Smithen Family Reunion

We just got back from our biannual Smithen Family Reunion. We had 47 out of 111 descendants of Walter and Lavina Smithen. We went to this great Ranch in Antimony UT called the Rockin R Ranch. I think everyone had a blast. We had quite a few requests to hold it there again. The best part was we really had to do nothing. They cooked the delicious food for us, and they provided plenty of entertainment. We had a family rodeo, floated down the river, went on hikes, horse rides for kids and adults, had crafts, played games, and so much more! 

I think the family crazy highlight for us was the rodeo. Ryan participated in barrel racing, calf riding, the relay race where they threw cow pies, and the cattle round-up. Ali participated in the relay and the mutton bustin where she got to ride a sheep. Emi participated in the relay. I got to be the camera lady. Ryan got the biggest goose egg on his leg that I have ever seen from the calf ride. Ali did a great job riding the sheep. I can't believe she did it! What a brave girl. If you have never seen this event it is crazy. They put a young child on a big sheep tell the to hold on while the sheep runs out of the shoot as fast as it can. The child holds on as long as they can. I can't believe we let her do it. But what a fun story she will be able to tell her whole life!

We had a blast with all of our family and can't wait to get together again in 2 years! We figure if we save about $21 a month we will be on our way.