Howdy All!

With only days until the start of the 2018 Calgary Stampede, and the finish of the Ponoka Stampede on Monday, there really isn’t much time to rest.  Our scheduled arrival time to arrive in Calgary was slotted for 8 PM on Tuesday evening.  We had the day all planned out with the packing of our unit.  Well, I think I have mentioned this before.  Not all things go according to plan.  When the crew went to fold up the barn/liner on wheels, it was noted that there were several hinges that needed some major welding work.  The weld shop was called and we had 2 welders come out and begin their trade on the barn.  From 3pm until almost 9pm they worked their magic.  We were very appreciative of the work they did.  Once complete, the horses were loaded and southward bound was Rick Fraser  and “Team 23”.

We were several hours behind schedule departing at 10 pm and and arriving at midnight.  The good thing was that we were not fighting traffic, and the Stampede grounds were quiet.  It was a safe trip, with a setup of a few hours.  We finally crawled into bed by close to 4 AM.

All Tuckered Out

We delayed chores start time until 9 AM on Wednesday. We needed the rest.  Needless to say, the last two days have been busy with chores and setting up our shed-row on the Stampede grounds.

Talking Welding

Once we arrive on the grounds and things are a bit settled, we had to wheel the chuckwagon to be weighed and inspected.  Did you know the weight of the chuckwagon has to be 1325lb’s with the drive included?  Rick was just over by about 40lbs.  Not to bad, but could be better.

Once we return each year to the Calgary Stampede and see all the folks that donate their time to help out in the chuckwagon committee area of the Calgary Stampede, I am amazed at all the wonderful people.  I always say the world is ran by volunteers.  More people need to appreciate them and what they do.

Horse Walker

During chore time, we have to walk the horses for exercise, while their stalls are getting cleaned out and fresh bedding put back in.  We have brought our daughter Kaylee’s horse here to ride, while we take two horses to walk alongside.  Rick really loves riding, rather than cleaning the stalls.  I must admit…………..I like riding too!

After today, I can sure feel the excitement rising for the first day of Stampede.  Every Chuckwagon driver has arrived and are getting settled in.  The parade is tomorrow and Rick and I will be in it with our Chuckwagon and a team of horses from John Scott.  It will sure be different as it has been a long time since we attended one.

Well I best be getting to bed as morning comes early.  Big day with the start of Stampede 2018!  YEEHAA!

From the Travelin Trailer

Sue, with Rick and “Team 23”

Sue

P.S.  As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands – one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.  Audrey Hepburn