Show(ing) Off.

 

Sunday morning I woke with purpose: To attend the local agricultural show. The fact that I was sick did not deter me. In the three and a half years that we've been living in the Ranges I'd not been, so this year I had psyched myself up for it with memories of the agricultural shows of my childhood. I was going and nothing could stop me.

 

Growing up The Show was a major annual event that we looked forward to every year. In the weeks and days leading up to it we'd be a hive of activity, buzzing about putting the finishing touches on our competition entries. There were painted eggs and flower displays from us kids, whilst the adults entered cookery, crafts and livestock. To win a ribbon made the time and effort worth it, but it was a Best in Show that granted you Legend status.

 

On Show Day we'd browse the sideshows, brave the rides, admire the horses and pet the animals. I remember always being particularly fond of the sheep. Even now as an adult I walk through the showground gates and make a beeline for the animal pavillion. I also get particularly excited when there are baby animals and/or ducks.

 

This year I was eager to recapture that excitement: We ate hot donuts, watched the showjumping and checked out the chickens. I spent a good deal of time weighing up the possible competition for next year in the photography, cookery and craft events, whilst wondering what one must do to become a judge (and get to taste the cakes and scones on show). We browsed the stalls and after much discussion and deliberation decided on some native seedlings for the garden.

 

There were ducks and chickens and pigeons galore! Shane said they were scary whilst I wanted to bring all the Indian Runners home. There were no sheep but there was a wool competition. Hardly the same, but they do both smell like lanolin. 

 

What do you like about Show Day?