I Wish to Be... a Cowboy!

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The smell of freshly polished leather, the sound of bulls grunting fiercely, and competition so tough you can almost taste it. These are all things that five-year-old Zachary, who is in and out of the hospital battling cancer, experienced when his dream of becoming a real cowboy came true.

His cowboy adventure began as his family headed to Ellensburg, WA, the site of one of the largest rodeos in Washington State! Upon their arrival, Zach was immediately greeted by a former Miss Rodeo who showed him the ropes, introduced him to all the rodeo officials, and even set up a meet and greet with some of the current Miss Rodeo contestants. Zach's first day as a real cowboy was completed when he got to ride one of the horses and then watch the first round of rodeo competition!

The next day, Zach and his family participated in the Ellensburg parade where they rode in a horse-drawn carriage. Later that weekend they visited the Kittitas County Fair and Zach got to play with sheep, goats, horses, cattle and pigs, proving that a little dirt can't bother this cowboy!

Zach and his family were invited to a cattle ranch for a traditional cowboy barbecue. The family watched as an entire meal of roast beef, beans, corn and all the fixins were prepared over an open campfire. After dinner, the cowboys sat around the fire and played good ole fashioned western songs, as well as "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" at Zach's request.

Just as fast as he could say 'Giddyup,' Zach's weekend at the rodeo had come to an end. After three days of pure bliss, he retired his cowboy hat and headed back to the city. Although his time at the rodeo is over, the memories made with his family will never be forgotten, and the family hopes to return to the rodeo together in the future. Of course, next time, Zach will already know the ropes!

Special thanks: Volunteers Kimberly Sugget and Celia Miller

Special Thanks to: Adopt-A-Wish Sponsor, U.S. Bank of Washington

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