In the middle of June, Nick and I took off to Wyoming with my Dad and Mom and brother, Shea, and his two boys Derek and Jordan. Daddy had his big horse trailer all painted up fancy and we took our big Dodge pickup with it's terrible paint job. Veldon and Patsy Seymore came along to help out and gave Mama a comfortable place to ride. We were also joined in Wyoming by my father's cousin, James Fairbourne.
We went up to Wyoming to do the Pony Express. This, my father rides in every chance he can get. He is always joined by James, and Shea and his boys have joined in to make it a 3 generation event. It is really quite something. The National Pony Express ride happens each year - it goes from St. Joseph, Missouri all the way to Sacramento, California and then the following year it starts from Sacramento to St. Joe. They do the whole route in just 10 days, running horses 24 hours. Derek has ridden with "Grandpa" each time and always looks forward to the next time. Shea joined in last year and Jordan got to ride this year. I wanted so badly to get something in the papers, etc. about the three generation thing, but missed the opportunity again. If all goes well, we may be able to get the chance to do it again next year for their 150 year commemoration. I think it would be wonderful if our boys were a part of that one for sure.
While we were there, we went to Church at Martin's Cove. I was so impressed with Shea, Derek and Jordan. They were given the privilege of passing the Sacrament in the meeting. I was humbled by the fact that these three held the Priesthood and were worthy to step in and execute that ordinance for those of us in the congregation. I truly appreciate that. It made for a very spiritual experience.
That evening we put on a fireside for the missionaries at Sixth Crossing - this is where they commemorate the Willey Handcart company. We were greeted with a band of musicians playing hometown music. It was a real thrill to be treated to that. I really want those missionaries to know how much I appreciated that introduction! My family and I entertained them for about an hour and then went to our camp and slept through a very cold and windy night.
The men went to ride up Rocky Ridge where the Willey Handcart company had traveled so many years ago. When they returned, we all said our goodbyes and split up - Mama and Daddy, Shea and the Boys and the horses all headed back to Snowflake. The Seymores stayed for a reunion. James and his two horses, Bud and Etta headed back to Utah and Nick and I took off to Idaho.
We joined up with NIck's family in Idaho for a Posegate reunion. It was a lot of fun. We met family from up in Canada and reacquainted ourselves with family Nick had not seen in nearly 30 years. We took one day to go and visit Yellowstone Park and another day to visit the Grand Teton Park. Saw lots of wildlife and beautiful country. It was a wonderful opportunity for all of us to get together and we are now planning on making it happen more often. Nick and I truly look forward to that.
We came home and went right back to the grind.
Now it's July. I had the opportunity of playing for the Taylor 4th of July festivities - always a thrill to play for that audience! Great talent is shared at the Cowboy Poetry and Music evening on Friday night. I've been a part of that since they started it 14 years ago. I appreciate their including me each time.
This next week, I'll be playing for the Flake reunion and then for the Pioneer program on Saturday - and I will probably be playing in the parade for Daddy and his horses. I look forward to this time also.
The following week, I will be playing at another Cowboy Poetry evening in Pinetop and then on the 8th of August I play in Greer with David. A full schedule for sure and a whole lot of fun!
I am so grateful to the Lord for giving me these opportunities. He has blessed me greatly. I have such a wonderful family, such beautiful and supporting friends, and a marvelous husband that supports me in all these crazy things. I know this post seems a little disjointed, but I have had trouble just trying to this typed in. Sorry about that. Hopefully next time I will make better sense.
Until the next time.... I love you all and look forward to hearing from you and watching you on Facebook! Be good and God Bless!
Tawna
