Wagon Days...the last summer hurrah

The family headed to Ketchum for Labor Day Weekend to partake in Wagon Days. This event boasts the longest non-motorized parade in the U.S. (I think). There were thousands of spectators, several horses, marching bands, and yes...wagons too. Our favorite parade participants were Jose and his Andalusians who belong to the "Charro Association 'Rancho Seco' and whose main goal is to maintain and promote the Charro tradition and ethnic identity for future generations." These men had their horses performing amazing feats. You must see them. There was also an old west gun fight complete with "Injun Joe", "Black Jack" (the bad guy), the prosthelytizing church lady, and loose women. Charlie of course loved it. Cole and I both were really quite frightened by it all. I still have ringing in my ears. Wagon days offered eats for all tastes. We devoured chili and hot dogs prepared by the local Episcopalian youth group. And best of all, we enjoyed walking the streets of Ketchum drinking beers. Not often that public drinking is allowed or encouraged. The Rotary Duck Race recruited a record number of participants. I believe over 15,000 ducks were purchased ($5 each). The proceeds go toward local scholarships, charities and organizations. Charlie found himself swimming with ducks (accidentally) when he ventured a little too far out into the river (creek) and fell in. Even though our ducks (the ones we adopted) didn't win the million dollars, or any of the other prizes, we still had fun.