Pioneer Days

This is my brother Tony & my darling sister in law Connie.

They're instigators.

They are the stimulus behind a lot of our good times.

They got the whole family to go to the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo. This is a pretty big deal as we're not typically rodeo going folk. Rich and I figured it's been close to 20 years since we'd been to a rodeo, so needless to say our girls were very excited! Mutton bustin'... they particularly liked that. Who wouldn't enjoy seeing little kids flying across the arena hanging on to a smelly old sheep for dear life? They also liked the barrell racing. Me? I like the ladies vying for the spot of Rodeo Queen. I love the fancy outfits and curly, aqua netted hair cascading out from under their cowgirl hats as they glide around the arena at lightning speeds with their smiles and patented 'come a ridin' wave. What a great night! Ropin' and ridin' and buckin' broncs and big old bulls. Finish it off with some amazing daredevil dirt bike riding and a firework display for the cherry on top.

Tony, Tatiana, me, Mom and Dad.

Mom & Dad were the generous sponsors of the evening.

The whole fam, except for nephews Clark and Chase and little Henry who was not ready for his closeup. Sometimes that happens when you're 5.

After the rodeo, all the cousins had a sleep over at Tony and Connie's house because they are the most excellent aunt and uncle around. We called the next day to see when we could get our girls and were told to not bother them... busy having a good time.

Later that day, we all met up at Mom and Dad's for a yummy barbecue and more fun visiting.

Sarah loves to be by her Uncle Tony.

Sweet Em with french braids courtesy of Aunt Connie.


Rich was on grill duty.

Emily put on the pre-dinner floor show. Mom in the background getting the finishing touches on dinner.

Emily is now an official lighter of the fireworks. Grandpa lent some adult supervision.

My beautiful niece Megan... love this girl.



We fell into bed on the 24th smelling of pyrotechnics, bug spray and having had more fun than should be allowed. I love my family.