This past week was our county fair, and there was a reprieve in the crazy hot temperatures, thankfully for those competing. I no longer compete at the fair, but I know all too well the challenges 4-Hers endure.
I had the opportunity to talk for a few minutes with a fellow 4-H alumni one night that I was able to go squaredance, and even though she is a few years younger than me, she shared many of the same thoughts in regard to the hourse show. It was neat talking to her and realizing that many 4-H alumni experience the same feelings. There are many aspects of showing that we miss, and several that we do not. That is part of growing up.
There were many blessings this past week. My country educator was willing to hold a fair shirt back for me until I could return to the fair later in the week to get it. A good buddy not only stuck it out with me at a barrel race that took about twice as long as I anticipated, but also went to the square dance and we had an awesome time. Dancing with some of the friends we made years ago, was awesome. We all laughed together as we moved through the familiar steps. The dancers we got to meet were awesome also, not only were they good dancers, they jumped right into the fun we were having without missing a beat.
There is a lot that goes into the production of a county fair, and while there are many things to enjoy, and a lot of complaining to listen to, many people work hard to ensure that the fair runs as smoothly as possible. It was great to get to enjoy it like I did this year.
The weather held for me to go race this weekend, that was a blessing, because it did not hold to get hay up. Luckily we did not have any cut waiting to be baled. See, another blessing.
I got to have a good visit with my uncle and a family friend in the nursing home yesteray also. That is not always an enjoyable thing to do, but both visits were enjoyable. Yet another blessing! My uncle was talkative and shared some good stories, and my friend, Miss M seemed happy that I stopped. She has been through so much and I can only hope that I made yesterday a little easier on her.
My challenge for myself, and you if you are up for it, is to look for the good today. Do not focus on the negative, even if you have a bad day, or are thrown an unexpected challenge, look for the good. If you look for the good, that is what you will see.