Stampede is only a few months away and our schedule is starting to get busy! They were not lying when they said things would really start to pick up in the spring time as we have had back to back events within the last week, and many more to come. On Saturday we had a busy day as we first attended and handed out prizes at the 125th Annual Dairy Cattle Classic, and then were rushed off to the Municipal Building to greet guests who were attending the 2011 IDB Annual Meeting.

It was an honor to be asked to hand out prizes during the Dairy Cattle Classic as they were celebrating their 125th anniversary of this competition. The dairy cattle industry is extremely important to Alberta and to Western Canada, so the three of us were very happy to have the opportunity to be involved (and to learn a thing or two!) I have a hard time even imagining the amount of hard work and dedication to animal care that goes into putting on a competition like that one, yet everyone we met, regardless of how tired they may be, greeted us with smiles and sincere hospitality. Thank you to all the volunteers who put this event on and congratulations to all the competitors!

After the competition we changed into our formals (being very careful not to drag our skirts through the mud in the barn) and headed off to greet guests at the Viva Calgary event. It was really incredible to have our home city chosen to host such a prominent group of people involved in the banking world, so we were also grateful to be invited. How could we not be though? Calgary Tourism put on a truly wonderful first class event with ice sculptures, beautiful décor, excellent food, two bands, a hoop dancer, and a tipi set up in the middle of the room. Plus we got to meet some very amazing people from Central and South America including the mayor of Panama City. As a geek who is studying Economics and Political Science it was also a big honor to meet our Minister of Finance, Jim Flaherty. I am assuming that at this given point in time he was probably very happy to be out of Ottawa for a bit and enjoying a great party in Calgary – I know I was!

A performance by Alan Jackson highlights the week ahead at Stampede Park. Plus, the Calgary Flames and the Calgary Roughnecks look to continue down their respective roads to the end of their seasons.

Details on that and more here:

• Alan Jackson: Multiple award-winning country music star Alan Jackson will be performing at the Scotiabank Saddledome this week, with George Canyon and The Harters opening. Tuesday, March 29 at 7 p.m. with tickets available through Ticketmaster.
• NHL Hockey: It’s down to the wire as the Calgary Flames continue to look to secure an NHL playoff spot. This week, the Flames host the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday, March 30 at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. and tickets for the game are available through Ticketmaster.
• NLL Lacrosse: Having already clinched an NLL playoff spot, the Calgary Roughnecks look to continue their winning ways and to finish off their tenth season in style as they host the Minnesota Swarm on Friday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Tickets for this game are available through Ticketmaster.
• Stampede Casino: Open all year-round and featuring all your favourite slots, tables, a 24 hour poker room, as well as excellent food and special events throughout the year, there’s always something going on down here so why not drop by for a visit? Here’s a taste of what’s happening this week:
  • Dancing All Night 3 with the Blue Sea Band: Come see a ballroom dance performance by Cindy Chung and Steven Luu, featuring music from the Blue Sea Band. Saturday, April 2 from 8 – 11:30 p.m. in the Big Sky Showroom. Tickets available at select locations, see here for more details.
  • Weekly Specials: Every week features specials to make your stay at the Stampede Casino more enjoyable. On Sundays, table and slots players can enjoy Afternoon Tea featuring assorted teas, coffee and biscuits from 2 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays are Neighborly Tuesdays where if a player wins a hand play slot jackpot of $250 or more, their neighbor to the right wins a prize as well. On Wednesdays, patrons aged 55 and over can take a Garden Getaway in the Grasslands Cafe where they can enjoy a $3.99 soup, salad, and sandwich from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Finally, Thursday is Ladies Night at the Centre Bar and the 1912 Bar & Grill as ladies can enjoy half-price wine and appetizer specials from 4 – 8 p.m.
  • Players Zone: Every home game night, come be a part of the action with six themed blackjack tables, Flames ticket giveaways, food and drink specials, and much more.

And that’s all for this week! Make sure to sign up to become a Stampede Insider for first-access to exclusive news, contests and other insider information, and be sure to keep an eye on our official Twitter account at @calgarystampede and our official Facebook fan page for giveaways, special announcements, and more! Finally, make sure to visit our website and continue to tune into the official Stampede Blog to learn more about all of the things happening Here. All Year.

Most people would be surprised to hear that HRH the Prince of Wales had a ranch in southern Alberta in the 1920s and was a big fan of the Calgary Stampede, that model trenches were built on park during the First World War, or that several Hollywood movies were filmed at the Stampede in the 1920s and 1930s.  As archivist and historian for the Calgary Stampede, I think I have one of the best jobs on park because my mission is to preserve all these interesting bits of history so that the bigger story of the Calgary Stampede can be told.  Almost every day I get to talk to people about how they’ve been involved and what the Stampede has meant to them.  These conversations open up so many new perspectives for me, along with the images I piece together through historic photographs, documents, or a pair of worn leather chaps.  I’m excited to share the stories that I am privileged to, and to show off some of the great collections we have in the Archives.   Stay tuned!

Our popular Stampede Packs will be back again for the 2011 edition of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth
Here is a sneak peek at the NEW Kids “Stampede Pack” for 2011. This year’s pack stars our very own Harry the Horse on the front.
Stampede packs can be purchased in the BMO centre, Hall A, Stampede Park during the festival, July 8 – 17, 2011
Post a picture of yourself or a family member wearing a past years “stampede” pack on the Calgary Stampede facebook page and you will be entered into a draw for free 2011 CS Stampede Pack.

Post your picture by March 31st, 2011, drawing to be made on April 1st, 2011
Stay tuned for a sneak peek and a chance to win a NEW Virgin Radio pack

I know I have said it before, but I really can’t believe how fast this year is flying by! I remember when I was crowned, past Queen Katie told me to cherish every moment because the year will be gone before I can even realize what has happened…well…she definitely hit the nail on the head with that! Time seems to be speeding up as everyone is preparing for Stampede! The girls and I are starting to see our schedule getting busier and busier.
Last night the girls and I attended the Stampede’s Annual General Meeting. What a great night! Dr. David Chalack gave his final speech as president and chairman of the board, and made way for our new chairman Mike Casey to step into his role! The room was filled with so many influential faces of the Stampede, it was truly an honor to attend this event. I had some wonderful conversations with people throughout the night, and it really reiterated what an enormous organization the Stampede is, and how tirelessly and selflessly all of our volunteers work to make the Stampede as successful as it is! I am getting more and more excited for Stampede each day that passes…it really is just around the corner!

Tradeshows and exhibitions highlight this week at Stampede Park, ranging from family-orientated activities to outdoor pursuits. Also, the Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic Championship takes place this weekend as well.

See all the details here:

• Calgary Stampede Annual and Extraordinary General Meeting: A reminder to all Stampede shareholders that the AEGM will take place this Tuesday, March 22 at 5 p.m. in the BMO Centre, Palomino Room. Shareholders will be asked to elect nine directors from the 11 nominees who have agreed to let their name stand for election, as well as to vote on a change to bylaw 50. If you are unable to attend the AEGM, your ballot and proxy must be received at Stampede Headquarters (1410 Olympic Way SE) no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, March 21. Note that only Stampede shareholders in good standing are allowed to attend the AEGM.
• CS Dairy Classic Championship: The Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2011. The show will be held in the North Barn of the Agriculture Building on March 25 and 26, and is proud to be offering the Youth Judging Clinic, the SuperCow Class, and the 9th annual Explosion Heifer Sale produced and presented by Alberta Dairy Connection on Friday, March 25. Admission for all of the events is complimentary. For more details, see here.
• Oldtimer’s Hockey Challenge: The Oldtimer’s Hockey Challenge, where legendary hockey heroes take on the Calgary Police Association hockey team, is designed to give fans and players alike an opportunity to celebrate a common joy of the game, while at the same time giving much needed funds to worthy organizations. As an added feature, all ticket purchasers are invited to bring their skates and participate in the pre-game public skate with some of the Legends between 5 and 6 p.m. Puck drop is on Tuesday, March 22 at 7 p.m. at the Scotiabank Saddledome and tickets for the game are available through Ticketmaster.
• Jeff Dunham’s Identity Crisis: Ventriloquist Jeff Dunham brings his Identity Crisis tour to Calgary along with Walter the curmudgeon, Achmed the boggle-eyed skeleton, José Jalapeno on a Stick, and many others. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 23 at the Stampede Corral. Tickets for the show are available through Ticketmaster.
• Family-a-Fair: Alberta’s twenty-first annual Family-a-Fair is the largest tradeshow for families. With plenty to see and do for children and family alike, come see Bob the Builder live, spend some time at the petting zoo, catch some entertainment on the main stage, or shop at one of the many exhibitors that will be on hand. March 25 and 26 at the BMO Centre. Tickets available at the door, and advance tickets available at any Calgary Co-op customer service centre.
• Calgary Pet Expo: Pet Expo is a two-day consumer tradeshow that is open to the public. You will find hundreds of pets, pet products, service providers, entertainers, clubs and organizations that cater to pets of all types. Featuring various educational seminars and opportunities to speak with experts, Pet Expo strives to cater to all types of pets. March 26 – 27 in the Big Four Building, Lower Level. Tickets for the expo are available at the door.
• FHNB Fashion & Accessory Exposé: The Fashion Has No Borders Fashion & Accessory Exposé is a one stop, full weekend shopping experience for everyone! Featuring a fabulous mix of unmistakably inventive local “must have” lines of apparel and accessories, shop from the Boutique, Accessories, Streetwear, and Sample Sales sections and find a vast selection to suit anyone’s fancy! With runway shows, fashion theatre, and a gallery of work by local artists, the Fashion & Accessory Exposé is the ultimate fashion-lovers day out. Saturday, March 26 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Big Four Building. Tickets available at the door, and advanced tickets available online.
• Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show: Explore Western Canada’s largest adventure and travel show offering pre-season deals on the newest outdoor gear and amazing travel destinations! See canon and kayak experts in the Whitewater Demo Pool or ignite your passion for off-roading, biking, hiking, running, water or mountain sports at over 200 exhibits! Meet experienced guides who will help you plan your next dream getaway, and be inspired by outdoor celebrities and thrilling adventure travel presentations. March 26 and 27 in the BMO Centre, tickets available at the door and online.
• PGA of Alberta Golf Show 2011: Featuring an indoor driving range, merchandise clearance centre, new equipment promotion, free golf tips and lessons as well as a wide range of information on local golf courses, resorts, and destinations, don’t miss out on the exclusive discounts on PGA memberships, green fees, hotel rates, vacation packages, clothing, and golf equipment at the annual PGA of Alberta Golf Show! March 26 and 27 at the BMO Centre, tickets available at the door.
• NLL Lacrosse: Having recently clinched an NLL playoff spot, the red-hot Calgary Roughnecks look to continue their winning ways against as they host the Toronto Rock, the only other NLL team thus far to have clinched an NLL playoff spot as well. Friday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Tickets for this game are available through Ticketmaster.
• Stampede Casino: Open all year-round and featuring all your favourite slots, tables, a 24 hour poker room, as well as excellent food and special events throughout the year, there’s always something going on down here so why not drop by for a visit? Here’s a taste of what’s happening this week:
  • Weekly Specials: Every week features specials to make your stay at the Stampede Casino more enjoyable. On Sundays, table and slots players can enjoy Afternoon Tea featuring assorted teas, coffee and biscuits from 2 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays are Neighborly Tuesdays where if a player wins a hand play slot jackpot of $250 or more, their neighbor to the right wins a prize as well. On Wednesdays, patrons aged 55 and over can take a Garden Getaway in the Grasslands Cafe where they can enjoy a $3.99 soup, salad, and sandwich from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Finally, Thursday is Ladies Night at the Centre Bar and the 1912 Bar & Grill as ladies can enjoy half-price wine and appetizer specials from 4 – 8 p.m.
  • Players Zone: Every home game night, come be a part of the action with six themed blackjack tables, Flames ticket giveaways, food and drink specials, and much more.

And that’s all for this week! Make sure to sign up to become a Stampede Insider for first-access to exclusive news, contests and other insider information, and be sure to keep an eye on our official Twitter account at @calgarystampede and our official Facebook fan page for giveaways, special announcements, and more! Finally, make sure to visit our website and continue to tune into the official Stampede Blog to learn more about all of the things happening Here. All Year.

Since the crowning, we have been waiting anxiously to get on our horses. Finally, we are getting some warmer weather and its time to get on our horses!!! We are starting to ride our horses a couple days a week to work off their bellies, and to of course to bond with our Calgary Stampede Princes, Snoopy, Kansas, and Hawk (our horses). It was so exciting to get the ball rolling and prepare for our upcoming events on horseback. We are starting to get to know our horses and of course practice our wave. Wednesday night was our first ride on the royalty horses since the final riding competition, and the first time each of us sat in our beautiful Eamors saddles. We all also would like to thank the Heathercrest Ranch for letting use their beautiful facility. Soon enough our horses will be in shape and we will be spreading western hospitality on horseback!!!

Apparently the arrival of spring-like temperatures in Calgary brings out the artists!

Joanne MacDonald and Philip Bandura are currently showing work at “The Black & White Show” at DaDe Art and Design Lab located at 1327 – 9^th ave S.E.  Philip is also participating  in a show at Ruberto-Ostberg Gallery called, ”Soft Power”, a new glass art exhibition from glass-based studio collective, BeeKingdom. See the exhibit at 2108-18 St. N.W

Another 2011 Artist from the Artist Ranch Project, Eveline Kolijn, is travelling further afield to Limerick, Ireland. Eveline has a solo show there in May while Adele Woolsey is currently gathering inspiration in various locations around Africa while lending a helping hand  installing water filtration systems throughout the continent.   

Be sure to come down to see what these fantastic artists have produced from their experience. The art will be on display at in the Western Oasis Hall in the BMO Centre at Calgary Stampede 2011!

 

Herb Sellin, one of the 2010 Artist Ranch Project artists has been awarded a Canada Council Grant for the Arts to continue with his series of works from the project last year.  Herb will be creating an additional 15 paintings, within the next year, based on his experience with the Artist Ranch Project of the Western Showcase from 2010.  Congratulations Herb!

FINALLY! The sun is shining down upon Calgary and the snow banks that used to block my driveway can be seen running down the street, into the sewer and hopefully away for good! Anyone who knows me well knows how intolerant I am to cold weather, and the dreaded 5-day weather forecast was really starting to take its toll. But alas! It seems spring may have sprung. I had been observing my poor horse braving the elements week after week, and all I could do was bring him treats and layer his blankets…and every time I’d be greeted with a nicker, bless his soul. Now that the weather has finally made a positive turn, I can’t wait to venture out to Heathercrest Stable where our trusty steeds for this Stampede season are waiting for us! We are all very excited to get to know our horses, as each of us will stick with the same horse for all of our parades and “mounted” functions this year! Whitney will be riding the spirited Snoopy, Stephanie will be riding the very handsome Kansas, I will be riding a gallant fellow named Hawk, and our IP Eva will be riding a “Paint”ed beauty named Stormy. Come April, we will begin riding our horses twice a week to prepare for the coming rodeo season and many parades that we will be attending. The boys seem to have put on a few pounds over the winter season, as we all seem to do…I really cannot believe how fast this year is already flying by. Time to kick things into high gear! Stampede will be around the corner before we know it!

The Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede looks to dazzle while the Shrine Circus looks to delight this week at Stampede Park as both groups put on performances for the public. Plus, the ever-popular Grape Escape and the Calgary Total Health Show are taking place this week on Park as well.

Details on that and more here:

• The Young Canadians Spring Show GALLERIA: The Young Canadians Spring Show is a special presentation done each year which showcases the talents of the full student body in a large scale theatrical production in a more intimate setting. GALLERIA lets TYC guide you through the Galleria of your mind. A versatile performance including dynamic dance, vocal and acrobatic presentations will engulf your curiosity and dazzle your senses. Four shows will be running through March 18 – 20 in the Big Four Building. Tickets are available online or by calling the Stampede Ticket Office at 403.269.9822. Ticket office phone hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
• Al Azhar Shrine Circus featuring Cirque Mondo: Drawing from their origins as artists, naturalists, financers, and imagineers, Cirque Mondo is a fusion of arts, science and delight. Born of the nouveaux circus revolution in Canada, Cirque Mondo celebrates the dynamics of modern circus, while respecting and enhancing the traditions of our oldest art form. They offer a new and exciting circus, one built on tradition while borrowing from the new circus arts. In the Stampede Corral, March 18 – 20. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
• The Grape Escape: You don’t want to miss this informative and entertaining evening featuring samplings from over 60 producers of wine, spirits and beer. March 18 – 20 in the BMO Centre, Halls D and E. Tickets may be purchased from any Calgary Co-op Wines and Spirits locations.
• Calgary Total Health Show: The forth annual Calgary Total Health Show is designed to educate and facilitate your personal health and wellness experience. The Total Health Show provides new, reliable and practical diet, supplement, exercise and lifestyle tips that promote healthier living. Look younger and feel better than you’ve ever felt before! March 19 – 20 in the BMO Centre, Hall A. Tickets available online or at the door.
• NHL Hockey: On the road to the playoffs, one of the hottest teams in the NHL right now, the Calgary Flames, continue their quest to secure a playoff spot within the very competitive Western Conference. They host two games this week at the Scotiabank Saddledome. First, they take on the Phoenix Coyotes on Tuesday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. followed by the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday, March 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets for both games are available through Ticketmaster.
• WHL Hockey: Meanwhile, the Calgary Hitmen look to close off the regular season with a couple of games this week at the Scotiabank Saddledome. First, they host the Prince Albert Raiders on Wednesday, March 16 at 7 p.m. followed by the Medicine Hat Tigers on Sunday, March 20 at 2 p.m. Tickets for both games are available through Ticketmaster.
• NLL Lacrosse: Celebrating their tenth anniversary in Calgary, the number one team in the West, the Calgary Roughnecks, look to continue their winning ways this week as they host the Edmonton Rush on Saturday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the Scotiabank Saddledome. Tickets for this game are available through Ticketmaster.
• Stampede Casino: Open all year-round and featuring all your favourite slots, tables, a 24 hour poker room, as well as excellent food and special events throughout the year, there’s always something going on down here so why not drop by for a visit? Here’s a taste of what’s happening this week:
  • The Irish Descendants: Make the most out of your St. Patrick’s Day as Juno award-winning The Irish Descendants play the Big Sky Showroom this Thursday, March 17. Doors open at 9 p.m. and the concert starts at 9:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at Guest Services. Plus, enter the Stampede Casino’s ShamRock & Roll and be entered to win a pot full of prizes!
  • UFC 128: Catch UFC 128 in the Big Sky Showroom on three theatre-sized screens as Jon “Bones” Jones challenges Mauricio “Shogun” Rua for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the event starts at 8 p.m. Tickets (available through Guest Services) are $10 and include a complementary snack buffet.
  • Weekly Specials: Every week features specials to make your stay at the Stampede Casino more enjoyable. On Sundays, table and slots players can enjoy Afternoon Tea featuring assorted teas, coffee and biscuits from 2 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays are Neighborly Tuesdays where if a player wins a hand play slot jackpot of $250 or more, their neighbor to the right wins a prize as well. On Wednesdays, patrons aged 55 and over can take a Garden Getaway in the Grasslands Cafe where they can enjoy a $3.99 soup, salad, and sandwich from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Finally, Thursday is Ladies Night at the Centre Bar and the 1912 Bar & Grill as ladies can enjoy half-price wine and appetizer specials from 4 – 8 p.m.
  • Players Zone: Every home game night, come be a part of the action with six themed blackjack tables, Flames ticket giveaways, food and drink specials, and much more.

And that’s all for this week! Make sure to sign up to become a Stampede Insider for first-access to exclusive news, contests and other insider information, and be sure to keep an eye on our official Twitter account at @calgarystampede and our official Facebook fan page for giveaways, special announcements, and more! Finally, make sure to visit our website and continue to tune into the official Stampede Blog to learn more about all of the things happening Here. All Year.

Larry Krause, performing on the Window on the West stage on July 16th and 17th, has received four nominations for this year’s Saskatchewan Country Music Awards. Larry was nominated for Male Vocalist of the year, Song of the Year-Composer, for, “Years Flyin’ By”, Album of the Year for “Northern Range” and also as Country Music Person of the Year. The latter is not surpising given his ongoing work behind the scenes in Saskatchewan Country music.

Larry also received a co-nomination with Riverbend Sound’s Dave Sinclair, for Producer of the Year, for production work on Larry’s album, “Northern Range”.

For more details go to www.larrykrause.ca. The SCMA awards take place this year in Swift Current, Saskatchewan on April 1-3, 2011.

The Window on the West stage is looking better than ever! Be sure to check us out during Stampede 2011 at the Western Oasis Hall located in the BMO Centre.

The Calgary International Auto and Truck Show and the CKOC All Breed Dog Show highlight the week ahead at Stampede Park.

Details on that and more here:

• Calgary International Auto and Truck Show: Presented by the Calgary Motor Dealers’ Association, the Calgary International Auto and Truck Show is the premiere event for auto enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the newest daily drivers and the hottest exotics. In addition to major manufacturers from across the automotive spectrum, the show also plays host to a diverse selection of accessory and service exhibitors! March 9 – 13 in the BMO Centre. Tickets available at the door and advance tickets available online.
• CKOC All Breed Dog Show: The Spring Show of the Calgary Kennel and Obedience Club features conformation, three obedience trials, one rally obedience trial, junior handling, and a obedience correction match on Thursday night. There will also be boosters for the Boston Terrier, Boxers, and Scottish Terrier. March 11 – 13 in the Big Four Building, Lower Level. Admission to this event is free.
• NHL Hockey: The Calgary Flames host their Northwest Division rivals the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday, March 12 at 8 p.m. at the Scotiabank Saddledome as they try to maintain their hold in the standings. Tickets for this game are available through Ticketmaster.
• WHL Hockey: The Calgary Hitmen play twice this week at the Scotiabank Saddledome. First, they host the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Friday, March 11 at 7 p.m., followed by the Red Deer Rebels on Sunday, March 13 at 5 p.m. Tickets for both games are available through Ticketmaster.
• Stampede Casino: Open all year-round and featuring all your favourite slots, tables, a 24 hour poker room, as well as excellent food and special events throughout the year, there’s always something going on down here so why not drop by for a visit? Here’s a taste of what’s happening this week:
  • Weekly Specials: Every week features specials to make your stay at the Stampede Casino more enjoyable. On Sundays, table and slots players can enjoy Afternoon Tea featuring assorted teas, coffee and biscuits from 2 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays are Neighborly Tuesdays where if a player wins a hand play slot jackpot of $250 or more, their neighbor to the right wins a prize as well. On Wednesdays, patrons aged 55 and over can take a Garden Getaway in the Grasslands Cafe where they can enjoy a $3.99 soup, salad, and sandwich from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Finally, Thursday is Ladies Night at the Centre Bar and the 1912 Bar & Grill as ladies can enjoy half-price wine and appetizer specials from 4 – 8 p.m.
  • Players Zone: Every home game night, come be a part of the action with six themed blackjack tables, Flames ticket giveaways, food and drink specials, and much more.

And that’s all for this week! Make sure to sign up to become a Stampede Insider for first-access to exclusive news, contests and other insider information, and be sure to keep an eye on our official Twitter account at @calgarystampede and our official Facebook fan page for giveaways, special announcements, and more! Finally, make sure to visit our website and continue to tune into the official Stampede Blog to learn more about all of the things happening Here. All Year.

There is never a dull moment as one of the Calgary Stampede Royalty. Not only are we traveling to events in the Calgary and area promoting western heritage and values, all three of us are students. I am in my final semester of a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Calgary, and it is crunch time. I have been working my butt off writing papers, painting in the studio, and of course the dreaded readings. We are all dedicated students and we have to learn to budget our time effectively and balance to the two jobs of student and royalty. We have all brought our text books along on out travels with good intentions of reading them…but this never happens. We are just having too much fun!!! Graduation is so close and I can hardly wait for spring to arrive. We have so many great events coming up, and our horses are patiently waiting for the weather to warm up so that we can ride. It is hard work to balance all of my duties, but school will be done soon, and I will be 110% ready for Stampede!