Rushridge's Blog

I decided that when I grow up – I want to be a rodeo photographer. This verdict was made when my whirlwind summer brought me to the Calgary Stampede for my first opportunity to photograph a Pro Rodeo event. Being able to stand alongside the arena, wet and muddy as it was, and capture the action was an indescribable thrill.

Splashdown!

My two-week Canadian trip included a pack trip into the Rockies with outfitters McKenzie’s Trails West. Riding a horse named Lefty and leading Tonto laden with packs, sent shivers up my spine caused not so much from the cool mountain air but from the realization I was traveling trails forged by historic trappers and outfitters of the late 1800’s.

I’m not quite grown up but I’m finally getting close. I tend to celebrate my birthdays quietly now as they fall on 9/11 but this year, the tenth anniversary of a very sad day, I will turn 50. This year is also the 20^th anniversary of my cancer survival so I intend to make it a great day! A 50^th   of course, requires a bit of retrospection. A wise person once told me “the day you stop learning is the day you die.” But what have I learned in a half century?

One of my most frustrating perspectives I have learned that you can’t teach common sense to those who have none and it seems that common sense is becoming a rarity in today’s society. True friends will stick by your side through thick and thin – those who don’t need to be culled like a mean bull. Family and friends are precious and should be held close and enemies should be held even closer.

I have learned that kids, horses and pets have more than one thing in common. If you brag them up, they are bound to turn right around and embarrass you. Hugs – whether they are from two or four-legged buddies are meant to be cherished each and every time. If you don’t want your words repeated – either keep them under your hat or utter them only to your best horse while riding alone on a long trail in the middle of nowhere.

I have found that photographing bears from the safety of your vehicle is great sport. However, the aging rails of a corral don’t offer the same comfort feeling while capturing grizzlies with my trusty Canon while on foot…alone…on a dusty trail…. in the Canadian Rockies.

I’ve learned good hair day usually only happens when you will be working in the field by yourself all day. If you are lonely and want company – skip cleaning your house one day.  But given the choice between a clean house and an enjoyable horseback ride – always pick the ride.

My busy summer taught me that even following the best of travels, home is always the best place to be. Yes, I’m not quite grown up yet but when I finally reach that stage of maturity I’ll let you know. In the meantime, keep smiling, keep riding and remember that life is short – ride your best horse first.