Today I woke at 5:00am and put Mildred outside and thought about getting moving and going to the fair, instead I went back to bed. I had a dream that I was first in line for Amish donuts, with my thermos full of coffee. Would I get one? Or bring a couple home? The dream was quite involved and when I woke up it was 9:30. I think my body needed the rest.

I had an acupuncture appointment scheduled for 12:30. Tough time of day to get stuff done. I did some Facebook s rolling and was disappointed to see all that I’d missed last night when I’d decided to take my tired legs home. Ian Leonard did the corn dance and there was a kid in a corn costume!

I also missed the laser campy show at the DNR. At least I think I missed it. It was supposed to be Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at dusk, but I’d heard no reports or comments about it. On the list for next year!

I did a couple days blogging and was icing my leg where something bit me at the fair. Something always bites me, but my ankle was really swollen, red and hot. It was going to be another perfect fair weather day, but due to the bite and my general exhaustion I decided I’d better not skip my appointment and go to the fair.

A new day shed more light onto the fallout of the garage break in. We had to find a handyman to fix all the things, buy a new door, there were many issues to resolve at the bank and missing items, repurchased.

Feeling healed, renewed and energized by my acupuncturist, I stopped at the bank and spent a couple hours setting up new accounts, stopped for a new phone battery charger (can’t have a dead phone at the fair!) and decided to go to the fair when Mike & Kathleen offered to pick me up and join them for dinner and a little music. We landed a little after 7:00. Kathleen took a look at my bug bite and thought it might look a little like a bullseye. I took this picture, (which looks way better than it did) in case I need to get checked for Lyme. Who know where the wood chips all over the grounds come from and what bugs are lurking inside!

I wanted to get my margarita and a side of Island Noodles. The booth has moved out of the Bazaar last year and is across from Coasters. The man working the wok almost steamed his face off as we waited for my order.

Kathleen & Mike shared some Maui-Sota ribs and we stood outside RC’s and ate. My noodles were less than satisfying, no real flavor other than salty. I ate the chicken and broccoli and dumped the rest. Still hungry we walked on thinking about the next stop.

It wasn’t crowded and it wasn’t hot so we decided to brave the Food Building. I stopped and said “hi” to Sara at Tipsy Pies. She worries if I don’t stop by. ❤️

I remembered that Afro Deli was a new vendor this year with a spot inside the building. We roamed all the way around to the other end and found it. If you want quick access from outside, enter the building at Nitro Ice Cream on the Cooper side. It’s just down a bit on your left. The Chicken Sambusas are worth every cent! $6/one $10/two. Feed a friend or eat them both! The chutney has a kick!

There was no music group that we were familiar with, drawing us in, so we sat and listened to Nikki Lane, known for outlaw country. We though she was amazing and Mike was smitten. As the concert was drawing to a close, Mike decided to wander over to the merch window and just see if there was anything if interest. He had perfect timing. The couple in front of the line were fans from Kansas and informed Mike on exactly what he needed. She had wax of one her earlier albums, Highway Queen. Nikki Lane was in the window selling her own merch until a State Fair employee and her guitarist came to assist. As the couple requested their album, she grabbed it, jumped out of the merch window and said, I’ve just got two of those! Mike was relieved as she instructed her guitarist where to find the last one! She was so gracious and friendly. Signed the album and posed for pictures. Mike was super stoked and a little bit in love.

We watched the super moon riding over the Admin building and then wandered around a bit more. We didn’t see any of the gang at the Ball Park, but grabbed a beer and found a bench to listen to Simon Le Bon belt out Reflex, sounding as good as he did in 1983!

I never was a big Duran Duran fan, but Kathleen thought they sounded great!

Not sure how many more songs they were going to play before they got to Hungry Like. A Wolf or Rio, we decided to head home.no fireworks tonight. I was ready for bed!

Earlier in the week Randy noted the forecast temps for Labor Day were going to be over 100°. He was hoping to get over to the fair just once, but not if it was that hot. Today was gonna be nice and cool so we decided to make it Family Day.

I dropped Jack & Randy off at the Snelling Gate and burned rubber around the corner to beat the traffic. I parked and tricked it back over. I grabbed my recipe card for the day while they secured the scooter.

Randy’s first thing was the traditional foot long hot dog.

Once that first bite was taken, we could snap a family photo.

While Randy enjoyed his hot dog, I ran through the merchandise mart to replace the stuff that the rat bastards stole from my car. I lost my itchy sticks and my favorite bug spray. (Both state fair necessities) I also picked up the much touted neck fan. I might need it in the days to come. This years tree ornaments here were not so unique.

I took a little too long looking at the puzzles so Randy & Jack came inside to find me. I didn’t get the new State Fair puzzle because it wasn’t a Turman and it didn’t look like one I’d enjoy.

We scooted out and onward to visit the guys at the Ball Park before it got too busy to say Hi.

Who should we find, buying breakfast beer, but Gayle and the entourage! (Michelle, Shaz and Joey)

We brought along the fiver year old souvenir refillable cup and Randy stopped at the Barrel, reminiscing about the days he used to work in one! They have upgraded a bit since the early 70’s!

Next up, I wanted to get a better picture of the butterheads. My last visit, I was preoccupied with the noteworthy spectators! We picked up some swag at the pork booth, recipes, seasoning and a thermometer!

I had Randy hold the swag for the pic and as I turned around the Princess Kaye Butterhead spun right into view!

As Jack was checking out the hearing protection devices, who should we run into but these dear friends! Scott & Sheryl are out here a few days each year, but we often miss each other!

After visiting the pork booth, I was in the mood to go see piglets. Or “bacon seeds”, as Elysia calls them! I heard tale of a newly designed Oink Booth this year so we headed down to the animals. I’d been admiring the iconic statues at the Minnesota Lottery booth since day one and Jack indulged me in a photo op!

Then I made a quick stop into the east end of the coliseum for my Simply Nuts toffee peanuts, knowing if I waited until a hot and humid day, I’d get home with one large nut cluster. I got a text that Jack was at the other end waiting on a Concha burger. His favorite bite from last year. Sadly for me…the bun was once again red. I can eat any color but that one. No burger bite for me!

We left Jack to his burger and went down to see the pigs. The new Oink Booth, is not improved. There’s a barn facade that funnels all the people into a messy line with the Largest boar and Piggie mama on one side, and the piggie ear hats on the other.

It’s cluttered chaos. You only have access to two sides of the pens, so good photos are unlikely. I took a bad one.

I couldn’t even get close to the sow and her litter, so I got right out of there as fast as I could. Bacon seeds would have to wait.

We usually spend a chunk of our day cruising the Midway, but Randy’s time was limited today so we just did a drive by.

RC BBQ (the guy from Famous Dave’s) has a new food item benefiting Maui after the devastating fires. We’d heard good things so we stopped to try them.

While they were delicious, I’m not one who enjoys eating meat off bones, so when the entire rib bone fractured in my mouth, I was unable to go on. Randy finished them off for me.

The Ferry family was out on the grounds and we connected at the Ball Park where we had our last snack of garlic fries and onion rings. (I totally forgot I had a coupon!)

We all dug in so fast, I never got a foodie picture. We chatted and caught up with each other enjoying a beautiful day on the patio. After a bit Randy’s body was giving out from sitting in bad chairs so we had to take our leave. This might be a record for the least amount of food consumed during family day at the fair. It’s probably a good thing!

We returned the scooter after only two hours, but it was two hours longer than we thought we’d be able to spend together at the fair ❤️

I got Jack & Randy back home to handle the handyman who was coming to install the new garage door and rested for an hour, restocked my bag and headed back to the fair.

Wednesday is typically my day to do all the buildings when they’re not crowded. I got back on the grounds planning to head straight for the Grandstand and I got Paraded on Cosgrove. Gayle coined the phrase, which means to end up in or have to navigate through the crowds of people watching the parade. I drank my entire water bottle on my way back to the fair so I stopped at Culligan to fill ‘er up. Last year apparently too many Minnesotans were bamboozled by the electronic water machines so Culligan actually had to revert to low tech spigots this year. I will say, at least there’s no lines!

I actually got paraded twice! Once again as I crossed Underwood. The grounds were busy. Not record setting, but busier than my normal Wednesday. When Jack & Raelyn were out here last week, Raelyn spied the grandstand sign that had the first few days and dates really messed up. Jack having once worked in the print shop found it humorous. Jack had noticed earlier that the sign was a different color so I stopped to check the accuracy. Much better!

I decided to take the elevator up to the top and work my way down. I’d put on 90K steps so far in six days, so my knees were grateful! Inside the elevator was a seating chart for the newly remodeled grandstand. I took a picture for reference. When Mike & Kathleen bought their tickets for the Black Keys, they based the purchase on an old seating chart. The seats were ok, but not what they expected.

The upstairs hasn’t changed too much on the East end, but once you pass the stairwell, it’s “Turman Land” ❤️. His space has really expanded and there’s tons more merchandise and a bit more space to move around. I got lucky and the artist was IN!

I just told him I was a big fan and that he’s in my blog a lot… cuz I’m a big fan. He wrote down my blog address, so maybe he’ll be reading this one day! I’m loving the new art this year. At least it’s all new to me!

I did notice one new vendor with a cute idea. They turn old books into journals. There are baskets and baskets.

There’s a booth called Fair Fun and these pictures captured my attention!

I walked down the central stairway and again, many of the vendors remain the same. You can still find your VitaMix, salsa machine and sewing machines, but the booth structure has changed somewhat. In the center you can pass through some of the vendors to the other side.

The sewing center space was decreased to make room for some brightly colored kid stuff!

I stopped by the NordicWare booth and the price are pretty deeply discounted out here. I want this pan for cooking bacon and it’s $7 cheaper out here than online.

One other interesting thing I saw is the new purse designs. Not one to walk around armed, this isn’t something I’d purchase. A little scary to think there’s a big market for this. A purse with a bible verse on the outside and you can carry your gun inside.

I left the Grandstand and walked back up the hill to finish my building checklist. I had Education, 4H, DNR and the HealthFair11 still on my list. I walked through the aisles of student art and a couple caught my eye. This piece by a kindergartener could be interpreted in different ways. Either a kid catching snowflakes in their mouth, or simply a Edvard Munch like commentary on last winter.

I just loved this little watercolor wolf by a six year old!

The booths that remain here in the Education building haven’t changed much, but so many have pulled out. There are no colleges represented any more and there’s more open space. I learned that you can put the Fun in Funeral.

The Dunwoody voting booth had the Sky Ride and Giant Slide running neck and neck.

I did find this muralist creating a community piece here at the fair. He uses cut ends from 3M vinyl materials. He’s done a lot of work painting murals with youth on Lake Street.

I walked up to 4H thinking I timed it right to see the Harkness show. Missed it by an hour and the next one was at 7:30. I toured the building learning so many things!

The Llama costume contest was beginning at 6:00 and it was just after 4:00 so I had a little time to rest somewhere. I started walking back towards animals by way of O’Garas and the Leinie Lodge. Meg and a friend spotted me as I walked by looking into the bright sun.

I sat down at the bandshell and listened to a member of Tonic Sol Fa who’s branched out with a big band group. It felt good to rest my body a bit, despite the hard rock benches. I saw this lady walk through a couple times and wished I got a better photo. I feel like I got a glimpse into my future at the fair. Cruising around with crazy gray hair tied up in a Bandana, big thick glasses, knee brace, hunched over a walking scooter with bags of state fair swag hanging off the handles. I love it.

Once my butt hurt too much to keep sitting, I moved on to find something to eat. I decided upon Lulu’s bill bites and a margarita. I got the bull bites first, stopping by i like you, getting to see Sarah for the first time this fair! My selfies need work.

I bypassed the long center line and walked up to the counter on the side and got a perfectly cooked, medium rare order of tender steak bites. I couldn’t resist eating as I walked towards Cafe Caribe.

Then, Margarita in hand I walked over to coliseum archway to see Llamas!

The contest was moved to the Coliseum last year due to its popularity. I can’t breathe well inside the arena so I prefer to hang outside and watch them parade in. On my way down, I also couldn’t help but check in on the baby animal action in the CHS Birth Barn. There was a huge cow about ready to go, but no telling if it would be soon.

I walked around to see all the other cute babies.

This little black kid kept climbing up on mom to get to the hay and she kept butting him off.

This guy was conked out in the arms of an FFA youth.

I checked back on the pregnant cow. She was up now, but still no signs of active labor. Elysia and Caleb found me and we headed over to see the Llamas.

Earlier I sat in the pig chair, drinking my margarita, waiting to connect with Elysia and her son. Since I couldn’t pull off a pig selfie, we did a reenactment.

It was a perfect weather night to watch the llama parade.

I caught sight of Ian Leonard as he was about to go on air with the llama broadcast. He was busy, but I told him “nice bad pants!” and he looked my way and gave me a thumbs up.

I took this proximal opportunity to see some of my favorite cows. The beautiful Brown Swiss.

With my asthma, I dared not venture further into the cattle barn. Elysia and her son has some major gastro-touring to accomplish so I took my leave and returned to finish all I had not seen in the Ag/Hort. There’s one stained glass crop art piece that lights up at night. The line was long, but I went in the back way anyway.

I got to see all the scarecrows.

And cruised through the veggie display to see the new stuff that was being judged.

Did you know the giant pumpkin seeds are the size of a large thumbnail?

These youth decorated pumpkins were tucked in back of other plants the first day, but now I got to see them better.

There wasn’t any music I wanted to hang out for tonight (they’d all be back tomorrow) but I thought I’d stop up in Baldwin Park and catch the end of the Country Talent Show and say “Hi” to David. (Talent Show MC) The show had already ended and David was off getting dinner. I looked across the street at the Amish donut line and decided to save it for another day.

The sun was setting and my brain knew there was a laser light show happening around dusk down near the DNR, but my feet had other ideas. I checked my watch and I’d logged 21K steps and still had to get back home.

I decided to take my sore feet home but when I got to Gate 5, it was on lockdown due to a planned Black Lives Matter protest marching past outside. It was all calm and peaceful, just a disruption. I sat on a bench near O’Garas and thought if I’d waited in the donut line, I wouldn’t have had such a long wait here here long here without a donut.

After about 25 minutes, the gates opened and the gathered crowd made its way out. I got home to see the huge Super Moon rising over the hot tub.

Something bit me out at the fair on Monday and it was burning and itching so I took two Benadryl and went to sleep. It was a really good, but really long day!

Woke at 5am to a text message alerting to fraud on a credit card. I didn’t panic at first, I just thought maybe I’d dropped it outside my car. The card was closed and I wasn’t worried. I put Mildred out, and then got a text from my neighbor that my garage door was open. It was then my stomach dropped. I went outside to find the pedestrian door of the garage had been kicked in and my car ransacked. I also saw the side gate was standing open. It was lucky Mildred didn’t bolt. Stolen items included my work bag and a duffle Randy had golf stuff in. Nothing large was taken, but in my work bag was the credit card & my checkbook. I had taken them out of my bag so I wouldn’t lose them at the fair. I was on the phone with financial people and Randy figured out what we’d need to do to replace the door. I had plans to meet friends at the fair and I wasn’t gonna let this dampen my morning.

I picked up my lifelong friends Sara and Nancy and we had a great morning!

I grabbed my recipe card for day 5/6. This time it’s all on one side!

We took in as much of Creative Activities as the heat would allow. The building is still hot and humid.

Award winners and things of interest.

So many cookies.

I love the decorated cakes. This years theme was “Roadside Minnesota Attractions”. I thought the north shore cake took the cake! The judges thought so too. It captured all of the memories from my recent trip!

I didn’t find any lefse entered this year. I’ll keep looking another time. But the syrup wall always catches the eye!

The decorated cookie theme is Shoes I think. I like the one that had Charlie Brown shoes.

We saw a familiar name amongst the children’s creations.

Then there’s always the quilt squares on a stick! “Dusk or Dawn”

We walked through the Annex, but other than the fact the peeler guy is still alive and kicking, nothing else stood out as new or interesting.

My coffee and oatmeal had gone cold this morning in all the hubbub, so I was in need of sustenance! I’ve never eaten at The Peg. Many people I know love it. We had coupons so we sat down at a lovely spot in partial shade and had time to catch up a little and fuel up. My friend Bree happened upon us too! It is unusual for us to go this many fair days without running into each other!

This was Nancy’s first and only state fair day, so it was her lead. Ag/Hort is a favorite, as she’s a very good gardener. There was much I hadn’t yet seen, so we wandered through. There are different types of flower shows every two days and this was the State Fair Flower Show. There were themes of “Grandmas Marathon”, “Hot Air Balloons”, “Parades” and others.

This one caught my eye. Could I really just cut off a chunk of my Ragouchi Clematis and stick it in a beer bottle and win a blue ribbon?

I mentioned the gyroscopes on an earlier day, and I tried to capture a video through my camera lens. The newer iPhone three lens camera creates too much backlighting. But the flowers are beautiful!

The line for the crop art was far too long. It was winding out the door around the center aisles of the hexagonal building. This would not do. While Nancy and Sara tried unsuccessfully to get in through the back way, I got the entire line to shift so that instead of clogging all the paths around, the line was headed down one aisle and towards the outer door. I wanted to check out the Pysanky eggs in the bee wing, so while they looked at big pumpkins, I found the eggs. There were no novice entries. This could have been my year if I’d gotten my act together! I feel like I could maybe compete.

We left At/Hort and decided to head to the north end for dogs! I decided we should take the Sky Glider. It might be my only chance. It was a perfect day for it. Hot, but breezy up there!

Lovely views!

And not so lovely.

We found a few dogs at the pet pavilion. But there are fewer this year.

There are however nice hand washing stations all over. After petting dogs and touching things, soap and water feels great!

I got to take a stroll around Can Can Wonderland mini golf, while these two rocked away!

The nine hole course features, a haunted house, gate 5, the giant slide, DNR ranger tower, a cow (including cow pie), a ring the bell with sledgehammer game, Ferris wheel, space tower and French fries booth.

Seeing the Space Tower, Sara recounted the events from yesterday while they were waiting for the shortest parade to come by- and the Space Tower quit running! They had to bring out an elevator repair company and the news later reported that it’s closed for the duration of the fair while they wait for a special part. I did some research and the ride started malfunctioning Sunday and they got everybody down and off and closed the ride for maintenance. Monday was when the elevator company arrived and there were no passengers on board at this time. Despite the efforts to get it running better than ever for next year, this type of thing just reinforces my steadfast refusal of going on claustrophobic rides.

I stopped by the Friends of the BWCA tent and got my camping spork utensil. Can come in handy out here when you want a bite of somebody else’s food!

Sara knows where to find the best spots to relax a bit! The By the Yard furniture space is great! We tried on all sorts of different seats and rested our feet!

We wandered down Cooper street, stopping for a Gizmo and a Sweet Martha’s bucket for Nancy to take home. We might have eaten a few as we sat and watched a dog practicing for the stunt dog show later.

I got to see the huge moose and loon as we did a cursory tour of the Eco Building. I don’t feel the need to collect things this year, so I’m not impelled to play bingo to win a buff. My friends indulged me on the selfie!

The line for Amish donuts was far too long to wait in, so we continued our meander down Cosgrove, popping in to show them my favorite fine art pieces and cutting through the Education Building as a shady respite where I could fill my water bottle. I voted twice, negating my vote for the photo op. You can go cast your vote at the Dunwoody robot too. The Giant Slide was winning.

I like to look at the art created by Minnesota school kids too. All ages and abilities.

Sara had to get home to walk the dog, and I wanted to get Nancy home before crosstown traffic got too busy, so we exited the fair pre-parade, around 1:30. I got everyone deposited safely at their respective homes and I decided to head to the bank and sort out some of the issues arising from the morning break-in. After all that, I was too tired and crabby to head back to the fair. Tomorrow is another day!

I’ve been looking forward to this day all weekend! I get to take my oldest child care kiddo “B” to the fair! We had a list of things we wanted to do. All kid centered and child led. B had sights set on the Little Hands Farm as our first stop so we got to the gates and headed up the hill!

B is just over four chickens tall. The attendant let them ride, but it’ll be the last mini tractor ride for this kid!

The big tractor is fun, but can’t make it go!

We had time to do all the activities inside the machine shed. No hurry, just fun!

PBS kids station is right across the street, so we had fun looking for favorite characters, playing games and building blocks!

I haven’t been to the Home Depot kids building area since Jack was little. It was so fun to relive those days!

A while ago, B was so afraid of dogs that they’d climb me like a tree whenever one passed. With lots of exposure therapy, we’ve been working through it. Today B was petting dogs twice their size!

The North End Event Center has a fun Candy Land experience. So many photo ops and interactive exhibits.

I cringed a little as the kiddo jumped in the ball pit. Wondering where we might find a full body sanitizing station… AKA a bath 🛁!

The attendant assured me the balls are cleaned every night… But are they really?

On the top of candy mountain, I spied one my favorite olde timey candies Necco wafers. I loved the black licorice ones best!

There’s a few more photo ops as you exit the exhibit. A passing couple took a picture for me!

Next on the list were Math on a stick and the Alphabet Forest. We spent lots of time with manipulatives and reading math stories as we discussed lunch options.

B didn’t want food, but shared a little trail mix I’d packed as a lady sat down with a foot long corn dog. I think the smell convinced B that was the thing for lunch!

We took a quick detour around the Kidway to get a corn dog and returned to play in the Alphabet Forest.

You get to ring the bell when you earn your blue ribbon!

I set parameters for expectations on the way into the fair. One ride, one treat, and one prize, but when you get to be honorary grandma for the day, those parameters go out the window. The ride tickets are now loaded onto cards. B didn’t know it, but I loaded enough tickets for five or six rides.

I made sure to reapply sunscreen and refill water bottles all day… for the kid.

After the Kidway we were headed to see Smokey the Bear. B asked me if the bear was in a cage and I replied, “no, he’s just a guy in a bear suit”. The kiddo said “oh, we can just skip it!” We were passing Sweet Martha’s and I asked if we should get a present for the rest of the family that didn’t get to come today and the little negotiator asked “if we get cookies, is that my treat?” In grandma mode I said no, they could have a cookie and still get something else!

I tried to explain what a butterhead was, but based on the kids expression, I think seeing was believing. We headed to the Dairy Building to check it out. It was SO crowded for a Monday. As we snuck up to the front so B could see, I looked over to the right and realized why it was so busy! Senator Amy Klobachar, Senator Tina Smith and the Secretary of Agriculture were in the house!

B was more impressed with butterheads and happy in the cow hat!

The only things left on our to do list, were to play at Rainbow Play Systems free climber and acquire the promised treat & prize! I can’t imagine how hot it was up inside the bubble! The temp must have been close to 90°.

The treat of choice was cotton candy!

The kid made quick work of that cone and I made a fast track to the bathroom, bypassing long lines so we could just get to a sink! SO STICKY!

A few times around the prize kiosk and the perfect pet was chosen!

The kiddo had no interest in staying for the parade, so we headed out the main gate, just as it began its approach.

It turned out to be the shortest parade yet, so we didn’t miss anything.

Jack had been out at the fair all morning with a fellow Ole, Kayla. We connected back at the car. On the way home, Jack asked B if they had a good day. B’s response? “It was the best day” ❤️

When I got home I looked up what the senator had been doing and lo and behold, her team had tweeted (X’ed?) a picture of the butterhead activity. We must have taken simultaneous photos! You can see my arms and bright green shirt behind the butter house.

I showered, put lotion all over my sunburn and rested a bit before returning to the fair around 6:30. I watched a little talent show and then connected with Mike, Kathleen and eventually Elysia. I was filling my water bottle and thought the machine wasn’t working. Turns out it was user error and the sensor was seeing through my bottle. Previous times I must have had the logo in the right spot without realizing. A lady waiting and watching me laughed with me when I realized what I was doing wrong.

After numerous slow texts trying to triangulate positions with Elysia. I’d say we were one place and by the time she got the text and arrived… we’d be gone. Elysia found us and had a special treat! The Donut Family blueberry compote lemon curd covered mini donuts.

I can’t eat the whipped cream on top, but I dove into the rest face first. I, of course, was wearing white, and carrying two beverages, so E offered to feed me as we walked! Miraculously, my shirt remained unsullied by blueberry stains!

The goal was to get to Bazaar to hear ABBAsolutelyFab, an ABBA tribute band. We found a stand up table at which to perch. I’m glad we didn’t have seats, because I preferred standing, dancing and singing loudly. They were ABBAfab!

I noticed Mike was wearing his talent show t-shirt so had to take a pic. It’s the 50th annual show!

The fireworks went off behind us as the band played on. What a great day!

I started the day sleeping in a bit. Then as I sat sipping coffee in my pajamas, I got a photo message from Karla.

My moms sister, my Aunt Marge and Uncle Glenn were with them at the fair.

I hopped out of my chair, and got ready to go and made it through traffic and onto the grounds in under an hour.

Karla messaged to say Glenn was parked at Leinie Lodge. As I approached I thought he should be easy to find!

He wasn’t! Glenn enjoys people watching and sitting around a bit. I found him relaxing in a the shade near the Space Tower.

It was fun to have some time to visit with him! The rest of the family was out foraging.

Marge returned shortly with cookies! This year there are no cones. You can get an actual cup for $10, a bucket will run you $19.

After a bit of cell communication the Rachac’s arrived with more bounty!

All I had to offer was dental floss!

We moved from the shady, filthy table over to Bailey House benches to await more family and the parade. We left Glenn & Karla to save 22’ of bench space, while I took Steve & Marge on a shortcut mission to get Fresh French Fries!

I left them in a long line for fries, while I cut straight across the backs & sides of buildings on my way to get Dimitri’s gyro. One of the buildings I sneak past is Sweet Martha’s. I had a plan to get cookies later before I left the grounds, for a family event.

But as I approached, there was no waiting along the path. I stopped and picked up a bucket. I might have the blue ribbon winning pot luck contribution!

I kept on a straight trajectory across hell street, which in actuality, wasn’t as hellish as I expected.

With my cookies ziplocked and lid locked for a road trip, I got to the gyro spot and asked if they could pack that to go too. I hurried back through my shortcuts, stopping at one of the new water bottle filling stations on the exterior wall of the food building and made it back to the parade route not long after the French fries did!

I opened up all the foil and found a hot sandwich and large cup of sauce! It wasn’t as messy and you get lots of tzatziki!

Karla chose a coupon book instead of the annual pin with her Friends of the Fair benefit package. She kinda wanted the pin and asked if I knew how to get one. I happened to have an unused book. (I was gifted a couple by people leaving the fair one day). I said she should see if they’d exchange it at the Bailey House tent (right behind us). Voila!

More cousins arrived and we filled the benches and watched the parade. With cooler temps (only 82°) today, there was a mix of band uniforms. I’m always impressed by the kids in full dress!

The only horses present were the Wells Fargo team again. Such beautiful animals.

Fairchild was on my side of the float today.

After the parade, I took a quick group photo and gathered up my belongings and headed home. It took almost an hour to get back down Lexington to home.

Randy, Jack, and I headed off to another cousins family gathering. There were quite a few Sweet Martha fans present! Tomorrow I’ll have an early start so I think I’m staying home tonight.

It’s a perfect fair day. I knew how crowded it would be, so decided to head to the fair after 5:00pm. My legs and feet were happy with the decision!

My new eyes are working out great! I was able to blog, put my glasses on and readjust for a bit, then have single vision and see pretty clearly! I know I’m effusive about it, but it’s really a big deal. My vision has been a real struggle for months.

Traffic was slow, but no back-ups, and I got to my spot to find a lovely sign. My hosts have been very busy with life, and they contract parking spots for a vendor and those are marked well, but mine was not, until now. It’s been an issue with the vendor people parking in undesignated spots, paying no attention to the signs. Kathleen has eyewitness airport accounts of how people lose their minds embarking on vacation and I think it happens at the fair too. They’re just so excited to get there, they notice nothing on the way in. It isn’t until they’re searching later for where they parked that it becomes clear they have no idea.

I grabbed my jacket, put on bug spray and walked over to the fair. I got on grounds a little after 5:00. I was hoping to connect with some friends, but I was a little late. They decided to head out. There were lots more people heading out, than in.

I knew I had to get my recipe card and meet up with Mike & Kathleen around 7:00, but otherwise I was a wanderer. I walked into the front door of Creative Activities and it was quite open, sans people. It only took a few minutes to realize why. The building was still retaining the previous days heat. I was dressed for a cool evening and starting to sweat, so I grabbed my recipe card and popped back out the side door.

I realize the recipe cards I have, all say OVER on the bottom. If anyone wants the entire recipe, just let me know! It could be “The Great State Fair Baking Challenge” where you only get part of the recipe.

I walked up Cosgrove and looking up the hill, noted the Rick’s pickle pizza line was all the way to the top of the street. Looking to my left, it was also all the way to the bottom. I tried to take a panoramic. It’s a little hard to capture the breadth and the scope of the determined people!

I hoped the Fine Art building didn’t have the same ventilation issue as Creative Activities, but I also really wanted to see the State Fair Commemorative art, which this year is Crop Art. You can see a replica of this hanging in Ag/Hort, but the frame makes this incredible picture really stunning. Liz Schreiber is an award winning crop artist from years past and was chosen to create a piece for 2023.

It wasn’t crowded and it was warm in the building, but not hot, so I turned left and looked for display #18 and began my backward foray, walking against the flow of people. I’m not one to follow in a line. Randy had shared an article about some of not to miss pieces this morning, so I was on the lookout for those. So much creativity and beauty in this space.

Texture & depth

Color.

This I thought was a pallet hanging on the wall. It’s not.

The beauty is often in the details.

Sculpture.

This was the resident artist today.

Movement.

Fun to look at.

From a distance, I saw a painted dune scape. It’s a single piece of stained wood.

Photography.

Power.

This is The Covenant. The stack of paper consists of land covenant documents, many still in deeds today that restrict selling or leasing property to people who are not “white or Caucasian race”.

A younger black man was looking at it near me and commented. “What’s that?, just a stack of paper? I explained what it was and he started looking at it seriously. I just said it was a powerful statement. A horribly powerful statement. He thanked me for showing him that it was more than what he first saw.

I always go through the numbered exhibit walls, counting backwards, so I don’t miss anything. I thought I missed the #2 wall, then upon retracing my steps and asking a volunteer docent, I realized the space occupied by the Studio Here artist is numbered two.

Stepping outside, I cooled immediately. But once I started walking in the crowds, I warmed up again. The Green Mill has a food truck up here on the edge of Baldwin Park, and they have a new food, Cheese curd stuffed pretzel pizza. Not for me, but apparently it’s popular. I tried to get another panoramic of this excruciatingly long line.

It was nearing the time I needed to meet my brother, but I didn’t want to have to divert them in pursuit of my adult beverages, so I stared walking southwest.

Uff it’s peopley out here… and a pikachu shall lead them all.

I wanted to get a picture of the MOA booth and found that was a one day deal. When people ask, what’s the point in going every day, this is why. Many things are single day events or pop ups.

The fairgrounds have a day twelve smell. Sweat, grease, livestock. We need rain for a good cleanse. Zero rain in the forecast, but I stopped by the Humana booth and picked up a rain poncho. Sadly, this might ensure it won’t ever rain!

Having brushed elbows (and many other body parts) with too many people, I decided to take the cut through. It smells bad and it’s not pretty but it’s EMPTY.

Stopped to fill my water bottle at the KARE barn and what a difference a day makes. There was a line out the door previously.

I waited in a long line at Cafe Caribe to get my beverages and as I walked back up eastward, I laughed to myself as I remembered what Bart said about my new vision acuity! “Seeing single and drinking double!”

Mike & Kathleen arrived at the meeting place, and also needed food and beverages. Kathleen, the healthiest eater of us steered us towards the French Meadow, where we had a short wait for Earth Wings. Yum, so good. Flash fried (not battered) cauliflower florets with organic sesame bbq sauce. They cooked them fresh for us and we just had to take in the aroma as we walked back towards food stop #2, the Midway Mens Club. I’m usually in front, leading the pack, serpentine style through the crowds, taking every shortcut I know, but tonight, possibly aided by the rapid intake of a frosty margarita, I made a wrong turn! Mike said, “you’re taking us through the corn crowd?” What have I done?

Down hill and then uphill, we snaked through all the people to get back up where we intended to be. I lead them all to the back side of the booth, where Mike got $6 Hamms and $4 double cheeseburgers for the crew, while Kathleen and I scored a table. There’s a bit of a slant back here, so I was feeling a bit short.

We were on the hunt for some music. The State Fair is the largest annual music festival with over 900 acts in 12 days. My 12 tickets cost $180. Much less than a Coachella Pass!

Walking up to the North end, we took in the many faces of the Giant Wheel.

Most of the shops up on the North End were closed up, except Homespun and Good Things. Homespun has a funny, not funny, t-shirt that I might have purchased in a magnet form.

Can Can Wonderland has a putt-putt golf course up here. All the holes have a state fair theme. It’ll be worth a stop back in daylight.

My traveling companions willing to pose for me.

We listened to a little music and headed back toward the south side. As we closed in on the International Bazaar, we saw a guy wearing an awesome serape! As we stared at the clothing, a women grabbed me in a big hug! Turns out, the serape wearer was the son of Mike & my lifelong friend Tracy! Best hug ever ❤️

We hung out at the bazaar listening to Free & Easy for a bit. Michael went in search of his favorite food and stuck his head inside the mostly closed up West Indies Soul booth. The ladies there seem to love him. He inquired about the hot beef (which was sold out) and one gal counting money said “many people have asked… one of them cried”. They did give him the last of the jerk wings though.

They closed up the gates of bazaar, pushing us all out, so we wandered aimlessly on an absolutely beautiful evening, ending up listening to the last set of Naturally 7 at the Leinie Bandshell.

It was a great way to end the evening!

It’s Governors Fire Prevention Day, and I love to pick up all my fire swag; sun screen packs, hot pads, thermometers, etc. Today was not going to be that day!

I got to the grounds around 8:30am and the air was oppressively hot and had a day 12 smell to it.

I really wanted to see the Crop Art first, because invariably I miss things and have to go again. I headed for Ag/Hort and as I waited outside the doors, with an ominously growing number of people, I noticed this map hanging on the exterior wall. In all my years visiting this building, I’m never oriented once I get inside. This map is new to me and will be quite helpful!

The doors opened and I was the first one through. There were crowds of people, however that actually follow directions and went in the correct way, so I was already in back of the people, like a salmon swimming upstream. I still got lots of pictures that I can revisit later using my zoom!

So much love & positivity!

I also ran into my friend and crop artist Gayle & her husband Mark. The works pictured here are her entries this year! Despite the limited high accolades, I think her work is amazingly precise with great theme and color choices.

As we chatted and shared our “day one” stories, caught up after a year of not seeing each other, with sweat dripping down our backs, we parted ways, sure to see each other again!

I explored three of the hexagonal hallways and it’s worth a slow walk through the florist vignettes this year. Don’t forget to peek around the corners to find some surprises! I think my favorite was The Ugly Duckling, filled with positive self imagery!

The center display is a huge tree with pink blossoms and if you look up, you’ll see Tinkerbell. (Not from this angle though!)

There are floral gyroscopes again this year, I’ll check them out another day.

I wanted to be sure and see vegetables before they succumb to the heat, and surprisingly there wasn’t a crowd. It could have been the stifling air keeping people away. (It didn’t deter people from the crop art lines though). As I walked around the display, an employee opened up the outer doors for some ventilation! I put my hands strategically in photos for perspective. My hands are not small.

Too many people were checking out the scarecrows, so that shall remain on the to-do list. CFANS (the College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Science) has a virtual reality experience exploring the path of pea proteins… if you’re into that sort of thing!

On a sweltering day, a cool spot always seems to be found lingering among the Christmas trees!

I voted for my favorite and got my picture taken inside the wreath. My attempt at positive visualization of colder things!

There is a giant, spinning, wheel but no one was there to explain more. Very interesting categories here. Some kids just walked up to spin it and walked on! Those are my people.

Walking back out into the heat, I spied Grammie’s empty bench! It was perfectly shaded and a comfortable oasis to sit, hydrate and ponder my next move. She would be thrilled that it’s near the parade route, close to a nice biffy, and next to a garden.

My plan was to head to the Kare11 barn, fill up my empty water bottle and smash a penny, but I was sidetracked by the buzzing activity around the MPR booth. I took an empty seat and little did I know, that’s where I’d remain for the next hour and a half!

TV cameras, tech crews and local celebrities surrounded me!

I realized I was watching the rehearsal for a taping of Almanac “Live from the Fair” to be aired on tpt at 7pm, but would be broadcast on MPR news, live at 11:00am.

Sheletta Brundage, was standing right next to me for most of the rehearsal and we chatted about various things. The possibility of her eating the crispy lutefisk steam bun, that some of the audience members were going to tasting live. “Oh honey! No” she told me! Becky & Bill gave the lutefisk a thumbs down yesterday saying it was definitely not crispy! I asked her if she remembered my friend, and her colleague; former, regular Almanac political science contributor, Stacey Hunter Hecht (who died too young) and she once again respond with an “Oh honey! Yes!” She took a pic with me and told me to share it with Stacy’s daughter Rosie ❤️

During the rehearsal, Kaomi Lee, introducing the musical act and got the dates wrong for his upcoming performance at the Schells stage. She said “Monday & Tuesday, August 21st and 22nd”. Me, being me, couldn’t let it go, so I caught a passing producer and let him know. He thanked me and said they’d get it changed.

Just as the show was about to start my cousin Jesse from NYC and her family stopped by. I got an all too quick hug and hello and they moved on and I took my seat for the actual recording. In hindsight, I could have removed myself, and had more time with Jesse & family, but I was sort of invested in the show now! Would Sheletta eat the lutefisk? Would the taste testers, who rehearsed their answers, actually tell the truth? Would Kaomi get the dates correct? What would we name the baby lamb who was brought on stage by the FFA youth? (You can watch the show for all the answers!).

I was engrossed in the outcome and planning to stay, then Sheletta said “hold my phone!”

Now I couldn’t leave if I wanted to! I messaged the family that I’d be on Almanac tonight, and if they’d please record it. Who knew I’d be all over Almanac! The goofiest part is when they were focused in on Sheletta and Taren at the end of the broadcast, Sheletta nudged my leg and her phone fell to the ground. I couldn’t just let it go… No, I could not. So all you see is me, detracting from the show, bending over to get her phone!

It’s worth watching the show to hear Kevin Kling’s Ode to the State Fair. If it’ll load, you can watch it here.

Once the show was done and I returned Sheletta’s phone, I got in line to spin the MPR member wheel. The booth theme this year is “Camp MPR”. I won a little bar of soap that I added to my little washcloth in my bag! I also picked up more stickers.

As a member you get 25% off merch at the booth, and for a one time added donation you get a cute canvas tote bag. It’s lightweight and has nice long shoulder straps! I also got a fun lightweight hoodie that I hope and pray I’ll need out here, one night soon!

I walked on, two hours later, down the street and around the corner to the KARE11 Barn. I inquired about weather calendars signed by Belinda (on behalf of my brother Michael) but learned there are no boxes of signed calendars this year. Mike will have to get his blank one and hope he gets to a news taping and have her sign it. Don’t forget your sharpie pen!

I had been without water for a few hours and feeling ever so parched, I asked when the water bottle giveaway was happening. The time had passed, but if I signed up to win a home improvement prize, I could get one now. I’ll now be on the Window Vonceots call list forever, but I wanted lots of extra water!

Once I rehydrated myself, I looked at the time. I had scheduled a consult with an eye surgeon this afternoon at 2:30. There wouldn’t be time to make it up to the north end for all my fire swag. I thought about taking the sky glider, but the risk of getting stuck up there in this heat, knowing I only had a couple hours before I had to leave, was too great. I thought I might find someone I knew at the Ball park, so I took the shortcut that drops me out at the Minnesota Farm Bureau. I played the game and earned a purple spatula!

I could hardly get into the Ball Park, let alone find anyone I might know. The misters were on full blast and the place was wall to wall people.

Recently a promising young hockey standout was killed in a car accident. Jori Jones had worked at the Ball Park and in tribute they have a hockey stick on the “wall of fame”.

I bumped into my friend and owner Dave, wished him a good fair, but otherwise exited the area quickly.

I remembered Senator Amy Klobauchar’s suggestion and went across the street to visit the beautiful fire fighters at the AFL-CIO booth. It was all the fire swag I would get today, but I’m OK with that!

I realized I just happened to be next to the Foot Long Hot dog stand, and I was hungry…

I was amazed at how crowded the fair was, despite the heat and blazing sun. I was ready to get going as it was nearing 1:00pm.

On my way out, crowds were pouring in and I found my water guy! Gave him a big hug and heard him say “if you have a thirst, see me first!”, as I walked away.

I spent the rest of the afternoon at the eye surgeon and after extensive testing, got positive news that I’m a good candidate for successful strabismus corrective surgery (you can google that one!)

They also fitted my glasses with a very strong fresnel lens overlay, which allowed me to have single vision for the first time in months. I wasn’t sure how the new lens would affect my night driving as it’s highly reflective, so Mike & Kathleen agreed to pick me up and return to the fair.

I entered the fair looking at everything with new eyes! I didn’t realize how much I really relied on memory to navigate the fair. My friend Elysia was saving seats for us, so we went as fast as we could to grab beverages and a bite to eat and returned to save Elysia from the accusatory glares from those searching for seats.

I sat down with my Giant Juicy sandwich and frozen margarita and settled in to enjoy the Bacon Brothers concert.

There were other friends in attendance, more than I was even aware of! I took a minute to stop and say hi to the Lietzke/Quinn clan

We thoroughly enjoyed the concert and I was especially excited to see only two Bacon Brothers where I previously would have seen four!

I though my Facebook post was pretty funny!

After the show, we wandered down to the Grandstand and listened to The Chicks play “Goodbye Earl” from a distance and watched the fireworks.

I was also thrilled to be able to actually see the fireworks and not have to take a picture and zoom in in on my phone.

Riding home in the passenger seat, I also realized that I’d be able to drive at night again with this new lens. The only challenge is that I have to take my glasses off to use my phone, and when I put them on again there is an adjustment period. But all in all, great news. I can blog, then give my eyes time to adjust and head back to the fair!

The temperature dropped, breeze picked up and humidity dissipated at around 9pm. Tomorrow is gonna be a crazy one!

Last week, Jack informed me that I never finished the blog last year. Those last three days might forever remain a mystery.

This year I have had a hard time getting excited for the fair. I wasn’t even sure I’d get to attend, as Randy had major surgery tentatively scheduled for next Monday. Thankfully for me, not so thankfully for him, it’s now in September.

My eyes are failing me and I’m beleaguered with my continuing big toenail struggles, so I too have upcoming surgeries, but my concerns about navigating the fair “Heather-style” may have contributed to my fair ambivalence.

The forecast of a record breaking day of heat, my sore toe and double vision didn’t stop us, however!

Jack is grateful the fair opens an hour later these days, so we were up @6, ate a solid breakfast and without too much traffic, made it to our reserved parking spot on Simpson Street. It’s not Mom & Dad’s house, but, despite being a couple doors down, it still feels like home.

All around the neighborhood are these signs. I just hope people read and heed them!

The plan was to meet up with Andrea, our annual first day walking tour buddy, and when we found her she’d already found my cousins Karla & Steve! A little too much time was spent catching up and chatting on the corner and Karla said “C’mon! Let’s go!”

This is an annual tradition for these two too.

We had a short wait in a long line before the gates opened and I got a chance to chat with the Governor. He knows my dog Mildred better than me, as our dogs go to the same day care!

The gates opened early and as we passed through security. Jack set off the sensors and stepping aside, he had to open ~all~ the pockets of his backpack, then as I told one security agent that he had steel toe boots, she proceeded to use Jack as a test subject and instructed all the new security agents on how to do a complete pat down and wand scan. Glad they’re all well trained now!

As I waited, I apparently made the “local” news…. A friend in South Dakota was watching KELO-tv and took this screen shot!

Once we all landed safely and securely, we headed for the History Walking tour brochure rack. Stop #6 on the map.

There are still 12 stops, but they’ve changed the signs and locations of some. Karla & Steve wanted to get their heart rates up, so they started off at a clip. We were a slow moving bunch, especially in the building heat and oppressive humidity.

We always head north and along the way I saw the DOT exhibit and our representative snowplow is “Plow Bunyan”.

Just a little further up the hill in Baldwin Park, I convinced Jack to pose as my “plow Bunyan”

Ambling, chatting and punching brochures as we went, I was looking at all the benches while they were still mostly empty! Andrea and Jack took opportunities to sit and rest while I circled the blocks looking for familiar names. I came across this bench and as I was taking a closer look, a couple walked up behind me and said “hey, do we know you?”

I said “I don’t think so, but I’m a Kelsey and I had to read the plaque and see if this was family”. They replied “Well, we are the Kelsey’s and this is our bench“. This family is originally from Montana. No relation. Funny, though, that we happened upon the bench at the same time. I found a few benches and texted the owners to see if they needed a clue. “Pie & Pie” could be my bench!

The only big change we noted up on the north end is the new Pickle Building. We did see later, the original Pickle booth is still down near the West End entrance. My friend Bart told me later, there is a plan to create a more welcoming area as you come under the arch at the West End, so this may be phase one of moving some of those established vendors.

I circled one block and saw a street tent on Wright at Underwood with a long line forming. It’s the Mall of America with a spinning wheel for a chance at a $500 gift card. I found out later, there’s a free bag too.

Karla offered me their extra bag later, but all I wanted was a picture of it!

We made it down to the West end, and some shops were just opening. Andrea likes to have a Nordic waffle for breakfast, so she waited in a very long line, but it was worth it. There’s lots of phone time, checking out other friends’ social media to be sure we’re not missing out on anything. My friends Becky & Bill were out here too, and they have a one day gastronomical adventure. They commented on Facebook that the Nordic waffle wasn’t up to par this year with unmelted cheese, and told me later that they were having some major hardware challenges with many waffles ending up in the trash, raw on one side and burnt on the other. Hopefully they’ll get the kinks out quickly!

An awesome local business is out here for the second year. I never stopped last year, but couldn’t resist the photo op this year, or the free samples.

They have a State Fair limited edition, small batch run that was fantastic and breaking my rule of not buying stuff on day one, I bought a jar. I’ll come back and get a four pack sampler on my “buy all the stuff” day.

The farthest walking tour punch is at the “Compeer Arena”. A building that has changed names along with sponsorship almost every year. It’s the newest of the large animal buildings closest to the Midway. Where many judging events take place and the llama contest. We hiked all the way down, to discover there’s no punch here. We took a quick selfie to prove we were there.

We took the Steichens alley short cut, to get back on the path to the next punch. This place is another institution here at the fair. It’s an on site mini-mart for various sundries!

It was almost time for the Star Tribune building to open and I was still looking for Mom & Dads bench. I’m always a bit unsettled until I find it and have a moment to check in with Don & Carol. Andrea & Jack took a seat while I made my way quickly through carousel park, checking out the various booths set up for STEM Day and searching the benches lined up along all the walls, under the tunnels and arches and partway up the grandstand ramp. No luck. I did come around the backside to get in a relatively short line and was rewarded with “crop art” chapstick. Wild rice flavored.

My friend Gayle did some recon later and learned there are no set giveaway times, you can walk up anytime and get one. I’m sure the Pronto Pup guy up the street is grateful. The chapstick lines and his customer lines intersected in years past creating line chaos; something that is hard for Minnesotans to navigate.

The STEM day activities were plentiful and super hands on. Building robots, batteries, lots of experimentation opportunities. I didn’t pick up any swag, other than a bag, because inside the bag was a fan!

We punched our cards at the DNR building and were nearing what I call “hell alley” (the street between Mancini’s and Sweet Martha’s). Always crowded with intersecting lines. There were lots of back to back blue benches and I was drawn to the inside track. The first bench I see is “the one”. Such relief. I was able to sit for a bit and relax for the first time all morning. As I sat I looked up to perfect view.

Mom & Dad are still ~there~ and all is right with the world.

Despite the oppressive heat, I felt relaxed and refreshed. We had only two punches remaining and I suggested we cut through Ag/Hort to see Crop Art, but there were very long lines so it would have wait. We did have one time constraint and that was Jack’s tele-health appointment at 10:30. He wanted to get back to the car in time for that. We did happily happen upon my friend E. With the recent legalization of recreational marijuana, E was headed to the Dirt stage to learn about new opportunities they offer so you can grow your own!

Andrea spied this T-shirt and the woman gave me permission to take a picture of her. I want that.

There was no air circulation whatsoever in the building, so I popped out the back side and saw, in the distance, Grammies’ bench. I knew where it was, as I saw it when I came to help with Alphabet forest prep earlier last week. I went to take an official picture, but the man resting there possibly needed to sit, much more than I needed a photo op. I just snapped a quick pic and knew I’d return.

We got our final punches and were awarded with a winner pennant. A slow trek this year, but we finished the task! Karla & Steve were the first ones done this year!

Mom & Dad have one of the original bricks here at the Bailey House. It’s almost impossible to read. “Honoring Many State Fair Memories Donald and Carol Jo Kelsey.” The people in charge told me there’s really no way to restore it. I’m thinking about coming one day, off season, with some black lacquer and hand painting it!

We went into the tent to pick up our “Friends of the Fair” benefits, and Jack headed off to grab a bite to eat and get back to Simpson street for his appointment and Andrea connected with her friend Shannon. I was left to my own devices for a bit.

It was time for pie!

They have a new food this year, savory “Italian Duo Dunkers”, which I learned later in the day had outsold the long-standing #1 seller in my heart and Tipsy Pie history, the boozy blueberry lemon.

I’m quite sure my body does not like dairy, so I’m slowly decreasing my dairy intake. Sadly…. This pie has dairy. Trying to avoid a huge eczema flare, I’m going to have to limit my pie intake this year.

While making my way ~to~ the Tipsy Pie booth, I had to navigate around the Mouth Trap Cheese curd rope lines. They encompass the entire open length of the food building, without a pass through and leaving about ten feet in front of Peter’s Hot Dogs, for customers and a traffic lane. Not acceptable. Sara took me on a short walkabout trying to find the guy in charge so I could tell him to FIX IT. We didn’t find him, so I’m going to check later to see if the situation gets rectified, or I’ll write a note on the complaint line.

Pie in hand, I rounded the corner to say Hi to my favorite fair bartender at the Ball Park. His line was long, so I just got a quick pic. Can’t keep people from their mini donut breakfast beer!

A friend told me that the University of Minnesota was departing from the central building this year. While they are present in many different locations around the fair (CFANS, Ag/Hort, the Driven to Discover spot, etc), it’s strange to not see the stage out front and stand in line for whatever popular giveaway they usually have. Inside the athletic department is still represented, there’s gear for sale, but the other half of the building is filled with tables and chairs. They might come in handy one day later in fair.

I connected with my favorite family and headed up to meet them in the Alphabet Forest. One of my personal favorite authors, David LaRochelle, was featured as Blue Ribbon author for the day.

Kids got to fill out an application and adopt a dragon!

I had to read “Moo!”, one my favorite books. ❤️

It was highly suggested I check out the vendor down the street. I walked a few feet over to the Human Touch tent and spent 10 minutes in a $10,000.00 massage chair, with cooling fans blowing on me. It was amazing and free, but I’m not sure I’d recommend after two very hot, sweaty days at the fair. I got a fresh one!

As I continued on my way down Cosgrove, I popped into the Creative Activities to get my recipe card. The rest of the building will wait for a cooler day.

Jack texted to tell me that on his way to get food and head back to the car he realized he’d forgotten his wallet. I was hot, without an agenda until parade time, and Mildred needed to get outside, so I headed back to the car for a quick stop home midday. Upon exiting I asked for a return stamp “up high” so I could wash myself without losing it. The gate attendant offered me a paper one. I like it!

I sat down at home. Big mistake!

It took some effort to regroup and head back out in the heat of the day. Jack had eaten nothing since breakfast, and all I’d had was pie, so we stopped for a giant egg roll on the way to meet family for the parade. Hot, crispy, delicious and $11 bucks this year!

Thankfully, Steve & Karla had staked out a shady bench from which to watch the parade. We got to meet Jack’s second cousin, once removed, Sweet baby James for the first time! This was his first fair! Last year, his mom Keira went into labor while leaving the fair on day one. To add to the story, Keira was also born 26 years ago today, after her mom, Karla, walked the state fair all day. Happy Birthday Keira! James turns one on Saturday!

Before the parade started, I needed to wash my hands and get more water. I popped into Ag/Hort where they have new water bottle filling stations and I decided an apple cider freeze was also in order. There were crazy long lines, but I snuck through and followed the Carol Jo line motto “always go to the left” stepped right up and got my frozen treat.

It was a beautiful day for a parade!

It’s Fairborne’s 40th birthday! Legend has it, Fairchild went back to his hometown Gopherville in 1982, looking for a sidekick and in 1983, returned with his nephew Fairborne! (Historical lore from my friend Gayle)

James is all about wheels! It’s always more fun watching a kid watch a parade!

The parade units were small, but all the marching bands were there, all dressed in summer casual uniform. I was really happy to see the Minnesota Zoo Wells Fargo Wagon was back. It looks like a new team, with lots of extra handlers. I might need to try to catch a ride one day!

Groovy Art cars, mascots, stilt walkers and the big bull were all present, but it was a short parade today.

After the parade, the Rachac family made their way in one direction, Jack connected with his bestie Raelyn, and I was once again left to my own devices.

Lucky for me, my friends Becky and Bill checked in. Although they were quite spent from their gastro-tour and adult beverage consumption, they extended their visit to share time and stories with me. I took them to visit Carol & Don, who hold a special place in their lives as Godparents to Becky. They had a moment at the bench too.

We found a table that was in partial shade for a while and reminisced. I did most of the storytelling, as I encouraged them to drink more water!

As we sat, Jack & Raelyn happened upon us. The sun had overtaken our oasis, and I was finally in need of an adult beverage, so we walked over to Cafe caribe. Becky thoroughly enjoyed her first State Fair frozen Margarita slushie!

Becky & Bill soon took their leave, and I had plans to meet Jack here at Cafe Caribe at 5. We connected and made our way up to the bandshell to get seats for the talent show. We had grand plans to stay until the end tonight, but we were beat by the heat. Waiting for the talent show, we were entertained by C.J. Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band. After listening for half an hour, Jack decided he hated Zydeco music.

We made it through three acts, and in case you’re wondering… the host remains the same for this years 50th Talent Show!

Mike & Kathleen we’re heading over for The Black Keys at the Grandstand tonight. Discretion was the better part of valor as Jack & I made the decision to head home before sunset. We just missed Mike as they entered security at the same moment we exited Gate 5. My eyes and feet were sore, but it was a great first day. Over twelve hours and 20K steps. I showered and was sound asleep by 8:30!