Beefcake

Last weekend crowds turned out to see beefcake on bikes. This week, it's the real thing. The Balmoral Show is an agricultural event drawing more than 10,000 people. I volunteered there today and I'm exhausted. I hope to never say again: "Would you like a map?" which I did from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The most-watched ring was the cattle ring, where Herefords, Aberdeen Angus (like this fella), Charolais, and other heavy farm equipment sauntered in front of the judges. People were three deep at the rails, earnestly discussing the merits of each creature.

There were also loads of sheep with strange names: Texel, Zwartbles--they're like a Scrabble player's dream. And, of course, gorgeous horses. The showjumping ring gave me willies because that is how I spent my teenage years.

And then there were the adorable children. These guys look like they're from central casting. (Notice the useful map being consulted by the big guy.)

All of these photos were lifted from the Belfast Telegraph. My camera's out in the car and I'm too tired to go get it.
Blake, if you are reading this: The NI Food tent had 80 Ulster food and drink businesses and it had the BEST marketing. "Caught here, not brought here." "Grown here, not flown here." "Lashed by our rains, bashed by our winds." The list of exhibitors gives an idea of the range.
Did I mention I'm tired? You know what that means. Time to count sheep: