The "largest state fair in the world"!

After an easy 6 hour run, we made it to the Iowa State Fair.

We expected to stay at the fairgrounds over night, however, after viewing the "campground" (more like a packed parking lot) we decided to just pay to park closer to the fair (in a “random lady’s yard” to quote my husband) and then leave after our visit.

Although difficult to drag the kids away from the rides, we managed to tour the livestock areas first (in the heat of the day). We enjoyed viewing the animals in their prime, all prettied up, showered and blowdryed! They walked with pride throughout the fairgrounds and were a joy to see.

We then entered the ever thrilling ride areas of the fair…and let me tell you my tummy was not entertained (after just one ride I felt sick)! After spinning around for at least an hour, the kids were ready to eat dinner…I don’t know how they do it!

The food “village” of the fair was impressive, we ate ribbon fries, Gyros, and fresh strawberry and apple slushies. We played some fair games and rode a few more rides and then it was time for us to keep moseying along.

Overall, it was cool to see this massive fair, and the true farmers of America. All ages were there, tending to their stock, playing games and “horsing around.” It was a nice stopover, but one afternoon into evening was enough “fair” for us!

We left Des Moines, got another two hours of driving out of the way, while the kids slept and spent the night at a Flying J Gas Station. Yes, a truck stop, just off the highway. We pulled in around 11pm and there were already 10 RV’s bunked up for the night. We woke up and another 10 had pulled in. It never felt unsafe, and this was our first “boondocking” experience. Boom…we are now truckers! Now off to South Dakota…

Truck Stop...

Caught on camera....love, love, love...