Marching to the State Fair

Yesterday, Olivia, Joey and I went to the State Fair Parade. The parade is the official kick-off for the State Fair. Grandma and Jim, Brittany and her friend Kayli were also there. I have to say, this parade was the LONGEST parade I have ever gone to...it was about 2 hours long and we left before it finished! Olivia was very excited to get lots of candy (which we turn around and use for Halloween) and all of the necklaces, bracelets, flags, hats, etc. She was also very into watching all of the cheerleaders cheer, and try to cheer like them. Joey was very excited about the parade too, only he wanted all of the noisy trucks, tractors, and all of the horses.

After the parade, we went to the fair for an hour or so. Thursday night is preview night so none of the shows/exhibits are open, just the rides and food. Olivia was able to choose one ride and she chose to ride the REAL horses. This was the first time Olivia rode a REAL horse! She was so proud of herself, and told me as I took her picture, that I needed to blog this so her friends can see her...(is it sad that Olivia tells me to blog her picture?) Joey chose to go to the animal petting zoo. He was a little afraid to touch more than the animals' ears, but enjoyed being close to them.

Finally, after walking around for awhile, eating our dessert, and watching the opening fireworks, we came home and crashed. We will bring the kids back sometime next week to ride the rides.