Hey, my name is Dakota Diamond Griffith coming straight to you from Ohio. For those of you who don't know me, I'm the girl from hauls to way too many horse shows with my black mare, Hope and may talk just a little TOO much!

While some may think I need to get a life, please stand corrected. THIS IS THE LIFE - DUH:-) My Daddy kindly refers to my personality as "socially inclined". Let's leave it at that - it's how I got the job blogging for GoHorseShow.com! I guess it also didn't hurt that I am the "hometown" girl from Columbus either;-) BTW - Go Bucks!

Anyway, enough about me...the real reason you will want to read my column is to get the juicy scoop about all the hot things going at The All-American Quarter Horse Congress.

(please scroll down for previous installments)

Final Blog...My Last Hurrah! 

I will have to say this final Congress blog has been my favorite to work on. Let’s face it; I got to report on some of the ultimate horse show hotties!! Tough job right? In the end, it was you who made this possible. After all, I just write the facts (with a tiny bit of artistic license ;-)

Although my poll was not particularly scientific, thanks to everyone young and old who didn’t run the other way when I hunted you down for your personal favorites! There were lots of funny stories you shared from behind the scenes, but never to worry - a reporter never divulges her sources! Although I am a die-hard horseshow competitor, keep in mind my blogging comes with a Warning Label: Do not take this too seriously! To the tons of other hotties we all adore, I hope to feature you at another date. After all – this was only one horseshow!

(Disclaimer for my under 18 buddies: We have enough pressure, so this was limited to adults – our time will come so look out winners! And sorry Troy Compton and you too Don Bell, no employees of GoHorseShow.com were eligible to make this list but trust me, you're hottie-worthy!)

HOTTEST GIRLS

Champion: Annelise Kimmel

“I like the excitement that you have when you ride a horse,” Annelise Kimmel was once quoted as saying. Whether it is a group of girls looking to copycat her glam girl style in the show ring, or guys drooling over the rail, what I need to tell Annelise is that “YOU create excitement when you ride a horse!!!!” Although she possesses cool California Baywatch beauty, this hottie is actually a Buckeye like myself.

In spite of her seemingly perfect exterior, Annelise takes the number one spot for her many other attributes, including the fact that she never takes herself too seriously. Don’t get the wrong idea, this is no stereotypical blonde. An entrepreneur in the home furnishings and decorating industry, Annelise is a successful young businesswoman. Although a fixture in her store at Congress, she somehow juggled the whole schedule thing, and found the time show some of the top horses in the nation too. The list of her wins and great horses is seemingly endless (can you say Radical Rumors and I Like It In The Dark!)

The good news is girls, she is currently off the market. The bad news is guys, is that she is currently off the market. Always a chameleon with her whimsical pink or purple hair streaks, this beauty is comfortable in her own skin. Best of all, she is a great friend.

Reserve Champion: Halle Saywell

Sorry readers, the Buckeye state does it again. I liken the state of Ohio’s Horse Show hotties to the way Venezuela turns out beauty queens. Halle Saywell reminds me of the Tom Petty song, “American Girl.” Her seemingly effortless good looks have landed her in a top spot on the hottie poll. But come on, no one is a loser here. Also famous for her success in the showpen with horses like A Gift So Good, this Ohio stunner is a head turner both in and out of the arena.

Top 5: Blair Kern

Although an aspiring model, this hottie didn't make the top-5 just based on her looks alone. This girl can ride. How many people do you know who could make the extended walk hot? She knocked it out (and all the other gaits as well) on her way to winning the World in the Amateur Western Pleasure last year, her second World Champion title in the pleasure.  She loves college football and is smart as well with a degree from SMU to prove it. 

Whitney Ward

Emblazoned on this cancer survivors wrists are the tattoo’s “Faith and Hope” – mottos to live by. Everyone loves a southern Belle, and the state of Louisiana turned out a great one in Whitney Ward. An incredible over-achiever, Whitney has excelled in and out of the horse show arena boasting success as a former National Honor Society inductee, varsity athlete, and of course as an equestrian. How many people do you know with those accolades who also look smokin’ hot in a bikini? She mastered the all-around in youth thing, then won herself a Reserve World Championship last year in the Amateur Western Pleasure. What is my favorite thing about Whitney – her competitive spirit and lifetime commitment to make sacrifice in order to attain her goals. That pushes this hottie over the top.

Julia Taylor

Eat your heart out Reese Witherspoon - there's a new Elle Woods in town! How many girls can take a little time off from their first semester at Harvard Law School (right before mid-terms no less!) and win the Amateur Showmanship at the Congress? And to top it off, she looked great doing it (just love the black and white Paula!) Plus, as you can see from her picture, she's obviously a fan of GoHorseShow Green. See, we knew she was title-worthy! I think JDT is going to be one of those girls who we will all be able to say “We knew her when.”

HOTTEST COUPLES

This category had by far and away the most unanimous winner. In fact, they practically blew the doors off the competition. What set them apart from the rest? Read and find out.

Champions: Bret and Candy Parrish
Can I just say wow! This is the ultimate Barbie and Ken couple. In the end, it wasn’t their physical and obvious beauty that set them apart. (But let’s face it they are both flat gorgeous.) As a huge admirer, their win was based upon selflessness, a devotion to their business and horses, flying low under the radar (that means keeping their noses clean), and an overwhelming love of each other and family. 

Speaking of family...according to Candy, "If we aren’t on a horse we can be found with our boys: Cody 14 and Chase 12. Cody’s primary interest is horses (he is a 2 time Congress Champion) but he also plays football and enjoys hunting when he can find the time. Chase, a Quarterback, on the other hand is completely consumed by football. He won the Congress in Small Fry Horsemanship in 2005 but has 'retired' from showing to train and perfect his quarterback skills in his dream of 'going all the way.'"  See, even the kids are fabulous!

Did you know that Candy won the first-ever Small Fry class at the Congress way back in 1979! Bret will go down in history as the winner of the first $100,00 class at the Reichert with RL Best of Sudden.  They were both in the top-5 at this year's Congress Masters and they're the trainers of the winner Jan Pittman's  World Champion Western Pleasure horse the past two years. 

Frankly, their relationship raises the bar so high, that I may be single forever if I have to settle for less. No haters here. It would make you look pretty silly.

Reserve Champions: Wesley and Kristen Galyean

You know the old saying “Don’t hate them because they’re beautiful?” As close to perfection as it comes, here is the hottest new power couple in the horse industry. After all, how many of you donated your trophy saddle at Congress to raise $6,000 for cancer research? When the newlyweds who were married on Valentine’s Day this year met in 2005, it was said to be like a movie script. You know the one - “You had me at hello?” Both avid horse show competitors, at the tender age of 26, Wesley has already won over a million dollars in the cutting horse pen. Yes, that’s million as in seven figures. His name needs no recognition as he comes from one of the most famous last names in showing – ahhhh the Galyean’s.

Kristen, no stranger to success, is the incredibly gorgeous front person for Jim Glover Chevrolet who beat me in coining my favorite phrase "Dad'll do it!" Love that! A hugely successful competitor, Kristen and Vital Signs Are Good a/k/a Lucy, put up more records in the pleasure horse industry than Terry Bradshaw has Super Bowl rings. But what will she do for an encore now that her beloved Lucy is off to a new family…. and do the kids learn to ride on cutters or Lucy’s babies? Don’t worry. With a picturesque new horse training facility, undoubtedly Wesley and Kristen will turn out more future champions, and are well on their way in pursuit of the top Couple Hottie crown one day.

Sorry to interrupt this love story, but I can’t resist a Dakota moment. Although our families may be unsuspecting friendly rivals (My family owned a Ford dealership, you guys are Chevy) my friends all know I am a huge college football fan. Kristen, you have one HOT, but not so little brother who played for that other OSU team (I’m the Buckeye brand, but opposites are said to attract) - hint, hint?

Top 5: Becky and Steve Meadows

Who doesn’t love a happy ever after ending when it comes to the fairytale romance of two High School Sweethearts? Bonded together by a love of horses, this gorgeous southern couple almost exclusively made horses their primary activity after meeting. A self professed 4th generation horse trader, Steve is not your stereotypical sale barn guy. With multiple world champions, movie star good looks, and cool southern charm, he swept his gorgeous wife Becky off her feet as his life partner. Becky is a doting mother, patiently passing on her expertise in the hunter/jumper industry to their darling daughter Noel. No matter how long their day has been, this hottie couple always greets you with a HUGE smile. The Meadows and I also share a common friend we affectionately refer to as “Patty”. That’s an inside scoop you’ll have to ask them later.

Sharnai Thompson and Chance Keith

From the time I was ten years old, Sharnai was my idol. When I hauled for Rookie of the Year, Sharnai was at the top of the food chain in youth, and well on her way to a series of all-around youth AQHA honors. Sharnai’s also got that one-word recognizable name thing going like Madonna and it doesn’t get much hotter than that. I will always recall her gliding past the competitors on her way to the pen in those trademark white showmanship outfits that never got dirty (often copied but never duplicated). Hear that Chance? The girl looks HOT in white – LOL.

A graduate of the prestigious Southern Methodist University (by the way, what's up with all these hotties going to SMU?), and rumored to have law school aspirations, Sharnai is no fluff. (O.K., O.K. Chance, I know this is a couple poll.) Shunning the hot Nascar guys which have been an important element in her family’s life, Sharnai has found her perfect cowboy arm candy in Arkansas native, Chance Keith. Clearly in love, this red hot couple is a fixture at all the major events. Don’t let Chance’s “awe shucks” demeanor, fool you. Foregoing offers to ride for some of the top pleasure trainers, Chance has a sharp business mind and has elected to sell insurance with Evan Kaplow instead. Could this be another happy ever after in the works…I think so!

Ronnie and Hannah Casper

Over 30 never looked so hot – and they are smokin’ the younger competition. Unabashed to say that in business “Sex Sells” (no poison arrows - I didn’t say it), Hannah has taken the jewelry industry and promotion of her enterprises to star levels - literally. Hannah’s Good Ride clothing collection reflects her and Ronnie's life experiences in both the yachting and horse industries. Growing up as rival horse show competitors, Hannah met her dream man, Ronnie Casper at the tender age of 7. Although Ronnie and Hannah duked it out in the show ring on more than one occasion as youth riders, they seemed to settle on the notion that “If you can’t beat ‘em - join ‘em” and today boast over 20 years of successful marriage. Although, busy with their individual careers (how many World and Congress champions now Ronnie?), they are also very family based. When one is around, the other is never far behind. With an eye for beauty, both equine and material, an unparalleled fashion sense, and their best production ever – hottie daughter, Carly, Hannah and Ronnie enjoy the American dream. Calling lush pastured, Ocala, Florida home, entrepreneurial-ship never looked this good.

Alright, I have saved the best for last. My personal favorite category...

HOTTEST GUYS

Champion: Ross Wetherell

The hardest thing was to take the boyfriend of one of my favorite people, horse show hottie, Margaret Storrs, and say, O.K. – he’s the hottest. Alright, it wasn’t hard at all - LOL. Actually, this is a little bit of a story. GHS readers had Margaret top-10 too, but with 2 girls from Ohio already on the list, and her boyfriend the fan winner here, I had to make tough choices. In the end Margaret, you are still a winner, because you get to hang on the arm of the hottest guy which I guess would also make you a hot couple…sorry, only one category allowed.

Ross is the ultimate boy next door. Little girls, teenagers, and mature women smile and drool when Ross walks down the aisle way at a show. His unpretentious swagger, exceptional horse skills, charming smile, and killer good looks would make it seem obvious for what pushed him over the top. Yes, I can see him blushing now! Not so fast. What do I think was really hot about Ross – his skills as a budding entrepreneur. For the sadly uninformed, Ross is an accomplished inventor boasting US patents on his work. As an expert spur designer and maker, he never ceases to amaze. His unassuming ways make him a favorite among his peers as well. In fact, I don’t think anyone took exception in making him the winner.

Reserve Champion: Rusty Green
Pilot Point based trainer, Rusty Green needs no introduction although as of just recently, you can also call him Katie's husband, a hottie herself. Although Rusty has obvious good looks, this guy is smokin hot in the show ring. Anything he seems to ride – turns to gold. Finding the Midas touch for owners, Steven and Susan Thompson, a Masters win at the Congress in 2009 sealed the deal for Rusty for a top spot of this year’s Hottie Poll. After piloting Potential Diva to the 2008 World Champion honors in Senior Pleasure, he came back and rode Certainly Inspired to the big money win at the 2009 Masters. Can you say – ‘nuff said? Sometimes less is more. We’ll leave it at that! Well done Mr. Green.

Top 5: Lane Smith

Under the radar until now, leave it to me to find the next best up and coming hottie. All who know, or have met him agreed. I would really love to keep this guy a secret, but unfortunately, the word is out. One of the hottest young barrel racers in the industry, Lane Smith is also a southern charmer. His name alone has a rock star quality to it. I have to say even I blushed when my brother’s girlfriend exclaimed that this guy has amazing kissable lips. But oh well, the girl cannot tell a lie! Is it those blinding teeth, piercing blue eyes, surfer good looks, or just a knack for making people happy? Maybe…. but all I can say is, HOT, and btw, the guy can flat ride.

Kyle Brenner

The first time I met Kyle, he was babysitting his little sister who happens to be one of my good friends (also a future hottie) at the Gold Coast. Poor Kyle. He was the ultimate hottie older brother, and I am sure he thought all the little girls who filled their motor home daily were a bunch of creepers. Kyle always looked good, rode well, smelled great, and hung around with all the cool people, including Nascar’s darling daughter, Montgomery Lee Petty. I think he was one of my first crushes. As an adult, it is no surprise that Kyle has matured into a great patron of the industry, and services as Michigan Quarter Horse’s Vice President. I admire his commitment, especially when it comes to youth. Although both Kyle and I have moved on, he is still near and dear to my heart – a true hottie in every sense.

Brian Cox

Last, but not least, I have fondly pegged fellow Ohioan (yes another Buckeye) Brian Cox the George Clooney of the horse industry. He’s accessible, yet aloof. He’s hot, but funny. He loves the outdoors and hanging out on his boat. Women and men both seem to enjoy his company. You get the drift? Foregoing a car at 16 for a horse, Brian jumped in with both feet when he got his start as a die-hard horse lover, and never looked back. Under the tutelage of horse show greats, Ty Hornick, Greg Wheat and Randy Wilson, Brian has already made a huge name for himself. The biggest jewel in this cowboy’s crown is the prestigious 2005 GMC 2 Year Old Snaffle Bit Western Pleasure at the All American Quarter Horse Congress. Although rumors link him to a bevy of beauties over the years, one question persists? Who will ultimately tame this horse show hottie? That friend, is an open book, but the end of my story…

Dakota Blog #10

Today I sat down with the man in charge of the Congress for OQHA, Cam Foreman. He was an amazing gentleman, and agreed to answer ALL my questions including why the Congress only awards one set of points.  Cam is doing a great job at his newly appointed position replacing the late Denny Hales and I'm very appreciative that he took time out of his very busy schedule to talk with me.  Enjoy the interview...

Dakota Blog #9

Prior to the Masters, an auction was held for Breast Cancer Research. Proceeds benefit The Shirley Bowman Foundation at the Oklahoma University Cancer Research. The following items were put up for auction:

Donated by SR Gold, a sterling silver boot pendant with pink sapphires: $1500 purchased by Bruce and Connie Van Sickle. A matching donation was made by the Peck family.

Donated by LaGrange, A limited edition pair of patent leather and patent leather inlay breast cancer pink ribbon boots. Limited to a production of 36 pair. $2900 purchased by JR Reichert.

Donated by The Glover Family and Kristen Galyean. A 2009 Congress trophy Blue Ribbon saddle won today by Kristen. $6000 purchased by Whistle Stop Ranch/The Corea Family

Donated by Berry Fit, a black suede jacket with pink and silver breast cancer ribbon design (see picture). Sized to fit. $10,000 purchased by Whistle Stop Ranch/The Corea Family

Donated by Shorty's Caboy Hattery, a white 100x beaver hat emblazoned with a pink breast cancer ribbon design (see picture). Sized to fit. $1600 - Bobby Smith/Cinch

Babs of LaGrange also donated $1700 in boot sales. The Congress Queen Team raised $7k+ in ticket sales for this worthy cause.

The total raised by the Quarter Horse Industry this evening for breast cancer research was $32,000!!!!

Dakota Blog #8

Hopefully all of you have had a good time reading my blog, and are enjoying the fun spirit for which it is intended. Today, I ask you all for a serious moment to consider something that is very near and dear to my heart.

Seven years ago, I met someone who completely changed my life; my NYATT advisor Dee Ann Staley. Dee can’t be with us tonight at the Masters due to the passing of her beloved mother, but AQHA will be asking all of you to support a very important issue during the Master’s festivities – therapeutic riding. Dee is a champion of therapeutic riding causes, and together with her 29 year old mare, Tippys Sugar Bar, has changed lives. Under the love and guidance of Miss Dee, Tippy was named the 2007 AQHA MD Barns Silver Spur winner. Tippy will escort her beloved students into the Master’s Celebration this evening to raise awareness for this important cause.

I have had the pleasure to work with Dee in helping to change lives for Equestrians with Disabilities. Sarah Johnson was my first experience with an EWD competitor. Born without half her right arm and leg, Sarah only has two fingers on her left hand. In the first years of her life, Sarah endured more surgeries than any one person should ever experience in a lifetime. Even more painful were the looks of people who could only see her disfigurement. Then Sarah met Tippy 11 years ago. Tippy was never judgmental.

I am blessed to have been a successful competitor, but I have never met a greater champion than Sarah. In 2003, Sarah was Reserve National Champion rider with Tippy at the Exceptional Challenge Cup in Kansas City, Missouri. After reaching their goals, Sarah made the remarkable and unheard of decision to graduate into main stream AQHA youth competition on a cute western pleasure mare. It was the thrill of a lifetime when Miss Dee asked me to help coach Sarah as she made this monumental transition. Tippy was facing retirement at 25.

Lonely and missing her duties, Tippy has since been making a difference for another young EWD participant, Stephen Orengo. Stephen is a spirited youth, who was born five weeks early and had extensive damage to his arm due to birth trauma. Riding Tippy has allowed him to discontinue his additional physical therapy. Stephen exclaims that “Tippy is the greatest horse ever and smartest too. She rocks!”

Considered past prime, horses like Tippy are invaluable in changing lives. Tonight, Stephen hands Tippy’s reins over to yet another young rider as he sets his sights on competing at the NSBA World Show next year in the EWD events. My dream is that he will do that on my mare, Hopeful Assets. Hope has made all my dreams come true, and now it is time for her to guide another rider to their dream of championships.

While we all watch the fabulous Masters horses tonight which are some of the best in the industry, Sarah, Stephen and Tippys Sugar Bar are my tops. My hats off to Miss Dee for making so many dreams come true. After unselfishly helping numerous EWD riders, and giving horses like Tippy a second chance, I am proud to say that Dee won the Limited Amateur Performance Stallion class here. Although her mother was gravely ill, she stayed to make sure our team was taken care of at the NYATT. She raises the bar for all of us as a person.

The fact is we can all make a difference in another life. Coaching EWD riders has changed mine. The American Quarter Horse Foundation is helping to support great horses and riders through the America’s Horse Cares grant program. As a National Director for AQHYA and NSBA Youth President, I am asking for just a little help from each of you. By texting the word HORSE – just 5 simple letters – to 30644, your $10.00 pledge will greatly help therapeutic riding centers across the country. I have already take the lead and offered my support. After sending your donation, shout it from the rooftops – or just post it in the comment section here on my blog! Thanks in advance for your support.

Dakota Blog #7

Congress is a great time for getting together, and celebrating with friends. This year, the mood has been a little somber as the 2009 Congress marks the one year anniversary of the passing of our dear friend, Alex Blackwood.

The youth of NSBA would like you to join us in our ongoing effort to raise funds in Alex’s memory which will go toward the wonderful playground fund established in his honor. Please take a moment to remember The One & Only Alex Blackwood. For only $5.00, you can make a difference in another young person’s life by purchasing an “ASB” bracelet. I will have bracelets available for purchase through the end of Congress. If you can’t find me – I’ll find you. :-) Look for me Friday evening at the Masters, or just comment on my blog and I will personally deliver a bracelet to you on the fairgrounds. Let’s all take a moment to remember our good friend at this time.

Dakota Blog #6

In case y'all didn't know by now...GoHorseShow.com is HUGE!!! Legendary cowboy and horse trainer, Doug Carpenter is a regular reader on here, and I am so flattered to find out that he actually reads my blog and is a fan of the site! Not only that, but he took the time to comment on my blog...twice! (Scroll all the way down to see the comments.) I didn’t win the Congress this year, but it was certainly a nice consolation to know that somebody of his stature is reading me to keep up with Congress news.

Doug couldn’t make Congress due to a business trip out west, but fellow GHS staffer Troy Compton caught up with Doug by phone, and YES, it is really Doug commenting on the site! I can remember wanting to be just like Doug when I was a little girl and got to sit on some of the great horses he trained including Racy Rumors, Docs Bo Doll, TNT Fluid Fred, and Pleasure Persuasion to name a few.

Wow, I’m kinda star struck! I issue a challenge to my associate journalist Troy…I feel an On the Cart interview brewing here with you and Doug….make it happen! 

MY QUOTE OF THE DAY

I love this one by comedian Flip Wilson! 

Dakota Blog #5

Today was team tournament day at the Quarter Horse Congress, with youth gathering from all over the country to represent their respective associations in competition. Kicking off bright and early were the reining, barrel racing and showmanship events, followed by horsemanship, pleasure and hunter under saddle.

At the conclusion of the days events were opening ceremonies with the highlight being the crowing of the Congress Queen, Ashley Cook from Ontario, Canada. I proudly represented the back to back returning champions, River Cities QHA, and our team fought hard until the end. Ultimately, the top prize went to a very tough Pacific Coast QHA – nice job! Although we settled for reserve champions this year, the River Cities QHA group was very proud indeed. :-) Congratulations to all the teams and competitors who participated!

Champion Team PACIFIC COAST QHA with Taylor Gillette, Lexi King and Erin Gillette

Reserve Champion Team RIVER CITIES QHA

Third Place Team Ohio QHA

MY QUOTE OF THE DAY...
As seen at Connie's Customs in Congress Hall...'nuff said!

MY FASHIONISTER OF THE DAY...
Bruiser Griffith...yeah, I know, I'm a little biased!

Dakota Blog #4

O.K., I'm not sure I can top this :-) Here it is...my interview with baseball superstar, Roy "Doc" Halladay, and his fabulous wife Brandy who is an AQHA Rookie of the Year winner. For anyone who doesn't know, Roy is the Cy Young Award winning pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Dakota's Blog #3

What overall trend did I see while scouring Congress Hall? No doubt…the INVASION OF THE IRISH. They say green is the new black and you can see it everywhere. Whether it is imported directly from Ireland, or fashioned in “GoHorseShow” green, the Irish rule this year.

Coming in a close second was retro rock. Favorite looks of the 60’s and 70’s have been updated and re-fashioned into HOT looks for the 2009 season. Our parent’s “peace sign” is emblazoned on everything, choker necklaces are back, and the use of snakeskin and texture is everywhere – retro chic is in.

Black gold (and I'm not talking the Beverly Hillbillies variety) has arrived. If you have the cha ching, you can buy this bla bling. Hannah has a three piece set in black gold that pictures will not do justice - you must see in person...

BLING MUST HAVES

Under $100

O.K., these sweet crystal necklaces and chokers are all the rage. Come on, we all have a $20 spot in our pockets, and that’s all you’ll pay for any of these sparklers. My fave was the large cross hung on a sheer pink ribbon, but there is something on this rack to please everyone. It is a great ‘feel good” item for girls of any age! La Grange – Congress Hall

Over $100 x $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Men, hide your credit cards. A second mortgage probably won’t be enough to fund this Hollywood gem. Ladies, just a little advice - it might be time to re-up! Let’s hear a drumroll please for the ultimate Congress “Must Have” for 2009.

A mere 12+ carat Fancy yellow diamond ring makes Khloe Kardashian’s new sparkler from Lamar Odom look absolutely diminutive. I didn’t even ask to try it on because I was afraid for my personal safety. And let’s face it, after that, no boyfriend prospects would even seem fit for the job unless they could cough this baby up. – Hannah’s (of course). Congress Hall
P.S. – since you had to ask - $300,000+

BOOTS

Sorry, no under $100 purchases here, but I did find something for English or Western enthusiasts. My criteria was that it had to look good and feel good for this one.

English Enthusiasts

From the “other side of the pond”! Dubarry of Ireland wins this contest hands down. The coolest thing is that these are offered for men and women. Toss your Uggs because the Dubarry is the new I-T “it” boot, and comfort rules here. Something about this whole boot is just plain “sexy” (am I allowed to say that on here?) from the minute you pull them on. After a long day in your tall English field boots, these are going to make you feel like it is a spa day. Said to be a favorite of the “Boss”, (yes that’s Bruce Springsteen for you musically and socially challenged individuals), this might be my single favorite item of the Congress. And the best thing is ladies….hottie rep, Josh, will even step into the “drink” with you (O.K., it’s a bucket full of water), to test the water proof quality of your purchase . That’s downright cozy. P.S. girls, don’t buy these unless you are planning to invest in the fur trimmed insert liners. Dubarry – Congress Hall

Western

“Did I die and go to heaven?” That was the look on well known trainer, Linda Becker’s face when she slipped on this cozy pair of these winners. Vintage is in, and you will find that look with the warm, genuine cracked goat exterior and plush imported shearling lining. The richness of the color and patina is totally eye catching. This super soft cozy footwear will make the long walks from the Buckeye barn to the GoHorseShow VIP lounge seem a lot easier! LaGrange – Congress Hall

HORSEWEAR

Under $100

It’s plush, it’s Irish, and it is under $100. This rich, black cozy velour horse cooler offers both fashion and comfort for your favorite equine friend. On sale, so don’t miss your chance to add this beauty to your tack room. It’s cold, so hurry. Keith’s – Congress Hall $89.95

Over $100

You might think that a big fancy saddle would make the grade here, but my pick was this jeweler crafted show halter. Run, don’t walk to buy this number because it is one of a kind. Set with 14K gold and over 2 carats in REAL diamonds (that’s not CZ’s), you will feel like a winner with this purchase. $4,500 at Roth’s Show Equipment in the Annex

DOGGIEWEAR

Under $100

It’s almost Halloween, and what pampered pet would not feel special in this adorable “Puff Pumpkin” costume. Trick or treat. Moochie and Company – Annex $20 - $28

Still Under $100!!

I have never seen a cuter doggie item than this dolled up number. Tote your pampered pet in style in this faux fur, plush doggie carrier which converts into a cozy little bed when you are home. Moochie and Company – $99.50

GIFTS/ACCESSORIES

Under $100

Of course, I won’t have use for this item for many years, but my pick for giftware for the adult set is this ultra sleek styled, Ralph-Lauren-esque flask. Great Christmas item for your fave trainer or your Dad. Tote your hot totties in style to your favorite Congress after party. Dubarry – Congress Hall $64.00

Over $100

How are you gonna impress the buyers unless you pull your horse papers out of this Cowboy GQ briefcase? Every NSBA and AQHA judge needs this item to look and feel their best. Classic styling that will suit any taste level. Roth Show Equipment – Annex $595.00

Slightly over $100

It's the 40th Anniversary of the Peace Sign! Mom’s show you’re cool by purchasing this must have Stainless steel and 14K diamond Peace bracelet x 2 - one for yourself and your daughter. It’s a serious “Mommy and me” moment. Hannah’s – Congress Hall - $135.00

Over $100

Keith Richards and Pat Benatar, eat your heart out. Rock ‘N Roll Chic never looked so good, but now it steps up to the times in this fancy square toe cut (no cockroach kickers here). Python is back with a vengeance, finished with the must have peace sign. Love ‘em both, but have to suggest the “Glam Rock” natural white color. Liberty Western Annex $319.99

GO HORSE SHOW "GREENIES"

It’s the “Luck of the Irish” and it isn’t even St. Paddy’s Day, but it’s Congress, and we all could use a little luck. You won’t need a lot of “greenbacks” to purchase either of these top picks of the show. Properly fashioned in "GoHorseShow green," here are our must haves for the stylin GHS girl and guy!

Under $100!!!!

Good Ride's rocked out “Life’s A Ride” Tees. At the time of this article, this item was almost a sell out. If you bought yours early like we did– a major fashion high 5! – prices starting at $18.95 for this line. – Good Ride (next to Hannah’s) in Congress Hall

Guys…I didn’t forget about you! Who could I resist this great shirt for a handsome hunk complete with my favorite pattern…a diamond… Ok., it’s argyle, but in case you weren't paying attention, my name is Dakota Diamond Griffith. From the nearly sold out “Good Ride” collection at Hannah’s – Congress Hall.

Schneiders Hoodie (I’m calling these Unisex) – CONGRESS EXCLUSIVE.

If you don’t buy it at the show, you are fresh out of luck. This adorable front zip hoodie is perfect for the barn or stepping out. Great detail and embroidery. A best buy at $49.95. – Schneiders – Congress Hall.

A Congress Win – Priceless

Only a select few will walk away with one of these “Granddaddy’s of the Congress”. The bad news is they aren’t for sale (unless you are lucky enough to win one or have permission from Schneider’s to purchase a “spare” for your significant other). – Schneider’s Congress Hall

…In closing

Don’t forget to check out all the great vendors at Congress. It's so overwhelming and there are many we didn't get to.  There are many more great items, vendors and values to be had. We’d love to hear about your personal favorites too!

Friends, I scored THE interview of the Congress, courtesy of my Godparents, Joey and Patty Shortino…Cy Young Award Winning pitcher, Roy “Doc” Halladay and his gorgeous wife Brandy sat down for an interview that I will bring you very soon.

Of course, Roy and Brandy are also our Fashionista and Fashionister of the Day sporting awesome looks from Good Ride! Catch our up close and personal interview with this “HOT” couple. Stay tuned.

Did I see all you cool cowboys and cowgirls at the Bucky Covington concert?  It was hot!!!!

Finally…MY QUOTE OF THE DAY.  It's the Congress so possibly no truer words have been spoken.  Whether the sentiment is about the weather, your placings or whatever isn't going your way..."It is what it is."

Dakota's Blog #2

Today was a little uneventful in the terms of horse show drama (not necessarily a bad thing)...but still successful for blogging.

MY QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Life is not meant to be a journey to the grave in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "Wow, What a Ride!" - Special thanks to Roth Show Equipment, LLC for the quote of the day.

MY PICTURES OF THE DAY
The Congress isn't the Congress without a visit with Peter Cofrancesco and his fabulous 9 year old daughter Ireland. LOVE THEM!

P.S. The first man who can cough up the money for the Mini on the left.. GETS A DATE ;)

FASHIONISTA OF THE DAY
The always fashionable Babs Bryant of LaGrange.

FASHIONISTER (yes that's a word!) OF THE DAY
Here's me and Josh Buchannan of Dubarry testing our waterproof Dubarry boots. Let’s just say, I’d stand in the bucket with him any day.. SOOOO HOT!

That's it from me today.  Stay logged in for Must Haves, The Hottie Poll, and Winning Interviews (with a Major League MVP no less!)

xoxo, koko

Dakota's Blog #1

Let's start with MY FACT OF THE DAY
Everyone associates winning with blood, sweat and tears. At the 2009 Congress, the only thing you will find is blood and tears - it's a cold one.

Now onto some teasers..

• Red alert - GoHorseShow "Hottie" contest. And the nominees are...(stay logged in)
• Fashionista of the Day
• Congress Must Haves
• Winning Interviews (not your typical blah blah blah)
• and more!!!

XoXo,

Koko