- getting to know the upcoming "stars" in the next batch of juniors
- traveling
- visiting with friends
- helping to make a show a reality
- working on a website
- helping new breeders get started
- seeing new kits in the nest box
- seeing parts of a long-term plan fall into place
- buying a new rabbit
- having fun with the sweepstakes contest
- furthering a new or underdeveloped breed or variety
- having visitors to the barn
- learning something new
- winning on the table
That's just a quick list of the first 14 things I thought of. I'm sure there are many, many more if I really put my mind to it.
The wonderful thing is that, if one part is not working well, something else most likely is. Right now, I'm in a bit of a showing slump. I am making a transition to working with lines that mature more slowly. One sire I've used extensively didn't win his first leg until he was 18 months old. So it's likely that at least some of his offspring will not be highly competitive as juniors. I will have to be patient. But if it works out, I will eventually have more rabbits that can do well on the table for a longer period of time.
So, instead of concentrating on wins right now, I'm concentrating on my long-term plan. I'm taking joy in seeing small parts of the plan work out well. And this weekend, I want to concentrate on visiting with friends that I haven't seen for quite a long time. I've really missed them. Probably dinner after the show will be the highlight of the day!
Don't get me wrong. I'm taking some of my favorite rabbits to the show and I will hope to place well. I'd love to take a class or two. But after last week, my expectations are reigned in for sure! But even if that door is closed to me, I will check out the open windows and still find plenty of ways to enjoy my hobby.
Laurie Stroupe
The Nature Trail Rabbitry
Holland Lops Of Distinction
Precious Pet Rabbits
Pet Rabbit Care Information, Quality Pet Rabbit Breeders, and Rabbit Fun
