It’s Sunday and I got an early start. I learned that there is a church service at the fair! A new experience for me. I think back in the 70’s when I worked at Gloria Dei, the crew attended some type of church service out here, but it’s a vague, distant memory. It was pretty quiet at Gate 5 at 8:00am.

Looking down at the sidewalk I spied an Alphabet Forest letter “L” for Lost!

I needed breakfast so I stopped for pie. You probably know what that looks like by now, so no photos.

I had a tight schedule to pick up my DNR backpack at 9:00 and make it to church by 9:15. I walked down towards the bench and passed by this particular booth (that I usually avoid). I hatched a plan for that red bench, later in the day.

The light was just right and there were no people so I could get a great shot of the bench and it’s perfect location.

I wanted to be first in line to get my “Legacy” backpack from the DNR booth. I’d only heard about them. You need to be here early! I had a little time to kill and as I wandered I ran into a church family! They were out early having assorted State Fair “breakfast” items. I had pie, I’m in no place to judge.

We were chatting so long, I realized if I didn’t get moving I’d be late for fair church! Ken commented, “that’s nothing new, just sit in the back!”

I quickly ran to DNR and got the pack, then headed back up to the bandshell for Prayer at the Fair!

It wasn’t too crowded and nobody noticed I was a little late so I didn’t have to sit in back. But as a good Lutheran, I certainly did not sit in front either!

A discovered a couple other members of my church and some old friends from SAP worshipping with me too!

I needed my recipe card and this presenter laughed when I asked where the samples were! She didn’t know she was supposed to bring them. I told her they were ~not~ required, I was just hopeful!

I wanted to find my cousin Kory’s photography exhibit in the 4H building so I walked up the hill to check it out. The category was photoshop manipulation. It was a really cool image! It won a Blue Award!

I only stopped into 4-H once before so I could see the Arts In show, so today I took in the whole building. The space was dark, and it was hard to get good pictures. I was headed to the Eco Experience one more time to get a third silverware set to outfit the family. I ducked out the north doors and found a bunch of outdoor displays. I’ve never looked back here!

As I walked around outside, then headed into Eco. I got in line and picked up some Muesli for second breakfast.

Then sidled up to the Water Bar and asked for a couple shots!

I remembered to check in at the recycling & household hazardous waste booth to see if they had the charcoal bags for disposing unused medication. (There was quite a bit at the house). It turns out they just have samples to look at, but I now know where I can order them. They’re quite expensive, no wonder they aren’t giving them away!

My BINGO coverall was almost complete, just a couple stops ~outside~ when I heard the rain hit the corrugated roof. As I headed to the door, I felt like a fish swimming upstream. Hordes of people were streaming inside.

Seriously, every other day I had packed some sort of rain gear, most likely warding off the rain. Today I had nothing as the skies opened up. Jinxed it!

Just as I was contemplating my next move, I got a text from my day one friend, Andrea, saying she was close to the building, hiding under a tree. She & her friend also had no rain gear (double jinx)! They stopped at the nearby radio station and picked up some free ones. I knew I should have bought the Northern Tool ponchos earlier, because after today, they’d be sold out.

We donned our “Love” gear and splashed our way over to the Alphabet Forest. Most of the stations were covered in blue tarps, protecting all the paper & books from the rain, but the photo booth was still operational, so we were able to capture the rainy spirit of the day!

We wanted to go see the 11:00am rescue dog stunt show, but it was canceled due to the rain. Instead we walked up to the far north end to the Brim and tried the new Sota Sandwich. It was delicious, but also a stick to the roof of your mouth kind of sandwich.

I might not have finished the Eco coverall for silverware, but I stopped quickly into the BWCA booth and I signed up and got the all in one “spork”.

The rain always seems to wash away the dirt & grime and despite the dark clouds overhead, the fairgrounds feels brighter, lighter and little cleaner!

Riding a trolley in 2019 was on my Fair checklist, so we waited in front of the Hangar for the next car. I assumed it might be full in this weather, but we had our choice of seats.

Every day I walk the fair, I keep a lookout for the memorial benches belonging to family & friends. With the crowds this year, you had to find them early, because they were generally occupied most of the day. This was one elusive bench, which was sitting in front of the a Hangar, where I’d been numerous times. Due to the cleansing midday rain, I was able to capture this picture for my friend Joan. It’s in memory of her Fair loving mom and this picture was her only chance to see it last year.

We rode the trolley to its southernmost stop near the Butterfly House and then we walked towards the Blue Moon. On our way we passed through carousel park and we stopped to take the “after” picture with two less pairs of feet. (Inset day one “before” grass)

Andrea wanted to try the Turkish Pizza that I couldn’t stop raving about. She agreed that it was one of the best new foods! We sat inside the Blue Moon Drive in theater and watched part of an old “Facts of Life” episode. What are Blair and Jo fighting over now?

The rain had stopped, but the crowds had thinned just a little. I asked Andrea if she would help me with the bench plan I’d hatched walking down Carnes Ave. on my way in this morning. She was game! The message on the bench is just so incongruous with the booth behind it, I wanted to turn it to face the street so anyone walking by would maybe get a different message!

Mission accomplished!

We stopped by the produce exchange and I suggested we try some of the Blueberry Mint kombucha, I tried it with the cousins yesterday and it was really good.

Lo and behold, the U of MN Apple department must have lifted it’s restrictions! But now they were out of the New Zealand Lemonade apples.

I wanted to walk through Fan Central, just in case that darn loon mascot was there. I think I’ve spent more time in here this year than I have cumulatively since it’s inception.

There was no loon, but we did get to have our photo taken with the FIFA World Cup Trophy won by the US Women!

Andrea was ready to head home so I walked her towards Gate 5. We arrived just in time to see the U of MN marching band pass by. Ski-U-Mah!

Watching the parade, I heard my name and turned to find Kathleen’s sister & niece! at O’Garas of course! This seems to be where we all are congregating this Fair season.

I wanted to see my volunteer friend Tom, so I headed back to the Forest. I got up there quickly, by walking alongside the parade units on the street, pretending I belong there. It’s the only way to navigate during the parade, the sidewalks are packed with people. Tom was there!

Tom, along with the fabulous creator and founder Debra Frasier. We joined together in a rousing chorus of 🎶 “ABCDEFG…” 🎶

I got word from a former favorite family that they were up on this end too. I found this adorable rainbow tiger near the Giant Wheel biffy!

Her little rainbow sunshine sister was a bit more shy, but I eventually got a warm greeting!

I miss seeing this whole family on a regular basis!

It was about time for me to head over to wait in line for the talent show final! I walked down Underwood following the Sky Glider and cut through down to the Grandstand. I stopped on the off chance I might get to see my buddy Dan at Juanita’s. He’d emerged from his “office” but just for a minute. The crowds this year and trying to keep up with his new Cubano sandwich made for an exhausting season! He’s still smiling!

The usual gang gathered on the second level of the Grandstand and we didn’t have too much trouble securing a bank of seats in the center front rows of the upper deck. Our preferred Talent Show seating. Once seats were draped with ponchos, bags and sweatshirts to save them, the food running began. I went to fetch bull bites and bang bang chicken, others fetched Worlds Greatest French Fries and later there were cookies. There are always cookies!

Our seats are in a perfect spot to catch all the people we know walking past! Cousins!

We save extra seats anticipating people will come and join us. Tonight the Hannigan girls joined us just as the show got started!

As in almost every other year, we were not in agreement with the judges final decisions. Having missed 90% of the semi final nights at the Bandshell, I didn’t have a clear cut winning pick. But at the end, the people I (and most of our group) liked, were not finalists.

It’s still a great way to spend a beautiful evening at the fair! Watching some top notch local talent with family & friends, while the Giant Wheel lights up the night in the distance.

Got home around 11:30 and checked my Fitbit. There was a lot of waking north to south and east to west and back again today!

Only one more day. I need to sleep fast. There was no time for blogging.

Today, began around 9:30 am, meeting cousins, parking at the house. Another Saturday at the fair. In the past, I usually avoided the weekends, due to the massive crowds. With the exception of my afternoon volunteer shifts and the talent show with mom, I stayed home. Tonight is the County Talent Show finals, so I know I’ll be up late. I’m not sure what possessed me to go early, other than the lure of family, many that I haven’t seen for a while and it was going to be another glorious weather day! It saddens me a little to think these are the last parking pictures at the homestead.

We met up at the Education Building, some people wanted a St. Thomas bag. We checked the Pronto/Corn dog tally. The machine was up and running again.

Still a close race.

I took the opportunity to look over all the incredible art, created by school kids across the state.

I love the Alphabet collage!

Creations by little kids under age eight!

Some older kids work

We walked up the street to find a traveling interactive berry truck! We waited in quite a line, but the rewards were worth it!

We took advantage of the traveling photo op

I took a few texts, but we connected with lots more cousins! I was excited to spend the day with family and share all the fun, free stuff I’ve discovered for kids. And they were excited to learn some of my State Fair secrets and have a skilled tour guide to help make the most of the day!

I suggested we head to check out the Angry Birds exhibit, before the lines got too long. We all had so much fun!

Not more than 15-20 minute waits and the kids got to try all the really fun stuff!

There was a movie room, coloring & animation zone, lots of interactive activities with fulcrums, balancing, cogs and construction zones!

The kids were ready to go explore other fun places! We stopped at Math on a Stick and the whole cousin clan helped me get my date stamp photo!

As the kids were all making the family name noodle, I turned around and there was Donna Erickson, the star of Donna’s Day. A wonderful show on PBS back when Gray was a little baby!

It was almost parade time, so the family went to secure a bench and I went to fulfill my plan to “top the tater!” First I got a bucket of fries to share and I put some of the fries into my saved Tipsy pie tins from earlier. Second, I went to the traveling “Top the Tater” booth to have the guy make good on the promise to cover any food with the stuff!

We added cheese curds to the mix and the other guys got sample cups of the “Zesty Buffalo” flavor!

The parade came by and I got a drive by selfie with Crunch the Wolves mascot, realizing it might be my last chance!

The Native American dancers had the most beautiful costumes.

After the parade, the gang was ready to go see the DNR. Today was gearing up to be another record breaker. We were at the beginning of the parade route, and it would still be making its way around. I knew better than to take the family in that direction. I had them follow closely as we cut through Ag/Hort, crossed the street through a parade vehicle gap, and went down behind the Territorial Pioneer log cabin. No crowds, no delays!

The kids (and adults) had lots of fun checking out the wildlife and interactive displays that I had scoped out earlier in the week.

I think that this snake was concerned he might be someone’s lunch!

We were just across the street from the bench, so we stopped there to remember!

We walked down to the animal barns, but really just went there for the food and beverages! Some wanted to try the Dilly Dog, and it was time to get All You Can Drink Milk to go with the cookies that were saved from earlier in the morning!

Corn on the cob was the final stop and the kids were getting tired! Pull up a curb and some dead grass for a rest today. No benches available at all. It was so crowded!

Harper is showing an indomitable State Fair spirit, the boys might be wearing out! A girl after my own heart!

Harper really wanted to go through the butterfly house, so I took the boys over to the Rainbow Play system area, and they had a great time climbing and sliding while we waited.

I needed to get to the Baldwin Park Stage early, to get seats for the County Talent Show Finals. The group followed and we were so early there were seats available to sit and watch the Sean Emery Show. He’s been performing out here for 28 years! He’s a magician and comedian (?!?), and did make me laugh out loud when he referred to our State Fair as a “special gated community”.

We watch the whole talent show and I summed up the acts as being a whole bunch of melancholy dancers. I don’t remember who won, but I also did not spend very many evenings up here watching the preliminary rounds. As always, my talent show companions were here too. The seats were strangely empty before the show. In past years, we struggled to save seats!

After the show I don’t remember who all went, but we took a walk through the Midway. There is usually a featured ride at the entrance and this year it wasn’t so photogenic. The giant swing has held that gateway place in the past. This year it was sort of in the middle.

The New York New York is beautiful at night too!

We closed out the day with most of the starting lineup! We waited near the grandstand so these guys could witness the infamous corn dance!

It was a fun, family filled day. Every day is made special, not only by the things I do and see, but more so by the people I spend the day with!

Only two days left to pack in all I could.

Thursday was just one more in a series of amazing days. There was a strange shelf cloud in the sky as I drove over to park at Mom’s. It didn’t amount to anything, thankfully.

My friend Helen, working every day, down in the Coliseum, usually has to clock in too early to stop for Pie. I needed my pie, so I grabbed an extra and delivered one to her! I think she was pleased!

I decided to see if any calves were on the way into the world. I didn’t have plans until 11:00am, but still had so much to see & do. Without my faithful Dad to run food & supplies, I didn’t have the resources or time to sit around in the Miracle of Birth barn and wait for a calf all day. BTDT.

I’d seen almost all the animals, cows, horses, sheep, goats, bunnies, llama, ducks, geese, turkeys, alpaca and fish.

The bunnies had moved out of the poultry barn, and the chickens have moved in. There were a few interesting and elegant fowl, but I cruised through quickly.

I popped next door to see if there were any curly sheep. The only curly one left was a little miniature Babydoll, all the rest were shorn, or getting there!

I think this concluded my animal barn to do list, so I walked back out into the warm sunshine!

I wasn’t sure exactly where I was heading. I noticed the Hot Dish on a stick stand. I’m not sure that’s a place from which I’ll ever eat. It was eye catching, matching the clear blue sky.

It was already 10:00 am, but as I walked by the entrance to the Midway, I noticed it was deserted. I don’t spend much time down here, so maybe it doesn’t get busy until later in the day. I decided to take a stroll through and capture the bright colors and prizes du jour. There seems to a plethora of stuffed sloths this year!

There were no lines for rides, many were at a standstill. This New York Skyline Funhouse is a new addition this year. It’s been the focus of many photographers. My photo was ok.

But I loved this one, reflected in the rain, shared on the #msfphoto page.

I walked by the Midway Luxury Port-A-Potty, wondering, but not actively researching, if it had suffered the same decline as the O’Gara’s hideaway. It looked stable, and no long lines.

Exiting the Midway, I wandered across the Adventure Park and I thought there was a live TV broadcast taking place at KSTP. I turns out all the people in the bleachers were just playing BINGO.

I grabbed a card and joined the game! I noticed some of my bleacher neighbors increased their chances with multiple cards. I was close a few times, but never won.

I was ambling around and wound my way back past the DNR and came upon a display of custom dog houses & kid’s playhouse. Maybe Mildred needs her own she-shed!

I popped inside the Dairy Building and my bosses kid Rachel was working! I’m not sure she wanted to pose for a picture, but I captured her hard at work anyway!

As I walked over to see butterhead progress, I spied the actual Princess Kay of the Milky Way in the back corner. I went into mascot stalking mode, and followed her out the back door.

She was kind enough to pose for a selfie to add to my mascot collection.

I decided to wander back over to Fan Central to see if I could get a picture with the MNUFC Soccer Loon. On my way, I stopped into the Costco tent. They were offering a really nice cooler, free to new members. My membership expires in August, so I asked if I waited until Sunday, Sept 1st, to renew , would I be eligible? Nope. I don’t know why I took a picture of the basket full of ping pong balls. My eyes were being drawn to bright colors today.

There is a big Xfinity wheel inside fan central, but the line has been long every time I’ve stopped in. Today I had nothing but time, so I waited. I really wanted to win the stainless water bottle. But as I got close, the water bottles ran out and the option was removed from the wheel. I spun and lost, but decided to ask the guys out in the registration tent if I could have a water bottle as a consolation prize for paying them $200 every month? Nope. I wasn’t having much luck in the merchandise giveaways today.

I had a plan to coordinate a little fun with the mascots and Crop Art, so I’d made a date to meet Gayle at the Visitors Plaza to have a conversation with mascot security. Gayle and her entourage beat me there.

We explained our crazy idea to mascot security, and I might have dropped a few State Fair VIP names, but we were taken seriously and assured that every effort would be made to execute the proposed plan, barring any unforeseen mascot emergency appearances. The plan was afoot, with players coordinating and converging at the desired location at 5:15pm. Time would tell if we’d be successful or not.

The kid needed a ride home from work and wanted to return to the fair with me when I got word that all the Kelsey kids would be converging at the bench later this afternoon. I left the grounds for a bit and did a little parking fancy footwork, moving cars to the street so there would be room for us all. Yard parking is at a premium this year. I think the restructuring of some of the park & rides are causing some of the challenges, but the neighbors are benefiting from supply & demand economics.

I fetched the youth and once we had some lunch and were ready to head back over, we noticed a couple waiting for the Lexington bus. They had all the telltale signs that they were headed to the fair, backpack, fanny packs and floppy safari hats! Thinking about WWCJD (What Would Carol Jo Do) we pulled over and tried to not come across as creepy, then offered them a ride. They gladly accepted, we must not have appeared too threatening. It is such a small world. As the general conversation turned to questions about college, it turns out the couple once lived in Northfield and knew some faculty at St. Olaf. Mom would have loved this story.

We dropped the strangers that we picked up, near the Snelling Gate and wished them a fun time! We parked at Mom’s and hiked back to the gate ourselves.

The youth wanted a malty beverage so we found the Craft Beer Bar in Ag/Hort. I’d never seen hops growing in the wild before… only in beer form.

The kid was in a “hoppy” mood, so it didn’t take much cajoling to get him to stick his head into holes! We were in the perfect place to capitalize on the situation!

We ran into Rhonda and her daughter taking a break from volunteering and checking out the flowers too!

If I remember correctly, Sara at Tipsy Pies had put out a broadcast for help wanted at the booth. I had too many activities and people connections on my schedule today, I couldn’t help. I decided to stop by and see if things were OK… and Sara gave me this pie. This was the cutest, happiest little pie I’d ever seen! It was delicious too!

My old childhood friend Kris was braving the fair today with her son Michael and niece Sophia. Our parents had been friends for years through Gloria Dei. They met up with us at Mom & Dad’s bench. Michael’s physical challenges make navigating the Fair, that much more challenging, but you could tell by his vocalizations, vigorous handshakes and smiles that he was really happy to be here!

His wheelchair was a special custom project through Team Triumph, that made it possible for him to participate in the Twin Cities Marathon! What was extra special is that Mom & Dad helped make it possible and had signed his wheels.

I know they were with us today, angels bringing so many people together.

As we were taking the bench photo, another childhood friend Heidi and her daughter Caitlin happened by!

Then without texts or coordinated efforts, Mark & Kim, Alec, Morgan, Michael and Kathleen arrived! I’m telling you… angels.

It’s the first time we have all been at the bench together since the day we surprised Mom & Dad seven years ago!

There was much picture taking (we are Kelsey’s after all) and catching up with one another.

Mark set up human barriers so he could arrange this beautiful image.

Now, in this time of Corona, I am grateful for every moment we spent together, since we last met.

The time was drawing nigh for the scheme Gayle & I hatched, involving the mascots. I had to get to Ag/Hort by 5:15. Kim & Kathleen wanted in on the secret, so they followed me and the rest of family headed off in another direction.

The three of us met up with Gayle at the back entrance to the crop art. This year, crop art became a “must-see” activity and long lines formed every day. The plan we made earlier today with mascot security was to get a picture of her blue ribbon winning piece, along with the mascots! Fairchild & Fairborne were running late, and we were a little concerned that something came up, preventing them from coming. I did try to get some tv news coverage earlier in the day, but the stations I tried were either on air or broadcasting remotely.

Just as we were giving up hope, there was a commotion in the crowds lined up to see the crop art. They arrived! They were really surprised to see the rendition of themselves in seeds!

The crowds parted somewhat and let us get some pictures!

Our excitement was high and adrenaline was rushing. We pulled it off! I texted the rest of the family to find them again and they sent me a picture of what they had been up to.

Apparently, the reason the mascots were running late was due to spending too much time with my nephew Alec outside Cafe Caribe!

Now that we did the mascot thing, it was time to relax and have fun with family! First up, frosty beverages!

Then we all walked through the DNR wildlife cave passageway to find the family bricks. Not everyone remembered they were there… or where they were.

Yee-Haw! It was time to eat. Some needed hot dogs, others cheese curds, Gyros and corn! Luckily I knew where to find it all in close proximity!

I took the family up the back walkway under the Giant Slide. Then crossed over to the Ball Park, where we ran into great, longtime friends!

I wanted the whole family in my date stamp picture for today, so they all stuck with me and we made it as a cohesive unit from one end of the Fair to the other!

Once up on this end, we realized we were in time to see the lumberjack show. I needed to make a pit stop for water & bathroom break so we ran inside the Eco Experience. The water fountain is a chilled bottle filler and there’s usually not a long bathroom line.

On the way through we ran into Jonathan from church extolling the Eco friendly virtues of the Tesla! He speaks from experience as an owner!

While chatting, a family whose children I used to care for, stopped to say hi too!

We got back to our bleacher seats just as the show was beginning. we had to cheer loudly for our sections’ Lumberjack & Lumberjill team. I can’t remember if we won or lost, but it was a great show!

There were heats of sawing, axe throwing, pole climbing and wood carving. At the end of the show, they were selling carved bears and Gray really wanted one. I told him he had to carry the log for the rest of the night!

Alec got autographs on a log and posed with the winning team!

Walking down Cooper St., we all stopped to watch the Giant Wheel light progressions. It’s a show all to itself.

Green Mill was on the left and with this large group, sharing food is a great way to try some of the new stuff! This year the new food “loaded garlic cheese bread” had rave reviews. Not so much sharing went on! It tasted better than it looked at twilight!

The latter part of the evening consisted pretty much of walk and eat and walk and eat. I took the opportunity to try the Brisket Grilled cheese from RC BBQ, while I had people to share it with. It was good, but a little burnt and too much for me, so Matt ate most of it!

The Channel 9 news was just about to go live, but Alec wasn’t going to pass up an opportunity to chat with his pal Ian Leonard! These guys have all been friends for a long time through Special Olympics.

Since we were there, and it was there… a small group decided to take a ride down the Giant Slide.

All together, we headed back up Dan Patch to make our way home. We could hear the Queen tribute band at the bandshell and we listened for a bit, but we didn’t stay long.

It was a bittersweet parting, in the backyard on Simpson St. It was the first time we’d all been together at the house since Mom’s funeral. We’d be back here together soon once the fair ended. We had lots of work to do.

The morning broke with a clear blue sky and not a cloud in sight.

I had planned to share my State Fair day with Sara at Tipsy Pies. She was excited to see the fair through my eyes. Unfortunately for me and not quite as unfortunate for her, the pie business was booming from the record crowds and she and her crew were working overtime making more pies to keep people like me well supplied!

My day was now unscripted, so I was ready to go with the flow.

I stopped into the Creative Activities to get my recipe card. Today was beer bread. The award winning baker was there and brought the bread to taste! I’m glad I was there early as she just had one loaf to share. She even brought butter!

I had friends volunteering in the U of MN booth today, representing CLA. They had a fun photo booth set up. I never did log in later to find the pictures we took. But I have the process shots.

I asked Sarah K. if she had a fanny pack that I could use for the blog as photo evidence only, not to keep. I was granted permission to take a photo and promptly return it to the box behind the curtain

Rebecca was willing to tag along and keep me company for a bit. I had to get breakfast, so I treated her to her first blueberry tipsy pie! Sara was sad she had to work, but grateful for the successful state fair run.

I had heard reports of a couple different apples being featured at the fair this year. The U of MN was selling the new “First Kiss” that we tried on Day One. Thrn there were reports of the “Lemonade Apple” on the news. I thought they were the same thing. Then I heard The Lemonade Apple was available at the Produce Exchange. Apparently people were critical of the booth for selling an apple from New Zealand. When I stopped to get my fruit supply for the day, I inquired about the controversy. The owner informed me that he tried to order the “First Kiss” apple, but the U of MN would not let anyone else sell it but their booth in Ag/Hort, which is fine, but he needed something that stood out to remain competitive. Hence the New Zealand Lemonade. I will admit, the apple was delicious and lived up to its name! The First KISS was good, but this really did taste like lemonade. I wonder what kind of pie they would make?!?

I had yet to go for a ride in the Sky Glider, so Rebecca and I made our way across the grounds towards the Grandstand. I ran into John & Margaret who followed us in Glider.

I feel like shoe, flag, Wheel and roof pictures are obligatory on this ride. It might just be force of habit. Rebecca obliged.

Once on the ground on the north end, we started back tracking to the Eco Experience. On the way we passed by the noisy tractors. I’m quite sure this “electrified” plastic fence is an ineffective deterrent.

The sunflowers at the Little Hands Farm are stunning, towering overhead and reaching for the sun.

Rebecca & I got BINGO cards and completed the coverall! They had restocked the silverware, so I got another one for the camping box. I also convinced her to join me in the photo op sewer drain. She refused to pose with the dog poo though!

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency was giving away a kayak to one winner who would be willing to sign up and be a lake pollution monitor. I signed up for Como Lake, but I was never contacted. I’m guessing there were lots of volunteers for Como!

Just outside the Eco Building is a new traveling exhibit. It’s for RALLY Health, a new health goal incentive based app to increase preventive measures for wellness. The interactive exhibit looked like fun and there was no line. It was a mini golf course with games along the way and once you filled your stamp card, you got to play Plinko and win a fabulous prize! Rebecca is sporting her fancy orange sunglasses! I got a water bottle.

Rebecca wanted to see some of the Fine Art. I’m sure I didn’t see it all my first time through. Sure enough, I’m not sure how I missed the black rubber ?sculpture?, and the gilded toilet brush. Black & White, Yin & Yan?

I saw the car collage picture the first time through. The rainbow colors appealed to my senses. I did see on second glance, the little green frog car.

Rebecca joined me for the date stamp photo today. If you’re hanging with me and we’re near the Forest, be prepared to join me!

Rebecca has to get back to the U of MN booth to help out, so we made our way back, stopping to check the hot dog count in the Education Building

And I ran into Weef, who I haven’t seen in years, for the second time in a week! It is the Great Get-Together!

As we returned Rebecca to her post, Goldy Gopher was scheduled to make an appearance soon.

I found a seat and waited for the opportunity to get a picture with him.

When I posted the picture of my selfie with Smokey Bear, a friend suggested I get a picture with all the mascots I can. I took it as a challenge.

My first task was to figure out how many mascots there actually are! I had help from people sending me tips! Some of the mascot selfies took subterfuge and stalking. This one with Goldy checked one more off the list!

My goal for the day was to find TC Bear, Luna from PBC, the Minnesota United FC Loon, Nordy of The Wild, and any others I encounter. Turns out there is a Emerald Ash Borer. (I got a picture last year!) and Elmer the Elm Tree. I’m guessing the list is endless, but the gauntlet was thrown.

I got a message from my cousins visiting from New York. They wanted a guide to Grammie’s bench. Knowing it was right around the corner, I decided to just rest in the sun on my bench and let them come to me.

We connected and walked around the corner and captured a couple traditional photos.

I had a plan to hunt down as many mascots as I could in one spot. The parade queue outside the fairgrounds across Como. I got my hand stamped and headed across the street to the back corners of the parking lot.

I stalked the mascot vans and stayed close to their parade vehicles and was successful capturing TC Bear.

And Nordy hopped out of his refrigerated van a couple seconds before parade time, but he stopped for a few seconds so I could snap a pic.

I waited for the PBS car, but they told me Luna was waiting on the grounds by the haunted house. I trucked it back over just in time to pose with her before the the escort car arrived.

I was hot, sunburned and a little hungry so I went into the Bazaar and I’m not sure what possessed me, but I ordered the sweet and sour chicken with fried rice from Panda Palace. Years ago I worked in the Bazaar (Mexican Village then) and I ate it every day. It’s not quite as good as I recollected. I ate some, but tossed most of it.

I posted my mascot progress to Facebook. I’d compile a list of mascots remaining tomorrow.

I had mascots on the brain and went over to fan central where I hoped to find more in one place. I encountered the Roller Derby mascot, Minnie.

I went to look for MNUFC Loon, but he wasn’t scheduled to make an appearance until later.

I wasn’t sure if I’d ever see Crunch of the Timberwolves. His scheduled fair appearances were completed.

I walked over to the DFL to check on the “Bean Poll” and the tally for Warren was increasing!

I decided it was a good day to try the Hamline Dining Hall exclusive ice cream flavor, Dessa’s Night Drive. The ingredient list seemed like it might be too much going on, but the flavor combinations were delicious! There are very few foods I eat repeatedly…. like Blueberry pie and foot long hot dogs, but I might have to eat this again!

I wanted to check out another new food, the brisket grilled cheese at the former Famous Dave’s booth “RC BBQ”. I just looked, but decided it was too much for me to eat alone. As I exited the booth, I bumped into a friend from church, Ruth & friend.

I got word that Martha was on the grounds and we planned to meet at the Bazaar Globe. She arrived wearing my favorite t-shirt. 💜

My only plan was to go see some of the Llama Contest. I learned last year that you can catch many of them as they head out of the staging area. The lighting inside the arena is hard to take pictures. On our way to the barns, I ran into another friend from church, Ken!

Martha hasn’t seen any animals yet, so we quickly walked through the cattle & swine barns. I found my Brown Swiss!

It was pretty early for the Llamas, but we found some in the stalls getting ready.

I ran into a friend Jean from work coming to see the Llamas too!

Martha’s sister Liz has just arrived and she was in search of dinner. Instead of waiting for Llamas, we met Liz at the Blue Moon Cafe to try the new Turkish Pizza. I wish I had tried this sooner. It’s my new favorite this year. It’s fresh, healthy, delicious and best shared with others.

The three of us lingered on the patio and enjoyed dinner conversation on a beautiful evening.

These two had stuff to see and do, and were headed to Creative Activities. I tagged along, but took a detour when I heard from my from my old Girl Scout friend Jeannie that she was near the education building. I popped in to say Hi and grab a photo op.

I was sunburnt and tired, so I decided to skip the Queen tribute band at the bandshell and head home. I’d have another chance to see them tomorrow.

I checked my Fitbit step tally and it made sense why I was a bit worn out.

There are still five days to go. I need to rest up for the home stretch.

There is only one Tuesday of the Fair. It’s one my twelve favorite days. It was cloudy and cool, but no rain in the forecast.

The lines for tickets were quite long already at 9:00am. It looked like the start of a record breaker. I checked the attendance stats frequently and so far the first two days broke records, and the weekend had high numbers, but no records. I’m sure the attendance on Monday would be low due to weather.

There were over two million people last year, I’m guessing we’ll top that this year if the weather cooperates.

I wanted to check out the straw-bale gardens in daylight. on my way to get breakfast, I made a few stops. The garden designer Joel Karsten was right there! I learned what I could and documented information to follow up on later.

Every day there is a different school of medicine represented at the front table in the U of MN building. Today it was the school of Orthopedic & Sports Medicine. If there is a wheel, I spin. I answered correctly and got a gel ice pack.

My path to pie also took me through the Ball Park beer garden and these two goofballs were just gearing up for another busy day!

I picked up my pie and that was the end of my scheduled events for the morning.

I walked down Carnes Ave and came upon the listening ear from last year. I didn’t have any burning questions, it’s rude to talk with your mouth full of pie and I wasn’t sure the ear needed an earful from me, so I just kept walking.

Tuesday is usually a good day to check out the Grandstand. I walked up the ramp and turned around to take a picture of the vast, mostly empty space and the cow car was gliding overhead. Good sign.

Adam Turman is a local hero. His art embodies all things Minnesota; Prince, the Fair, Hotdish, and Paul Bunyan. His booth is at the top of the ramp and is a must see destination. His merchandise includes puzzles, dish towels, pint glasses, socks and cards. His art prints, framed or unframed, are also for sale. This UN-Fair year (2020) you can buy his stuff at the online here: https://adamturman.com/

You can take you picture with your favorite fair treat.

There’s a great sock spot! One fuzzy picture in the group, but it’s relevant and I couldn’t leave it out.

The Veranda, new last year, just outside of the Speakeasy food vendor, has “blossomed” nicely! And the view is lovely.

StevenBe designs has beautiful yarns, adorable children’s books and some fun kitchen kitsch.

I found the vendor where I get golf shirts for Randy every year. There are fantastic deals on jackets and shirts here. I was excited that I was able to fit into some of the super reduced jackets and got a new water/windbreaker for $15! The shirts for Randy are 3/$20!

I got a text to connect with some family, so after completing half the upper grandstand circuit, I ran down the steps to meet up with Alexia, Nate & Ash!

They were looking for kid sunglasses and I had a pair in my bag from a giveaway somewhere! Ashton wasn’t so sure, but the color was right!

As we stood and chatted, there was a military flyover. It was Military Appreciation Day after all. Got my camera out just in time.

I stopped in at the Kare11 barn, got my free water bottle and filled it up with cold fresh water.

I was truly just wandering without plan or agenda. I investigated the tin hut on the corner across from the DNR. It’s a house made of corrugated tin. I didn’t go in, because I wasn’t sure of the organizational agenda. I wasn’t ready to sign up for an overseas mission trip. It appears to be a religious agency doing mission work globally. Hopefully all good things.

I walked up the hill to the MPR booth. I picked up a sustainer magnet, found a couple words in the giant word search wall and posed for a selfie. I asked a volunteer to take my picture by the sign. Of course I had to try and make order out of the random mess of magnets. I found an example of each phrase. Thank goodness there were two of each color.

I crossed the street to check out the Dairy Building. I’ve been told that Hope butter is the finest in our state. I had plans to get there before Christmas last year, but that didn’t happen. I watched the princess faces get carved into blocks of butter, and took a look at prize winning packaged meat.

The vendors in here don’t change much, Turkey Council, where you can stick your head in the turkey, Beef Council, spin to win a side of beef, the Lamb & Wool Producers, pick up a sample of the best lanolin lotion, Chicken & Egg Association, sit in the egg chair, and get your Fleet Farm bag, buy painting edger tools that I’ve never had success with at home, pick up some venison & buffalo dog treats from Great Dog Co. (they too, have an online marketplace this unfair year 2020), but most popular the Dairy Goodness Bar. My bosses kid is working here this year, but I didn’t see her in the crowd of kids wearing matching shirts and hats.

I grabbed a beef stick to snack on. I’ve been working hard at losing weight and getting healthy so I’m trying to balance out my pie a day habit with added protein, and a little salt is OK when I’m moving all day and trying to stay hydrated! I looked for Minnesota snacks, but Wisconsin was as close as I could get.

I happened upon one of the new food vendors right out in front of the Haunted House. Thelma’s Ice Cream sandwiches from Des Moines Iowa distribute to Lund’s & Byerly’s, but I’d never tried one. They’re unique in that the sandwich part is made from different kinds of cookies. When I read about the new foods, I imagined that I’d be able to choose my type of cookie (snickerdoodle or chocolate) and choose my ice cream flavor and have it scooped up and squished together while I waited. I was wrong. They have a variety of sandwiches that are purported to be “made fresh daily”, but when I asked about making them fresh, the kid replied, “they’re made fresh every day in Iowa”. Ummm, no thanks. I decided to save my calories for something different.

The clouds had dissipated and I decided to soak up some sun as I wandered through the International Bazaar. I love to see the Matryoshka dolls. This year the nesting set that almost made me reach for my wallet were these adorable owls. Dad was here.

I’ve told people that my weight loss program is basically cognitive behavioral therapy for my mouth. One of the analogies used to manage eating habits is that of the elephant and rider. The elephant is the impulsive part, the rider takes control. Finding balance with both parties is the key to success. As I wandered around the Bazaar, elephants caught my eye at every turn. I’ve been looking for a sort of talisman with an elephant. I’ll know it when I see it. So far I’m just capturing the images.

I try to find special, unique Christmas ornaments every year. An angel for me and a star for Gray (formerly Stella, now Jack). The stars are still a welcome gift. Global Mamas had lots of beautiful ones.

The bazaar hosts the Midtown Global Market and two selected vendors get to split time at the fair. Hot Indian, with their butter chicken samosas, are here for the first six days. I’d been meaning to get here sooner, but better late than never!

I was hoping to have someone to share them with, when I got a text message that my friend Kathy and her kid Eli were on the grounds looking for food too. They were in the bazaar getting Island Noodles, and they met me at The Market. There are three samosas per order and I meant to share them, but they were so delicious, I ate two. Kathy got one.

The sauce was the bomb. The sign said it was a creamy green chutney, but this was a hot pickled aioli. I started to imagine all the foods that I could dip in this sauce! I asked if I could buy some extra sauce and Chef Janene slid me a couple! She told me I can buy it in bulk at the shop. She uses it as a compliment to filet mignon. Now a year later, I remember the sauce. I hope to get over there one day soon.

Kathy and Eli had a volunteer shift at Math on a Stick, so we walked toward the north end together. We stopped to spin the giant AARP wheel and won some swag.

I took a picture of this years button. I can’t remember where I picked it up. It’s quite likely that Kathy got it for me!

We walked through the Home Improvement building, just to say I did. There was really nothing I needed to see, until Kathy & Eli pointed out the sauna. I do enjoy a sauna! I sat inside and imagined the water hitting the rocks. Sizzle.

Near the Alphabet Forest in Baldwin Park or on the street there are often rotating free sample vendors. Today there was a Lactose Free Milk vendor with a few different kinds of milk blends to try. It wasn’t terrible.

I asked Kathy & Eli to join me for the date stamp photo!

As we crossed the street to see the Fine Art, our Fair mascots were cruising down the street to get to the parade.

The Fine Art Building is a labyrinthine hall full of surprises around every corner. The display walls are numbered so I try to stay in sequence so I don’t miss anything. When it’s crowded I often go backwards. It seemed quite crowded for a Tuesday, I turned to my left and counted down. The first piece of art was from a local photographer, whose process in creating this animal collage image was featured in the news before the fair started. A huge mural of this hangs in foyer of the new North End Event Center. He corralled and photographed the animals in pairs and then compiled it into the collage.

I’d love to show you every piece of art, but I’ll just share some of my favorites. There are many photographs and paintings, but it was the textiles and multidimensional art that drew my focus.

These are created with folded paper. The Prince image is made from dyed sheet music.

I spent so much time trying to read and make sentences out of this needlework. I think it’s just layers of words.

I wanted to examine everything from a distance and then closer so I didn’t miss any of the details.

The artist in residence that day created images using embroidery floss. I went to her website and the piece she was working on during the Fair was completed recently and pictured center left.

So many textures, shapes and figures. Too little time to ponder why.

An abstract square colorful painting hung in our living room by an artist from St. Anthony Park in the 70’s. I can’t remember her name. Any time I see colorful quadrant art like this it reminds me of that painting. I’m also a huge Piet Mondrian fan, probably for the same reason.

This was hard to capture with the light reflecting. YouDogCat.

This one made you think!

I’d love to try and crochet that Afghan!

This piece was so powerful. Titled: Reparations

I felt like I’d seen it all and Kathy & Eli still had time before their shift started, so we went into the Eco Building. The prize for completing Eco BINGO is a set of reusable silverware. Helpful for picnics, camping… or eating at The Fair! We grabbed our game cards and began to play. There really wasn’t time to go for the coverall, so we strategically chose the stations we needed to complete a BINGO. The tasks are fun for all ages!

The Giant Paul Bunyan is still here, but he got a voice box upgrade!

There is a cool display on the stages of recycling and how products are broken down and reused.

And the resources that can be recycled in our electronics

Our last BINGO spot was outside the building, so we walked outside to the solar exhibit. While standing hear the enormous solar flower, the “solar” energy waned and serious clouds rolled in. We moved under the battery tent and the skies grew dark and it poured and hailed.

Once the hard rain subsided, we went back inside to claim our prize. I wanted the silverware, but there is also a neck gaiter.

We were a little wet and chilled and it was still raining a little, so we stood in a long line for a thimbleful of Peace coffee. We passed the time by sticking heads in holes.

It was nearing the time for Kathy & Eli to check in at Math on a Stick, but we had a question about where something was located (I cannot remember what) so we found the information booth and we chanced upon the “Guy in the Hat”. I wasn’t familiar with him, but Eli (a former State Fair Go-fer) knew him. Apparently he’s got a different hat for every day! This one seems appropriate for Military Appreciation Day.

Kathy & Eli went to work and I thought I would go back try for the coverall on my BINGO and get another prize, but they ran out, another indicator of a busy day at the fair.

I decided to go back to moms and drop off my heavy bags. I bought ornaments, a new Norwegian sweater (in a smaller size), shirts for Randy, jackets for me, and I’d collected lots of weighty giveaways. I was hoping to meet up with family and friends later. On my way out, there was my water guy! Now he’s official, with his own gear!

I never made it back home, but I got as far as Mom’s. My friend Gayle texted asking where I was. I told her I’d be back on the grounds in 15 minutes. I was excited to get some French Fries and eat them with the samosa aioli sauce! We found Kathleen and her Mom having a beer in the Garden. I was right, that that aioli would taste great with many foods!

Kathleen was taking her Mom back home, but we had plans to connect at the Lonestar concert at Leinie Bandshell later. Gayle was up for any adventure, and I had an idea in the works, that required finding the mascots at their scheduled stop at the Visitors Plaza. The plan was afoot and we took a few pictures while the opportunity presented itself.

We then decided to head up north on Underwood. A path I had not yet traversed.

We stopped at Northern Tool and there was a big wheel to spin. I looked around inside, but everything there for purchase with my coupons was heavy…. tools, batteries, etc. I decided to wait for another day.

Just up the road was PBS and I got a picture with Nature Cat.

We toured the building and took a picture with Bob Ross.

Across the road is the Little Hands Farm. I knew my childhood friend Rhonda and her daughter were volunteering today, so we stopped in to say Hi! It was perfect because they were right at the entrance, greeting visitors and helping don aprons. I just started playing with all the toys! Gayle was my photographer.

We had to stop into the Kemp’s Cow photo booth and get our photobombs. There was no one waiting so we took advantage of every backdrop.

Zigzagging one more block north, we decided to wait in line to play Home Depot Plinko. The line was long, but not as long as it has been. The only challenge to staying put were the game hosts with cow bells! They were having so much fun, it was hard to be irritated. We got a can coozie and apron, both lightweight prizes. I was grateful it wasn’t a 5gallon bucket or a hammer!

I had yet to see any dogs, so we went a block farther and walked the perimeter of the new (last year) outdoor dog pavilion. The representational dogs today were the greatest hits for me and my friends. ShiTzu’s, Great Dane’s and my personal favorite, the Swissie.

The new North End Event Center is hosting the traveling “Angry Birds Universe”. The lines have been long every time I’ve been close, but not tonight. Gayle & I went in to just do some research. It looks like a really fun science, tech and math experience for kids! I think it might be worth the wait for family fun!

We walked past the Giant Wheel and the sky was amazing.

We went to check on my friends at Math on a Stick, and again I found stuff to play with.

I’m not sure I would be a good volunteer here. I’d be constantly trying create order from the chaos and random patterns.

Walking back down towards the main drag, the 4H tower was gleaming in the sunlight. It is the home of so many memories and an played a huge role in nurturing my love of the State Fair. I left some of Mom & Dad at the foot of the tree on the right.

I was hungry but had eaten lots of junk today, so we went to the fruit stand and got a banana instead of donuts, for the win!

Looking down the street, it was like a Thursday or Friday crowd. since I’d spent much of the late afternoon up north I didn’t realize just how busy it was.

We walked through the Minnesota Territorial Pioneers, remembering the man who was there every day doing intricate paper cutting of various animals and objects. There is just a big empty space, with nothing even noting he was once there.

Kathleen and I planned to meet at the Leinie Lodge to see Lonestar perform at Bandshell Tonight. I didn’t really know who Lonestar was, but Kathleen’s sister used to date the Bass Guitarist. I’m always up for an adventure, so I snuck in at the tail end of the Talent Show and got us seats in the second row. It’s been a long time since I’ve sat this close to the stage. Mom was the expert at procuring these seats. She must have been with me today too.

As I sat waiting for Kathleen to join me, my friend Sally sat down for a bit and we shared tales of our state fair days. Her husband Tom is a veteran, so they participated in all the Military Appreciation activities.

Kathleen arrived just as the concert was starting. We were talking more than listening, since neither of us really thought we knew any Lonestar songs. There were crazy fanatical screaming fans that would race up in front of us for pictures, and I felt like we should maybe feign a little fandom to look like we belonged in the second row. The lucky thing about most country songs, is you can sing along because after after one chorus you know the words. We faked it until they performed a song we actually knew! They wrote “I’m Already There” after 9/11 and you had to live under a rock to not be familiar with it. Well both Kathleen & I resonated with the lyrics and were singing along and crying….remembering the people we had recently lost. After the song, the lead singer Ritchie looked right at us and commented that the song means so much to so many people and said “I know it means a lot to you” and have us the heart~hand salute. We at least didn’t feel like posers anymore. But didn’t really know any other songs!

After the concert, Kathleen wanted to try and say “hi” to Michael Britt, the bassist friend of her sister. We walked over to the side of the stage where the bus was parked and tried to get the attention of a security guard. We told the guard that we had a message for Michael from Megan. The super fans around us (most of whom were ~way~ to young to fan girl over these guys) started freaking out that we knew him. We clarified that we didn’t know him personally, but it didn’t seem to matter. I told Kathleen to text her sister and have her ask Michael to come out and say Hi. The security guard returned to tell us that the band members had left the grounds. We started walking home to Mom’s and Megan texted to us say that Michael asked if we enjoyed the concert. Kathleen was texting too slowly, so I grabbed her phone and texted Megan to tell Michael we were the two blubbering fools in the second row that Ritchie saluted earlier. He responded by saying…”yeah, I could tell that they were really emotional”. He said that the band left immediately after the show and were already at the hotel by the time we were talking to the security guards. Since I was now coming across as a psycho fan girl, they would not divulge the location of the hotel.

We got back to Mom’s and I dropped Kathleen back at her house and had to sleep fast. I had a date the next day to do the fair with my friend Sara of Tipsy Pie fame.

I’m not sure the final step tally, but three hours earlier I was close to 20,000.