I Love the Rodeo!!

It has been such a blessing to live across the street from my best friend and adopted grandmother, Lois Harmon. She is the most wonderful woman, heaven sent to all of us that have come in contact with her.

Lois and her late husband, Flip Harmon were involved in the Day's of '47 Rodeo since before I was born. Because they lived so close, our family has had the priviledge of being involved in the Rodeo. Every year from around July 16th through the 24th, it is Rodeo time!! Something that I definitley look forward to!

When I was 8 years old, I started selling Rodeo programs every night with my older siblings and parents. It was a wonderful way for us to help our ward earn money for camps and activities for the following year. At age 12, I was unofficially deemed the Rodeo babysitter and would help tend kids for committee members that were busy fulfilling their assignments. For the past several years I have helped in the Hospitality Room, which is a place where cowboys, cowgirls, media and committee members can come in and rest, eat some free food and watch the rodeo on one of 4 flatscreen TV's. After all these years, I was honored to be accepted as a member of the Rodeo Committee, where I have served for 5 years...except for this year as I have been disabled by terrible back problems. It was really difficult to not be able to do my part. BUMMER! :(

So to make a long story short, I love the Rodeo. From the anticipation and excitment of the first night, to the exhaustion of the last night, I enjoy being involved and am sad when it is over. I've attached a few pictures from this year's event. Although I was only able to go in a couple of nights, it was still a great year...a great show!

This is a picture of a very athletic bull named White Magic. He was such a sight to see. Beautiful animal to watch. I would have hated to be the cowboy to draw out riding this bull! Yikes!

Here's grandma holding William. This was of course his first Rodeo. We put ear plugs in his ears because it was pretty loud, especially the fireworks and music. He did really well and seemed content to watch the action. We sure love that little guy. I know Shawn can't wait to be a part of the Rodeo next year. He is also very active in helping the committee with set-up and take-down. It's a great way for our family to be involved with such a wonderful celebration!

William and I sitting next to my wonderful and sometimes wacky friend Marisa and her hottie husband (that's what she calls him) Jonathan. You've gotta love her!! Thanks for coming at such short notice guys!