The Chase

Part of Pearl's excitement, anticipation and build up to this year's rodeo was her decision to take part in the calf chase. Last year, she opted out but this year she was pumped. She has been talking about the calf chase for weeks and we've been encouraging and telling her how fast she was going to be.

Pearl thought everything through.  She chose her red sneakers because they are the fastest of course.  Work gloves just because.  And hat off because she didn't want it falling when she was running. 

During one of the intermissions kids 10 and under are asked to make their way to the gate, once assembled (all 50 plus) the rodeo clowns gathered everyone, separated big and small in an attempt to give the little ones a head start. 3 timid baby calves are then ushered into the ring with ribbons tied loosely around their tales, the signal is given and the race is on.

Now the difference between a 10 year old and 3 year old is IMMENSELY clear. The big kids got all three ribbons leaving little kids in their dust (literally) and thinking: is it over already?

Pearl wasn't the only one with a few tears but she was a big winner in the end. The rodeo clown took notice of our disappointed Pearl and extended a personal invitation back to his house (ie trailer) for an autographed picture and some treats. So shortly there after Trap and Pearl went for a visit and Pearl got a first class tour of a true professional rodeo clown's house with all the costumes and props, and left with a big signed picture and a pocket full of jolly ranchers.

Just goes to show you, always jump in the ring because you never know what may lie ahead.

Well done Pearl, you continue to make Mom and Dad very very proud.  And let's start training for next year's chase.

We love you.