Life of a Gypsy

Having traveled over 3000 miles since my last Blog, I truly feel like a “gypsy” rodeo queen, and I am loving every minute of it.
 
Newnan, Georgia was a great rodeo! The rodeo had hundreds of spectators each night, so I met a lot of people. Both nights of the rodeo, I was able to introduce the Coweta County Drill Team. This made me reminisce back to all of the great times that I spent as a member of my own local 4H Mounted Drill Team. I enjoyed talking to the girls about the different events and rodeos that they would open all over the state of Georgia. They were a talented group of ladies! I also enjoyed staying with Elise Farnham, who graciously opened up her home to me for the weekend. Elise is the president of the Coweta County Cattlemen’s association, and has put on a fantastic rodeo for a couple of years now. I enjoyed working with her!
 
Next, off to Toganoxie, Kansas I went for another great rodeo put on by the local Shriners. This committee was huge, and everyone was willing to help out! I was nervous about this rodeo, because I was afraid I wouldn’t know any of the contestants or personnel due to it being so far west. However, I was pleased to see many names that I recognized entered in the rodeo, and knew both of the bullfighters well. Also, I became good friends with the announcer, Brandon McLagan, and his girlfriend, Katie Rudder. It was a nice reminder that no matter how far from home I am, I will always have my old rodeo family, and make new friends along the way!  Although we had a little rain for the rodeo, we still had a great turn out and a wonderful rodeo.
 
Last weekend, I was back in Georgia at Shady Dale. (I’m beginning to like this state!) I was super excited about this rodeo – people come from miles around to watch the rodeo. Robin Brooks with Southern Rodeo put on an awesome performance both nights, despite the rain and mud! I ended up doing a lot of promotional work with the bullfighters, who I later found out worked the Tennessee High School Rodeo my mom puts on each year in our home town. One of my greatest memories from this trip was meeting the fifth grade girl that sang the national anthem both nights of the rodeo. She had a beautiful voice and was so sweet!
 
Now, as I type, I am preparing to leave for Ozark, Arkansas. I can’t wait to get back on the road, although  I REALLY am hoping that I don’t take the rain with me this time.  I am looking forward to another great rodeo this weekend, and also can’t wait to spend a little time with Miss Rodeo USA 2015 Kirbi Allen.
 
I can’t wait to fill you in on my next Blog…. I have a really special trip planned next week.  Until then,  always remember to Enjoy the Ride!