Potato Festival!

We live in a town of about 7,000, surrounded by the best sandy soil in the heart of Potato Country! This weekend is our annual Potato Festival.

Last night was the kick-off Potato Festival Parade which I love because we see so many people we know come out of the woodwork since the last year. You can just walk down the middle of the main street, watch the many and varied events and talk to people.

Everyone gathers at our house and we put out all the chairs we have, offer coffee, drinks, and dogs and burgs. All my husband's former and present receptionists and massage therapists come to this annual reunion. They all have keys so there's a steady flow into the office washroom. It is neat that so many great people are connected through his little small town practice. We actually get to be seen together which really doesn't happen much so I like that.

The parade goes for at least an hour and many clubs, businesses and groups enter their floats. It is a laugh to see and recognise characters around town dressed up and having such fun. Having taught here for 26 years, I also see many former students which is always a thrill for me.

After the last float, (inevitably the huge potato diggers) goes by, everybody just literally spills out into the street after the parade and start partying. Many, (not us!) are drinking beer in coffee cups and eating these great French Fries with the skins on (well, it IS Potato Fest so even we shared some last night!) and generally just schmooze. Lots of music, cafes and food happening!

We talked to many local teachers, students and many patients of my husband's.

Today are the pancake breakfast at a church, the main street store sales, street painting, many garage and craft sales, singers outside the coffeehouse as well as the fairgrounds with the rides and games. On Sunday, you will hear the beautiful music of several outdoor church services which I love.

It is absolutely perfect weather this weekend.

I think our town puts on a wonderful display for this event from beginning to end, after which the farmers take their potato diggers back to their farms and get back to the business of harvesting this year's successful crop!