Monday (5/11/)  Went to the U. S. Bureau of Engraving in Fort Worth.  The security is very strict just to get in for the tour and cell phones and cameras were not allowed.  You did not dare walk any where without being given permission.  During the tour, our guide stressed all the new security measures that are being incorporated into the bills they print.  They print about 12.5 million bills per day of varying denominations.  

In the afternoon, we went the Stockyards at Fort Worth which at one time was the largest livestock market in the southwest.  This is an area that depicts activities that have taken place for 100 years.  There is a recreated long-horn cattle drive twice a day with about 20 cattle and cowboys in period dress.  The first indoor rodeo arena is there and it amazing to see how small that arena really is.  There are many shops but one in particular is famous for cowboy boots.  It is called Lenny's and the pair of boots that Sue liked was a mere $2,450, or she could have had her second choice at $1675.  The boots were very intricate and perfectly made.

The streets are lined with brass stars commemorating all the various individuals who have contributed to the cowboy way of life.  There is a large entertainment center called Billy Bob's.  In it they have a bull riding ring, a dance lessons floor, a bar, a store, a restaurant and a performance stage which seats 2,000.  Anyone who is anyone in country music has performed there.   Willie Nelson make an annual visit there to perform every July 4th.  They have a section of the walls lined with plaster casts of the performer hands.