LIMOUSIN TODAY LimToday-Sept 2018-Web | Page 88

From the Field A Christmas to Remember By Nathan Smith, NALF regional manager Driving back from Denver after National Junior Limousin Show & Congress (NJLSC), I thought back on this year to date. To say the least, it has been an excitement packed year with countless numbers of new faces, places and experiences. In the spirit of covering “firsts,” “Christmas in July” marked my first official junior nationals with NALF and in many ways, it mirrored Christmas in December with my personal family. For example, in the days leading up to junior nationals, I began to look forward to seeing members and families I had met throughout the year. One bonus 86 | SEPTEMBER 2018 of a Limousin Christmas versus a typical Christmas is that I knew there would be more “family members” that I would get to meet throughout the week. Although brief and at times hectic, check-in presented that perfect opportunity to start meeting members and families. It was impressive to watch juniors from across the country work together to help everyone get checked-in quickly and efficiently. A special thanks to the NALJA board for all the help and hard work during check-in. My experience at the NJLSC opening ceremonies Sunday evening was one to remember. Not only is NAJLA a one of a kind program, but the amount of preparation, thought and hard work that went in to making 2018 ceremonies is what truly makes it one of a kind. Colorado Limousin members and families went above and beyond, and many exhibitors remarked that this year’s opening ceremonies is arguably one of the best. Monday brought a full line up of events starting with showmanship contest followed by cow-camp and StockShow U. All divisions of showmanship showed an eagerness to achieve a winning title but what I found