After too many Deep Fried Cuban Rolls, Jalapeno/Cheese Corny Dogs and watching my daughter scarf down a Deep Fried Brownie, I can say I’m “Faired Out” as the North Texas temporary term goes.
Between the crowds, the lines and lovable Big Tex, I have become addicted to the annual event that draws Texans from every corner and millions from their wallets.
Just a few years ago, I made the journey from the Midwest to finally call Texas my home and at first, I didn’t quite get the State Fair of Texas.
Growing up in Kansas, I made the journey once from the east side of the state to Hutchinson where the State Fair is held. Not really any memories except having an enormous crush on one of my classmates who was also there. Who knows what she is up to these days.
Anyway…
Over the past few years I have fallen in love with the State Fair of Texas. The people, the atmosphere, Big Tex and even the fried food. I rarely eat fried anything so I cram all of my yearly allotment into the three weeks from late September to middle October.
The final weekend I found myself in line at the corny dog stand deep in an important conversation with colleague Alan Scaia. All of a sudden Big Tex began speaking behind us. We both stopped and looked up at the magnificent beast. Then it hit me: I finally feel like I belong here. When Big Tex speaks – you stop and listen.
It is those occasional moments when I can reassure myself that after years of wanting to live here, the reality that Texas is my home sinks in more and more. And, it is a wonderful feeling.
-Eric Bushman