Us Texans are predisposed to dressing like cowboys. Some may call it an incurable condition, but really we’re just waiting for our moment to hop in the saddle. I had that chance recently when I got a much-appreciated invite to join some good friends (along with a few dozen new ones) for a trail ride outside of Las Vegas, New Mexico. Here’s a quick snapshot of our time on the trail. Giddyup.
I’m not entirely lost on a horse—this ain’t my first rodeo, so to speak. But, compared to some of these guys, I may as well be riding the horse backwards because this definitely isn't their first rodeo. The highlight of my trip was simply watching some good folks—from Houston businessmen to full-time ranch hands—do what they do best. Being a functional rider isn’t easy, but these cowboys certainly made it look that way.
Us city folks don’t get as much peace and quiet as we need, so a few nights under the stars was exactly what the doctor ordered.
Us city folks don’t get as much peace and quiet as we need, so a few nights under the stars was exactly what the doctor ordered.
On day three, a few of the riders took to the arena for some good, clean fun—calf roping competitions paired with cheap beer. The best.
On day three, a few of the riders took to the arena for some good, clean fun—calf roping competitions paired with cheap beer. The best.
Of course, you’re not a real cowboy unless you get a chance to show off now and then.
Of course, you’re not a real cowboy unless you get a chance to show off now and then.
As long as it’s paired with some world-class cowboy cookin’ and equally world-class live music, I’ll be ready to get back in the saddle at the drop of a hat.
As long as it’s paired with some world-class cowboy cookin’ and equally world-class live music, I’ll be ready to get back in the saddle at the drop of a hat.
Music was a key part of this trail ride. It was an honor to watch folks like Dean Dillon, Bart Crow, Jason Allen, and several others take the stage.
Music was a key part of this trail ride. It was an honor to watch folks like Dean Dillon, Bart Crow, Jason Allen, and several others take the stage.
