My Best Vacation Ever

In 2008 my husband and I went to Mansfield, Ohio which is located about half way between Akron and Columbus, over Memorial Day weekend. We left on Thursday and returned on Sunday, thereby avoiding the horrendous holiday traffic. The main reason for the trip was a NASCAR Truck Race at Mansfield Speedway (www.mansfield-speedway.com/track.php).

First we visited the carrousel (www.richlandcarrousel.com) in the center of town in a glass enclosure. Ride tickets are priced reasonably and there are rocking chairs around the outside so you can sit and admire the horses, or wait for shoppers in the gift shop. (see picture)

On Thursday evening there was a parade of haulers into town and a street fair. I can't explain how skilled the hauler drivers must be to park those trucks four abreast across the city street. (see picture) Everything that is expected at a small town carnival was there, as well as a chance to meet the NASCAR folks.

On Friday we went to the track where we could walk around the track before qualifying started and meet the drivers who were there, ready to sign whatever you brought or to give you "hero cards." The trucks colors are so much brighter than they appear on the television. (see picture)

Saturday we got up early, went to the track, where we could observe the "driver's meeting" prior to a really exciting race. It was an easy drive home on Sunday. We had a great time in a wonderful small town.