolves and circus were my favorite attractions!)- but it was about the people. We probably weren’t even there ten minutes when we saw someone we knew. Our neighbor was there taking pictures for the local newspaper. Several people we know were standing at booths. Our friends kid’s had entered a craft contest, and we got to see them with their exhibits and ribbons. Lots of other friends were strolling around.  Running into people we knew just snowballed. I realized how many people we have gotten to know over the years, and it seemed many of them were there last night. 

I think I finally realized why the county fair is such a big deal.