As I write this, the Richland Springs Rodeo has had a successful run, and the Elm Grove Rodeo is on the horizon. The heat is still hanging on, dust rises from the arenas, school friends who have not seen one another all summer suddenly spot each other across the arena; friends and neighbors greet one another with enthusiasm as they await tales of what has been going on in each other’s lives! It is where summer friendships are renewed, hometown pride is put on full display, and everyone gathers for one more celebration before the school bell rings. For one evening, the whole town seems to come together under the arena lights—and that may be the best event of all.
For many young people, the rodeo is one of the last big events before school starts. It is a final chance to stay out late, laugh with friends, and enjoy a summer evening before alarm clocks, homework, football practice, and early mornings return. Speaking of football practice, somewhere in the stands a coach is probably whispering a prayer beneath their breath as their star athlete gears up to ride broncs, bulls, take part in the “wild horse race,” or run the barrels!
One of the favorite events is MUTTON BUSTIN’, wearing helmets that are as big as they are, little cowboys and cowgirls climb onto a sheep and hold on with everything they have. Some make it halfway across the arena. Others slide off almost as soon as the gate opens. Either way, they usually stand up covered in dirt while the crowd cheers as though they just won a championship. It’s always a crowd favorite.
If you missed the Richland rodeo, you can still watch all the action this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights as participants come from all over to take part in the Elm Grove Rodeo in Elm Grove, Texas, just a little west of Bowser (and everyone knows where Bowser is). I remember the first time I met Junior Evans, he was at the gate collecting a dollar bill from everyone for parking. Such a kind man who always had a pocketful of candy at church. He and others from his generation are sorely missed in these parts; those of us still here do the best we can to carry on traditions and live up to the life they modeled and the work ethic they possessed.
I hope you have a blessed week; I always enjoy our weekly chats. Give me a call some time with all your family news so I can share it here! 830-305-9908