…and that’s a wrap! You could say the week flew by during county fair! I used to believe fair week was longer, yet always five consecutive days.

People, projects, sights, sounds, and smells. Family.

People walking through the barns where families and friends have set up camp. Card games, laughter, music playing, and constant conversation. I love coming back to this county fair as a 4-H and FFA alum; not the same as taking projects. A lot changes and a lot stays the same.

There are projects in buildings and livestock in the barns. Countless hours put in before fair time, then more hours to put in for fair week. Members ready to visit the buildings to look at their projects and ribbons.

The first night is coronation and from my own experience it is a night that is hard to forget. Crown or no crown, the experience brings many memories to those who are part of this pageant. They prepare, interview, deal with etiquette, answer a fishbowl question on stage, and help at fair judging or shows prior to this night. Seeing the former Fair Queen crown the next and the expressions of everyone. Applause takes over the pavilion. Emotions take over with hugs, smiles, and waves.

Sweet moments at the Bottle Bucket Calf Show where a daughter leads a calf and grabs her dad’s hand, both leading it out of the show ring. Knowing the moments this calf taught this child in caring for animals and how involved the parents were.

6:30 a.m. members were up and washing animals with the family. Farmers headed to grab breakfast and coffee. An oddly cool morning filled with cattle mooing, running water, and conversation.

Shows over the course of fair have true sportsmanship qualities because win or lose everyone is willing to help each other out. Need a hand, someone is there to help out. Maybe you were not Grand Champion in the class, but the person who was gives a hug or shakes a hand. Often you are likely to hear about doing a good job and given a bit of confidence, as there are more chances to be had.