XIT...

When we were growing up, every first weekend in August, we could count on spending three days enjoying the local rodeos, dances, parades, and get-togethers of XIT.  In Dalhart, TX, where my Dad grew up and where a lot of my family still lives, we would block off rooms at the local motel, spend the days with our cousins swimming and the nights watching the cowboys at the rodeo.  With five girls who might as well have been all sisters, we lived for that weekend in August.  

A lot has changed since then, but XIT still goes on.  Our boys aren't old enough to enjoy the rodeo and dances, but we did make it to the big parade this year.

Waiting on candy with the family...

Allison and precious Hensley...

Carter clapping to the beat of the marching band...

The next generation of cousins...

There are always horses in this parade...

and generations gathering together.

Bigs helping littles with finding the candy...

old friends uniting...

and kids learning how to share.

Mommas showing their babies how it all began...

and granddads getting to enjoy things this time around.

There are young cowboys waiting to grow up...

and those enjoying it all from the sidelines.

Everything from old cars...

 to overdue conversations...

and tired boys.

A great weekend it was indeed!