We got to go to the Jefferson County Fair yesterday (one of my favorite summer activities). The county claims that it is the oldest continuously held fair in the country- on its 192nd year! http://www.jeffcofair.org/ The reason I love it is the same reason that I love the north country in general- seeing the animals, the family farmers, the 4-H kids' projects. It is such a reflection of rural life and the traditions that are more than traditions here, because they are still part of sustaining daily life and livelihood. There are, of course, the same fair traditions at any other fair with the crazy rides, the cheap stuffed animals, and everything imaginable fried. I like to avoid this part and go early in the morning, when the farmers are the only ones around. Here are a pair of twins that caught our fancy (Noella was particularly interested in the cows!).

We had a fun afternoon in the sun at the cottage, playing on Mariel's tricycle.
Even Noella got a turn :)