By Heather Kestian
My son went to the Indiana State Fair twice this year. Admittedly, it is one of our very favorite annual treks. In my opinion, the best part of the fair is the Dairy Bar. Holy cow, I love that place! Pepper jack grilled cheese and the best darn chocolate milk shake this side of the Mississippi? Yes, please! We have taken the same picture by the pig outside of the Swine Barn for six years. Without that yearly pig photo, I am not sure I could tell my children are growing up.
Every year, the older child inevitably asks to play the Goldfish game. I am hesitant because I do not yet have the words to explain death. I have no problem putting off this little topic for another day.
This year, on his second trip to the State Fair, he went with his nearest and dearest friend. I know now why these old souls are not brothers. They were destined to be best friends. Their conversations are priceless. True friendship really is a gift.
These dear children ended up at the Goldfish game. Guess who had an amazing arm that day? One awesome throw of a ball and my child added another member to our family. Meet Goldie the Goldfish, he (yes, he) is an amazing little goldfish and fits in well with Callie the Calico Cat. My knack for appropriate naming of pets has officially been passed along to my older child.
We had a heads up that we were the proud parents of a new fish, so the hubby went to the store for a tank and goodies. Goldie settled in quite nicely, and was tucked in, as much as a fish can be tucked in, by everyone at night. The little child felt the need to kiss the tank at bedtime. I concede, this may be the best State Fair win in the history of our State Fair attendance.
Honestly, I was unsure whether Goldie would make it. He seemed a little lethargic at bedtime and I thought he would be belly up by morning. My hubby and I triaged the problem and came up with a plan to go to the store and a plan to discuss death. Luckily, neither plan had to be used. Goldie survived.
One of my husband’s co-workers said her child’s State Fair fish lived for 16 years. Heaven help us.
