First I must make a confession: Until Friday, I had never been to a county fair.

I know, it is difficult to believe, a Kentucky girl like me, who has spent so much time at renaissance faires, had never been to a fair in this “time zone.” But it’s true. Although I have been to amusement parks, horse shows and those mini-carnivals with rides and midway games, this was a first for me with them all combined into one event.

I would not go so far as to say there was any culture shock involved. I’ve lived in this region long enough to know what I was getting into. However, it was interesting to people watch between covering a couple stories.

I noticed more boots than I have ever seen in any one place since moving to Ohio three years ago. I know this is because of the livestock exhibits and the need for solid footwear. But it brought back the reality of how much of a “country” kind of place this really is, out in the county if not here in town. It reminded me of home.

However, that was juxtaposed with the teens who were running around dressed like the cast of some television teen drama. Welcome back to the 21st century.

I found the alpacas fascinating. They’re not as common as chickens or goats, so they made for a nice change of pace in the livestock department.

They also have very soft wool. I learned this when one friendly alpaca allowed me to pet it.

I saw a 9-year-old kid in a green mohawk wig. I got some great photos of some barrel ponies. I watched some guys try to ride a mechanical bull. And I learned that I have no skill for throwing darts.

I got too much sun. I drank too little water. And I am still coughing barn dust out of my lungs.

I bumped into a co-worker in the rabbit building. I rode one of the rides with some friends I ran into while there. I ate greasy fair food with other friends who just showed up for dinner. I learned a few things about showing livestock. And I saw one of my parents’ musical idols from days of yore.

I got a couple of news stories. I took more than 200 photos.

All in all, it was an adventure.

HEATHER DUMAS may be reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 241, or hdumas@heartlandpublications.com.