A Cowboy is a Man with Guts and a Horse

This weekend I was able to enjoy a new experience — my very first rodeo!

Growing up in the Midwest, it's no wonder I have never been to a rodeo before. Lucky me, my fella and I received tickets as one of our Christmas presents.

Number one, I must say that I was pleasantly surprised when we not only sang the National Anthem before the show, but also prayed beforehand. I wish these values were dispersed throughout America!

The show itself was good fun. The ladies and gentlemen who participated, and their horses, are amazing athletes. I particularly enjoyed the bronco riding, calf roping, and the trick riding.

I took many pictures in the hopes that a few would come out okay. Here are a few for you to get a taste of the action:

It is something I look forward to going to again. The stock show part of it I could leave. I love animals, but it just wasn't as interesting as I thought it might be. Staring at the ground to make sure I didn't step in any droppings didn't help. I'm a city girl; stepping in animal droppings is not normal.

Oh, and I must mention that the brisket-topped nachos were ah-mazing. Only in Texas...

— E

From the Horse's Mouth

"Ask me to show you poetry in motion, and I will show you a horse." 
— Anonymous

There isn't a time in my life that I remember not loving animals.  All animals.  Well, biting and over-sized insects can take a hike, but other than that...

When I was little, I went through a phase when I loved horses.  I guess a lot of little girls must do that.  I mean, where else would people get the notion that every little girl wants a pony?

Anyway, at that time my favorite horses were Appaloosas.  They are very pretty horses, and characteristically have a spotted coat.  Plus, I'm pretty sure I just liked the word appaloosa.

I also loved Arabian horses.  There is just something so majestic about them.

As I grew up I grew out of my horse phase.  However, moving into horse country has re-ignited my interest in horses.  They really are gorgeous, powerful creatures.  A new breed I have recently learned about is the Gypsy Vanner.

The breed originated in the UK and Ireland, and they are just breathtakingly beautiful.

 

I have never been horseback riding, but I think it would be a really fun experience to do one of these days.  Being in a place where horses are so deeply rooted in its history makes this a perfect opportunity to finally get on one of these awesome animals.

— E