A Pow Wow

This weekend we went to a pow wow at a nearby reservation. The costumes were amazing and we enjoyed the singing, drum beating, and dancing. The men dressed with all the turkey feathers were especially interesting to watch. Their dance really imitates the turkey! Since we are in a part of the country with lots of Native American history, we have wanted to learn more about their culture and this was a great opportunity to do so.

Mutton Bustin

We went to a local rodeo with some friends last night. Michael got to participate in Mutton Bustin, which involves riding a sheep for as long as you can hold on....

Here you can see the sheep coming out of the pen, with Michael and Daddy looking on (just to the right of the sheep)


Here you can see Michael hanging on just before he fell off.




Unfortunately, the sheep stepped on him, though Michael was very brave and tough and got right up. Here he is showing us the proof of the trample, hoof marks on his shirt! He also got this cool Mutton Bustin medal.

A fun day

We were able to have a great family day this week in Sioux Falls. We all thoroughly enjoyed a full day at the kid's science museum. There were lots of interesting displays and activities, science demonstrations, and movies at the Cinedome. One our way out of town, we stopped at the lovely falls.

Strong in the Lord

Anna and I went to a conference for girls ages 8-14 this week (and their parents.) It was a "Strong in the Lord" Conference and we had a great time being together and being challenged and encouraged by the Mally family and lots of other lovely young ladies. The purpose was to encourage young girls to be bright lights for the Lord and commit their youth to Him. The woman who founded the Bright Lights ministry, Sarah Mally, is a beautiful woman who exhibits shining for Him. She did a great job sharing stories and exhorting the girls, and they also incorporated lots of skits, testimonies, music, and even using chalk art to challenge us. The girls also spent time in small groups while the parents had their own sessions.

May Anna (and all our children and yours!) be a bright light for the Lord, shining in the midst of a dark and crooked generation!

South Dakota Trip, fourth and final post!

Our last day in the Black Hills, we headed to the Air Force Museum. A highlight was the cockpit that Michael and Katie sat it. I think Michael could have spent all day there.....


On the way back home, we drove through the badlands. It is a beautiful place! The only negative in my opinion were the signs that said "Watch for rattlesnakes." Fortunately, none were sighted!