Ranch Life

CPYR’s Annual Hoedown

Category: Events

By Nora Seale

Katie Jacobsen Photography -2014072648Strains of country music floated through the air as eager children rushed up the driveway. The big day had finally arrived—CPYR’s annual Hoe Down!

Kids and parents, ready for a fun day, were greeted by a host of ranch staff dressed ‘country’ style. After choosing a down-home name like Bobbie Sue or Jimmy John, families proceeded to the festivities.

Nearly 300 people congregated in the main yard to fellowship and try their hands at a variety of homespun games. Some went bobbing for apples, while others jumped into roping contests. Many played the marshmallow shoot or bean bag toss and colorful designs were painted on faces young and old. CPYR’s famous family ‘pig-tures’ were created with taped-up noses. This comical pig-like effect always achieves huge smiles!

The Independence Arena became the site of a wacky three-legged, egg-carrying obstacle course. Sounds of cheering rose as teams of families and kids valiantly finished the race. With egg shells scattered in the dust, everyone was beckoned back to the main yard to ‘strut their stuff’ for some line dancing. Hilarity accompanied the melody “Boot, Scootin’ Boogie” while countless folks moved in a variety of directions. The ‘Grand March’ was triumphantly completed to allow presentation of prizes for the best dressed cow-kids and cow-family.

The aroma of grilled burgers and brats proved irresistible when dinner was announced. Everyone gathered to enjoy the sumptuous barbeque. Baked beans and various salads rounded out the delicious meal, and cold lemonade was welcomed by thirsty cowpokes.

After dinner, families congregated on the grassy hill to worship their Creator. As daytime heat gave way to a cool evening breeze, Troy shared an uplifting message from the Word.

Before heading down the driveway to go home, tired yet happy families devoured ice cream sundaes topped with lots of goodies. It was a joyous event! A day infused with fun and laughter—but most importantly—a day filled with the knowledge of God’s great love for His wonderfully diverse family.

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