The Fair!

One of our favorite times of the year is when the State Fair of Texas opens... The weather usually has just turned cool and breezy and it's the perfect weather to walk around outside! We've gone every year since 2005, with the exception of last year since we were marrying and honeymooning during most of it! Last time we went to the fair, we had such a pleasant time and it turned out, the reason behind it was because it was a "Senior Day"! Needless to say, it was a much slower, quieter crowd and the lines weren't long at all!

This year, we had the pleasure of being joined by Kevin's mom and stepdad. Unfortunately, we got there about an hour and a half after they did due to ridiculous parking traffic ~ we'll be taking a cue from them and riding DART next year for sure. We also plan on attending on "Senior Day" next year (this time on purpose!).... the crowds and lines were a little crazy!

Since we began attending the fair, we've developed some rituals we do every year....

Visit the auto building and all the other exhibit halls

This sculpture is made from BUTTER!

(It's a tribute to the infamous Red River Shootout, which sadly we lost...)

Take our picture by the fountains

*Note in Kevin's hand the special root beer that is a must-have on his list - they pour it from barrels and apparently there's just nothing like it!

{Kevin's mom wanted a "belly shot" in addition to our annual photo} :)

Eat Fletcher's corn dogs, tornado 'tater twisters, and of course the fried food

This year, the winner for "Most Creative" was fried beer! Kevin and I had heard mixed reviews, but figured if it won, it couldn't be all that bad.... WRONG! Kevin, his mom, and his stepdad all took one bite and promptly said it was awful and took a swig of their ice cold beers to wash down the nastiness. Why the people of the state fair thought that fake nacho cheese and hot dark beer ravioli would be tasty is beyond me!

Our favorite is still the fried s'mores!! Graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows all battered and deep-fried.... HEAVENLY!!!

We didn't get a picture, but Kevin also tried the fried "Texas Caviar" (fried black eyed peas) and said they were interesting... We really wanted to try the fried chocolate, fried lemonade, and fried frito pie, but the lines were close to an hour long!

All in all, we had another fantastic time at the fair. It's hard to believe that next time we go, we'll have an 8 month old with us! Crazy!