All's Fair

Larry and I visited our county fair today, first to work in a tent sponsored by my employer and then to enjoy all of the great sights, sounds and tastes that a county fair offers.  I love our Sauk County Fair.  It epitomizes the rural spirit, presented in a setting that's appropriate for all ages.  I like to look at the farm animals that are lovingly cared for by children and youth.  I like to tour the display buildings featuring floral arrangements, crafts and baked goods bearing blue and red ribbons.  I like to walk through the midway with its carnival games and thrilling rides.  I like to hear the concerts in the grandstand.  I like to eat something delicious from the 4-H stand.  At the county fair, I get to see friends from a lifetime of living in my hometown.  There's been a lot of talk lately with the passing of Andy Griffith about small-town values and the joys of rural living.  I felt very much today at our county fair as if I was happily living in my own Mayberry experience and, all of a sudden, I realized I was whistling that old "Andy Griffith Show" tune.