The End Is Near!

I’m really not sure if the end being near is a good thing, or a bad thing, though. I like to think of it as a bitter-sweet ending. My term in Pennsylvania 4-H State Council was more than anyone could ever ask for. I made friends that I’ll keep forever, met very intelligent and interesting people, and most importantly got to work with three great advisors, from whom I’ve learn so much from. Mostly, I learned that hard work will get you far and not to procrastinate.

This year, I was able to attend the State Leadership Conference, which I’ve never been to before. I started off my year there learning what it takes to be a great leader. At the end of the weekend I was inducted, and was given one of those unforgettable green jackets. My term just started, and I had so much to learn; I did most of my learning the next weekend at training for the “seven chosen teens”. It was a weekend I’ll never forget! I was all excited to miss a little bit of school and be at a 4-H event, but that weekend I learned that being a leader isn’t all fun and games! It is usually fun, but also does require hard work, a lot of time, and very long days, sometimes.

I also got to attend State Capital Days. This was the group’s first “appearance” as a team. I know I had a blast spending time with other 4-Hers interested in congress, we even had to pass our own bill; that sure was an experience in itself! As the summer rolled around, we all headed home to our own counties and regions. I was a camp counselor at my regional overnight camp, as well as Westmoreland County’s day camp. Both were a blast like always, but I’ll never ever forget my canoe trip at day camp. My canoe was the first to go out and all the others started going the other way, so I got out and pulled the boat through rapids, only to find out that we were indeed the ones going the right way. Everyone laughed about that for days!

I think my favorite new experience this year was State Days, because I’ve always wanted to go and take part in some of the contests, but I couldn’t because it always seemed to be during my family’s vacation week. This year I was not a contestant, but that didn’t really matter. I got to start the event off by having a blast, as we performed our “Olympic Skit” in the Eisenhower Auditorium. It was such a blast!! I loved being up on the huge stage, and I think the performance really got everyone pumped. It was sad to see the week come to an end, but great to see how well everyone did.

Now as I finish up my year, I get to have dinner with the governor at the beginning of January. I cannot wait, it’s not like everyone can say they ate with the governor. I’ll also take part in the opening ceremonies for the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Then at the end of the month, my team and I will get to showcase all of our hard work at the 2009 State Leadership Conference. I think saying I’m excited would be an understatement. I hope many people who’ve gone before decide to come again, as well as seeing many new faces.

That’s all for me in the year 2008! I hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year and see you at SLC!!

Emily Gabriel