"Back Home In Texas"

It was an exciting weekend (again) in North Texas. Between all the events and the full moon, there wasn't a dull moment. The weekend started with Mardi Gras Texas Style 2011 at Fair Park in Dallas. This is an annual music festival that had over 25 bands on 5 stages that started at 1pm and the last set started after 11 p.m. The list of artists included the Josh Abbott Band, Casey Donahew Band, Wade Bowen, Randy Rogers Band, Roger Creager, Whiskey Myers, No Justice, and many more artists who are up and coming in the music scene.

Casey Donahew & Myself

If you know me personally, you know I am a huge Casey Donahew fan. I don't know if it's him (it's a shame he is married) or the fact that his music has themes about not caring, living life, having fun and the occasional beer but I had an amazing opportunity. Yes, I got to say, "Mr. Donahew...can I please have a photo with you?" Well here it is world, me and the man who sings the soundtracks to my weekend.

Halfway back to Fort Worth was the PBR Iron Cowboy Invitational at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington. Texas cowboy Colby Yates took home the buckle and a check for $50,000 (not too bad for a few 8-second rides). He had the chance at an additional $100,000 check if he rode the bull Super Duty. Unfortunately Yates was bucked off at 2.5 seconds. It was unfortunate. He came out of the chute centered, in good form, then looked to have lost his grip. If you want to talk about being under pressure I think this is one of those moments. If you had the opportunity to win $100,000 in 8 seconds I would have a lot to think about. The commentators even mentioned that Yates was dripping in sweat while tightening his rope, he was in a cool, climate-controlled stadium, and it's possible the sweat in his glove caused his hand to slip, ultimately costing him a hefty check.

My hat off to Colby anyway. The guy didn't even know he was competing in the event until 72 hours before. Some people may not think it's a big deal and that these guys get on bulls all day long (which my be true), but these guys do have training and work out regimens and of course, prepare mentally. So congrats to Mr. Yates and all the boys who made qualified rides!

Next week I have some exciting news. Here's a hint: It has something to do with a previous post.