Somehow, I managed to let more than a month slip by since my last post. In that brief time, there has been a lot of “stuff” going on. Here’s a rundown of some highlights:

• In late July… nothing happened. Well, not much to speak of, anyhow. In fact… where did July GO?! I think I must’ve slept through it…
   
• In early August, I attended a few cutting horse shows. I didn’t show at any of them, but it was good experience to watch and learn, and of course I got to ride…
   
• In early August, my wife turned 37. Before me. I’m just sayin’…
   
• In mid-August, we took a little family trip to northern Indiana to visit my sister-in-law and her new husband, whom my kids refer to as “Uncle Stinky Feet”. I’m not sure why, but then, I’ve never sniffed his feet, either. Perhaps they got a whiff. Anyhow, we spent a day at the beach on Lake Michigan, and a day in downtown Chicago. We took the kids up to the Sky Deck of the “Willis” (Sears) Tower, and then to Gino’s for deepdish pizza. I think they really enjoyed the train rides, as well.
   
• On August 22nd, I turned 37 (after my wife, of course), and went to my first cutting horse show. After driving all the way to Indy, we realized about 1.5 hours before the show that the mare had cut her leg pretty badly on something. Show was off. But then T-bone helped me borrow a horse. Show was on! But then the horse hadn’t been worked in a while and it was a pretty rough ride (I scored a 60). But there were a lot of positives to take from it, so I’m happy I got the experience and look forward to trying it again on a horse I’ve actually ridden for more than an hour. =)
   
• Today my oldest started first grade… I have mixed emotions. She’s growing up too fast. Tomorrow it’ll be her Senior year. =( / =)
   
• My web site http://helpmikeride.com has raked in tons of visitors and donations. Just kidding… but I’ve had a few of both!
   
• My team began our weight loss challenge, and I’ve lost 5 pounds. But I’m still not back to where I was at the end of the last challenge.
   
• I completed the Cheap Beer Playoffs. Results to come soon!
    

September and October are also shaping up to be VERY busy months for me! But despite the fact we’ve had a mild summer, I am looking forward to Fall. I always do. I love the cooler weather and changing colors and reduced allergen levels. I’ll try to post more in the coming weeks!

Mike