Beginnings

Candyland Live boasts an A-list, mostly out of town judging staff. Jaime Castleman, Stephanie Blaylock and Jackie Rossi arrived on Thursday and the three of them plus showholder, Heather Malone and I met at Casa Bonita for lunch.

We scored the best table, down in the mine.

Unlike old times, the food was actually really good.

Everyone had the best time.

Although Stephanie's day was not quite complete.

Friday started like any other day. I got up and puttered around the house until it was warm. Then I went to the barn.

I took this photo specifically for Stephanie.

After my ride, I went home, fielded several phone calls, bought a plane ticket and finished packing my show string. Then it was off to the airport to pick up another member of the judging staff, Tiffany Purdy.

We had an early dinner at Senor Rics.

Then it was over to Heather's house for more socializing.

Tiffany Purdy and Jackie Rossi, Maggie Schneider Barkovitz and Christina Harrington, Jennifer Buxton and Stephanie Blaylock, Travis and Anne Field, Angelo Žunić and Tori Tautz

What a perfect start to the Candyland weekend. Bring on the show!