The Old "Salty Dog"

Cast of Characters

I'm a bit behind reporting our recent adventures because I have been without a scribe for a couple of weeks. Ol' Dangerous put me up in a "dogie motel" while he and Trea took a trip to the Midwest seeking their ancestral roots. Dangerous is back, so I will try to catch you up on what's been happening on the High Plateau. Let's start with our fall Walking Horse ride. I will give you my version of Dangerous' trip to Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois in my next entry.

By now, you are probably tired of seeing High Plateau landscapes, but I have to share a few more to set the scene for this blog. The usual cast of characters showed up to ride again this year. They weren't disappointed by the weather or scenery.

Fish Lake Hightop

We rode the Fish Lake Hightop because Bill and Rich hadn't seen it. While the Fish Lake Basin was crawling with ATVs, the Hightop showed few if any signs of traffic, including foot or horse. It's one of the few places left on the Fish Lake National Forest that hasn't been overrun by our "motorized friends." Riding at 11,600 feet on a clear autumn day provides incredible views of the valleys below, and you feel like you are the only dog or person looking down from the top of the world. There are few places left like this on the Colorado Plateau.

Deer Creek Lake

You're probably sick of seeing this picture, but our fall Walking Horse ride isn't complete without viewing the autumn leaves along the Deer Creek Lake Trail. I am not sure what he is talking about, but Dangerous constantly points out to me and others the beautiful Maynard Dixon clouds. I don't know who this Maynard guy is, but we always enjoy the fall view of Deer Creek Lake. I am a bit worried that Maynard Dixon might be another sheep dog who Dangerous is considering moving in. I might share the place with him, but not my blog.

While the scenery was incredible, I thought you might be more interested in helping me resolve an argument. "Who is the real "Salty Dog" of this group? For those unfamiliar with the term, "Salty Dog" is slang for an "old salt" with a lifetime of experience especially in the outdoors. In our case, a "Salty Dog" is well-versed in the skills of horsemanship and other aspects of life, and sometimes thought of being a bit "crusty" which is a nice way of saying "cranky." Whenever we gather to ride, it doesn't take long for the competition to start with the various riders vying for the title of "Salty Dog!"

Fremont Bob

Fremont Bob is well known to all of you, and for many an obvious "Salty Dog" choice. Few doubt his outdoor credentials, and the "cranky" description fits anyone who willingly owns and rides mules. However, before you vote, take a close look at Fremont's outfit. A serious horseman would never be seen in a pair of aviator sunglasses even though he found them. Catch Fremont on another day and you won't recognize him. You will think you just met a retired university professor decked out in chinos, sweater, loafers, and a stylish English wool cap. Consistency should be considered when selecting your "Salty Dog."

Walking Horse Bill

As you can see Bill falls far short of the necessary dress standard. His only appropriate accoutrement is the handmade RJP spurs. If you met him on the trail, you might conclude he is an urban hiker out for the day. While he doesn't meet the dress code, you should see the horse he rides. Balthazar is over 17 hands tall and requires two hands to control. While you can't call Bill "crusty" the "cranky" description sure applies. Bill is an experienced horseman who will ride man or dog into the ground. Also anyone who owns as many horses as he does should be given serious consideration for "Salty Dog" or institutionalized.

Intrepid Rich

Rich may not look the part, be he is an intrepid rider. Without hesitation, he climbs on whatever horse Bill brings him to ride, and sits patiently while the horse wildly spins him in circles. However, you need to understand that Rich doesn't own a horse or saddle, but he is the brains behind Bill's annual Yellowstone horse adventure.

Stylish Dennis

Don't get me wrong Dennis has made some real progress since I saw him last. He lost the camel-back pack, and his riding skills have improved. However, a few of his accessories aren't worn by traditional "Salty Dogs." While the mittens detract from his overall appearance, the sensitive European shoulder bag must go. Before you dismiss him completely, remember that outdoor experience is a prerequisite which Dennis has plenty of, and besides that he puts up with Fremont Bob's "crusty" living conditions when he visits the High Plateau to ride.

Blue Finds Lunch

You can debate the merits of the various candidates all you want, but my money is on Blue for "Salty Dog." It isn't that he is actually a dog that earns him my nomination, but the qualities that he brings. All the other candidates bought and brought their lunch, but not Blue. He found his! Knowing Blue, I am sure he will find it again the next time we ride this same area. If you want to learn the true meaning of "cranky" try taking his lunch away from him.

Drag it through the Fence

All the other candidates deck themselves out in various types of gear to ward off the cold, thorns, brush, rocks, and barbed wire; but not Blue. He runs across the High Plateau wearing nothing but what God gave him and not worrying about weather, difficult terrain, or man-made obstacles. You can see from the picture that diving through a barbed wire fence in pursuit of whatever interests him doesn't slow Blue down one bit. I can't imagine our other candidates exposing their sensitive parts in pursuit of pure fun. Well, maybe Fremont Bob depending what kind of fun it is.

Well, I don't want to prejudice your vote. I am still interested in your choice for the title of "Salty Dog" of our annual Walking Horse ride. I hope to hear from you.

What did he say?

At Rest

What did he say? I believe he said that if I did it again he would shoot me. Take a look at that innocent face. I can't believe that anyone would threaten to kill me, but Dangerous did last week, and I believe he meant it! Well, I am lucky to still be here to tell you what I did. You will have to decide if I deserved the death threats.

Fremont Bob and Nature Dan

We spent all last week riding, hiking, eating, and drinking with Dangerous' buddy Nature Dan. Dan is a liberal, tree hugging pacifist without a mean bone in his body, so why did Dangerous lose his cool and threaten to kill me during his visit. Well, it had little to do with Dan and a lot to do with my herding instincts. From the picture, everyone looks calm and collected. "Hobby" and Little Guy are quietly plodding along while Fremont Bob and Nature Dan enjoy the High Plateau scenery. Too bad you couldn't have taken in the scene a few minutes earlier. While trying to give Dangerous an assist, I was jumping four feet high in the air trying to bite Dangerous' flighty mare Dottie at the base of her tail. I believe Dangerous' mood was adversely affected while he tried to board his spinning, bouncing horse. As you might know, a rider is most vulnerable while mounting up. Without a real firm seat and good rein control, a rider can easily and instantly get unloaded. If Dangerous had taken the time to explain that to me, I might have known better, but threatening to shoot me. I am not sure I deserved that.

Looking for Naked Escalante River Nymphs

Dangerous' recent attitude toward me night be explained because he thinks I may have lost my touch. While hiking along the Escalante River, Dan, Dangerous, and Utah experienced one of those outdoor moments that only happen a few times in an old man's life -- spotting naked women. Female voices alerted us to a group ahead happily splashing in the river. Little did we know that the four or eight, depending on how you count, were enjoying a lovely fall afternoon completely naked. My three hiking buddies are still debating the correct number. In the past, most women make a big fuss over me, but not today. For some reason, the four completely ignored me requiring Dangerous and his two buddies to move on without stopping for a chat. I am not sure it was the chat they were interested in.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Well, whatever the conflict between Dangerous and me, I have to tell you fall is a beautiful time of year on the High Plateau. While the autumn leaves are just getting a good start, the lack of fall colors didn't distract much from the incredible views and scenery. So, if you have time, load up and drive scenic Highway 12. If you have time, stop in Grover for a visit. We will be there because it's time for our annual Walking Horse ride with Bill and friends.

The Doctor is In

Drop in visitors sometimes wonder how to tell if we are home. Well, the answer to that one is pretty easy. If the gate is open, we are there. If both gates are open, then Dottie and Little Guy are with us. Another way to tell is to check for the sign on the porch. Like all upscale professional establishments we have a sign that announces our presence and availability. Thanks to Mississippi Max, all you have to do to make sure Dangerous or Utah is around is to look for the sign.

As I mentioned in my last blog, I am now taking selected and pre-approved advertising at a reasonable cost. Again, thanks to Mississippi Max I received another prepaid advertisement that met with my approval. Max is trying to help Fremont Bob out by encouraging more sales at the Happy Chicken Egg Ranch. One of Fremont's specialties is homemade goat cheese. Makes your mouth water and stomach churn just thinking about such a tasty treat. Well, stop by the Bobarosa and try a slice. Get your orders in early for Christmas. Love to hear from you!

Biking the Wild Kingdom

Two Wheels Turning

First, I need to tell you that I don't get to go biking with Dangerous and his buddies. I know it is hard to believe, but I can't keep up with the old guys on their two wheelers, so I have to give you a second hand account based on what Dangerous tells me. After our last horse riding adventure, I may be banned from that activity too, but that's another story.

Jordan River Blue Heron

The Jordan River Parkway surprisingly provides lots of wildlife viewing opportunities. Since the bike path parallels the Jordan River, Dangerous tells me that he regularly sees herons, geese, ducks, and pelicans. If you can believe him, the other day he supposedly saw a beautiful black mink cross the trail. The Jordan River provides excellent habitat for these small, aggressive predators. In addition to the many birds, there are plenty catfish and carp along with muskrats and squirrels for them to hunt.

Canada Geese

Small flocks of Canada Geese inhabit the many ponds found along the parkway. According to Dangerous, he has watched this mother goose raise her brood to maturity. With a little luck, maybe they will be there next year. We can only hope!

Exotic Birds

Occasionally, Dangerous meets some real interesting characters while riding his bike. As you know, he never passes up an opportunity to talk with the many strange characters we meet on the trail, and this gentleman who was out walking his birds meets all his criteria for unusual. While he didn't get the guys life story, he couldn't pass up the chance to take a picture of the birds crawling all over him. The gentleman agreed to have his picture taken, but required a few seconds to pose his two birds. He wanted the green one's good side to be captured in the photo since the bird is missing its left eye.

Prepared for Action

You might think that Dangerous' outfit is a bit over the top, but I can attest to his need for helmet and gloves. Unlike his fishing outfit, Dangerous isn't interested in projecting style, but protecting himself from his recently acquired grandchildren. Hannah and Blake came into his life when his son Ben married a wonderful woman with two children. Hannah and Blake have added another element of danger to Dangerous' life. Ben warned him that riding with these two can be hazardous to an old man's well being. Dangerous didn't believe Ben until Hannah plowed her bike into Dangerous while he was standing next to the trail enjoying the view. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but I wonder if Dangerous reacted to this crash like he does to the ones I cause. I doubt he called Hannah some of the names he saves for me.

I have decided to add a new feature to my blog -- paid advertisements. Anyone interested in advertising with me can leave a comment with an e-mail address or phone number where I can reach you. Utah Jack was a bit hurt about the attention his Jack-in-the-box received in my last blog and at the Grover Boys picnic. He really believes he has developed a revolutionary product for the camping world, so he purchased an advertisement on my blog. Let me know if you are interested in taking advantage of this new opportunity!

Product Advertisement

Redneck Pop-Up-Camper
(Not Endorsed by Rosie)

2010 Labor Day Picnic

Let me tell you!

Relax and lean back in your chair. It's going to take me a few minutes to tell you all about the "Grover Boyz" Labor Day picnic. Observing from the ground floor, I may have missed a few things, but I believe my dog's eye view captured most of the interesting happenings during the three day event. Since I don't read and write, I have to rely strictly on memory, and it wasn't easy keeping track of 68 people and 14 dogs. As you can imagine, Dangerous, at his age, wasn't much help recalling what went on. While some may disagree, I believe the Labor Day picnic is a lot more fun and entertaining than the Wayne County Fair or Torrey's July 4th parade, but I might be wrong. You judge for yourselves.

The Camp

I know it's hard to believe, but people travel long distances to attend this premier social event. I know at least three guests who drove from Denver to eat hot dogs and hamburgers with the "Grover Boyz." By Saturday morning the flat across from Wildcat Guard Station was crawling with adults, kids, and dogs. With 31 family member, 16 of them children, roaming the campground a lot of time was spent keeping the kids from getting run over or stepping in fresh dog poop.

Four of Many

As you might guess, it was impossible to get a milling pack of 14 dogs together for a group photo. Getting their attention was easy as you can see, but there was so much food around the pack just ran from one victim to another. Since I am a bit brighter than your average dog, I focused my attention on the serving tables. I am the one in the background eagerly waiting for a tidbit to spill. The other dogs weren't that smart. They believed that Utah Jack might share a treat with them from his plate. Fat chance of that ever happening!

Feeding the Guests

At 4:00 PM sharp, the hamburgers and hot dogs were on the grill and the fresh corn was boiling in the pot. It wasn't long before the hungry guests started showing up starved for good conversation and marginal food. It didn't take long for the crowd to fill up on both.

I wonder who they are talking about

The crowd included the usual mix of husbands and wives, cowboys, foundry men, lawyers, locals, comers, friends, friends of friends, relatives, and others. A more eclectic group of eccentrics and odd balls is difficult to find anywhere else but on the High Plateau during Labor Day Weekend. Sitting next to Dangerous is a most interesting character -- a reformed carnivore. You all know him as Fremont Bob, but we had to change his name to Vegetable Bob after his recent conversion. Come on Fremont! Talk about sacra religious -- tofu hot dogs at the "Grover Boyz" picnic!

Children Activities

I guess you wonder what 16 kids do while their parents visit and eat. Well, the picture above gives you a general idea about how much supervision and oversight they actually got. That's probably why most of the kids and dogs didn't want to go home after three days of climbing on rocks and hanging out in the woods. One more day probably would have seen both kids and dogs running permanently feral on the High Plateau.

Uninvited Visitor

For the most part, everyone is invited to the picnic. We are used to the occasional odd ball, but every once in awhile a real strange character wanders into camp. There is no mistaking that Sasquatch actually inhabits the High Plateau. It was bad enough competing with all the other dogs for table scraps, but try scrambling around on the ground with this character for a half eaten hamburger or hot dog. I can tell you first hand that he ate every dropped morsel and scrap that should have gone to me and the other dogs. Besides, he scared hell out of the kids! Parents were up all night comforting their frightened children.

Sleeping Accommodations

The thirty-one people who camped for three nights slept in all sorts of accommodations. Some brought their trailers while others pitched tents. As you know, Dangerous and I share his sheep camp. Probably the strangest abode found on the High Plateau this Labor Day weekend was what we all called the "Jack-in-the-box." Poor Kay thought her extremely cheap boyfriend, Utah Jack, was going to provide a luxury camper or at least comfortable tent for her to sleep in. But, true to form Utah Jack built her a wafer board box with a hay tarp roof for under $25. It was the under $25 that he was most proud of.

Tequila Nights

After a sleepless night listening to the hay tarp rattle in the wind, Kay found a solution. Spend the evening around the campfire drinking margaritas and you avoid a sleepless night in the "Jack-in-the-box." The only problem is rousing yourself in the morning. Wake up Kay or you will miss breakfast? Can I have your bacon, sausage, and ham?

Helping the Elderly

As you might have noticed, the "Grover Boyz" are getting on in years. At their stage of life, getting in and out of their pickup trucks isn't easy for aging seniors. Since they had to haul the barbecue and other equipment from Grover for the picnic, sometimes they needed help unloading their trucks. Thankfully Daniel was available to unload both the barbecue and Dangerous from the back of his truck. Both were safely deposited on the ground without serious injury or damage. I guess you know what that means -- another Labor Day picnic next year.

Get your calendars out and pencil in the "Grover Boyz" picnic for 2011. After reading about the great fun we had, you won't want to miss the next one. As a special treat, Dangerous and Utah have decided to celebrate the centennial a few years early. They thought the centennial would be an incredible event and didn't want to miss it. Thanks again to all those who attended and helped out! Love to hear from you, especially suggestions for the centennial!

Fishing Idaho: Henry's Fork

Great Outfit!

You never know what Dangerous will dream up next. Last winter it was cross country skiing. This summer it is fly fishing and bike riding. We will cover bike riding in another post.

He tells me that fishing is something to do when you have time on your hands. Well, I can tell you for sure that since he finally retired this year he has too much time on his hands. I'm not sure what he will dream up next, but I hope it isn't sky diving. Even I have my limits about where I will follow him.

I really think he took up fly fishing because he likes the outfits. He thinks the waders flatter his figure. What do you think?

Family Activity

He told Trea that fly fishing was something that they could do together. How many husbands have used that one on their wives? The way it really works is she stays at the sheep camp wherever he parks it, tending Max and I while he fishes. I doubt Trea believes that this latest endeavor is really a family activity, but she doesn't mind the beautiful scenery. The Tetons provide an excellent backdrop while reading a good book.

Beautiful Places

Hiking and riding takes us to a lot of beautiful places, but you can't ride, hike or bike a big river. Fortunately for Dangerous, Trea's brother lives in the heart of fly fishing country and willingly spent time teaching Dangerous fly fishing fundamentals.

Adventure

For a guy more familiar with saddles, backpacks, and pickup trucks, I was surprised how well Dangerous took to a whole new set of equipment. The boat was a bit intimidating at first especially when Phil explained to him that he had to stand in the front fishing while Phil rowed. Standing on a wooden platform supported by a an aluminum frame was a bit intimating for a wobbly old man like Dangerous. I was with him recently when he fell flat on his back while trying to wade along the Poesy Lake shore line. The loud splash scared away the fish, and the language that followed as his waders filled with cold lake water drove the other campers, picnickers, and fishermen from the area.

Occasional Reward

For the uninitiated, fly fishing sounds pretty easy, but I can tell you from watching and listening to Dangerous that it is really quite demanding. Maybe I am wrong, and he is just a bit slow. However, I do know that rigging his fly rod, choosing a fly, and untangling the constant mess seemed to tire him out. After a day on the river trying to master nymph casting, he had to rest a full day afterward, and nymphs are only one of the many different fly fishing strategies. I am not sure Dangerous has enough time left to master dry fly and wet fly fishing. Fortunately, Phil told him that 70% of fly fishing involves nymph casting. Check back in a few years and I will let you know if we have made any progress. With expert instruction and great patience from his brother-in-law, Dangerous did catch a few fish. Except for the white fish that he lost because he forgot his net, all the trout were small rainbows. But from the smile on his face, at least I think it's a smile, I believe he has started another hobby.

Catch and Release

Phil teaches English at BYU Idaho, but I am convinced that his true profession is fly fishing guide. Fortunately for Dangerous, Phil is use to teaching freshman university students as well as beginning anglers. In addition to instructing writing and literature, his teaching load includes a fly fishing class. He needed all his pedagogical skills and patience to spend the day instructing Dangerous while they floated and fished the Henry's Fork of the Snake River. Stay tuned for my report on the "Grover Boyz" picnic. If you didn't make it, I am sure you will enjoy my upcoming report. Love to hear from you!

The Dog Who Can't Swim

Chris and Rose On Blue Bell Knoll

I try really hard not to be too critical of others especially those of my own species. However, there are times when the story has to be told. Have you ever known a dog that can't swim? On our recent camp out, Berkeley, a golden retriever, almost drowned in Lower Bown's Reservoir. To my great embarrassment, his mistress had to jump in and rescue him. Since swimming comes naturally to me, I have struggled to understand why a retriever, supposedly bred to water, wouldn't know how to swim. Maybe Berkeley's problem is genetic, but I like to believe his coordination was temporarily affected by one of the sights or activities he was exposed to during our July camp out. Take a look at what he saw, and possibly you can tell me what caused his problem.

Setting Up Camp

It's a dangerous time for kids and dogs when setting up camp. Trailers have to be backed into place and leveled. All the cooking equipment has to be unloaded and hooked up to propane bottles. With all this going on, there is always a chance that a dog or small child might get run over or blown up. However, I don't remember any close calls. The only thing I saw that traumatized me a bit and might have scarred Berkeley was one obvious "redneck smiley face," but sights like this are fairly common when camping with the High Plateau bunch and shouldn't be that traumatic.

Biker Chicks

Highway 12 this time of year is a popular motorcycle route. The highway is crawling with doctors, dentists, lawyers, and businessmen fantasizing about the outlaw life. Occasionally, however, some tough looking characters show up in camp asking directions or trying to get a free meal. I'm not sure, but possibly these two Smokey Bear biker chicks who drifted into camp might have frightened Berkeley. They don't look all that tough to me, but unlike Berkeley, I am use to Dangerous' unusual friends and relatives.

Helping the Less Fortunate

Outlaw motorcyclists aren't the only strange characters who show up in camp. Maybe this needy senior citizen caused the stir that temporarily affected Berkeley's swimming ability. He peddled his bike into camp asking directions to the Yucatan which Preston provided along with a handout which you can tell from the picture the old man didn't need. However, you never know how characters like him might affect the young and impressionable. Maybe this old boy tried to kick Berkeley under the table when he was begging for treats.

Unsuspecting Target

All dogs are constantly looking for treats. Unsuspecting kids are usually our easiest targets. This kid is perfectly positioned for the classic grab and run. Snatching that sandwich might look easy, but I am smart enough to know that mom is probably hovering close by. I suspect that Berkeley isn't an experienced food snatcher like me, and may have been tempted to take the bait. If he did, he might have caught a swift kick in the ribs that seriously affected his confidence.

Batting Cleanup

When parents and grandparents are around, the smart dog waits patiently for the right opportunity. Getting treats without risk usually involves endearing yourself to your intended victim and the adults watching over the unsuspecting child. Cleaning up after a messy kid usually gets an "Oh, how cute!" from the child's parents and avoids a painful kick. Berkeley could take lessons from an old pro like me.

Berkeley and Aspen

Take a look at the big lug. From his picture, he appears perfectly capable of swimming, but for some reason he can't. I have given you all my theories about why he embarrassed me and all the other dogs in camp. Well, I actually have one more that I think is most plausible. Berkeley might be a retriever but he hangs around a known non swimmer. Grandpa, who tends the kids a lot, is not only a non swimmer but totally afraid of water. You probably think I am crazy, but I have watched both Berkeley and Grandpa try to swim. They share the same technique. Neither one kicks his legs. Grandpa uses only his arms to try and stay afloat, and immediately sinks to the bottom. Berkeley only uses his front paws with the same result. You might think I am crazy, but I think Grandpa has been giving Berkeley swimming lessons.

Remember, if you want to meet many of the characters from my blog, join us on September 4 for the "Grover Boyz" picnic. Hope to see you at Wildcat Guard Station at 4:00 PM until dark! Drive 17 miles south of Torrey on Highway 12 and look for the signs.

Aspiring Cowboys and Other Visitors

Hiding Out

You probably wonder where I have been these past few months. Well, at the end of my entry, I will fill you in about what caused the lengthy gap in my posts. It isn't that I have been terribly busy. As you can see, we have been out rooting around in the back country, but not with our usual enthusiasm. To catch you up, I thought I would mention some of the visitors who have stopped in Grover recently, and to remind you that the second annual "Grover Boyz" picnic is on for September 4. Come join us at Wildcat Guard Station from 4:00 PM until dark. The place is easy to find -- same as last year. Turn south on Highway 12 in Torrey and drive approximately 17 miles until you see the signs. Hope to see you there!

Wall of Fame

We have an interesting way of keeping track of Grover visitors. Rather than a comprehensive genealogical data base we have everyone post their card in the outhouse. If you ever stop for a visit, you can read our complete 24 year history while taking care of business. Your paper work isn't done until you post your card on the outhouse wall. I thought you might want to meet some of the aspiring and real cowboys who have ridden with us so far this summer.

A Real Cowboy

Wherever we stop, tourists often pull up to ask Dangerous about "cowboying" on the High Plateau. They assume that anyone towing a horse trailer with his dog in the back is headed out to check his stock. Sometimes they even ask us to pose for pictures. Being a somewhat honest sort, Dangerous always tries to explain the differences between a real cowboy and a recreational rider like himself. The differences are obvious to the trained eye, but usually not to foreign visitors or big city tourists. So you don't embarrass yourself by stopping us to take our picture or inquire about the condition of our herd, I thought I would give you a lesson in identifying the real western article. To start, I have included a picture of a real cowboy. Dudley who rides with Dangerous occasionally establishes a pretty high standard. Use his picture to hone your skills in picking out real cowboys from the aspiring or recreational rider. If you want a picture of a real cowboy, Dudley is your man. To avoid embarrassment with your friends, don't include any of the other riders shown below in your western vacation pictures.

Aspiring Cowboy

I give Dennis an "A" for effort, but as you can easily tell, he is just starting his cowboy career. You have to like a guy who will take unending crap and criticism from Fremont Bob about his hat, belt, and boots and still ride until his but is sore. He could instantly improve his image by getting rid of the camel back pack. Real cowboys drink from a canteen or directly from a stream, but not from a tube connected to a water bladder carried on their back. The pack is a dead giveaway that Dennis is learning the trade.

No Boots, Hat, or Spurs

Jay is now a full time High Plateau resident who spends time with us on the porch. Eventually, everyone who shows up in Grover has to try riding with Dangerous. Like Dennis, Jay hasn't learned the importance of image when riding with Fremont Bob and Dangerous. Jay is, also, sporting a back pack, but more importantly, he is missing some key pieces of clothing and equipment. To live and ride in Wayne County he has got to get some boots, and maybe the requisite cowboy hat. With a new pair of boots and more experience, he might add a pair of Fremont Bob's handmade spurs, if asked, Fremont might go with him to Burns Saddlery to choose an appropriate outfit. According to Fremont, Dennis should have asked for his fashion advice before purchasing his new ensemble.

Guest Horse

After seeing the three pictures of recent riders, it is pretty obvious what distinguishes the real cowboy or horseman from the occasional rider. The horse and how the rider handles him are by far most important, and difficult to observe in a photo. As you may have noticed, LG appears in all three pictures. LG is what Dangerous calls his "guest horse" because anyone can ride him. However, it is the rare visitor who wants to ride Dangerous' mare Dottie. They like to look at her over the fence, but no one seems interested in giving Dottie a try. When you see someone mounted on a horse other than LG, you will know the aspiring rider has stepped up their skill level.

Recreational Rider

With a little practice, you can easily distinguish the inexperienced rider from the real cowboy. Dangerous falls somewhere between the three riders pictured above and Dudley. While Dangerous doesn't wear the complete cowboy outfit, you will notice well worn cowboy boots, a set of Fremont Bob spurs, but no cowboy hat. He saddles and cares for his own horse, and rarely rides LG. While he prefers his high octane mares, don't mistake him for a real cowboy like Dudley or Fremont. A real cowboy can ride a snake or mule if you can saddle them, while a recreational rider like Dangerous will get down and walk when necessary. There are other obvious differences like driving a gas powered Chevy truck rather than a Dodge diesel, or towing a bumper pull horse trailer as opposed to a goose neck stock trailer. Well, I think you get the idea. With a little experience, the difference becomes obvious.

"Granny"
1923-2010

In June, we lost one of our regular Grover visitors. Her death is the reason we haven't posted anything lately. Dangerous has been dealing with her death and hasn't felt like recording my musings into something you might be interested in reading. While we all miss "Granny," I am sure she wants us to get on with life. She always enjoyed hearing about our High Plateau adventures, so I am going to try sharing them with you again if you are still interested. Love to hear from you!