Howdy pardners! How ya’ll doin’?? Apologies for the country twang, but the rodeo hasn’t quite worn off yet. On Saturday, I rounded a few family members and friends, and we headed over to the Hamel Rodeo for a boot-stomping good time. Speaking of boots, it was a hot night, and I skipped wearing my cowboy boots in favor of some cooler footwear. However, I surely would have fit in well enough with them. Despite the heat, cowboy hats and boots were the attire of choice by most rodeo attendees, it seemed. Besides the western wear, and over-the-top MC, the rodeo was really all about good, clean, American fun. Of course there was the classic bucking broncs and bull riding, but what I really enjoyed was the steer roping and team roping.  The riding was fantastic to watch, and I was in awe of the amazing relationship that the cowboys have with their horses.

I didn’t take many photos, as we were pretty far away, and the light was fading. This rodeo was a first for me, and I can’t wait to go again next year (and hopefully score better seats!) A little bit modified, but still and all, another item crossed off the list.

wear my cowboy boots to a real rodeo, err, I mean
have a boot-stomping good time at a real rodeo

I have a bit of a crazy week ahead, so posting will be a little light. But I promise to return next week with a few pieces of exciting news. In the meantime, make sure to enjoy your summers! Go eat a popsical, run around barefoot, sit in a kiddie pool, or catch fireflies… this magical season is in full swing, but only for a little while. Soak it up!

After a night of catching up with family, and sleeping soundly to only the whisper of wind in the trees, we awoke on Saturday to sunshine in the window and birds chirping outside. Saturday was the designated “boat day”. My parents boat is, in some sense, our summer cabin. We dock it on Burntside Lake, a crystal clear, spring-fed gem with depths up to 150′. It’s my favorite lake in the world, which is strange considering I’ve lived on several other lakes, but never on Burntside, unless you count days and nights spent on the boat. I guess I love it so much because I’ve made so many great memories there, and to me, it’s a place that holds that last glimmer of my childhood. Each summer, I anticipate these days on the lake–endlessly warm and sunny, anchored in a bay, snacking, sunbathing and splashing around to our hearts content.

On Saturday morning, My mom and I hit up some garage sales, grabbed a quick breakfast at The Moose, and then packed swimsuits, towels and suncreen. We headed for the lake, and met up with my dad and nephew, along with my in-laws. For hours, we snorkeled, lounged, ate, cannon-balled, and chatted, our two boats tied together and anchored in our favorite bay. It was really one of those golden summer days, the type I think about and dream about and wish for. Really, the type I had in mind when I was writing the bucket list earlier this year. As the day ended, it was a warm breeze that blew on our faces on the way back to the dock. My skin was a little bit browner, my hair full of curls, my body a little tired from swimming, and my soul at rest and completely content. Another activity off the list, and a perfect summer day lingering in my memory for many months to come.

do a cannon-ball off the boat, or ten

Last Friday, we jumped in our car and headed north for a long holiday weekend. I was giddy with excitement at the thought of 3.5 full days of sunny, summer fun. The first item on the agenda was a little surprise party for my mom and nephew. We snuck into town, picked up at an ice cream cake and then hopped aboard a rented pontoon boat. We had pizza delivered to the boat, and I decorated with party flags and balloons while we waited for our guests of honor. My dad made up a story and stopped by the marina with my mom and nephew in tow. After much cajoling, he convinced them to walk down to the docks to “see a boat”. We were waiting on the decorated party boat, and when they saw us, they were both truly surprised! After settling in, we took off for an evening cruise. It was warm and breezy, and the scenery was beautiful. We ate well and laughed and enjoyed each others company. Family is just the best, you know? Spending time together means so much.

Today we are back to the routine, and I’m in the midst of unpacking, cleaning and getting ready for a round of houseguests. I’m already loving the short week. Tomorrow is Wednesday! Can you believe it? I’ll be back then with a post detailing the rest of our weekend adventures, including many more items ticked off the old Bucket List of Summer! For now, here’s another one down.

celebrate my mom’s birthday with a bang