November

This has been a whirlwind of a month! I started the month off sick, which isn't an uncommon trend for me this school year, but I finally found the cause of my constant sickness. I left my mattress pad in the basement of Columbia (storage area) over the summer, which left my mattress pad full of lovely mold spores. Before Thanksgiving break I disposed of that pad and got a brand new down mattress topper. That was the best decision of the school year, as it is very comfortable and it has zero mold spores. I am now feeling back to my normal self!!!!

Before break I was busy with classes and getting ready for my first horse show. I was riding three times a week, which is a lot considering the amount of work I have right now, but it was well worth it. The team went to Skidmore College on the 21st and we all did well. I placed 4th, which isn't exactly what I wanted, but for my first time ever showing in the IHSA show circuit. Many people don't realize that when showing inter-collegiate you do not know which horse you are riding until the day of the show and even then you have never seen or been on the horse. You get on the horse in the ring and the moment you begin walking you are being judged. It is a bit of a stressful situation, yet the adrenaline kicks in and it is a fun experience.

I am currently sitting in the Philadelphia airport on my way back to school after Thanksgiving break. It was a fun and relaxing break. I went to my great great Aunt's 90th birthday party and spent Thanksgiving at my uncles. I did not participate in the early morning Black Friday shopping, but my mother did. 4:40AM she was in line at Target (I though she was crazy). We decorated the house for Christmas and now I can't wait to decorate my dorm room for Christmas. I'm a huge fan of Christmas music and decorations!!!!!

Hope everyone else had a wonderful Thanksgiving Break.

Ashley