A Very Country Week: Strawberry Days

I love that view of the rodeo and the mountains. It will never get old! 

When I met T-Money's family seven years ago (almost exactly), I knew very quickly that I was getting myself involved with a country family. Yes, we are talking about animals mounted on the walls, fishing, hunting, camping, rodeos...the whole deal. I grew up in Portland, Oregon--pretty much as opposite as you can get. With that being said, I've always known there was a country girl deep down. I have always loved rodeos (I would voluntarily go with my friends in high school), cowboys and country music. Since then, I am constantly learning about this world that I have never really known about! I love that T and I share a little bit of hippie in us and a little bit of country. You can say we are a little bit of both worlds :) 

Note: They still can't get me to hunt. I just can't do it!!! Haha. 

Since that moment seven years ago when I met T and his family, I was quickly introduced to Strawberry Days--a very popular week in my current hometown. It involves carnivals, parades, fireworks, concerts, rodeos, and, most importantly, strawberries and cream. It is a tradition to be involved in the festivities and it has become one of my favorite summer traditions since living in Utah. For me, summer doesn't hit until the rodeo starts! 

This past weekend was all about the country. Three nights of rodeo, hiking in the country and shooting. I am still a terrible shot, but hey, I'm not scared anymore, which is a feat. Honestly, though, my favorite part of the rodeo is just watching all of the horses and cute dog chasing the bulls back into their stalls. What can I say? I like animals more than people. 

Huzzah. 

There is something so empowering and awesome about shooting a gun. 

Saylor wasn't sure about the guns, so she sat in the car and watched us....exactly like this! Ha. 

Those hiking views out in the middle of nowhere! 

My cute sister in law and niece. It was my niece's first rodeo! Can you tell which one has been to a rodeo nine million times ;) 

My cute in-laws. 

Love my city cowboy. Ha. 

Give me all of the animals. 

Utah Summer sunsets are unreal. 

Saylor and Kimmy love the outdoor concerts (and each other!). #spoileddog 

What are some of your favorite summer traditions? 

Have you ever been to a rodeo? 

A Whole Lot of Red, White & Blue // Summer 2015

The 4th of July is quickly becoming one of my favorite holidays. I love that it is in summer, it is full of patriotism, and it always involves doing something outside. One thing that I love about Utah is that they make the 4th of July a huge deal. Everyone has rodeos, parades, fireworks, etc. I really just love all of the happiness that I see on the 4th here!

For this year's 4th of July, we decided to tour the entire Summmit County of Utah! T Money and I got up early to drive up to Oakley, Utah for the adorable small town parade.  It is so fun to watch it because Tanner's grandparents have a float every year with all of the grandkids (Tanner gets to be exempt because he's married!). Its always fun to hang out on the farm up there. All of my makeup was sweated/swam off after an hour so these photos are the best i've ever looked, in case you're wondering.

My brother and his girlfriend came up for the parade! 

We headed down to the creek that runs into Jordanelle Resorvoir in between Heber City and Oakley. It is absolutely beautiful! The boys wanted to go fishing while I just swam in the creek with Saylor. Saylor got caught in the current and it was really strong at one point. I could tell she was freaked out--I thought I was going to lose her, but luckily she was smart enough to swim to the rocks so Tanner could pick her up. She's a good swimmer, but not in that strong of a current. I fell about 50 times (what's new?) in the creek because the rocks were so slippery. It was a gorgeous (hot!) 100 degree day! Nothing more American than swimming and fishing in the creek, I tell ya!


These photos are from Instagram and my phone (didn't want to take my camera into the water. I use my brain sometimes).

Josh and Carli hung out with us because we pay them to.

Next, we headed to Tanner's cousins house in Midway where some serious badminton, cards, firework-blowing and eating was taking place. We watched a fireworks show and then headed home.

I have the best in laws in the world.

He loves having his picture taken.

She does love me, I promise.

All in all, it was such a great day. I am grateful to live close enough to some family where we can enjoy such a fun holiday! I am so grateful to live in a land that is free--one where I have rights. God Bless the USA!


Other Summer 2015 posts: // St. George // Cowboy Up! // Mermaids 



What is your favorite thing about the 4th of July?