Once again, Willie Nelson takes care of what ails you...

To all the girls I've loved before
Who travelled in and out my door
I'm glad they came along
I dedicate this song
To all the girls I've loved before
To all the girls I once caressed
And may I say I've held the best
For helping me to grow
I owe a lot I know
To all the girls I've loved before
The winds of change are always blowing
And every time I try to stay
The winds of change continue blowing
And they just carry me away
To all the girls who shared my life
Who now are someone else's wives
I'm glad they came along
I dedicate this song
To all the girls I've loved before
To all the girls who cared for me
Who filled my nights with ecstasy
They live within my heart
I'll always be a part
Of all the girls I've loved before
The winds of change are always blowing
And every time I try to stay
The winds of change continue blowing
And they just carry me away
To all the girls we've loved before
Who travelled in and out our doors
We're glad they came along
We dedicate this song
To all the girls we've loved before
To all the girls we've loved before
Who travelled in and out our doors
We're glad they came along
We dedicate this song
To all the girls we've loved before

I want to thank Willie for this song. It is true. Now don't get too hung up on some of the lyrics, just realize that I have been blessed to know some pretty choice young ladies. Great and wonderful choice daughters of God. Each one has taught me different lessons and made me a better man. I am no worse for the wear. I could probably go through and list all the things that I have learned, but it would be an extensive list and then people would get lost and think I was less than the sum of my parts.

To all of you, just know that you have made my life sweeter than I could have ever imagined. I ask myself why Heavenly Father has seen fit to bless me. I reckon it comes down to a fella hadn't ought to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Anyhow, if I was going to pick sumthin for Thanksgiving to be thankful for I would have to say all of my relationships, past, present, dead, alive, hot and cold. So "Thank You."

Sometimes you just can't help it...

I am working on a paper for Poly Sci 300. It is quite the gem. I realize that it is occupying my thoughts more than most things, even roping... That is crazy. I would like to say that I am still alive, even if it is with a HUGE GINORMOUS headache. But, oh well. I swear one day I will catch up with what is going on...

I swear I am not that OLD!

Yesterday I sat in a chapel in Oakley. I had been in the chapel before, but never had I felt so old. I was there to hear a friend say goodbye before he leaves to serve the Lord in Independence Missouri. He did a wonderful job speaking, and the meeting was quite uplifting. The funny thing is that he is one of my school chum's little brothers, so the kids in the crowd were mostly younger. The best part is that I can remember seeing a lot of those kids in diapers! That made me feel old, but I also felt the wonder that I felt almost six years ago, sitting in that same chapel. Were is my life going? What am I doing? These questions can be answered pretty easily, but there is still so much to them that I just don't know. It made me a bit trepidacious. At the time I knew the answers to those questions, graduate, go serve a mission and then get to college. Now I am getting ready to graduate from college and I feel that smae wide-eyed wonder. I know some of the answers, and a bit about the journey, but I still get butterflies in my tummy.

Oh, well. I am tough. The other thought I had was that there were people that were in that room that remember me in diapers, so it isn't that bad. I had to laugh when I introduced myself to a brother there whose son was good friends with my older sister. He didn't really recognize me, but as soon as I introduced myself he remembered me. He told me that I had grown, it happens.

I guess what I am getting at is that I feel so strange sometimes. I am caught in an interesting time in my life's history. There is so much to come, but I feel like I have seen so much. What a wonderful blessing. I get to write the story of my life right now, I am in control of that story and how it plays out. Granted I cannot control everything, but I know that I can do what I can. I reckon that is all a feller can ask some days.

2 Brand New Songs

I used iTunes and downloaded a couple of brand new songs. They remind me of B-town and I actually got a bit teary eyed. Cause I am gonna stay 18 forever, and I got a twenty dollar bill that says no one has ever seen you without make-up. Booyah, Just a snippet, but props to Bad A, Champ, the PASB, water skiing and cliff jumping. K, there goes the tear...

Cute Kids Part II

This is Clancy with Grandma. He is Davis' little brother. He was sad to leave Grandma and Grandpa's house! 

Cute Kids Part I

This is Davis. He is one funny little fella, chek out the boots outside the P.J.s. This is Riley's boy. 

Epiphany

I am actually learning things at college. I know that should be an obvious statement, but sometimes I feel like I am gaining stupidity. Today was not one of those days. I more than one thing happened that shows me that I am gaining in brains. We were talking about absolute truths in political science and applying the scientific method to prove these truths. In the "hard" sciences you can prove truths by performing experiments on a hypothesis and recording results. These experiments should be replicable.
As we discussed this, I had a revelation for myself. The reason it is more difficult to see how things will go, all other things being equal, in society, is that in hard sciences there are laws that the organisms must obey. They must because that is their nature. Man and countries have no absolute rules on this earth, only agency. The ability to choose what will be done. Granted, consequences are never up to the person who performs the act. There is more to what I am saying, and I would expand, but I think it would best be understood on a one to one basis.
I hope that those of you reading this are doing well. I understand how bleak things can be. Life seems so hard and tough. Things go wrong, like I say, "It happens." Just remember that somewhere out there in Idaho a cowboy thinks the world of you. Have faith in your beliefs and doubt your doubts. It's okay, huh?

IT happens

For those of you who don't know ropin' lingo, I apologize and I will try to esplain this so's you understand. (It's okay, huh?)
I went down to Pocatello Thursday night to rope. I hauled Simba, Reed's pony, down in a two horse strait load trailer that I borrowed. He loads real nice into it and had no problems. I thought I would stop by and pick up Will, the horse I was to haul back to Iceburg, before heading to the roping. Will has never been in a strait load (the little old two-horse trailers that only poor college kids use), and I wanted him to see it in the day. He didn't want any part of loading in there. He put his front feet in and then freaked out, hit his head on the roof and he jerked back. Of course, I was holding the lead rope, and it zipped through my hand at a high rate of speed. Burned like a sunuvagunn. I said a few choice words about his parents and their marital status, and I tried again. This went on for about 15 minutes, all to no avail. The roping started at seven so I thought I had better get going.
Got to the roping, but dad wasn't there from Burley yet, so I watched what was going on, and got us entered. I roped pretty good in the first round, made it back with two fellas. I woulda made it back with three, but I missed my dallies with one guy and let the steer go. (The way a roping works, if it is a draw jackpot, most of the time, is that you enter like 5 times. So they pair you up with 5 other people. You rope in the first round with all 5. If you catch a steer in the first round, you get to rope in the second round with that same partner. If you catch the second you get to go on to the third. Last night's roping was a three steer average, so if you caught all three in good time, you'd get a check-money-).
The second round I missed for Harold and legged up (caught the steer by one leg -which adds 5 a five-second penalty-) for Gary. That meant I only got to come back to the third round with one guy, Gary. There were only 18 teams in the 3rd round and we were 12th. That might not sound good, but considering they were paying 5 places, I thought we had a decent chance. Well, the only way to get a check is to rope that last steer. I missed. Dadgumm. Dad missed with his partner as well, so no money for the Larsen Family. I'd like to say that was the worst part of my night, but that was only 8:45 pm, and I still had to load Will and head back to Rexburg.
When I got back in the truck I checked my phone for messages, but my screen wasn't working. That happens every now and then, so I thought I'd just turn it off and back on, to reset it. Nope, that didn't work. I flipped the phone out of my hands in disgust. Then I heard it snap in half. CRAP! Yeah, that'll cost me a Benjamin to replace.
Then to load Will was pretty much impossible. He would get close and then rear back and freak out. Not cool.
Friday was equally frustrating as I forgot to do some of my homework and I was deathly tired and sore from the night before.
On Saturday I was at home, sweet home, in Burley. Through use of the front end loader on the tractor I was gonna help Mom pick some fruits out of the tops of the trees. I filled the hydraulic resivour and fired up the tractor. I flipped the PTO switch to get the bucket moving. I was in the middle of raising the bucket and then I heard a WHOOSH. The supply hose from the resivoir to the hydraulic pump had come off and the fluid was promptly draining out, at a high rate of speed. Simple fix, sort of. I just put new hose clamps on and filled it back up with new fluid. The bad part was that the pump has supports to keep it from spinning around (since it's PTO driven), and the supports had broken off. That is what caused the hose to come off in the first place. Dad is going to have to fix that one, cause Saturday afternoon is not the time to do such things, least not when things are closed down.
I was then getting ready to go to Priesthood Session. Mom needed some trash hauled, so I took the burn barrel into town. When I got back I noticed I was leaking more radiator fluid than normal. Sure enough, I had a hole in my radiator hose. No P.S. for me. I had to change the hose before Sunday. Good times.
The point of all this is that sometimes things happen. Life ain't always beautiful, but its a beautiful ride. It ain't so bad. It could have been lots worse and a bigger bummer of a weekend. Probably the reason it wasn't too bad was twofold: 1)It was General Conference, and I learned a lot and 2)When somebody loves you, life ain't too bad at all. (I hope you had a Happy Birthday!) Yeah, it's okay.

Oh, Yeah

Basically, what we have here are two fine looking gentlemen. This is Blake and I on his wedding day. I think we're pretty much the best lookin cats in the mix. 

SO...

Tomorrow is my Birthday and it's my golden year! I am 24 on the 24th. Neato huh? Riley and his family came home. We had some good ice cream cake and roped. Of course, all my roping buddies were there, Ron, Clint, Wes, P-Diddy, Riley and Dad. It was lots of fun. I will download some of the pictures and let you all look. Short entry for today, but I'm tired and I need my beauty rest.

Great Song from the Moody Blues.

The day we meet again
I'll be waiting there
I'll be waiting there for you
'Cause the years have been so lonely
Like a dog without a home
Its dangerous when you find out
You've been drinking on your own

The day we meet again
We will walk in peace
Thru the garden down the road
Where the mist of time is lifting
See it rising in the air
Like the shadow I was chasing
When I looked it wasnt there
Oh no

But just in case youre wondering
What was really on my mind
It wasnt what you took my love
Its what you left behind

And just in case youre wondering
Will it really be the same
You know were only living for
The day me meet again

So hold on - and dont let go
Time heals - you know - I know

The day we meet again
I'll be waiting there
I'll be waiting there for you
Cause the years have been so lonely
Like a dog without a home
Its dangerous when you find out
You've been drinking on your own

The day we meet again
We will walk in peace
Thru the garden down the road
Where the mist of time is lifting
See it rising in the air
Like the shadow I was chasing
When I looked it wasnt there
Hold on baby, don't let go

Sometimes music just makes a statement that I can't. I hope Justin and the Boys of the Moody Blues don't get mad at me for just saying that I love these lyrics. Yeah, it's okay.

HEHEHEHE

 

By the way...

Check this out! Just a neat story perhaps?

Lobbyist? or Just Plain Nuts

Most of you who know me know that I might be a bit off my rocker. I am crazy, like a fox... Yesterday I had the pleasure of telling people about my experience as a lobbyist intern in Boise. I was only planning on a nice 10 minute presentation. My proffessor had other plans. I started my ramblings with a sweet power point and off I was. I could see people nodding off and eyes glazing over. Now, you all know that I like to have attention if I have prepared something and so I used my vocal dynamics and a hint of verbal abuse to keep people awake. I just wish I had the knack that Bad A has for keeping people interested, he is a pretty good teacher. Much better than the kids here at school. No offence to them but I have not had a Sunday School teacher as good as Bad A here in the land of Iceburg.
Anyhow, I had done my power point and was still feilding questions, an hour later! What impressed me is how easily the answers came to my mind. I guess when you live something it sticks... I'm not gonna lie, I kinda liked speaking. In fact if I could come up with more to say to people I would speak more... Maybe. When I was done it was nice to hear compliments from teachers. That is always good. It was even better to be complimented by my peers. One of them said that I changed his opinion on government. I felt pretty good about that. I guess that it all goes back to the old saying "Whatever you are be a good one." Even if it is a sly fox...

My First "Free Write" For English 315.

-I should start of by saying that I am McCord Larsen. I am the youngest of four children and only single son of William Brent Larsen and Holly Helen Matthews Larsen. I am in the 24^th year of my life. I entered this world on the 24^th of September 1982 in the town of Twin Falls, located in the county of Twin Falls in the state of Idaho.

I came into this world without much, and I suspect that I shall leave it with about the same. However, my manner in arriving was not so common. I was born a month early and had RH factor blood. I don’t remember much of the event, but the doctors gave me 4 blood transfusions and told my parents that if I did live I would be abnormally small and perhaps mentally handicapped. Well, I would like to say that I am 6’2” and I weigh in at 245lbs. Doctors are not always right. The jury is still out on the latter of the two assumptions about my life.

Mother has always said that I was put on this earth to do special things. She says that it is not a mistake that I survived and I am trying to prove her right through gaining an education and making something of myself. Although I can see that I might not change the entire world at once, I hope that I can adjust the spaces around me for good. Isn’t that basically the purpose of this life, to make things just a bit better than you find them? Create a place where children can grow and become good people to do the same and help those around them. I think that is partially the meaning of this existence.

It might not sound like much to people who do not have time to help their brothers and sisters along on this journey. In fact I will bet that some of you reading this think that the author is crazy, perhaps he does not perceive reality. No one helps each other anymore, right? It is dog eat dog out there, right? Well just try this: try helping others out, maybe just one time a week or once a day. See how your world changes and then let me know who the crazy people really are and how your reality has changed.-

Hey folks, lemme know what you think of the above. It is what I handed in for a free write. I hope it has the effect I desire... Have a great day!

True Friends...

I once heard a wise cowboy say that a true friend will ride with you 'till hell freezes over, and then a little ways onto the ice.

Lemme tell you, I have a good amount of friends that fit this catergory. Some of you are far away and some are right around the corner. Some of you have been my pal since diapers, 6th grade or High School Rodeo. Some of you haven't known me very long at all in our lives, but we fit together pretty good. Some of you I see all the time, some of you I haven't seen for years and some of you I won't see 'till I walk through the veil.

I just want to tell all of you: THANK YOU! You have supported me in all that I do, and told me I was foolish when the time was right.

The reason for all of this is because this past weekend was a neat trip for me. I traveled to Utah to go to Blake and Lillian's wedding. (Kinkin to Anchan: AISHITE IRU YO!) They were sealed in the Bountiful Temple. I would like to tell the world just how beautiful Temples are. It is the closest you can get to Heaven on earth.
Any how... It was neat to see two people so in love. You could just see the love between these two great people. I've known Blake for 5 years, he and I started and ended our missions together and we served together in a great town, Aizuwakamatsu. All of you who are my friends can thank Blake for teaching me how to be as nice as I am... Lillian I have only known for about half a year. I knew her first from Blake telling me about her on the phone. He told me she was a really nice girl. He was right. She is awesome to people. They show love to people and they bring out the good in each other and those around them. How neat is that?

It was good to travel around and see some new things. But it is noce to be home. The only bad thing is that I leave again soon. School starts the 5th...

Any how- To all my friends, old and new: Bless you and thank you for being there for me. I love you all.

-Yeah, It's okay... I love you!

We be travlin'

Another adventure brought to you by Big Mack and Bad A.

Bad A and I took off to Rexburg on Thursday night. Why? I think you all could guess... Well my buddy Jared needed some boxes to move with, and I hauled them up there. It also gave us the opportunity to stop over and go dancin'. Oh YEAH... I must make a disclaimer, before certain people say I am a "player." I most certainly am not out dancing to "get action." (I explained to Bad A that I started out dancing as a way to meet girls. HOWEVER, I was a bad dancer and the girls I was meeting thought I was a clutz, no dates resulted. I kept going, as I am a determined soul, that I could learn more how to dance. Over the years my skills have increased. Now I don't go dancing to get dates, I go to dance. Its a heck of a work out! I do enjoy making my partners work and they usually leave with a smile. Bad A pointed out to me that every girl he saw me dance with left with a smile on thier face. I must be doing something right... But I gotta keep practised up, 'cause I am sure that one of these days I will have the opportunity of dancing with one of my favorite partners -Yeah, It's okay.-)

So we danced up a storm. Bad A met some girls that will probably inspire him to travel to Rexburg to visit me while I complete my last semester. That is right, I only have ONE left! Wahoo! Sorry, I get a bit pumped up. I am glad I will finally have something to show for my time in the City of Ice.

I must say that I probably scared my future roomates with my current look. I visited the place that will be my home for the next four months. The door was open and I just walked in like I own the place. The kid that was there looked at me like I was nuts (no one is debating that...). I told him and the manager, who showed up in a few minutes, not to worry because they wouldn't recognize me the next time they see me. I will be clean shaven... Not really looking forward to that, but all good things must end...

Apology...

If this is read by someone today, know that this is meant for you. I had some crazy things happen this week and I didn't make it to the post. I will today or tomorrow and I will be including some proof that I do exist. You know, like photos or something. I hope you are having a wonderful day and that all is well.
Take care. Youve Oil. (Thats an anagram... see if you can solve it.)

Time to grow up?

I am the uncle to 9 of the greatest kids in the world. Each has their own tastes, ideas, thought processes, fears hopes and dreams. They are so very unique. Each has a spot in my heart. I try not to play favorites to them, and I hope I am just in my treatment. It is hard to treat all of them as nice as the youngest Larsen, Clancy. He doesn't ever back talk and he loves to be around me. Of course, he is not yet 2 and cannot talk and he just wants to be put to sleep.
The point of all of this is that I have been the only single member of my family for 8 years. They are starting to look at me funny. Granted I am only 23. But some in my family are worried. Their worry is perhaps well-founded as I consistently make choices that seem immature and frivolous. I often choose to throw my money at steers, chasing the dream of making a little money in the rodeo world. I also do things at a whim that none of them can do. I jump in my truck and go places just to look at something I haven't seen before. Some call this Peter Pan Complex.
I would like to tell you I am NOT Peter Pan! I am taking advantage of a what I would call a great situation. You see, it lies in my theory of life: "Families are eternal. But you can only rope for so long..." Trust me, one day I will grow up. I plan on it. I am making choices, albeit behind the scenes, that are "big people choices." I am going to graduate from college soon. I am preparing to enter law school. I am taking a couple of financial risks that I hope will pay off, and none of them involve cards, horses or pyramid schemes. I am working on creating relationships that will be lasting and prove fruitful one day, not only in marriage, but by keeping friends close that will one day aid me in becoming the man I believe that I am destine to become. That is another one of the mottos I live by: "It ain't what you know, it's who you know." That has a deeper meaning than just what is on the surface. Think of the scripture that tells you what eternal life is.
Anyhow, lemme tell all of you thanks for keeping tabs on me and what is going on. Truth be told, I think things are just ducky. One day it'll all work out. Until then I just need to be patient.
Its' okay, huh?

It's Me!

For those of you who haven't seen me in a while, I thought I'd give you an updated photo... Don't worry, I will be shaving on September 5th, since I will be back at BYU-I, and classes will start. I might keep the mustache, HOWEVER I would like to put it to a vote: leave a comment about Mustache or clean shaven, lemme know what you think. 

Check it out!

This is one of my favorite Photos from my mission. Kinda neat, eh? 

One Wild Weekend...

Well, I am sure that it was wild for someone... No that wasn't me, I just hit the road. Hard to believe, right...

Friday night I loaded up with Shawn "Puffy" Coombs and his lovely wife, Mickey and headed off to ST. Anthony, for the Pioneer Days Rodeo. Lemme tell you that St. Anthony, ID is not a mainstream kind of place and it is always fun to see what kind of people come out to the rodeo. If you have ever been to a tractor pull, mud bog, demolition derby or a monster truck rally, you know what I am talking about. Any how, I had forgotten how much fun rodeos are. You see, the rodeo bunch is a lot of folks who travel down the road hitting up the same towns at the same times. I have been doing this since I was a junior in High School, and so I still know a few people. Two of my favorite folks, Brad Reamer and Buck LaRoche, are over 55 and still rope calves and team rope together. I think Buck is over 60 and he still can rope calves at a high rate of speed. The best part is that I hadn't seen them for a few years and they still knew who I was, even with the goatee... (Just a note, some of the kids I went to BHS with didn't recognize me with the goatee when we had the "party" at the City of Rocks, and I saw them almost every day for 3 years!) I kinda felt bad, and I hope that my good friends all forgive me, I hope Ty forgives me for pulling that trick on him, and that Mary understands that I didn't sit very long 'cause I wanted to talk to folks.

So, it was Puffy's first rodeo in the ImPRA, and his horse had never been through a rope barrier (for an explaination of the barrier system call me or listen very carefully to your local rodeo announcer). Any how, his horse balked at the barrier causing his hat to fall over his eyes... Basically, not a good run.
We got home about 2 in the morning and we were supposed to be in Oakley at 8 for the slack there. 7am came super fast... I had the most bumpin headache I have had in a long time. Puffy tells me that that is what is like to have a hang-over, minus the puking, cotton mouth and such. We found out that we would be roping about eleven, so we settled in on Uncle Eugene's big flat bed truck. It lives at the Oakley arena. It is where my family gathers and watches the rodeos there. It is really nice to watch the fireworks from as well.

Anyhow, my tummy got to rumbling so I headed over to the cookshack for breakfast. I knew the fellas running it and I asked them what was for eating. They told me they had panckaes, eggs and sausage. I asked if they'd make a sausage sandwich, and they replied with a message often heard in Oakley, "If you want it that way, do it yourself." So I headed to the back of the shack and proceded to build a fantastic sandwich. When I asked how much they told me since I cooked it, it was free. I had earned it. I don't look a gift horse in the mouth and off I went. Pretty good breakfast.

We finally got our draw and drew steer #36. I asked Merv, the Zen Master of Roping in my book, how #36 ran. He pulled out his notecard (Merv is a serious roper and he watched every steer run. He knew what each would do.). He asked what we drew and I told him. He smiled and said "I can't let you see this." After coaxing, Merv let me see the note. It said "36=MONEY." Simple and to the point. We had drawn the steer to win the rodeo. Booyah! Puffy and I backed into the box. The nod came and out we went. The steer was breaking a little to the left, just the way it should. Puffy threw to be in the 5 hole (in other words, a catch and we could be as fast as 5 seconds...) His loop sailed... right over the horns. No catch. I was a bit disapointed, but that is rodeo. It happens. There is next weekend, we're headed to Shoshone. It oughtta be good.

The rest of the day was pretty chill. Best part of my day was getting home from the rodeo and seeing a letter in the mail with a Oklahoma postmark. In case anyone wonders, I get pretty giddy to get mail and when it comes from that part of the country, I can't help but smile. It's okay, huh.

The rodeo that night was good and the fireworks rocked.

Sunday came fast, but it was a good day. Good meetings. Learned an amazing truth. I was teaching the lesson and a brother made the comment "You never get addicted to anything good. All the bad things get addicting, but I haven't heard of someone who absolutely NEEDS to read thier scriptures or they go into a state of shock..." I thought that was pretty insightful. You have to work to become righteous. It isn't something you just DO.

Then movie night at the Preston house. Bad A and The Champ bought a projector. We hung white sheets and set up theater seating. it was great.
All I know is that life is pretty dang good and I can't complain. Half of you wouldn't listen and the other half would be glad to hear I have the problems...

By the way, drink a Jones Soda. Do it cause the flavors are cool, the picture on the lable is unique and there are fortunes on the lid...

How to be king...

Okay, for most of you this won't apply, but I want to tell you that it is totally good to be king. You might be thinking I am ripping off Tom Petty, but I am not wanting the same things that he professes in his song, although it is one of my favorite songs... But I digress...
So, why do I fell this way, well, I don't really know. It could be that the other day I was roping pretty good ans won a menial amount of money. It could be that I have had more fun this week of summer than I have had all summer, even though I really didn't go any where special. Well, I DID go to Twin Falls and eat at Sushi Tokyo. HIGHLY RECOMEND IT. The owners are from Hiroshima, nice folks and they are very fun people. My date had never had sushi before and I got her to eat eel. Now eel is lots tastier than it looks, so fret not. If you ever get the chance I would tell you to take a chance and throw some down your gut. After dinner we couldn't get into Pirates of the Carribean, so we headed back to Burley. I took the old highway and she told me she had never been to the top of Mount Harrison, a travesty in my book, so off we went. At the top you can see all over the valley. It was pretty cool. It almost took me back a few years to a simpler time on the 4th of July...
Any how, I think that perspective is 98% of how great life is. Things can be pretty crappy sometimes, but if you look at the bright side, things will work out right. Like you know placing one out of the money sucks, but at least you know that you tried. That girl might laugh hysterically at how you kissed her, but at least she didn't slap you. You might drive a truck that only gets 12 MPG, but it is YOURS outright and the bank has no claim on it. Shoot, look on the bright side! Just remember that things could always be worse!

If you're gonna go GO BIG!

I had the sweet opportunity of riding a water weenie for the first time in my life yesterday. Boy Howdy! That was fun! The Park Avenue Singles Branch had a FHE activity down at Hobsons Dock. I hadn't been down there for a few years, used to go all the time when I was a youngin', with my buddy Craig. Anyhow, I had a sweet time riding and I learned that the best part of getting bucked off was taking people down with me. And I went off big time when it came down to it.

Haven't written about going to Reno, either. Course, I really can't say too much about Reno, as it might incriminate me. However, I will say this: It is good to drive a Ford, right, Linds? Anyway, the reason we headed down there was to watch the BFI, a who's who of the roping world. It was pretty good to watch, not only for entertainment, but for education. I learned some new things about my tie-down and positioning my feet. I think it will help. Saddest moment of the day was when Walt Woodard missed a steer that could have won him and Matt Sherwood a bucket of money. The whole place was wishing them the best. I guess there is always next year... (But they did kick some hiney at the Reno Rodeo, I watched them rope in the Slack on Wednesday, and they were a smooth 4.4 seconds. There are some of you that can't even do up your zipper that fast!)
We also went down to watch the Reno Rodeo Invitational, our buddies Hoggie and Hoggie were in it. It paid $100,000 a man to win it! and if you caught 3 steers you would get $3,500 , which was $1000 more than the fees were! Unfourtunatley the fellas had some hard luck and missed the 3 steer cut-off by 1.5 seconds. But, it is like Hoggie said, "It ain't like that was the last roping on earth, there'll be others." That is a life lesson in it self. Why get so wrapped up in outcomes of one event? There will be other chances.
After the roping there was a performance horse sale. WOW! they were some sweet horses. The one I thought would be nice went for a song and dance, only $13,000! That is NOT a small number, at least for a 4-year old gelding.
Speaking of 4-year olds, Kody, the paint horse and Will, the sorrel, are coming along nicely. Only had one good blow up with Will, he tried me pretty hard, but I stuck to him. Kody sometimes thinks he is a world champion buckin' horse, but that is all in his head.
Hope your world is good and that you are enjoying your summer as much as I am! Have a Good One!

Correct me if I am wrong, but are you asking for a challenge?

To be completely honest I can't fathom the fact that it is already June! Good crud, where'd the first few months go? Okay, now with that out of the way I would like to say to everyone: BOOYAH! You wanna know why I say BOOYAH? Well, basically because I can. Really no other reason.

If you are reading this blog to be blown away by some of astounding knowledge that I may share, I would like to appologize. I have no actual knowledge left in my brain. BUT I do have some interesting, but maybe not actually factual tidbits of information:
-You can hypnotize Chickens by using a stick and scratching the ground
-My truck has 2 gas tanks and that comes in very handy for a nice trick, running out in one tank and convincing people we are stranded
-Girls fight just because they can
-Divine proportion is 1.681 (Thank you Dan Brown)
-People DON'T listen to the first things you say on the telephone if they call the same place a lot (I answer the phone with the same greeting, which includes my name and people still call me Brent, my dad's name)
-My friend Joe can hypnotize cats, I think he is the true "Cat Whisperer..."
-It takes about 2.77 weeks for me to grow a sweet fumanchu, or goatee
-If you want real truth, ask someone who is younger than 10
-George Burns said that the key to a good sermon is a great beggining and a great ending and to make sure the two are close together
-"KISS Rules!"-Billy Shaw
-A Natoosee Leather Couch is perhaps one of the most comfortable couches produced
-The average heart beats 2 BILLION times over a lifetime
-People in the Land of the Rising Sun can play Paper Rock Scissors faster than any people on the planet
-Paper Rock Scissors can decide the most difficult problems. from whose toy is whose to whether the red button gets pushed


Okay, I have given you some sweeeeeet knowledge, now here comes the challenge: I want you to leave at least one useless peice of knowledge that has "changed your life." Keep it G-rated, please. I realize that the ones I have left don't mean much to ya'll, but one day you will understand...

Sometimes You Win...

And of course sometimes you lose. I am talking about the elections here in Idaho that occured yesterday. I will have to say I am a bit disappointed. I know it may sound like philisophical gobbledie-gook but I have seen results and they make me hang my head in shame a bit. I am mostly disapointed for my old boss, Norm Semanko. I would have thought that the people in the 1st District would be a tad bit smarter and see that he was the man for the job. The problem is that he may not be slimey enough to represent them. Norm is a good upstanding man and very trust worthy. He does a great job in his work as an attorney and as the Exec. Dir for the IWUA. He gets things done. I learned a lot from him as I watched him handle the issues of his campaign as well as the work of the IWUA. You'd think folks would want a guy that can get things done in office, and maybe Bill Salli will, I just had hopes for Norm. I think the people of the 1st District missed a great chance to have a good man go to bat for them in Washington. I guess it could be worse, it could have happened in my home District, the 2nd...

The County Elections were almost as disappointing. I think the downfall here is that we base too much on who a person is, not what he can do. I like the fellas that got elected for County Commisioner here in Cassia, but just because I like them doesn't mean that I think they will do a great job. I would just look at what they have done (or haven't) for the County. However, I guess enough people think they are doing a good job and they got re-elected. I just think a little change would do some good.

No surprise was the race for Governor. Go Butch! A freind of mine said this morning, "He may be a womanizing drunk of an idiot, but he is OUR womanizing drunk of an idiot!" I think what he meant was, yes Butch's morals might not be the greatest, but at least we go into the deal knowing he is that way. He does move and shake and can speak the lingo of the folks back in DC as well as be downhome in Idaho. I think he will do alright.

All in all I guess the best part about the election is that I cast my vote. I tried to have my voice heard. Some of the folks I voted for got elected, some didn't. It doesn't sadden me or make me bitter. Why would I be mad, I did my civic duty and now I can still voice my opinion, even though I might have chose some losers, I still chose. Did you get out and vote? Well if you didn't then keep your trap shut! Your vote could've changed things! Every vote counts and for people to sit by and do nothing and then complain because it isn't going the way they want, I say to hell with them! Appathetic people are the kind of folks I can not stand. Don't just sit there DO SOMETHING!

Remember, all it takes for Evil to triumph is for Good men to just stand by and do nothing.

My Parents are Cooler than Your Parents...

Okay, so that may sound like a pretty loud statement, but it has got to be true. Why? Because my Mom just left for Europe tob there 20 days, she will see 7 countries and have tons of fun. It is her birthday from my Uncle Vance and Aunt Joan. They are also taking four of their grandchildren, which Mom is sort of doing the nanny thing for them. They flew out yesterday and they should be in Frankfurt by now. Uncle Vance has a friend (Max) from Hawaii that speaks 7 languages and he is originally from Romainia. He wants to take a gal there who is one of his friends to see some of the opera scene. She is 28 and a good performer and Max wants her to see some things that may inspire her.

Dad just left for Park City this morning to film a comercial with some famous golfer. I will tell you who when the commercial airs, I don't want to get in trouble for leaking information... But Aunt Linda is producing the comercial, I think. Dad took a golf buddy with him. The information Aunt Linda said was that they needed some guys who looked like they golfed that were from the ages of 30 to 55. Both Dad and Kelly golf and off they went. I think they will get $100 for their trouble. I just hope it isn't a Levitra commercial...

I am working at the Shop, of course. The weather is nice and sort of a good cloud cover. I would post a picture of me and my new style, but Mom took the camera with her. I have a Fumanchu and burns down past my ears now... I kinda look unkept, but it makes for some fun times. I got to go to Conner Creek Junction Saturday and rope at the Sam Adams Arena. It was pretty fun. The view from thier place is pretty cool. You really can't beat being out there. Sam is a nice guy, good family and some quick cattle.

I hit the first of the Summer Series ropings put on by Dan Kidd. I didn't do any good. I wasn't roping too hot. But I had the chance to talk to a fella, Merv, who always has some good advice and he is a heckuva roper. He said I need to stop analyzing myself so much, just get in postion and rope. I tried to do that at Sam's but the wind was blowing into me when we would turn left... So maybe I will try tonite, it is Monday and Family Rope Evening.

In other news: I am reading the Da Vinci Code. Yes, I like it. Saw the movie and I liked it as well. I realize lots of folks criticize both, mostly the movie, but it really doesn't matter. I just take things for what they are worth. You have got to remember, IT IS FICTION PEOPLE! My goodness!

Yeah, and Branch Conference was yesterday. The Stake Presidency spoke. It was pretty cool. It is always good to hear and be somewhat chastised. I think I will be a bit better person for the whole experience.

So, if you think your parents are cooler than mine, that's okay, this isn't a contest in any way shape or form. But I know my Dad is tougher than your dad, so there...

Unregularity

I have been doing pretty much the same stuff over and over everyday for the last few weeks, not much in adventuring tales to tell. I am a bit bummed about that, but what is a fella to do? I wish I could have my unregular life again. Most the time things are changing so much that I have to keep looking for similarities, but not so lately. Although, life is still full of surprises...

First big surprise was last Sunday when High Councilor Campbell pulled me aside and said the Stake Presidency needed to meet with me. I tried to talk them out of it, by telling them about my bad habbits and saying I might develop more bad habbits, but they wouldn't give. I was later informed of a freind who said he had the same situation and he asked them if they were sure they'd prayed about the matter, and then asked if they might have meant another person of the same name, or maybe a name that sounded like his. Any how, no such luck. (that is a joke, I am sure this calling will be a good thing for me. I always grow with my callings)

The next neat thing was having my brothers and thier families come home to help out at the annual Yard Cleanup at my grandpa and gramma Larsen's. We had all the little kids around and we roped on Friday night. Way fun. The kids took turns running out of the chute and chasing each other. They ran themselves ragged. It was pretty fun to watch.

I hope everyone had a good Mothers Day. I hope we all took the time to thank our Mom's and let them know how much we love them. Heck, think about it where would YOU be without your mom? I liked the answer from the card that Cody and Sally got for my mom. It said we would probably be eating candy from a stranger sitting too close to the TV in yesterday's underwear. Or something like that. BANZAI to Moms every where. And a BANZAI to those future moms out there who are going to be just as wonderful to future generations as our moms have been to us.

Oh the Places I've been...

No this isn't a travelog of where I have been in my life, because, let's face it: I am well traveled.
I am talking about the emotional journey I have been on the last weeks. I have fighting off the crazy demons of Boredom and Laziness. Do you know these fellas? They aren't really nice guys. They make everything seem old and crusty, tastless. Food seems drab, nothing seems cool. Not even flying down a road at 100MPH doesn't cut it. Sad, too sad. But once again, my positivist outlook has kicked in! I have so much to do! I just need to get out and experince it. I reckon I might not have anyone to share the journey with at my side, but I will someday. When that day comes I will have many a tale to tell about things I have done and places I have journeyed to. How great will that be?

I tell you now that I am looking out the window and I can see mountains and places to go that I have been before, but I need to revisit. I am going to hit the road. No, no long journey to foreign lands (I'll leave that to Mom). I am going to see what my home has to offer. Mt. Harrison, Elba, Almo, City of Rocks, Big Cottonwood, Trapper Creek, Birch Creek, Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls, Oakley and all the cool stuff in my preverbial back yard. Here I come. Booyah!

By the way, since I last blogged I have been roping in Nampa, didn't do any good (got the Flu and roped every steer turned for me). I have also been working for Mom and Dad. Fun stuff.

Hope you all are well and dandy! Have a Good 'Un!

The $3200 Scholarship

So, here is a lesson in math: 1 new engine for an Olds 98 $3150, gas $50, new windsheild $150 and a Check from BYU-I Ag Dept for $200 makes the cost of my $200 Scholarship $3200.

I was driving to Rexburg to recieve this award in Mom's car. About American Falls I noticeted that the car was wanting to shut down and she was billowing smoke and her oil pressure died. I climbed the first off ramp by the Pioneer Tractor dealership and called Mom. She drove my truck there and Dad followed with the Sheesh wagon and a flatbed. We loaded up the car and I hit the road, about 2 hours behind my plan. Got to the dinner an hour late, just in time to recieve my award. I looked great (suit, tie and matching hankie) and had a hottie for a date (You rock, hot chick!); so I had a great entrance. Oh yeah!

After the dinner we hit up the campus country dance night for a spell. I danced in my suit, well, I shed the jacket. But it was good fun. Left for a bit and came back with proper dancing atire. Good fun (really more than I can explain, for safety's sake). I crashed at Glen and Denise's place. I tell you what. In all my travels I have noticed that it is a far better deal to stay with married people. They are cleaner than an apartment full of sinlge guys, have better blankets and nicer places.

Think about it, I am sure you might know of what I speak. This is the real reason I go to so many weddings. It isn't just to see the bliss of others, but to build up social credit. People remember some things and if you do give a good gift or at least save a life during a wedding, people remember. Then they let you sleep on their floor. See, I am basically a genious in disguise...

Any how, I got back on the road to go home and noticed a chip in the windshield. DRATTS!!! So my little award is great, but I will have to work like hell to pay for it! I think next year I will just write a nice thank you and tell them someone else can enjoy the blessings.

Too little too late...

Too little sleep that is, and too darn late last night. I went up to Iceburg and hit up the country dance scene at the Strata, way too much fun! I haven't been dancing in a place without alchohol or smokers for about 4 months. It was great! I like not having to worry about the sobriety of my dance partner, course, I am sure some of mine wondered about me... I, of course, was not drunk, I have never even tasted the garbage! Lemme tell you, what makes me go is havin good fun and there ain't no more fun than good dancin, cept maybe good ropin. I think my Uncle Blaine used to say every day, when he was a kid, looking in the mirror, "Who is the greatest guy in town and why am I? Because I can dance." Yup. Me too. Just ask the girls that had the chance to last night, I am thinking they would all agree, and out of two or three witnesses.... Booyah!

Stair wells and small dogs... Part One

What a weekend... I started early Friday morning and jumped on a plane to SLC. Met a new friend, Gary. He was a good man headed to go skiing with his buddies. We had a good chat about life and what was going on in the world. I was met by Lillian and Blake. Blake was one of my companions in the mission. He is a good man, studying music at BYU. Lillian is Blake's girlfreind, she is a sweet gal. They rock as a couple. I love seeing people happy together, I think I see that in them. We went to the new Joseph Smith film. WOW what a great show. As we were watching I kept thinking it was because of that wonderful man that I am who and where I am. Thans to Joseph's prayer and his desire to know the truth, I have what I have. I couldn't help it, I bawled like a baby. I was just so thankful for all I have. After the show we headed down to Provo. We hooked up with Aaron, one of our other doki and a former mission companion. We went to Demae, a great Japanese restaraunt in Provo, soooo good. After that we cleaned up and off to Springville for the misson reunion. That was way fun! Good crud, it was great to see lots of folks. Josh showed up and the fun began. We talked about stuff that both of us had completely forgot about. Josh was my trainer and we sure had some crazy times. The great thing is that all our fun isn't in the past. We had another episode at the reunion. We had been joking about someone that we both knew and you know what they say, speak of the devil and he is sure to appear. Well that person walked right in... Tehehehe. We busted out laughing and proceeded to laugh so hard that we had to go outside. The dogs in the neighborhood barked at us... It was crazy. Then a few of us gathered up and went to the Hunt's house for some sukiyaki, boy howdy, that was soooo good... So, after the sukiyaki Josh and I were off to Provo so I could crash at Blake's. We laughed so hard on the way that I almost lost my cookies, as well as the sukiyaki...
Wasn't Conference great? WOW. I loved Elder Neilson's talk. Of course, they were all good, but that was sweet. I actually got to see Preisthood session live, Joe got tickets, props to Joe! I sat next to John Gochnour, the last time he and I watched a session together live was when we were 13 or 14, and that was in the Tabernacle. Crazy. (After the session we went up to a sweet pizza joint, the best pie I have ever had!) Back to Provo with Jonny G. Joe let me use his wheels to drive around. What a guy, that Joe. Over to Mary's folks' to bed down.
I would just like to pause here and thank everyone of my friends. I am so dadgummed blessed! I had the opportunity to spend time with quite a few of the freinds that the Lord has given to me. You guys and girls are all great. I wouldn't want to overlook all of those whom I haven't seen for a while. What are you all thinkin? How'd you end up with me? I'm sure glad you all put up with me. You all put up with me and all my bad habits and problems. Thanks so much!
Sorry to get all mushed up... I will continue again soon...

All good things...

Or must all good things come to an end? I am looking down the barrel of the end of my intership. I am not going to B.S. you and say that it has all been roses, but it has been a great learning experinece. Like I told someone today, I have worked with a lot of good people and met a whole bunch of "interesting" folks. I would like to publically thank the IWUA for giving me this opportunity. You guys ROCK! If you are in the 1st Congressional District of Idaho remember to Vote in your primary on May 23, and VOTE SEMANKO!
If you are wondering what McCord will do next (not a rip off of Ford's "What will Phil do next?") I will not leave you all in suspence. I am running away and joining the Circus. Boo-yah! I heard The Ringling folks were hiring a bearded lady and I thought I would see if the ERA would help me get a job...
Seriously though, I am headed back to B-Town. I will take up my former position of HNIC at Burley Refrigeration, working for Mom and Dad. I like it, it is something I am decent at doing and they let me set my own hours. Yes, I will be roping, would you really expect anything else? C'mon... Hopefully I will convince my favorite header and my financial secretary to hit the road and rope in some IMPRA shows. If I get turned down, I will have to resort to begging and pleading... It might not help, but I'll do what it takes.
I also want to bounce up to Ricks on occasion to get a little groove on at the STRATA. Look out Rexburg! OH YEAH!
I would like to send out a jovial holler to those of you who have been there for me. I am not naming any names but you know who you are (an extra special shout out to one heckuva waitress at Applebee's, you rock!). The good times that I had in your various presences will not be forgotten. If you have the inlking to, just drop a line in the comment section, beleive me, I read them and reply...
Well folks, the workday is drawing to a close... I am looking forward to my commute out to Riley's. What a great life, I think Gary Alan hit it on the head: Life ain't always beautiful, but it is a beautiful ride...

Wonderment

Have you ever felt like you had no idea what was going on in your life? Welcome to my world. I kinda am having one of those days that U2 talks about in a classic song: I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For. I have done a lot and I have tons to be thankful for, but dang, I still fill a void in my heart.
Anyhow, lets move on, eh? The Legislature is winding down and we know what that means: Rodeo Season wil be upon us soon. Looking forward to it. All our bills have passed and are waiting the signiture from the governor. Not too bad.
Last night I got to go Home Teaching with Riley, that was cool. He is a darn fine man, good Father, husband, son and brother.
The other night I went out with Riley and the kids. Dang those little ones are observant. We were eating ice cream at ColdStone and Annabelle says to me "Uncle McCord, you're going to be a good daddy." I thanked her and pointed out that I needed a wife before I could become a dad. Then Addy piped up, "First you need a girlfreind! Uncle Jeff got a wife fast, how come you keep losing girls?" Darn good question... I don't know if I have a decent answer to that wonderful question. So I reckon I will have to do a bit of R&D. If any of you have good answers, I'd be obliged if you could offer suggestions.
In other news, the DNCFR was pretty good. Long night, though. I got home to Burley about 3:30 A.M. Sunday morning. Still got up to go to Church with Gramma Matthews at 10:00. Think I had better thank a few folks for making that a fun night: Roman, Ty, Devonie, Uncle Reed, Aunt Linda and most of all Mandy (for puting up with me). After the rodeo hit up the Green T and danced a bit. That was a hoot. We left before things got too crazy. Good times though...
The weather outside is looking pretty good and a bit breezy, course, if there wasn't any wind I wouldn't know how to stand up straight.

Willie Must Have More Endurance...

I think the reason Willie likes being on the road again is that he rides in a sweet tour bus and probably doesn't have to drive. I have been from one side of the state to the other side, and I am going to head back out as soon as I have lunch. I am headed back to Burley to hopefully rope tomorrow and then head up to the Dodge for the last performance. Thanks to Jay for the tickets. So for those of you wondering how many miles that is well, here is the math: from Star to I.F. is 299.30 miles and I did that twice-600 miles; now back to Pocatello that is another 256 miles, and yes, I will be coming back to Star Sunday night, so 512 round trip. Okay 1112 miles doesn't seem that much for my buddy Virgil, but that's plenty for me. I think it'll be worth it. I have a lunch date with my family in Burley tomorrow and probably rope and I might go watch my cousin's rodeo in Rupert before I head out to the Dodge.
I have also had some dang fine sushi this week. Went to the Blue Hashi in I.F. It's good, but I thought that Sakura Sushi in Eagle was better. I don't know, I just think that folks that are actually from the Orient make better sushi than guys from the U.S. Course, there was a Hawaiin kid in Iceburg that was pretty good. I guess I just like to see hendersized sushi. Oh well.
Anyhow, if you get a chance, try the Dragon Roll, it rocks! I reckon I will get on the road here soon, the quicker I leave the quicker I get where I am going...
On the road again...

Black, White, Cold and Hot Tub...

Last year there was a calf born, I don't know where he came from, but he had short stubby legs, a potbelly and he was black as coal. We bought him so Hooter could calf rope him, and from the get-go he was a bit different. He got too big real fast for Hooter to rope, so he graduated to the team ropin pen. He runs pretty darn fast and has short strides. He is one tough bugger to rope. Well, Hooter got a bit tougher, so we brought the little fella back to the calf ropin pen. Man, he'd give Hooter a run for his money. I roped him a few times, crazy to handle and if you didn't watch your step, he'd eat your lunch, and your neighbors as well. He got too heavy to calf rope, so back to the team ropin pen. He was dehorned, he's a crossbred, so we strap the plastic fakies on. Good crud, its hard to get them horns on that feller. He'll charge to take your hands out and shake his head trying to avoid the inevitable. He is pretty darn fun to rope, though. What makes him real fun is how tough he is to catch. His stubby legs are hard to time and add to it that he is still so light he just wangs out there on the hop, one tough catch. So, to rope him is a good satisfying feeling.
I got into Burley last night and it felt warm enough, so I was looking forward to roping. I got the steers up, caught the horses, saddled up and just as Hooter and I were mounting up to warm our horses up, the snow fell. Started out with just a few flakes, but they brought friends, lots of 'em, and big ones! Got bad enough that I couldn't see the end of the arena. We powered through and continued to rope. Dad showed up, as he was reffing a explorer ball game. I had saddled his horse, but forgot to cover it, so it was soaked. He ran the chute, what a dad. Course on one steer I hear him say, rope this one, no matter what the distraction. As we left the box he blew his ref whistle, I think it scared Poco (Hooter's horse). But he roped the steer anyway. I missed, my second miss of the night. My rope was basically a 35-foot string of mud and the glove I was wearing was caked as well. I was 4 for 6. Hooter roped pretty good. What made me smile was when Hooter turned that black steer, even with all that white snow falling and the fact I could barely see his legs I roped him slick and decently fast.
Another crazy event was when the little black flecked heifer escaped the back gate by popping the latching horseshoe off. She really is a mean little wench. I am pretty sure she'd a taken dad out if he'd gotten a bit closer. As it were, she ran down the alley and then got into the horse pen.
Heck, by the time we got done ropin' we were soaked and Hooter was freezing. It was snowing hard enough that I couldn't see worth a darn with the arena lights on and I shut 'em off to be able to see. We decided we try to rope tonite of the weather played fair. I hope it does.
Well, I went inside to eat dinner and thaw out. I watched a bit of TV with the folks and then was getting ready for bed when my phone rang. It was Roman. He and Dane were home enjoying "Spring Break" from ISU. They wanted to go hot tubbing and were calling to see if my folks would care if they used it. They thought I would be in Boise still, so they were surprised when I walked out the back door to greet them. Dane had been waiting for about 20 minutes... His date was in the back seat, he thought they'd have to change in the car. Funny thing was that the girls Roman brought with them were both 2004 grads of Burley High, and I had really no idea who they were. Oh well. We sat in the hot tub and man that felt gooooood. I am thinking that was one of the best purchases that Dad made since he bought the Sheesh wagon.
All I can say is its good to be home... Course, I'll be back on the road today. Guess the lesson is to happy for what you have right in front of you.

Six Foot Town

Good song from Big and Rich, I hope folks take the chance and listen to a bit of B&R. Good stuff. Lots happened last week. I actually baby-sat for the first time in about five or six years... I am sorry to Jeremy, my nephew. I baby sat him when I was a senior. I changed his diaper and thought, man I need baby powder. None in the house. Viola! I had some in the horse trailer, more specifically in my rope can. I used tons of it to keep the ropes nice and fast. So, I piled that stuff on his little rump, stood him up and powder came out! Yeah, I think I used plenty... Anyway, I am a bit smarter now. I was sittin for my brother while he and his wife went to a class; Annabelle (6 and smart as all get out), Adylyn (4 going on 21) and Davis (3 and catches on to stuff a bit too quick sometimes). Anyhow as it was time for a movie, and we had to pick one. Of course, each kid wanted a different one. How to settle? Paper Rock Scissors (JonKenPo in Japan)! BOOYAH! I had them face off, winner chooses. I think that I have found a simple solution for the common fighting! I want to say this was not an original idea of mine, I learned it in Japan. I was at a daycare, where we did service, and two boys were playing with a toy and one took it from the other. The boy without the toy cried to the teacher. The boy who took the toy stated that they had played JonKen and he won. There was no further argument. It was settled. I am going to try to use that when one day I become a dad. I think it is right next to genuis!
Right now I'm sittin in I.F. at the Shilo Inn for Ditch Rider Workshops. It is pretty durned informative. It is good to see people who get passionate about their work!
Tonight I will be in the Magic Valley and I will hopefully be chasin some steers and soaking in the hot tub. NICE!
Last night I went out on the town with some really nice folks. We hit the Blue Hashi. Pretty good sushi, the miso was good and the tempura was delicious. It is always fun to see people who never had sushi give it a try. The look on Virgil's face when he ate wasabi was great. Course, he got me by leaving a good glob on his last peace and then generously offering it to me. I ate it, woooooh. If you've never had wasabi, give it a shot. Its great to clear your sinus when you are congested. Speaking of wasabi, I remember at Heslop's farewell party Itakura filled a shoe-cream with wasabi and we had a eating contest. Heslop had the one filled with wasabi, we all crammed them into our face, Heslop dang near died. Hontoni waratta yo! Onaka ga itakunatta noni waratta! Gomen Rop-chan!
Well folks, hope you all are living and living well!!!
By the way, that is Ady and Anna, KAWAII! (They're cute, eh?)

Just don't step in anything...

That, my friends, is how I tell folks not to get in any trouble. Wish I could take my own medicine. I don't get into much, but it seems like when it rains it pours. I just hope the holes in my slicker aren't too awfully big... As I type this there is a whale of a storm outside and I am in a hotel room in Idaho Falls. I have a mirror in front of my computer and I am looking into the eyes of the man that I am and I am thinking "Who are you anyhow?" Of course, I know the general answers to the questions. I am a son of good parents, a brother to good siblings, the uncle to wonderful nieces and nephews. I am a decent worker and a man with ideas, dreams and visions. My long term things are pretty much water tight (pardon the pun for those in the know of what I want to be up to...). I just wish that I could get over not knowing what will happen by the end of the day, week or month. You never know and I need to accept that. I know that most of what I am saying here is for my benefit, but this is kind of therapeutic. I know that this isn't read too much by very many people. Its not really important, but its good to get my feelings out there...
-K- Enough of that emotional gobbledie gook. I am glad to be where I am. You know, sometimes I don't thank Heavenly Father for what I DON'T have. I don't have a reason not to trust those that I love. I don't have a relationship destined for destruction. I don't have a car payment, mortgage, alimony, court fees, outstanding warrants (that I know of), fierce enemies, or a price on my head. Good Crud! What a great list!
So I am here to go to meetings and introduce myself to a committee that chose me for my current position. I had the opportunity to travel home to Burley with Dad and Mom. We took kinda the long way home. We went out through Murphy and Bruno, it was my first time in Owyhee County. It was pretty country, if you like that brown desert look (and I do). Then I went to church in my home ward. I love that ward. Just like the song from Cheers, its where every body knows my name. Nice. Met Norm at the 211 exit and we rolled on up to I.F. It was a good chance to get to know more about each other. I work with a pretty amazing guy. I think he will make a great Congressman, he is a Statesman, not a politician, in my mind. The best part is I got to visit some good people that I know in Rexburg. Nate and Lydia are so happy and things sound in order for their welding. Mary is doing good (good luck on your tests, girl!). The Jones girls looked pretty happy. I learned about new people that I had never met. Pretty good stuff.
I tell you what I am really lookin forward to is roping the next time I go home. I tell you, I have had a lot of off days roping, but the worst day roping is better than the best day at work! Hope all of you are living good and well. Remember: Just don't step in anything!
By the way, that is Dad, Cody and me this last summer before we teed off and had a little fun. Check out that SWEEEET goatee. Booyah!!!

Well, I 'd have to say I am one lucky feller

I haven't been on here since last week cause I been traveling. I went on "tour" to help out with the IWUA's Pesticide Applicator's Recertification Workshops. Went home to Burley for the first one and slept in my bed at home for the first time in a month, soooo nice. That was Tuesaday. First meeting was on Wednesday. Good turnout and all. Then I loaded up with dad and Hooter and we went over to Filer to go ropin. Fun stuff, heck, I roped pretty fair for not being on a horse for over a month. A darn good friend gave me a ride over to Jerome, as I was staying in a HOTEL in JEROME (crazy, I know. I have never stayed in a hotel in Jerome, never needed to). Good trun out at the meeting in Jerome. Then off to Ada. Went to Nampa for the last of the meetings on Friday. I was sitting in the back of the room, dinkin around on my computer. Checked my email and saw one from LSAC (Law School Admissoins Council) and realized they had sent my test scores! I am not a complete moron, but I am far from being a legal smartee pants. I think with my grades I will be able to get into the Law School I am shooting for. Nice huh? Yeah.
I helped Riley paint his kitchen on Saturday. Looks pretty darn good if you ask me. Truth be told, I didn't really paint too much. Riley is a great painter. His kitchen looks great. Spent some quality time with Davis Annabelle and Adylyn. Good fun.
Hope all is well for everyone out there. I am doing well and having a good time, hope you are too!
Its okay, Huh... Yeah, Its okay....

Yessir I believe that there is a Car wash...

Dad brought up a couple of horses to have finished by Barry Johnson. He picked up Kody from Interstate Feeders on Thursday and Kody was covered in manure. Not liquid or easily removed poop either, it was stick to your guns, pull out the hair on the hide, balled up tighter than a frog's butt manure.... So we took the horses into nearby Notus. However, the carwash there was out of order. Well, onto Caldwell. We found a nice car wash with hot water and commenced to washing. Took us about 2 hours, but we got it done (the owner of the wash stopped by and said he'd never seen it done, but said it was okay that we did, "those horses looked like they could use a bath). Horses looked great after that. I smelled like nasty manure. We proceeded home after dropping of the horses in Parma. On the way saw some hops Fields. Talk about neat! I don't drink beer or advocate the consumption thereof, but those hops Fields, even though they weren't growing were a sight to behold. Chad hooked me up on a blind date with a nice young lady. She seemed to be a bit shy, course it might've been me. Anyhow, we sat down to watch a movie after hot tubbing and 3/4 of the way through the movie I leaned over and said "You ever cuddled with a cowboy?" She said she hadn't. I then proceeded to ask her if she wanted to, to this her reply was a simple "No." I could take a hint, I backed off and watched Frank Hopkins win the great race. When the movie was over she lit out of there like she was on fire! No real goodnite, no phone number to exchange and she didn't look back! No, I am not ashamed or disappointed, I thought it was a good line and at least know what kind of girl it WON'T work on. Like I usually say, "Could be worse."
In other crazy news, I always have a way of picking the wrong time to say the right thing. Dadgummit. You'd think I could get a bit of better timing down, but heck, I am a team roper and not a genius, and I'd rather be lucky than good. Sometimes I just ain't as lucky as I would care to be.
That is why coming home is such a great thing. Home is my fortress of solitude, my hole in the wall and my place to just relax and rejuvenate. I am typing this in my home after sitting in a hot tub and letting all the stress in my body just leave my muscles. Felt sooo nice. It was cold out there, but I really couldn't feel it. Okay, no more rambling. I would just like to say, for what it's worth: Sometimes I can't accomplish everything I'd like to. I have my shortcomings and I would like everyone to know that I am responsible for the things in my life. I know that. Let me also say that just because right now, I can't do what I would really like to, doesn't mean that I won't do all that I can. Hey, it could be worse.

Reckon I should do a bit of clarification

I hope that everyone can see that this morning's post was a bit negative. I sure didn't want to come off that way. I want ya'll to know that I am doing pretty good, and I forgot to include some good things that happened this weekend. First off: spent quality time with mom and dad. That is priceless. Dad and I just about cooked ourselves in the hot tub, 109 is a bit too hot... Mom and I had ample time to chat. I got a chance to ride Tiny. Dangdest thing happened: I split my pants open right down the front. First pair that I bought when I got back from Japan. They lasted over two years (let's see some sissyfied city-boy pair of pants handle that much livin'!). Also had a heckuva good time with an old friend. You never know how much you miss somebody 'till thier gone. It was good to chill with a real good friend. We headed up to the mountains, saw a herd of deer in Albion and checked out the full moon from the lookout spot on the way up to Pomerrell. It was great to talk to a good friend. Sunday morning I got to go to church with Mom and Grandma Matthews. What a treat. I love my Grandma. Not only that but in Mom and Dad's ward I got to hear two great talks. I realized as I heard these talks why I am who I am: my mom and dad. They gave wonderful talks. Very uplifting, and I also got to sit next to Grandma Larsen. Good day, how can you beat going to church with your grandmas? Pretty tough. Hope all is well with ya'll and that the sun is smiling on your day. Good luck and God Bless.

Ropin is SOOO much easier than...

Just about anything. I have always said I'd rather be lucky than good. I still stand by this. I have consigned myself to the fact that it will be a heckuva lot easier for me to win the world roping than it will be for me to find a wife. I know you think this is crazy talk, but let's look at the facts: If I practice hard and get a better horse, I could perform better. That's not too tough to do. However, I have tried all sorts of stuff to find a nice girl, and I still am trying. It seems like I keep hitting the same wall. Like one of my brother's freinds said "I find a girl, she likes me but I do not care for her, then I see one I like and she cares nothing for me" (when you read it say it with a French accent, I can't remember if Sylvere is French or Swiss, but he spoke French). He was a bit older when he got married. I want you all to know that I am NOT obsessed with finding a wife, but it might be a bit better than bumming around trying to get dates. Back to the original premiss though: Roping is just easier to do. Yeah, I spend lots of time and money on my roping, but how often have I come home from a bad night of roping and wanted to never to it again? NONE!!! Why, because at least with the roping I know that I have a CHANCE at taking something home with me, like a check or a saddle or something!!! Okay, enough with the drivel... I am doing well. My truck is having a bit of a rough time (No, Linds, it isn't cause it's a Ford, but it could be something to do with the 180,000 miles on it, like Chris LeDoux says "It ain't the years, its the miles"). Life is realatively good. The more I look at the blessings in my life the more I realize that life ain't bad at all. I have a great family that loves and supports me, friends that are true and cheer me on in my pursuits and I know that Heavenly Father is watching over and taking care of me and guiding me to something good. I also know that I have the faith to make sure that I can get through it all. Remember folks: Pray like it all depends on Him and then get up and work like it all depends on you.

I have never felt so stoopid

Those of you who know me closely know that I am a fan of being somewhat educated, but I have never felt as dumb as I did on Saturday. What was Saturday? The LSAT. I know that I have a decent grasp of the English language and I am somewhat fluent in my speaking and writing abilities but I must be a retard when it comes to reading and comprehending information!!! I swear my brain just shut down about the third section or so. I hope that I never have to re-do the test, of course, Uncle Reed provided me with a word of advice and solace: The only other day you feel as dumb as you did on the day you took the LSAT is the day you get your scores back. 2月27日へ楽しみまっています。I am looking forward to Feb 27. Any way, after I took the test I called a good buddy and we headed out and went shotgun shooting. We bought a brick a piece and took a 12 gau., a 40mm, 356, .22 and girls with us. Good fun. I know I went through 80 shells, my shoulder is a smidgen sore, but it was a great way to unload my frustration. Oh yeah... Yesterday the legislature was quite entertaining, the constitutional amendment for the definition of marriage to be between a man and woman passed 53 to 17. A good debate and I was pleased with the outcome. I was not impressed with a comparison that one gal made that compared my religion with the gay/lesbian community in that the constitution shouldn't tell people what is and isn't marriage (for you who aren't Idaho History buffs, the Idaho constitution used to say that Celestial marriage, temple marriage, was not recognized by the State of Idaho and that those who entered therein could not have some rights that others enjoy. That was changed in 1982, and to make that kind of comparison is completely assinign!). Any how the measure is now going to be debated in the House, and I think that it will go through. A good moral victory for my home state. God Bless Idaho and America.

Some folks go a bit too far....

I chose not publish a comment that someone made on my blog, why? Because they didn't leave a name: if you have something to say KEEP IT CLEAN and RELATED and then leave your name with it. Any how....
It has been a while since I had the time to tell everyone what I have been doing... I attended the Idaho Water Users Assn. Water Conference. It was fantastic, for a conference it wasn't bad. You know you can always learn something! I have been helping get ready for another conference that we will be putting on for pesticide applicators. This one will be good and I will get to go home for a day or two. Then we'll head to Jerome and back to Nampa.
Mom told me that I was on TV the other night. I attended Norm Semanko's formal announcement for his running for Congress in the 1st District and the camera caught a glimpse of me. GO NORM!! Norm is a good man from what I know and the association I have had with him so far. Shoot I figure the more folks we have like him in the world the better off we'll be.
I would really like to throw a line out to all my friends that I kinda miss: you all know who you are and I hope all is well for you!

This is one SMALL world!!!

So, I sent a good freind off on a mission. She is headed to Okalhoma City, and I wanted to get her address as I didn't have it. I called her mom and she was in the process of looking ofr it when she asked me where I was from. Of course, everyone knows someone from Burley, and as luck would have it, she was actually from Burley! She graduated about the same time my folks did and she knew mom and dad. She mentioned that we were DISTANT counsins, I say that so that folks won't think I am nutty for "writing" to a sister missionary that is my cousin... It's not that close. ANYHOW: work is going good and I am helping get ready for our big conference this week (to find out more about the conference check out www.iwua.org). I have made all sorts of copies and booklets. NICE. I want to tell you paperwork is not my favorite thing in the world, but hey, whats an intern to do? Right, you just bow your head and do whatever. If any of you reading this want to, feel free to leave commments!!! I haven't seen any yet. Anyhow, I hope all of you are functioning well and enjoying life. If you're not it's your own fault!!!

Happy Human Rights Day!!!

That is a Holiday for some of you, but not me. I don't mind though. Good day to get some decent work done. I am scheduling conference dates for our Ditchriders and Pestcide Applicators. Tons of fun... I went over to the State House, or as a coworker calls it the Great Wind Tunnel, and sat in on the few meetings that were going on. I missed a perfect opportunity to take a good picture of a protestor, thats right I said 1 protestor. Her sign said "Impeach Bush and Cheney!!!" She was all alone and wasn't making a ruckus, I hope freinds showed up later to add support, but I did't notice any on my way out, back to the office. A great photo opportunity missed... Zannen da yo. So downtown is free parking on holidays, in case you didn't know.
OH YEAH, this weekend Chad and I went out to Black's Creek with some of his freinds and some girls and went shooting. We had a few 12 gauges and a 22 pistol as well as a Bereta 40mm. Fun stuff. I may have to get into that stuff. I was shooting the Bereta and I couldn't hear ANYTHING. It was sooo loud, but it was fun. Chad also bought a used Bereta 40mm, it is a sweet feeling pistol, quite nice indeed. I know he got a great deal on it, but I just don't see myself dropping $500 for a gun anytime soon, I'd rather spend it on entry fees and fuel to get to the roping.
Also went out dancing at the Cowgirl in Kuna. I know it's a bar, but it's was the best option for going dancing. Yeah, so they played one song and some girls climbed up on the bar and started dancing. At this time I felt a fist in my back. I turned around to see an old roping buddy. He looked at me and said "I'm tellin your dad I saw you here!" Course, I told him that the strongest thing I had to drink was a water. He asked who I was there with I looked around for my date, she was on the bar dancing!!! Nothing vulgar mind you, but it was quite the shock to the system. Fun night, oh boy!!! We had quite the time dancing and we danced quite well together, I would have to say. That is the first thing I think that matters about a girl, after the usuall things; can she dance? Not only that but can she dance with you? Don't worry kids, nothing serious and I am not replacing my old dance partners (you know who you are). I just need somebody to dance with in the Treasure Valley...

Good crud, What a week.

I have almost made it through my first week as a lobbyist intern. What a different world! I attended a fancy luncheon yesterday. I saw the size of the salad and thought, crud if that's the salad, the main course is going to rock!!! However, I soon discovered, that WAS the main course! Dadgummit! I reckon people with lots of power don't need a whole bunch to eat... I made the aquaintance of an older gentleman and he took the time to talk with me and offer some sage advice. He told me that if you wanted to make a name for yourself, be patient and work at a constant pace and don't try to basically ram your name down people's throats.
I sat in on some interesting meetings. Here is my summary:

Legislative week in review

For the week of January 9-13, 2006

This week started of with the Governor’s State of the State address. Some of the issues addressed were the need to redesign the Medicaid system, create a law to keep government for misusing eminent domain for gains on a private level, and to use the surplus of money the state has. He has developed a plan for the surplus which includes putting away $67million for a rainy day fund, $67million to improve parks and for prison expansion, as well as $63million in an energy rebate (a check to virtually each Idahoan for $50). To read the entire State of the State or listen http://gov.idaho.gov/.

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture, ISDA, made presentations to the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee. They covered the issues of Brucellosis and the measures needed to get Idaho back to a rating of Class Free as well as animal I.D. Worker safety and protection during pesticide application was also addressed. The ISDA has a plan to broadcast via radio to Hispanic workers safety public service announcements dealing with pesticide and general safety. Noxious Weed Program Manager, Matt Voile, addressed the need for funding in fighting a new threat to Idaho’s waterways, the Eurasian Water Milfoil. Milfoil can infest rivers and lakes. This would mostly be devastating to recreational water users, but the economic costs to water users and the general public would definitely be felt as it could cost roughly $4million annually to control and hopefully rid Idaho’ waterways and lakes of this noxious weed. ESPA CREP (Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program) a program to enroll up to 100,000 acres to reduce groundwater and surface water consumptive use was also explained, as well as the goals associated with the plan. (For more information please see http://www.agri.state.id.us/, official website for the ISDA).

Another hot topic this week was the current status of the wolf population in Idaho. Estimates are that roughly 600 wolves are roaming our state, enough to shortly become delisted from the Endangered Species Act. The wolf packs have had an adverse affect on some Idaho elk populations, especially the Lolo and Selway regions. The Idaho Fish and Game Department has proposed cutting wolf pack numbers in the Lolo region by roughly 75%, in order to correct the problem. This measure is pending approval by the Idaho Fish and Game Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. To read what the Idaho Statesman has to say on the issue please visit www.idahostatesman.com.

New kid in town

I have made it to the big city of Boise. I have my own office, parking spot and a name tag. I know that isn't too impresive, but for a kid who is still a bit wet behind the ears to big city livin', I don't think I am doing too bad. I commute to work and it takes about 18 t0 30 minutes to travel a whopping 11 miles. That is not normal for me... I used to drive from Rexburg to I.F. in 30 minutes and that is 25 miles! Good crud. I have been shown the capitol building, could have attended the State of the State with good seats, but didn't. I was beat. Life is funny in the way you are presented with opportunities to get toknow more people, I have met a whole bunch of folks that have fancy titles and carry alot of weight with them. I can honestly say its a bit intimidating, but heck I guess that is life... Life is going pretty good and I am not one too complain, remember that when you complain 50% of the folks you complain to don't care, and the other 50% are glad that you have the problem. Off to more meetings this afternoon and wahooey!