I grew up in Bainbridge, and lived there until my family moved to indianapolis in 1988. The fall festival of leaves was something we always looked forward to as children. We lived right on the corner of quarry street, so every year there was always some ride set up directly in front of our house. My mom used to make sandwiches and coffee for the guys running the rides, and they would always save tickets for us. It was such a big deal to us as little kids. I remember specifically the years the ferris wheel, the bumper cars and also the vortex were out front, those were my favorite!

I hadn't been back to bainbridge since i was in 4th grade, and finally in 2005 i believe it was, i decided to make an impromptu trip back. Walking through town, it hit me how small it was, but as a child, it seemed huge! I walked past the Baker's house, and immediately recognized Harold sitting on the front porch. I walked up and said "you probably don't remember me" and his exact reply? "yes I do, Amanda". I was awestruck. I hadn't seen him since I was in elementary school, and here as an adult, without a blink of eye- he knew who i was. The Baker's were a part of my life growing up, and I was so happy to reconnect with them that day. Harold, Betty and Jodie all ended up coming to my wedding reception in 2008 and it was also really nice for my parents to reunite with them too.

I miss the quaintness of Bainbridge, and hope to be able to make it back to the festival even for just one day this year, and bring my son, so he can experience what mommy did when she was little. <3