Rodeo Houston 2011

Every March, the Rodeo comes to Houston. This was a fun year for our family since my nephew, Luke, got to participate in the Mutton Bustin' and Caleb got to go to the Livestock Show for the first time! Luke did Mutton Bustin' on Military Appreciation Night. All the kids that night were military kids (Kyle is in the National Guard). He was so excited! It's been a long time since I've watched mutton bustin' and I'd forgotten how cute it is. I mean, what's not to love about sweet little kids riding sheep? Luke did not end up winning but he did hang on for a good while. I'd say he was probably in the top 5 (out of 16 kids). Most kids fell right off but Luke held on tight and scored a 76 (don't ask me what a "perfect" score is, though). It was fun to watch! As for the actual rodeo and Trace Adkins concert, that was fun too...but the highlight of the night was definitely watching Luke ride a sheep! Rhett is not into country music (or anything country-related, really), so I think he was in a bit of a culture shock, ha! I did not take any pictures b/c we were so far away but here are a few that I borrowed from Kyle's facebook:

Caleb and I met up with some friends for a fun playdate at the livestock show one Wednesday morning. They have a fun kids' area called the AgVenture. There are lots and lots of animals to see and even some to touch. Caleb loved it because he loves animals. The weather was perfect that day and we ate lunch outside. It was a beautiful and fun day with friends! I can't wait to take Caleb back each year b/c I think he will love it more and more as he grows into some more of the activities there. It was a bit of a challenge to maneuver him around in his stroller and take pictures at the same time (it was so crowded!) but I did get some pictures in the petting zoo. He kept squatting down to get a better look.

Caleb and Eden

(and Eden's mama, Stephanie)

squatting down again, LOL

This little thing got a hold of Caleb's pant leg and he kept trying to pull his leg away. Finally, I had to free him! I'm not sure what these things are. I think they were baby goats with their horns cut off. They looked like something out of Narnia to me!

And this deer got a hold of my coat and then Caleb's shirt. I guess he was looking for food, which we did not have! It's hard to tell but Caleb is laughing in this picture. He thought it was hilarious.

This one's kinda blurry but here's Isaiah (and Haylee). I think Isaiah was trying to keep his distance from this goat. He does not share Caleb's love for animals.

He really enjoyed the experience...

We can't wait to go back next year...when we will have both Caleb (who will be ~ 2 1/2) and little brother or sister (who will be ~ 6-7 months). Daddy will have to come b/c I will need all the help I can get. :)