California State FFA Conference Updates

Not that very many of you will care, but for the sake of maintaining updates, etc. I will blog about the conference for my CA friend who can't be here and even my OK friends because OSU's own Mr. Riley Pagett is visiting as the National FFA President. The conference is shaping up to be a wonderful time.

Well, opening session was awesome, Lindsey and Ben both came down from the ceiling and the others entered on motorized vehicles. The members were super excited to Discover their Adventure. The skit proved hilarious and members seem to be really enjoying themselves. Josh Shipp inspired members to go above and beyond what people have categorized them and be the best they can be by not being average...and a goat!

Day 2- It started with a tribute to the FFA creed and all it means to agriculture. Mr. Brooks Gibbs spoke about the life choices we make and how to ensure positive consequences. We also heard two presentations from National FFA Offices, Including Mr. Pagett. Outstanding member achievements were recognized. Finally we heard three retiring addresses form Casey, Jessica and Ben. Tears filled the arena to hear their words of inspiration. Hard to believe conference is half over!

Day 3- At the only session, we heard the retirng address from Jackie Garcia and recognized the officer advisors. That night Gloriana performed for 4,000 members and guests. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

Day 4- The final session of the conference was filled with excitement and tears. Press Corp, Courtesy Corp., the choir and band were recognized. We heard the retiring addresses from Lindsey and Vince. The officer's parents were recognized. Finally, the 2011-2012 officers were elected. For the fourth year in a row, Escalon has an officer on the team.

Overall, the conference and the trip home were very enjoyable. Now back to the real world and trying to get caught up.

Excited for the Cali Time

Well, only two days of work and 1 class period stand between me and the flights home. I am super excited to see my family and few close friends while I'm home. I even get to see some cousins I haven't seen since Christmas! Yea for Hanna B. It sounds like mom has a few projects for me to work on (no surprise there). But I get to see the pets and new showpigs, which makes me very happy. Can't wait to see what the CA FFA officers have in store for us! Updates to follow.

Branson Fun

Well, it has finally come and gone, the vacation that had been in the work for several months. I think I speak for my traveling partner too in saying it was a HUGE success! After traveling 4 hours, we enjoyed a large meal at Lambert's where they throw your rolls to you. Good thing Ryan can catch lol.

After a good night's rest in a lovely hotel (thank you grandma) we headed to Silver Dollar City. But we made a pit stop at the outlets first, but more on that in a sec. It was great to run around care-free and enjoy some rides and good food. I had never had a spiral cut potato, but was yummy, so was the chocolate covered strawberry. I even got a mini umbrella that they painted my name on (a shout out to my previous one I lost). After four hours my feet hurt and we headed to the landing to Dicks 5 & 10 and walked around a bit. Ryan surprised me by offering to cook a steak dinner, and I accepted of course! After a great dinner we watched TV in 2 separate rooms because he wanted sports and I watched say yes to the dress. I was quickly informed  I need two TVs at my house so this luxury can continue. Haha.

Let's see, that brings me to Saturday. So we had to go to the outlets first thing Friday because Ryan needed a jacket. we did some pre-shopping looking (ok, so I might have bought a couple of items). however, we hit the outlets good on Saturday.  I got a variety of new things from new dinner plates and a deviled egg holder to a track suit and a couple of dresses. After all, it was all at outlet prices :) Oh and my personal fav, the MAC discounted makeup!  Then, we headed to Shepard's of the Hill where we went down the world's tallest zip-line. And although I was petrified, it went well and was a fun experience, however we both passed when offered second rides at a discount- once is SO enough! Our day concluded with a dinner and show on the Showboats Branson Belle. It was wonderful entertainment that kept us laghing the entire time. We even got to join the high school prom that was going on (some interesting dresses to say the least). Anyways, we had a wonderful night.

Finally, Ryan again surprised me with a a nice breakfast before we left. Sunday we finished our shopping and went the wax museum which was hilarious. I haven't seen someone so excited for wax. Ryan really had fun with the figures (see FB). Then, we headed home where Stella was waiting. All three of us watched the ACMAs, and enjoyed the last few hours of vacay. Overall , a wonderful time. Thanks for the company Ryan. California- I will see you in 9 days. I can't wait for the Ca State FFA Leadership Conference and to see my family and kitty at home.