Here in Texas

It's Stock Show time in Ft. Worth. Yee Haw!!! I love the Stock Show and Rodeo, I really do. We go annually, usually with my dad who loves the sights, smells, and lifestyle that Cowboys live. He says it brings back memories from his young days in the small west Texas town of Knox City. I love it because it is all so foreign to me. You mean young people get up with the sun to take tip top care of an animal that will eventually be sold to slaughter? Men risk their lives to ride bulls for the sport and thrill? People around here still make money farming and ranching? Horseback riding clubs exist? It just seems so crazy and different, but here in Texas although not in my backyard, it is obviously a big deal. Spending an afternoon out there gives me a little glimpse into the true Texas culture, which growing up a city girl I've never experienced.


Today we went to the Stock Show parade because Caroline got to ride in a wagon with her Grammy. Grammy, Justin's mom, has a great job with Traders Village and every year they enter the parade.

Here's the wagon Caroline got to ride in, pretty cool huh? Apparently the driver is 81 and has been driving wagons all his life. Did you know people still drive wagons other places besides parades? Yeah me neither, but apparently he is an avid wagon driver and a good one. At one point during the parade the wagon got stuck in a hole, which broke the bar that connects the train to the horses. No problem, the expert wagon driver had an extra and got them all fixed up and back in the parade.
Caroline looked so serious riding, but Grammy said she had a blast and waved the entire time!
It turned out to be a perfect day and we really enjoyed our time walking around and taking in the parade. I'm so glad Caroline got this experience and I hope this will be something that she can continue to do annually. I know she will be talking about it forever because it so different from anything we've ever done. She even got to sit on the horse that pulled the wagon!!
Mr. Carter was a proud little brother as he looked on! I'm sure he'll be in that wagon before long!