County Fair!

One of my favorite things about summer is going to fairs and festivals. Growing up near Sacramento, we always went to the California State Fair at least once a year. When I was in Santa Barbara I regularly attending the Avocado Festival and the California Strawberry Festival. The San Diego County Fair comes each year before the 4th of July and isn't the huge spectical I grew up with at the state fair, but it has won a place in my heart. Aaron and I went for 7 hours the other Saturday. That's a record!
I have my traditions of always eating a County Fair cinnamon roll and going on the same ride each year that totally scares me and prevents me walking for a few minutes after getting off. Aaron and I saw literally every thing there and sat in on a lecture/slideshow from a man who is a photographer for the USO and was showing images from Iraq and Afganistan. That was really interesting.
We missed the Turkey Trot, but saw this mammoth getting fed. That toy truck next to him does not stand a chance.

Last year I watched the Demolition Derby which was pretty much the best thing ever, but it was on Sunday this year. Aaron and I caught a bit of the California's Strongest Man competition.

Aaron wanted to check out the swine races which turned out to be quite the spectator sport. I had no idea that many people would attend. Once they brought the piggies out and slapped a number on each of their backs, my heart felt a little guilty for taking part. I guess it's the humane society in me, but when the host mentioned their upcoming show dates in various states I longed to help the pigs roam free in the mud and not provide me with entertainment. They even had one pig dive into the tub of water in the middle of the track and swim. I didn't run out on the track and try to save the pigs, but I did want to put on a hat and hide. Maybe next year I'll free Willy.