By -#63 Jamie Woodson
1. I literally NEVER wear anything new. Socks, shirt, pants, hat, lead, NOTHING can be brand new during a competition. If washed and worn once... no problem. But, I could NEVER pull the tags off of something and just wear it to the line. As my very southern mother would say, "It's just not done." Now, I know we receive a handler's jacket and a hat for the national. You can bet money on the fact that I will be wearing and washing mine prior to game time on Saturday! Oh, there's more...
2. I set my security passwords to send myself good/hopeful vibes. Four years ago one was FCAFCKeeper. Last Fall, one was Stowe2016. You get it! Something like those or equally goofy. But, and this is key - HOPEFUL! *Disclaimer: none of these passwords are now active. Yes, there's more.
3. For All-Age stakes, I wear one hat during the marks (brown Tennessee Fish & Wildlife Commission), and I wear another hat during the blinds (navy blue Masters). If, for some insane reason I can't find one of my hats, I am... how do you say? ... not a happy camper. *see photo
4. During a test, I Always, Always, ALWAYS put my lead in my left pocket. I mean, the world might not be properly balanced if I didn't.
5. If Keeper isn't on the perfect line during a test, I tilt my head in the proper direction because I am convinced that we are cosmically linked and she can sense what I'm thinking and appreciates my help. You might think that marking ability is the key, but I'm convinced the "head tilt" is critical to success! 😉
6. A few weeks ago, my husband tied a blue nylon cord into this very simple but cool bracelet. I wear it all the time. Yep, all the time. I rub it right before I go to line. Yes, it's weird! But, it somehow makes me calm and I'm convinced it brings me luck. Ok, calm-ish. Anyone who knows me knows I'm wound pretty tight, but touching the bracelet reminds me of a bigger picture. It reminds me of dogs we have loved who never saw an All-Age placement, much less a national championship; of our First dog - Elvis - who crossed the rainbow bridge the day before nationals just last year; and of all the great dogs who didn't qualify this year. I reflect on the dogs and handlers who left this earth too soon. You know - perspective. Perspective is a lovely thing to have during any field trial, particularly a national. So, these are but a few of the odd, weird and superstitious things that I do. Now, my question for you: What are you superstitious about? What do you obsessively do to keep the earth spinning and the good luck coming your way? Please reply with YOUR list of superstitions here at #2016NARC!
