The Story of the Country Living Fair

The best laid plans.

Yup, you know how that goes.

I have always wanted to go to the Country Living Fair – but could just never quite figure out how to make it to Ohio, especially in early September.

So, when I found out it was going to be in NY this year, I was super excited. But the best part, my whole crew was willing wanted to go with me.

Friday night, I prepped and had us all set to go and we went to bed early for a good night’s sleep.

Accept, that there was so much rain our rain gauge’s alarm kept going off all night. Yeah, I didn’t know they had alarms either.

It was a lot of rain.

And then, Peanut was up most of the night with stomach flu. The child shivered all night like I have never seen a child shiver. Broke my heart.

So, with a later than expected start, Sunshine and I set out just the two of us.

She brought flowers in for our first stop – the amazing Jen O’Connor from Earth Angels Studios. Just as we walked in, she was lining up with her whole crew of amazing artists. That is her sweet self all the way on the right.

And of course, I couldn’t wait to see what Jennifer Lanne has to offer – she is always updating her style but still saying true to what defines her art. Love.

And then Sunshine and I went to meet Will Moses. We are long time fans. The second day we bought our yearly puzzle and he signed it for us.

This was a newly discovered artist that we loved. Can you see the NY map in the side of cow.

So loved it.

And then we went off to meet Modern June – and buy our banner for the porch!

It was too busy the first time through so we stopped back later for a chance to talk. She is so super sweet.

And then, we met BOTH Beekman Boys. So sweet and kind and Josh is as witty in person as you would hope.

On the second day – Peanut was feeling much better, so we all went back for a few hours.

So, of course, we had to take a picture by a cow.

And then I was able to meet up with a group of local bloggers for a Meet & Greet with Sarah Gray Miller (Editor in Chief), compliments of Hometalk.

As we left for the ride home, we passed under all the banners created by Modern June. Peanut was finally feeling better and was a chatter box.

As we walked past each barn, I reflected back on all of the stories I had from the vendors over the two days. You know I always love a good story.

We brought home some treasures – but it is always about the story behind it.

Like Richard Nixon from Michigan who sold us a wool goat.

Or Charlie Brown who was walking through Barn 34.

Or the sweet man who took the time to tell us how to paint our wooden fish we brought home.

Or the song sung by the folk band, “Don’t Stop and Keep Living” inspired by a 6 year old.

I had planned the first day to be the whole family.

Instead, I had an amazing day with my oldest daughter. Probably the best day we have ever had together. She was just so joyful to be there with me for my first time going. She was so excited to meet so many people. People like…

Cari from Cash and Cari – who was as sweet and as gracious as can be.

We had our picture taken in the photo booth together. It is my best treasure of the weekend.

And as the crowds really filled up on Saturday, I was thankful Peanut was not there – she does not handle crowds well.

And we still had our family day. And although I think Peanut and my Hubby were less excited about going, I truly believe they enjoyed themselves.

So, the best laid plans can go awry and still turn out great.

Wishing you a great day and thanks for reading.