The County Fair

If you read my post on August 6th, you know I entered two items in the county fair - a first for me.  I honestly had no expectations of earning ribbons.  (My eldest son told me he thinks I was the only one that thought so. He's sweet.) 

We attended the Clackamas County Fair on Saturday, August 16th, and I found my purse.



Then, I found my stocking.

Needless to say, I was happily surprised.  I shared the news on the CQI Yahoo! group, but had to wait to say anything here. 

Several months ago, I decided to give the purse to a dear family friend.  She spent years volunteering at the aquarium in Newport, Oregon, so the under-the-sea theme was perfect.  She also introduced me to embroidery through cross-stitch when I was in high school.  And, she gifted my sister and I with our first sewing machine, with the condition that we actually use it.  (The motor finally died about 2 years ago.  I still have it and plan to have it repaired one of these days.)  After picking my items up at the fairgrounds last Monday, I mailed the purse to my dear family friend - with the blue ribbon still attached - and thanked her once again.  Apparently, it was the perfect gift.  She loves it - which warms my heart.

I would love to encourage everyone to make an item to submit at their local fair.  It was such a fun experience.  The Hobby Hall is always my favorite place to visit.  And, I frequently find quilts and other items that I like better than the ones adorned with ribbons - so even if you did not earn a ribbon, others would have the opportunity to enjoy your work.

You might be surprised by the results.

If you do enter a piece in your local fair, I would love to hear about it!