Sunday, July 30, 2023

North Haverhill, NH (USA)

Despite wanting to attend the North Haverhill Fair (a highlight of my 2022 summer) earlier in the week, I waited out last night’s horrendous thunderstorms and only headed towards the fairgrounds after Mass at Sacred Heart (0800) this morning.  To get there, I used I-89, I-91, VT/NH-25, US-5, Newbury Crossing Road and NH-10.  When I arrived (0845), there was still almost no one there yet and the temps were in the low 60s - perfect atmosphere!  The quiet beginning allowed me to watch several events: Single Horse Powderpuff Pull, Log Drag (horse) obstacle course and Junior Tractor Pull.  I got to attend a 4H Beef Show too - the youngsters with their unruly cows were funny to watch!  After that, I went exploring.  Along the way, I wandered through the 4H artwork displays, explored the commercial sales building and visited various livestock pens.  Other highlights included the Wee Wee Wee Racing Pigs and Mike Piazza’s Flying High Dog performance.  Lunch was (like last year) at 5-C Concession (a family business with 40 straight years of participation in this fair).  After three hours, it got too warm and “peopley” enough that I departed.  But, like I think I said last year, THIS is the annual fair to attend if you are anywhere near the Upper Valley!  After leaving the fairgrounds, I drove a short distance south and launched Tequila Sunrise from Bedell Bridge State Park (on the Connecticut River).  Starting at 1330, I paddled about 2.5 miles north (until I reached the bridge on Newbury Crossing Road) and back again.  The weather was nice (sunny with a light breeze) but the current was STRONG!  Still, I made steady progress on the outbound leg and was rewarded by an easier inbound ride to the boat launch.  Strangely, I didn’t see much wildlife during my nearly five mile paddle - perhaps it was because the Fairgrounds (which I passed along the way) PA System was so loud that I felt like I was listening to radio play-by-play of the ongoing 4x4 Truck Pull.  At least I can confirm that Ford beats Chevy in one category… I finished up at about 1545, feeling energized.  I drove home via NH-10, River Road, NH/VT-25 and US-5 to Norwich; arrived at my condo at 1630.  Great day at the Fair and on the water!