Surviving the 4th of July

There was a lot of "horsing around" lately.  We tagged along while some of Maria and Linnea's friends went on a Sunday trail ride.
 In addition I want to mention that Linnea has been working with Merlin a lot lately. Merlin is a quarter horse who is shy and insecure. In making him more confident she is taking him out to walk around the block, or she rides him almost daily. Getting him ready for a day ride soon..

We hiked for three hours up and down the hills in Harvey Bear Park.  Ralle was a "champ"!  Talk about staying power he just keeps going.  Ultimately we were all tired let me tell you.

Another so typical American West kind of outing was to the San Benito County Saddle Horse Show.  Typically Linnea rides in the parade but did not this year.  She was there every day during the eventful week end however.  We too had an opportunity for some excellent tickets.

There was the customary calf roping........

as well as children (of all ages, between five to eighty-five) showing off they're riding skills.

Not to forget their "outfits".

There was bronc riding

with several brave souls trying

to "hang on" for dear life!

There was barrel racing

and bull riding!

There was Tri Tip Sandwiches and beer, Nachos and Ice Cream!

You too would be hungry after a ride like this.  We felt starved just watching.  Team Penning is yet another popular event.

Now the 4th of July is past.  Celebrated here with a back yard BBQ consisting of steaks, corn on the cob, Jalapeño peppers, zucchini on the grill along with cole slaw and the quintessential dessert of blueberry-strawberry shortcake with a big dollop of whipped cream to include all the colors of the American flag.  Traditional ending of the day fireworks!  Not much to Ralles liking obviously, but he survived it.  With the cherry orchards around here using mock gunshots regularly, for weeks on end, in an effort to scare off the birds, he has gotten used to the sounds of gunshots believe it or not.  Yea, only in America!  Right.  What can I say...... Happy summer to you all!
Cherry season pretty well done.  Apricots now.  Peaches next!  A delicious time.