Branding {Round 1}

Today was the first of three brandings for the next week.
My in-laws just four and a half miles west of us hosted theirs today.

This was the first branding in which my son was able to wrestle calves. He was so excited when he got up this morning and was so worn out when it came time for bed.

His Auntie helped teach him how its done. It makes me so proud to see him working.

And then there's this boy. How can you not just love this face?!

This is my sister-in-law and her second eldest. They're both pretty great ladies.

Branding and castrating. 

My wonderful niece. Actually, I have 17 wonderful nieces!

I love these next three photos. I love how my sister-in-law is always so gracious to us and eager to see our children. I'm so thankful for the times I get to spend with her, for what she's taught me and what she shares with me. 

Auntie Anne was so good about teaching him. It was fun to watch. 
Next branding maybe I'll be in there with him. 

 

Here is my lovely niece, Savannah. 

And Maria. 

My husband roped a while, too.

I'm quite fond of this one. Maybe it's the subject matter. I think he's quite manly.

It's so hard to image this girl roping. I remember when she was just a sweet little tot. Wasn't it just yesterday?

And then there's this boy again. I think he's grown a foot since I saw him at Christmas. 

The kids worked so hard. I sat on the fence and took their pictures. And gabbed. And cut up lettuce for a salad. I was a huge help. The salad was delicious.

This brings tears to my eyes. There's much I would like to say but just don't have the words. So instead of blubbering I'll just say that I'm so glad to be able to call Becky my sister-in-law.

Seeing Rope rope was fun. He's much better than I. But, I think I chop up lettuce better than him so we're even.

Oh this girl. She's another favorite niece. 

And my lovely sister-in-law,  Shawna. She's a pretty amazing woman. She'll probably be embarrassed by this photo but I love it. I've seen her make this expression for the past 19 years. I can't believe I've known her that long! 
We went to high school together and worked a summer job together. I would have never imaged I'd become her sister-in-law. I'm sure glad we are. She's a true blessing to everyone who crosses her path. Expect maybe rattlesnakes and mice. 

I don't remember why this calf was being pursued but I find this photo hilarious. It looks like Mike has him...

But...he's too quick! 

I don't get to see this sweet face in person very much since she lives so far away but when I do it makes me very happy. 

My son can't stop talking about this cousin. She's pretty high on his list.

Maria heads back in for another one.

 This girl was just a baby at my wedding. Now she cooks delicious food! Where has the time gone?!

This boy who made me a mommy. I don't know where he got that lovely shirt but he loves to wear it. It's starting to get too small. How sad. 

Oh sweet Abbi. I just love this girl!  

Two of the youngest three hanging out with Grandpa.