August 1, 2008
AQHYA contestants and moms from Illinois: Chayna DeNicolo, Anna Ricobene, Taylor Yuhas, Dawn Yuhas, Marcia Freeman, Debbie Ricobene and Carrie DeNicolo waiting to eat at On The Border.
I made it, barely. You always have to plan for the unexpected. I made great time all the way through Texas, and then we get to Oklahoma and for some reason they plan road construction: Miles and miles of bumper-to-bumper, 100-degree weather. The truck started running hot, and we had to turn the air off.
Then we had to try to make it to the Oklahoma State Fair Park. You would think that, having come here before, I would make it, no problem – wrong. I actually waved at the fairgrounds twice on my trip around. Get very detailed directions from wherever you are coming from. There were two adults and myself driving, and we still missed it.
After finally arriving, we drove all around trying to find where to unload. The AQHA office was wonderful help and got me checked in quickly, but I was at my wit’s end trying to get into my stall and get my shavings; I was wearing out.
Afterwards, we found our motel and retreated to rest and go eat. It was not very far to find On The Border. While waiting in line I finally slowed down enough to notice that there were other contestants all over. The first ones I asked were from Illinois, and they had been here since yesterday. I was curious as to how they were handling the 103-degree weather. After talking to them, and realizing that I am not the only one having a hot day, I sat down and enjoyed my cold Coke and great meal.
Now with a little rest and a few miles to the arena, I think I will be ready for the new day. There is no way to tell you how many people are here! Until tomorrow!
