States!

The PA 4-H State Horse Show is one of my favorite shows of the year. Even though I've graduated and can no longer compete at it, I still get to go because one of our lesson girls made it this year. It's a great show for kids because it's not just their county, it's kids from all over the state competing against each other. To make it to States is an accomplishment alone. We'll be leaving bright and early tomorrow morning for Harrisburg.

This is Redd, Kerrianne's horse, at States last year.

The competition takes place in the Farm Complex in Harrisburg, PA. It's a huge building with two show arenas and many many large areas for temporary stalls. The best part is that it's all connected, so you never have to go outside to get from one area to another. The coliseum that the saddleseat kids show in is also very large. I remember it being the biggest ring I'd ever shown in when I was that age.

Since States always takes place at the end of October, I had to miss Halloween or the Homecoming weekend most years. But really, I didn't care. I was much happier showing my horse than watching a high school football game. Although, some teachers didn't think it was a legitimate reason to miss school. My first year of college, one of my professors said it wasn't an academic excuse. I'm sorry, but 4-H has more educational opportunities than the state football or soccer championships do, yet those kids get excused.

Regardless of professor opinions, I'm leaving for the last show of our season in the morning and I'm just as excited as the kids competing. States holds some of my favorite memories, and each year is a reason to make more.

Teddy and me at our last States. Reserve Champs!

Good luck everyone competing!