Great Show! Dangerous cookies...

Brenda Metcalf's shows in East Dubuque, Illinois are always more of a party than just a show. This time around, the theme was "Christmas in October."

The competition was very stiff, as shown by the quality of the models in the above pictured AR Spanish breed class.

After thirty years in the hobby, I enjoy the fun of the shows much more than vying for the awards, but this time, the stakes were high because the awards were so special. Earlier in the year, Brenda had purchased an entire collection of Boyd's Bears, with enough bears to award to each champion of the day!

The bears were split between all of the divisions, including AR, CM, plastics, chinas, and custom glazed models. Reserve champions would receive rosettes or model-size neck sashes.

There weren't that many opportunities to win a bear if you were only showing a small show string in the AR division like I was. Would I have any chance to bring home a bear?

I was thrilled that Oskar took a Reserve Championship and was awarded a neck sash (but darn, he missed winning the championship bear).

"Oskar" Painted by Karen Beeson. Sculpted by Brigitte Eberl.

My little Sabero pinto, Arapesh, did me proud by taking another Reserve (but no bear again - drat!).

"Arapesh" painted by Karen Beeson.  Sculpted by Deb McDermott. 

But then...

"Dew" painted by Karen Beeson. Sculpted by Sarah Rose. 

"Dew" earned a bear, as the AR Light Breed Champion!  He later went up for the overalls (with his bear) and earned the Overall Reserve Grand in AR Breed Halter. Yay!

"Dew" painted by Karen Beeson. Sculpted by Sarah Rose. Overall Reserve Grand Champion of Artist Resin Breed Halter at IL/IA Live,  10/13/12. 

The bears weren't the only special Christmas treats that Brenda planned for her show. Below this tree are gifts that Brenda wrapped and brought for each and every shower.

Photo ©Brenda Metcalf

Brenda drew each name from a hat, at which time we each went up to choose our gift. Presents ranged from small Christmas ornaments and decorations to horse-related items, and even some Hagen-Renaker mini horses!

Brenda also offered a special award for those who dressed for the Christmas holiday, and planned some special holiday games. She brought these delicious home-baked cookies which we were all enjoying until we learned of the hidden danger...

Three of my friends thought the cookies were fully edible until we all learned that the noses were made from orange toothpicks...oops!  It did provide a funny moment for the entire room when those who had eaten the nose fessed up!

Thank you, Brenda, for a really special show experience, and the wonderful day out with friends!

Photo ©Brenda Metcalf