In the middle of winter, what else but a trip to the Farm Show in Harrisburg could warm the cockles of a Pennsylvanian’s heart? As you would expect for this time of year, the show is all indoors. What follows is not a documentary of all the sights to be seen there, including the animals, but rather a few memorable or representative shots to give the viewer the flavor of the place. All photos except the last were taken in the cavernous exposition building.

Without hesitation, dairyman’s daughter, Patty, leaps into the cab of the latest farm gear.

Nearby, she discovered a sandbox just like the one her dear old dad once made for her and her brother and sister.

A farm building mockup brought back more memories of a simpler life.

On display was an exquisite model of the historic "Star Barn" which still stands outside Harrisburg. The fellow who made this was born in central PA but now resides in El Segundo, CA. He carted it across country in a trailer for the show. It comes apart in five pieces, he said. It's a beautiful piece of work and he completed it in less than one year!

That’s the builder himself on the left above, caught in an unguarded moment. I wouldn’t be surprised if, on this the 5th day of the show, he’s a little tired by it all.

Polka dancing is now a regular part of the Farm Show and we happened to go on the day it was scheduled. Interestingly enough, this dance is held in the Equine Arena with the dirt surface compacted before dancing began. Local Polka dance groups put the 40 x 40 ft dance floor together using 4 x 8 plywood sheets screwed to a layer of pressed board. Patty and I danced for about 15 minutes in our sneakers after hours of show-walking. Next time, we'll bring shoes that are easier on the legs for dancing.

So, you’ve had a glimpse of the 2006 PA Farm Show. If I had simply thought ahead that I might be putting these on our website, I would have gone for the documentary.