Saturday's gloomy skies drove us out to see what was doing in our neck of the woods. Sleepy Wurtsboro was hosting a rather unsuccessful street fair. Ellenville's Blueberry Festival, on the other hand, was hopping. Please check out the recipe for Banana Whip 'n' Blueberries, posted separately. Upon leaving this location, we spotted a wonderful celebration for another Joey; we extended welcoming vibes of endless appreciation.
We then headed into the Hudson Valley's Ulster County, home to the beloved Shawangunk Mountains. Joe obliged my desire to shoot by pulling into a dangerous park 'n' view space, where he found a photo op, as well.
Our ultimate destination, the Ulster County Fairgrounds, could not be missed; the aromas of ribs and sauces were heavy in the air.... the Hudson Valley Ribfest was in progress. Rib-loving Joe was thrilled to attend this event for the first time. We were in for a real
eye-opener.
eye-opener.
As Joe found a parking space, I remained enthralled by the Gunks' Ridge, spotting the Mohonk Mountain House, in a long distance. If ever you've perused CMI, you've met this amazing landmark before. So, focused and entering the fairgrounds backwards, I never noticed what song was being played... till Joe got my attention by saying twice, "Nick, Neil is here!" Yep. "Sweet Caroline" (without the "whoa, whoa, whoas") was in the air. That Mr. D. follows me wherever I go.
Okay, the Ribfest. We had no idea! People from all over the states had come to compete for trophies and monetary prizes, but mostly for the prestige of the win. Elaborate tents, portable kitchens, smokers and grills were set up in serious, competitive fashion.
The contenders' entries were for judging only and not for sale. Former prize-winners were selling their goods for consumption; attendees had many choices. Joe's was "Butch's", whose product was proclaimed by my husband to be the best ribs ev-ah. I cannot attest to this fact; I'm so not into swine.
