Wedding Bells & Hoof Beats

Our last three days in Golden were spent catching up with our old friends from Minnesota, Paul & Karla Hendrickson.  We were all in Golden to celebrate the marriage of their daughter, Jessica to her long time beau, Jason.  Paul and I worked together in the late 80's on the production of sports and music events.  I met Jessica and her little sister, Beth when they were 8 and 6 years old, and would come to our offices for Triathlon Minnesota in the St. Paul skyway.  We had great fun at the popcorn shop and the candy store!

Paul, Ron & Karla at the wedding.  It was great to catch up with them. 

Jason & Jessica outside the beautiful, little chapel they were married in, with the Reverend who performed the ceremony.  And, this was their get-away car!  Jason's dad bought this 1972 Corvette the year that Jason was born (just happens to be my favorite car, in my favorite color (candy apple red), the year I graduated from high school!)  The reception was held at Jason & Jessica's house, with Cajun food (they met in New Orleans), French wine (Jessica speaks fluent French) and a great time was had by all. 

The next day, we were on the road again - headed back to Minnesota where I would be working the Region 10 Arabian/Half Arabian Championships.  While the drive is long, we had good driving weather and managed to get in a day early.  Alycia met us for lunch - she was headed to the Backstreet Boys concert that evening.  Brooke & Johnny came to our campsite at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds for a late dinner.  It was so great to see them all!

I started working the Regional Pre Show on Wednesday (I am a Ringmaster) with a grueling first session that lasted 6 hours. Since Ringmasters are on their feet almost 100% of the time, it can be exhausting.  Fortunately, when the Region 10 show starts on Thursday, I share duties with Derek Jones, Ringmaster extraordinaire from Toronto, and my mentor.  We have a fantastic crew at the show.  Everyone works together, and the show this year ran very smoothly.  I love seeing the horses, catching up with old friends (and making new ones), and picking everyone's brain for their favorite places and things across the country to do and see.

Jeff Rutz, our announcer, me, Kitty Omitt, ring secretary, and Derek Jones, Ringmaster - we have TOO much fun in center ring!

Some of the beautiful Arabian horses showing at the Region 10 Championships.

Derek & I with Jolene Bertrand, the show's photographer, and a dear friend.  I have worked with Jolene for many years and she is not only a fantastic photographer, she makes every one feel like a champion - she is positive, direct and always smiling.  If you want to see really good photos of the horses and events at the show, go to her website!Avalon Photography