(This is part 5 of the “Whole Lotta Loony” series chronicling the adventures of your Deep-Fried Ambassador and Deputy Deep-Fried at the North Carolina State Fair.)
I did it!
Finally, after 5,000 visits to the State Fair in the last ten days, I worked up the nerve to ride the 100-foot-tall Vertigo Swing.
With my stomach in my throat.
I know, I know. It’s not exactly a high-intensity thrill ride. And, yes, there were some kids on the ride. Ahem.
BUT, I have a huge fear of heights. Huge.
From the moment I heard about the Vertigo at the press lunch last week, I began talking myself into it. It’s one of the fair’s new rides, and if I remember correctly, the only of its kind in the country.
I pulled the buckle extra tight around my rib cage. And triple-checked the one between my knees. Also assessed the chains and bolts holding my seat onto the ride. They looked sturdy, and I figured, if one gives way, there were still three or four other chains (plus trusty seatbelt) holding me into place.
See? FEAR. OF. HEIGHTS.
I sat beside the nicest fella. A high-school sophomore with aspirations to attend N.C. State. It was his first ride on the Vertigo, too. He wasn’t scared at all.
Y’all, that ride was awesome. I actually kept my eyes open. And didn’t curse once.
