With the beginning of cooler weather came the yearly event of the fair. It was exciting for young and old alike. It was a time for many to enjoy the variety offered. Yesterday Village offers a wonderful history lesson as well as the opportunity to witness crafts of a chainsaw artist!

Many homeschool families proudly participated in the exhibits and were honored with ribbons and prize money. Although the awards and money are nice it is a special thrill to go and see things that your family and friends have entered. (If you entered and want to be mentioned , please contact Teri Emerson.)

This year Brandon White (13) won a first award for a hand-carved wooden boot and third place for a hand-woven basket. Jenna White (10) was excited as she earned a Second place ribbon for rolled cookies. Both entered other exhibits and it was fun getting to see them on display. Mom even won a first place for the Greatest Grandparent essay that she wrote while the kids were working on theirs!

Sarah, Sheila, and Shannon Whitehurst won awards in the Fine Arts division. Sheila won age 6-7 Judge's Choice and Shannon won in age 3-5 Judge's Choice. In the Greatest Grandparent essay, Sheila was 2nd in her age group, Karen Whitehurst, the mom, won 2nd place in adult division.

Two FHE girls were in the State Fair in Raleigh this year. Meredith Layne and Olivia Munn both rode in the Horse Show.

The White and Whitehurst families encourage you to participate next year if you didn't this year. Fair books come out in the summer and can be picked up from the library and there are so many areas that you can enter you are sure to find something for each member of the class. Pick a category and work it into your unit study!

Some folks do not realize what an educational experience the fair can be. There are history and cultural lessons in attending. But you learn a lot about competition and judging, sportsmanship and fair play (no pun intended!) and monetary rewards for work well done. Some use the fair earnings to help with Christmas spending.

Going to the fair was fun but even more special when you are a part of it! Come be part of the fun next year!