Vale Rodeo

Sidney and I traveled over to Vale, Oregon on July 4th for a parade and rodeo.  Sidney's friend Jayde has been working a lot for her radiology program, so she was not able to do the drill team this summer.  Sidney has been able to make some of the practices, but with her summer schedule ramping up, this was likely going to be one of the only rodeos she would be able to perform in. 

I was pretty impressed with my backing skills, despite that I am a little rusty.  I am just glad we got there early, because it got insane shortly after this. 

Sidney got all ready and headed out with the team for the pre-rodeo parade.  I found myself a nice spot along the parade route.  It was so fun.  Small town rodeos are the best.  Everyone came out for it.  The kids had their bags for catching candy and the local vendors were selling food and crafts.

Sidney and Pigeon were all smiles and waves as they went by the crowd.

One of the perks of getting there early is all of the behind the scenes action.  I was checking out the arena when they brought in the broncs.  They were so calm and peaceful.  One would have never guessed that these were the bucking horses.

A few minutes later they brought in the bulls.  The two groups hung out for awhile and settled in.  It was quite a site to witness.

Sidney just loves this horse (most of the time).

As the team went off to do some last minute practicing, these ominous clouds rolled in.  Shortly after that the thunder and lightning started and the rain poured.  It was insane, but the show must go on.

You cannot tell by this picture, but these ladies were absolutely drenched.  I was able to find a spot in the crow's nest to watch the performance.  Thankfully, the rain let up just before they went in.

It was fun to watch them for sure!