The rodeo has come and gone

This was the view across the road for three days while the Honey Grove Rodeo went on. All the bulls, broncos and horses were in the same corral, very peaceful. Much different than when they were in the ring at night. I couldn't take a night picture when the whole place was lit up like a carnival!

The Rodeo started every night at eight o'clock and ended around ten thirty. Country music played in the background while the announcer called out every event. It was magical! And right in our "front yard". We helped by taking tickets at the gate. We met the nicest people! And they all seem to know who we are - word gets around very fast. But we are treated with nothing but kindness and a little curiosity - only natural. They all wonder why we chose Honey Grove and we tell them we really grew up without a "home town" and now we have one!

We sponsored the Rodeo Clown and our name was in the program. We wanted to because it's his last rodeo for a while since he's in the reserve and is being deployed to Iraq. We were so proud to meet him and support him. He really is an important part of the entertainment and excitement. And the kids just love him!

The kids were a huge part of this rodeo. Every night there was an event called "mutton busting" where the wranglers would lower a child (as young as three) onto the back of a large sheep in the chute - the kids would wrap their arms and legs tightly around the neck and belly and off they would go! Unafraid! Amazing!

And then a little later in the evening, they would gather all the children in middle of the arena and release baby goats, chickens, ducks, piglets and bunnies. And whatever the kids caught they took home! It was hilarious watching all these children running full speed after these animals! It only took about five minutes and there were these delighted children holding a new goat or chicken or whatever.

And, of course, lots of patriotism! The national anthem and a prayer every night. It doesn't get better than this! Except maybe next year when we plan to have all three grandsons here to watch! Wonderful entertainment.

We can't wait til next year!

Vaya con Dios!