Oreo afghans, and setting your phasers to stun - the best of the Iowa State Fair

There are a few things in this world that provide me with unadulterated joy. Most of them involve whipped cream or that stuff that’s inside a Little Debbie oatmeal creme pie, and then there’s the Iowa State Fair.

I love the fair, I adore it. And it’s not just for the food, though that is a big part of it. It’s for the atmosphere, the free entertainment, the people watching AND the crafts.

I always find things that amaze and amuse me. This year was no different. Allow me to take you on a little virtual tour of the crafty highlights.

First off, let me say that I truly believe quilting is an art form. I’m a little bit of a quilter myself, not a great one, but enough of one to know the time, money, dedication and true skill it takes to create a beautiful quilt.

This one below has all the makings of a winner. It makes you really want to wrap it around yourself and snuggle up close.

I was quite shocked that it didn't win a ribbon. I mean look at the craftsmanship; the intricate detail...

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling festive just looking at it.

The best part though is that it was made by a man, and quite frankly I was happy for him to have his work displayed where so many could see it.

After the quilts I moved on to the yarn arts. What inspiration I found there! One of these two items will be my next winter hat. I just can't decide which one.

or
I'm leaning toward the fish because I feel it would go with just about anything. I'd be tempted to pair the viking hat only with outfits that incorporate some type of breast plate, and well that's just not always practical.

Now this next piece is truly unique. Take it in folks:

Yep, it's an oreo cook afghan. I can't really say anything more about it. I'm that speechless.


Now aside from the fabric arts I'm always blown away by the talent displayed in the fine arts buildings at the fair. This next piece shows true artistry and skill, and yet I feel like the choice of canvas was well... a little crappy.

I don't really know what disturbs me more, the tongue? the goatee? or maybe it's just the fact that someone has painted a man with a goatee and his tongue sticking out on the lid of a toilet seat...yep, I think that's it.

I also adore looking at the miniature houses and rooms. The time, effort and dedication put into these small replicas always make me smile. This one especially caught my eye. It's fabulous in and of itself, and then as I looked closer I determined that the man behind the counter was none other than Dr. McCoy from Star Trek!

My husband tried to convince me that it was Spock, but that's just ridiculous. It's clearly Bones.

I've been saying that in my head all week and imagining him setting his phaser to stun, just in case he catches someone trying to sneak a strawberry.