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.

The Week Ahead

I couldn't be more glad that last week is over. WWIII has ended, much to my relief. We are both looking forward to a relaxing trip to Branson with no talk of livestock, sheep or homework. On a personal note, I have been jogging ( not quite running) on a semi-regular basis and don't totally hate it. We'll see how long it lasts, but for now not too bad. Stella had her check-up appointment and is doing great. Other than that,  I hope this week is uneventful and leads to a fun weekend vacay.

What's to Come?

It seems as though my health has been restored. Thank heavens!  I was able to get a bunch accomplished over spring break and now only have the usual homework, work and assistanship things to take care of. in less than two weeks I will be on my way to Branson for my spring break (whether or not I am alone is yet to be determined  I guess). I even already have arranged a sitter for Stella. I hope the weather stays warm so  I can enjoy it. Now only 10 days, 2 essays, a stats test and several projects stand between me and relaxation. I can only hope that they go fast and that harmony comes in all areas of my life which aren't so harmonious at the moment.

Spring Break

I had forgotten what a real date is like. Got to hang out at Ryan's on Wed. night and go fishing. Score- Krista-1, Ryan- none. Then, we went to Old Navy ( in our yucky, smelly fishing clothes haha) and got date night clothes.  Hideaway Pizza was super yummy and hit the spot. Then, even though I live in a town that where shops close at 5 or 6 and some don't open at all during Spring Break, we walked around downtown. The weather was wonderful and we looked super cute on our new outfits. Then, we got my grocery shopping done so I didn't have to carry them myself. I  discovered at Wallie that Ryan enjoys the clearance aisle so much that he bought skillets and a coffee pot. HAHA. Then, we ate our low-fat, yet yummy ice cream bars and watched TV.  This morning we did some laundry and I showed him the joys of bargain shopping at ROSS. It was funny. After taking care of some scholarship business we got him a new OSU hat, which is the most painful process (they never fit just right...too big, too small, I wish that word wasn't there, or this word was). UGH! But we got it done and found a couple cute things for our upcoming trip to Branson. Our date day pt. 2 was concluded with a wonderful lunch at McAllisters. I am so glad judging is over for a while and can't wait to go to OYE, and have more regular person dates. Thanks babe- Love You!

Ready to Feel Better and for Break

Well, I went to the Dr. and got some meds.  I wouldn''t say I feel like a million bucks, but maybe a quarter of a million. Stella is doing great and running like a spaz. I have about 3 weeks worth of homework to do in 5 days, but it will be worth it when Ryan and I have more than 5 hours to spend together at a time. Only 3 weeks until Branson... a much needed vacay. In about 5 weeks from now, Ryan and I will be headed home for State FFA Conference and family time for a whole week. If I can just get the meds to kick in fast enough to bust out a ton of work in a minimal amount of time, then it will be smooth sailing in a week.

Ryan sent Stella and I get well gifts. So did mom = made me smile.