I have never liked going to the state fair. Like, really, really, truly, passionately disliked it for as long as I can remember.

It’s usually too hot, way overcrowded, and everything just feels grimy. The bathroom situation with toddlers is far from ideal. I don’t trust the rides (why are they so easy to move?) and I think the games are a scam. The only redeeming aspect of the fair is the food because it’s delicious, but it’s overpriced and you feel like death after you eat it.

I know a lot of families go to the fair religiously every single year and I don’t mean to offend you if that’s your jam. I can just think of other ways that I personally would like to spend my time and money.

So despite basically hating the fair, I agreed to go this year for one reason: my kids.

There are a lot of things in life that I dislike or fear for different reasons. I’m afraid of heights, I don’t like being in open bodies of water, and cockroaches will send me running faster than Usain Bolt.

But as a parent, it isn’t my job to impose my opinions on my children. They don’t have to dislike something just because I do. I’m conscious to expose them to new environments and experiences and then allow them to form their own conclusions about it. If they feel the same way as me, that’s fine. And if they feel differently, that’s fine, too. As long as they’re being safe and respectful, they’re entitled to their own perspective.

So we arrived at the fair with the rest of South Carolina, amidst expected heat, crowds, and grime. The only thing that made the day tolerable was being there with family and seeing the excitement and happiness on my kids’ faces. And we went with all of my in-laws so the girls were surrounded by people they love. I was able to get over myself long enough to actually enjoy the time with my family. We ate a lot of yummy food, visited fun attractions, and made new memories together.

And although I still don’t like the fair, I loved seeing the lights and colors from my daughters’ eyes. They had an amazing day and that’s all that matters!

Are there any fears or dislikes you’re conscious of not passing on to your kids?

Be sure to check out my must-haves for the germophobe mom and see how I plan for family outings with young kids!

And if you’re in South Carolina, here are the deets about the SC Fair!

Talk to you soon!