Howdy All!
Well, I’m back in the saddle again! So to speak. I took a bit of time off from writing as my days never got any less busier. The Calgary Stampede was a whirl wind as always. When we returned home to the Ranch just outside of Wetaskiwin, Alberta after the 10 days of straight racing, it was time to shift to wedding mode. That’s right! Our eldest daughter Amy got married on Friday July 21st. The family was pretty excited preparing in the days leading up to the big day.
The Beautiful Bride
We had many family, friends and neighbors join us in celebrating the beautiful ceremony of Amy and Chris.
United with a Kiss
The day couldn’t have turned out any better. The skies were overcast with a light mist falling down. They say those conditions are much better for the photography setting. Our grandson Coy, was as proud as could be seeing his lovely mom marry his new stepdad Chris.
Handsome Lad
The festivities went on throughout the weekend. Why not stretch it out and enjoy. And that’s just what we did. We had so much fun, and very little sleep.
The Happy Couple
I think this was the part where Chris got to have the upper hand, as his groomsmen relayed to him in their speech. He needed to enjoy it, as it may be the only time from then on in the days to come.
Well they say all good things come to an end, but it doesn’t mean we have to quite living. It was time to hit the chuckwagon trail once again. Don’t get me wrong, we do have a lot of fun down the dusty o’l road, it’s just a different kind of fun. Bonnyville bound is where we were headed. We had full intentions of arriving here on Monday, but we heard the rains were coming down hard for two days straight. We held off our travel till Wednesday when the skies had cleared up and the sun came out to dry up the land just a little bit.
Chaaaaaa!
We are going to be just a tad bit busier these next 4 tour stops, as Rick, along with Chad Harden decided it was a good idea to put together another chuckwagon outfit to fill one of the two vacant spots where drivers have retired. (Layne Bremner and Colt Cosgrave) Between the two of them and maybe a couple other drivers, they will put together a team and two outriding horses from now until the end of the season. This outfit is seated in the first heat. Rick ran a 22nd on the day with the bunch tonight.
Our hook tonight on the main outfit was Bacardi on the Left Lead, Sporty on the Right. Spin on the Left Wheel, and Cowboy on the Right. Our outriders were Dustin Gorst holding leaders with Beau and Ethan Motowylo throwing the stove with Andy. Coming off the 2 barrel, he had a great turn onto the track. He told me he felt how powerful Cowboy was tonight. The track was heavier than usual, and I think he runs well in conditions such as this. At any rate, Rick and his team, surpassed his competitors to finish first in his heat and 6th on the day. “Team 23” was pretty happy with that.
Love Coy
The best thing about the race, was coming back to the barn to this little gem of a note from grandson Coy. He had watched Papa’s race from the backstretch. He cheered loud and clear. “Papa you are the bestest wagon driver I know out there. I Love you with all of my heart. XOXO. Number Team 23 is the best.” Kids are the best!
Having…………….
……………so much fun!
And speaking about kids, wouldn’t you love to be a chuckwagon kid? Tonight, after the races, a bunch of them found these straw bales and the fun began. They must have played there for an hour or more. No care in the world. Our kids were brought up in this lifestyle, and there are many more to come. They are great kids, with good manners, and all families look out for the little ones. It couldn’t get any better than that.
All Smiles
Our young little winner of the mini chuckwagon give away came to meet us after the races. She was one proud gal with her new shiny gift.
The heat today in Bonnyville was very, very warm. I’m lovin it. The forecast was to be sunny from here on out till we depart. But as I finish up this letter, the rain drops are falling. A mini hail storm came through, and the moisture continues. Hopefully for not much longer.
Until Tomorrow
From the Travelin Trailer
Sue, with Rick and “Team 23”
Sue
P.S. Life is not always perfect, but it’s always what you make it. So make it count, make it memorable, and never let anyone steal your happiness.
Still love your letters Sue thanks
Amy reminds me so much of you – beautiful looking.
I know the north has been having bad weather so hope it stays away until the races are over. Lou