IMAGES FROM THE TRAILER

During the National Anthem, people stop walking, and hats come off. Patriotism abounds in the western culture.

Our view from the merchandise trailer where we have been working, is about as good as it gets, if your inclined to people watch. We our positioned next to the main horse pathway into the arena, and on the pedestrian thoroughfare that circles around the grandstands. Obviously, the dress code at a rodeo is western in nature, but during the course of the day, we see just about everything.

A few mornings ago, while I had gone to the restroom, Patty had one of the rodeo contestants ride up to our counter on horseback to make a purchase. This happens just about every year, and gives new meaning to the phrase "drive through."

These little cowgirls were about as cute as they come.

This young cowgirl had just won the Junior Rodeo Barrel Racing contest.

As I mentioned yesterday, the weather has been almost ideal, with temperatures in the upper 70's. If you're a spectator sitting in the grandstands, it just doesn't get much better. For our sales, it isn't such a good thing. Our purchases of sunscreen is way up, but not very many people are thinking about warm clothing like sweatshirts. In years past, when it's been a bit chilly, and the wind is blowing, the sales of long sleeve items has risen dramatically. Not the case this year.

Part of the ladies drill team on horseback. They open each rodeo performance with precision riding.

Tomorrow is the last rodeo day, and that's the day when the bulk of the prize money is distributed during the final rodeo performance. One of the committee members told me that he thought this years total purse was around $130,000.

Even though we both enjoy working this event, it is work, and like any job, their are certain responsibilities that must be taken seriously. When it's over, there's a certain sigh of relief, and it will be nice to once again be "retired".