Fair 2

A few more random photos from the fair. It already seems distant – or rather integrated into our way of life here at home. As a sign of that integration — we bought two new everyday bowls from a potter that we are using for both breakfast and dinner, with a lot of pleasure. And a sturdy hand carved wooden spoon that is proving very useful.

People were mesmerized watching horsedrawn teams plowing. Several teams went around and around, turning soil, spreading manure, turning it in, planting seeds (?). I think people sensed that this was a window into our pasts (and maybe our future?) and they should watch and absorb.

The MOFGA* folks had a lot of little demo gardens all around, beautifully cultivated. I was wondering what would happen to all that food.

Sam noticed several large black SUVs pulling up at a non-public entrance to the fairgrounds. It was the governor! Janet Mills. Here she is in a golf cart trying to plan her day’s visit. I really had no idea what to say to her, but I did say “Hi Janet.”

I was very inspired by the speech given by Frances Moore Lappé. I wasn’t a big fan of Diet for a Small Planet, but I was definitely influenced by her ideas and her research. She had such a positive message about humans and our capacities. “We were made for this moment,” she said. She received a standing ovation, and said “I will never forget this day.” I think she is underappreciated.

*MOFGA – as the flag under Moore Lappé’s podium says, stands for Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association