My family left farm life for city living three generations ago. Since then, it’s been store-bought eggs and small yards. Until recently, I’d never even owned a pet. But once a year, I get an itch to remember my rural roots. So, I go to the fair.I’ve been to several different fairs over the years – including one in Orange County, Calif., with row after row of vendors and carnival rides, and the Western State Fair in Boise, Idaho, where the agriculture and livestock seemed more appropriate and were prominently featured.I didn’t know what to expect from the El Paso County Fair. The peaceful country surroundings added an air of authenticity that has been missing from other fairs I’ve attended; yet, I was surprised how small it was. We also made the mistake of not checking the schedule before we left. At the other fairs there was always something going on, but we learned that’s not always the case at the El Paso County Fair.We went Monday evening – it was bring your dog day, but we don’t have a dog. All the same, we enjoyed watching other kids dance, do tricks and swim with their four-legged friends.The kids inhaled their hot dogs and begged for cotton candy until we finally gave in and waited for the sugar high. They got their faces painted, free balloons and climbed all over the antique CDOT (Colorado Department of Transportation) equipment. We enjoyed the carnival rides and loved that there were no lines.Best of all was the petting zoo. This was a huge treat for my city kids. They mixed and mingled with the largest variety of farm animals at any fair we’ve attended – goats, sheep, chickens, ponies, pigs and geese. They laughed and squealed with delight every time an animal stopped moving long enough for my kids to brush their hand across its back.We will certainly go back next year. We’ll check the schedule first and make sure we can see the demolition derby or some rodeo events. More importantly, we will take the time to visit the livestock stables and teach our children the importance of continuing the agricultural traditions that make our country independent and strong.
