We went today...Peoples Day...us and a mere 70 000 other people who streamed through the gates. Our small family of five, including one child who has major crowding issues entered a confined area with 70 000 other people all trying to do the same things and see the same things all at the same time. We first went to the showbag pavillion and I think that was the most sensible decision made all day.
Next we tried to leave Sideshow Alley and move into a clearer area. Thats about when Aiden lost it for the first time. He literally crumbled in front of my eyes, lower lip trembling, eyes welling up. I asked him what was wrong and he began to tremble, "Too much, too many people, too much", was all he could get out. I faced him and told him to look at me, focus on me and his breathing. We stood, a little island in a heaving sea of people, protected by Caitie, Conor and Dad. He slowly settled, just a little, we made our way out and went into the Grandstands for a much needed breather and something to eat.
The kids did enjoy seeing the animals, tasting different foods, buying little bits and pieces but it simply was just too busy for me to enjoy it as I was so worried about Aiden. We went into the food pavillion to get a bottle of port from one of the smaller wineries and the crowds again were too much for my brave soldier. He was white and shaking and just overwrought. It didn't seem to matter where we went, there just wasn't room to breathe. As you can see below, he doesn't look his usual self. He couldn't even enjoy the gigantic chocolate fountain behind him!
We did go on some of the rides and he really enjoyed them, I think as they got him out of the crowds. Caitie and Conor went on the Haunted House. We could hear Caities screams from outside! Then all of them, including Dad went on the giant swing and finally some weird ride that made me feel ill just looking at it!
All in all I have to say I didn't enjoy myself as much as I have in previous years. If I want to go in future, I think I will go by myself or with my husband. Caitie is old enough to go on her own next year but I don't think Aiden will be going for a while.
