NOTE: This is a post by a Bridgehaven member
Well, here we are again. It’s August, and that means it’s Kentucky State Fair time. A couple of months
before the fair I would always start saving my money and figure out what I was going to enter in the
hopes of a blue ribbon! I guess those were simpler times, or I should say it’s more complex and
interesting now.
The fair has changed a bit for me, well more than a little bit. I get paid for my creativity. I was hired as the
boss of the hobby department–me, a boss! That’s wild! So now I think about the fair year round. As a
boss, I get to hire my own staff. I hope I won’t ever have to fire anyone, that would be difficult. I set up
the space at the fair that has a long list of divisions to display, from leather craft, woodworking, paper
craft, to windchimes! And tons more. This year in the hobby department we have 1811 different entries.
We have the same space but more entries. I guess that’s a good problem to have. Part of my job is
finding judges and making sure nothing gets overlooked. It sounds impossible. I can also add new
categories and that’s a fun thing to do.
When I read what I write it looks and feels like I am writing about someone else. Never in my wildest
dreams have I ever thought I would be competent enough to be considered for the job and especially
being able to keep it. I have met deadlines (even though I don’t like them). I don’t like paperwork but it
gets done, wow! Just pinch me! I also have to deal with unhappy people that think they deserve a blue
ribbon. But then on the other side I get to enjoy seeing people celebrate their award.
So the state fair has given me more than a blue ribbon! It has improved my confidence. It continues to
give me challenges–and challenges instill growth in me. When I get down, I have people in my life that
remind me of my successes. People say it’s the journey not the destination! For some wild reason
climbing a mountain has a greater reward than being on top. I don’t think I’m on top because I have
more climbing to do. If I was on top, what is there more to do? I would get distracted, bored, and
knocked down.
I wouldn’t have a story if I have never struggled–l’m human just like everyone else.
So working at the fair gives me more than a paycheck. I’m learning the every one of us are in the same
boat. We all are human and have experiences that make us who we are. I have always been scared and
nervous of my bosses. I want to be approachable, respectful, and kind. I don’t want anyone to fear me.
By the way, if you go to the fair, I recommend you go early!
Brenda R.