Stake Rodeo

Now that is what I call patriotic!

Tonight was our USA Rodeo put on by the Chandler Stake. And when our stake puts on an event you better believe it is an extravaganza. We were told to dress up in red, white in blue to honor our troops and fellow men currently serving in the war or who have in the past. This couple took it seriously!

Jared attempting the axe throw.

The Fisher Family in our stake have an awesome piece of property on county island in Chandler. Each year they hold a rodeo for their ward, this year we were lucky enough to attend since they extended it to our entire Chandler Stake. I have never seen so many people in my life! They had a petting zoo, axe throwing, pony rides, and tons of food.

They also had a contest for each age division. For the 2-6 year olds they had a balloon stomp with candy in the middle. For the 7-11 year olds they had a pig chase and for the 12-16 year olds they had a steer chase with $100 bills attached to their horns. Too bad they didn't have that for the 30 year olds. Ha.

And as you can see it was tough to control all of the people I don't even think they said go yet, but the kids went wild! Anything for free candy and money right? I never did get a glimpse of Taylor (hence no photos) the moment she arrived she ran off with her buddies.

Weston especially loved all of the animals he got to pet, sheeps, horses, goats and even a llama.

There was also a number of "familiar" faces dressed up as rodeo clowns in order to keep the steer in line. This one in particular happened to be Luke's soccer coach. All in all it was a fun family affair!

Early Valentine's Date

Papa & Jenny

I started going to the rodeo smaller than I can remember. My grandparents used to buy front row seats for the JC Rodeo at the Colliseum every year when I was small. My grandpa (aka papa) grew up on a ranch in Winslow, AZ and is a true cowboy. Having a horse was and still is my grandpa's favorite pet. He currently had one (smokey) but would never let me ride him for fear he would buck me off. He wasn't used to being riden very often and he wanted me to have my very own. We searched for months until we finally (well he) decided on a horse for me. He has always been so patient with me. He taught me all I know and have learned about horses. I was beyond excited when we brought this blonde quarter horse home to the "barn" in the back of their house. I decided he should be called Snickers because that was mine and my grandpa's favorite candy bar. Sadly, over time they just became too expensive to own and we had to sell both of them. I have so many fond memories going down to the barn and feeding them their favorite sugar cubes. Growing up going to rodeos I have a special place for them in my heart.


Last night the only plans we had was going to the library and heading back home. (fun I know) Greg and Angie called us and told us they had two extra tickets to the rodeo. They also said it was okay if we shared their babysitter. We ho hummed about it for a bit and said are you sure?? I think about a dozen times. It didn't take much twisting of my arm to decide to go. We drove home quickly picked up a $5 pizza, bathed the kids and took them over to the Gordon's. Poor babysitter--it was so crazy. Imagine seven kids all to yourself. I am so glad we took them up on their offer because we had such a good time. My favorite is the barrel racing and it's always fun and intense to watch the bull riding. After the rodeo was over Sugarland was the band playing. I only knew a couple of their songs, but it was still really fun! I didn't have my camera because it was so spare of the moment. I am sure Angie will post some soon. Or you can just imagine us in jeans and with twin brown jackets (unplanned of course). I think the best part of the night was as we were walking out some band was playing "Devil Went Down To Georgia" I think that is the only country song that Doug really likes and he is not a big rodeo fan. So, I have to say thanks to Doug for going to the rodeo and attending your first country concert with me. Thanks so much Gordon's!!--we owe you BIG for tickets, driving, and a good time..... and what a better way to celebrate Valentines Day early since our valentines will be away next week.

good deed: set and cleaned up the ward party