Brittany Sims of Little Rock, AR sits in front of her home state's stalls.
After nine days at the 2008 Ford AQHYA World Championship Show, I have seen why the American Quarter Horse is so loved. Being with the youth that so dearly love their Quarter Horses has made me want to run home and bring mine back with me.
Coming here, I was nervous. I kept thinking that I would have problems writing, I would clam up during interviews and that I would work long days and be stressed out. Once I got here, I realized that none of my concerns even mattered. Being with Cheyenne, Tim, and the Journal staff was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
My goal for this trip originally was to have fun and meet people, but leaving here I realize that my trip was worth so much more.
I have learned, not only about writing, but also about horses and people. Going home, I take knowledge that I never would have expected. I saw my first English class and it is not quite what I expected. I learned that interviewing is not that hard, and that the interviewee is just as nervous as I am. I learned how to work as a team and how even a bad interview can turn into a good story.
I am sad to be leaving here; the show is like a second home to me. The Journal staff has been like family, and I will miss them dearly (even the QJ’s). I hope that next year I can return as a competitor because this experience is one that I will never forget.
