No Future in Bull Riding... (thank goodness)!

Well, Friday night was the highly anticipated Pike County Rodeo, part of the Pike County Fair. This is the event that Nate has been looking forward to, since September last year. He has mentally prepared all year for his attempt being one of Pike County’s finest Mutton Busters (sheep rider). Let me start off by saying, many of the contestants obviously owned farm animals or at least had ridden the family dog, Nate has done neither, except for his one ride on our friend’s mule… Baby Jack. Baby Jack belongs to the one and only Baylie Clay (5 yrs)… also the proud owner of multiple goats. Nate was very sure of himself and felt certain he would win first place but second or third would suffice.

Nate anxiously awaiting the ride! Baylie and a real live bull rider!

Let me set the scene. Tim and Nate arrived at the fair 2.5 hours before signup to make sure that Nate would be one of the 15 children to participate in this event. Even though that was a bit early, I’m thankful they were there and able to secure Nate’s spot; I witnessed firsthand one little boy who was crushed because he was too late in line and did not receive a number for the event… he was crying and his mother was none to pleased that her son was unable to participate. Anyway, my only job was to film Nate. He was like the 3rd or 4th participant. Right before his turn, Zac got hurt, and started crying inconsolably, so I have him on my hip crying loudly, the camera rolling, some lady in my way, and I’m focused on the wrong chute. It all happened so quickly; I only got Nate lying on the ground! Luckily, Bailey’s mom (Bailey qualified for the finals on Sat. night) got it all on video. Seriously, I don’t even think I saw it. I asked Tim if Nate was on the ground before he got out of the chute? Tim said, no…. but it happened soon after. I think Nate was stunned that it was over so quickly, but he was a good sport and is looking forward to participating next year! I feel reassured because I don’t think he has a future as a bull rider!

Sorry it is blurry... it all happened so fast! Yes, I made him wear a helment !

Nate before the big ride!
Both boys also participated in the Calf Scramble, which was hilarious! The object of this event was for all of the kiddos to go to the middle of the arena, they let loose a few calves with red bandannas on their tales, and the kids are supposed to retrieve the bandanna for a cash prize… It was hilarious! Thankfully, we were not counting on Zac or Nate to win money to pay our bills!

It was a wonderful night. Papa Doc came and watched the events as did our good friends William and his little man William. Nana was kind enough to stay home with baby Ben so that I could go watch Nate. Little William and his daddy came down this weekend to go to the rodeo and to go camping with the boys and Tim. It was William’s first camping trip. That's my next blog.
Little William! Isn't he cute!

Happy First Birthday Ben!

Happy birthday sweet boy! How is it possible that a whole year could’ve passed so quickly? It seems like only yesterday that you were so small, fragile and dependent solely on me. Now you are growing before my very eyes, walking, and asserting your independence… it just doesn’t seem right!


Yes, we’ve celebrated Ben’s birthday twice! First, a party with family and close friends on Saturday at my parent’s house. Ben had a great time (as did the two older boys). They enjoyed playing with cousins Matthew, Molly and Cole! It was a beautiful day and we were so thrilled to share it with everyone. My grandmother and grandfather were able to make it, and that made the day even more special! (Below are a few pictures. I was so busy running around I didn't take many, but Jen & Brooks did and I'll try to post some of their pictures later).





Tonight we celebrated Ben’s birthday, just the 5 of us! Poor little Ben has an ear infection so he has been a little under the weather today but rallied just fine for the birthday cake part of the day! I am so thankful for this little guy who blesses my life each day, along with his two big brothers… I am a lucky mommy! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEN BEN!

Backpacking for the Big Boys!

Two weeks ago, Nate, Zac and Tim went backpacking at Albert Pike in the Ouachita National Forest. My little men hiked in about 1.5 miles complete with backpacks! Nate insisted on wearing this pack that was way to big for him but he was determined to carry it (he kept stuffing things in it that made it kind of heavy) and made it most of the way. Zac, on the other hand, only wanted to carry clothes in his (smart boy)! They had a wonderful time. Tim never ceases to amaze me, he is a wonderful dad and my 3 boys will be wise beyond their years when it comes to the outdoors! The boys loved swimming in the water, learning about the geology and history of their surroundings and of course eating and roasting marshmallows by the campfire! Needless to say, they slept soundly at night. According to Nate, the worst part of the whole trip was having to leave!





Can you imagine two little boys having more fun? If you could see Tim's face at that time, it would've had a huge smile across it too!