Howdy Chukwagon Friends!

This week has gone by so fast!  We left the city of Bonnyville on Monday and headed to the southern part of Alberta, to our next stop on the tour, Strathmore.  I had my little swamper Coy along with me and his dog Toopy.  When we travel together we chat about all kinds of things.  I always make sure Coy has his backpack full of paper, scissors, pens, crayons and tape as he’s quite the creative kid when it comes to making things.

Creative Kid

Along the way, Coy was busy cutting, taping and creating.  I asked him what he was making.  He told me, “Something.”.  So I waited until he was finished.  He was proud of what he made.

A Very Minny Cowboy Hat

As I had given him a feather that I found a bit ago, he decided he would use that feather, and make a hat just like the one fellow driver, Kelly Sutherland wears.  The one with an eagle feather in his hat.  Coy told me he’s a pretty good driver and knows that he is retiring this year.  Coy’s mind has no shortage of an imagination.

The horses were thrilled to arrive to big pens with plenty of green grass to chew on.  They settled in quite well and were happy to run and stretch their legs before their evening feed.

Tuesday and Wednesday for me, were spent in my portable office in the back of the travel trailer.  I had to catch up on bills and complete the GST as it was due.  I was adamate that it was going to get done so I shouldn’t have to look at anymore paperwork until we arrive home in 2 1/2 weeks after the season if finished.  I put my nose to the grindstone and got er’ done.  I was a little on the grumpy side when all was finished.  Nothing a good glass of wine couldn’t help with.

Ready to Roll

The day was rather cloudy, and cool right up until race time.  As a matter of fact, there looked like a storm was brewing and we were right in line.  Thank goodness it headed on east and missed us altogether.

Our first hook in the first heat was so graciously sponsored by Ja-co Welding out of Nisku, Alberta.  They have been long time sponsors within the Chuckwagon World for many years.  All the horses consisted out of  Chad Hardens barn.  M&M, Wild, Snake and Streeper made up the team.  FreeBee and our horse Ice were the outriding horses.

Eating Some Dust

They didn’t start as good as Rick would have liked  but they did alright placing 23rd on the day. Hopefully a better placing tomorrow.

The Team Rolls In

As the “Team 23” rolled onto the track, they looked like they were ready to go.  Bacardi was on the left lead, Sporty on the Right.  Spin was on the Left Wheel and Cowboy on the Right.  Dustin held leaders with Ed, and Ethan threw stove with Andy.

Rounding the 3rd Turn

When the horn blew, Rick said he had some driving to do.  That usually means they aren’t performing quite in the manner that they should have.  He drove them around the barrels and away they went.  Unfortunately our one outrider had some difficulties and was not able to get around the barrels and was also late crossing the finish line too. We ended up with some penalties for that and in turn we 34th on the day.  I’m pretty sure we will have a better day tomorrow.

Some Happy Gals

Before the evening was done, these 2 little gals came by to say thanks for the mini chuckwagon.  It was a pleasure to meet them.  Their mom and grandma are big fans of our Chuckwagon life, and I first had met them through the writing of this blog.  They have been following along my journey and took it upon themselves to come and meet me in Ponoka last year.  It is always a pleasure to meet all you good folks out there that have an interest in our life on the road.  Whether in person, with a message, or just reading along, I thank you all for joining me in my day-to-day travels.

Until Tomorrow

From the Travlin Trailer

Sue, with Rick and “Team 23”

Sue

P.S. When obstacles arise, you change your direction to reach your goal, you do not change your decision to get there.  Zig Ziglar