Features Overview
Ranch Repose
When it’s all been done, refection is inevitable. In life, it all goes so quickly. Our spouse, our children and our work has consumed our waking and sometimes our sleepless hours. We know how we got here. Now the question is, “why and what it all means?” The quality we place on our journey is hard to quantify and maybe we shouldn’t. Let’s try not to pore over or constantly analyze it. Let’s just stop for a minute and listen to your heartbeat. Enjoy the quietness that brings us to this “Just Repose”.
Patriarch
Stirring up dust, the longhorn throws its head up to announce its presence. I am here and will always be.
This is my domain and territory. The longhorn was almost breed out of existence by the 1920’s. Only a few small herds remained. With the help of the government and some forth-right cattle drivers, these majestic creatures were saved.
They have survived with resilience to proclaim their longevity. Their perseverance has left this country with a true “Patriarch.”
Facing Tomorrow
We all have the aspiration of a life well-lived. Attaining it is another reality. Hope in each day’s events end up shaping the balance of our lives. Lost in the routine, we sometimes question our role.
Looking back over the years, we wonder how we did in making all of life’s equations look equal. Maybe it’s a never ending quest for balance. Maybe we have already received our share of the pie or maybe just maybe our success turns out to be something as simple as our devotion to never give up “Facing Tomorrow.”
Tried and True
The Buckskin has been with me a long time. We’ve been through a lot together. We worked through all kinds of weather over the years. Freezing winters that neither of us wanted to be out in and blistering hot summers not fit for man or beast. Buck is like family to me, hell both my kids learned to ride on him.
Roping bulls, dragging calves or just making giant circles gathering cattle. He never quits. He’s got a heart as big as Texas.
Buck is getting a little older now and I don’t take him out as much. It takes a lot of miles and exposure to make a good using horse. I’ve got younger colts that need the work.
I go to the horse trap every morning to pick the day’s mount and, as soon as I look across the pasture, Buck always looks at me. I would like to take him cause he’s proven and it’s really hard to say not today old son.
The years of commitment he has shown me, my family and this ranch has proved to be immeasurable. You would have to say about ol’ Buck that he has been “Tried and True.”
Piercing the Wind
Time is of the essence.
There’s a need for speed as he travels across rough terrain.
Thundering hooves pound the open prairie.
The wind sounds like a symphony in his ears only to be matched by the pounding of his heart.
Adrenaline has erased any fear or doubt.
As much as the need to push on, he can’t help but look back.
What a battle, what a challenge, what a success.
The time to analyze the situation is over.
Only time for a final glance.
A good warrior, and a good horse “Piercing the Wind”.
Quest
Rising up to meet the day’s challenges with the announcement of presence; proud, focused and determined.
Taking on all challengers with the intent to excel. Confidence in knowing, transcends anything or anyone who crosses the path. Actions will go above and beyond the ordinary.
This confidence sets a precedent in an all-out effort to prove superiority. This is the moment, the destiny….
“The Quest”
Spirit
The western woman is a strong and confident creature.
She has been tempered with an inner strength that speaks to the ages of creating her own destiny. Her quiet speech is not to be mistaken for weakness. She rules with the wisdom and confidence instilled in her by family and her way of life. She conquers adversity without doubt or hesitation.
Her non-judgmental attitude comes from her faith and the belief that restrictions are only self imposed. She faces each challenge with grace and determination. This empowered woman is truly living with a western “SPIRIT”.
Trail Boss
In the days of the great cattle drives, getting beef to the railheads was of the upmost importance. This required good men from the horse wrangler to the point man. The right people could make or break a cow outfit.
Topping the list of any drive was the Trail Boss. He must be a man of outstanding character. He has to possess good leadership skills, competent for every task. He must have the ability to get everyone working in a cooperative manner. He must be cool headed, a quick thinker and be responsible for ordering supplies, handling the money and the well being of men and horses. There was no one of greater importance on the drive than the
“Trail Boss”
With Pride
It’s early spring, and winter has finally released her grip on us. The days and the grasses are getting longer. There is just something about new grass that makes you feel good.
New beginnings mean fresh starts and endless possibilities. Sunshine brings a new attitude to man and beast alike.
Cattle go through the gate jumping, bucking and acting like a kid who just got a new toy. Somehow this one act puts a new light on everything. You sit a little taller in the saddle, your hard work really matters, and all is right with the world.
Some are just jobs to be completed, to be checked off a list but,
this task is done……
“With Pride”.
General Earl Rudder
A visionary with common sense values. A man who lead others to exceptional achievement and whose service gave us an example of a true leader.
True leadership is defined as the ability to develop people and to help others reach their true potential. General Rudder invested in others. Trusting or maybe even knowing that they would rise to the challenge. He had the uncommon ability to inspire others because he knew that each adversity would give rise to great results. His Integrity, Leadership, Tradition, Civility, Excellence and Service would leave us with the knowledge that we too can live the
General Earl Rudder
Betcha Can’t
Down time during branding season is NOT a good thing. Having to wait on cattle can leave cowboys time to get into trouble or worse, start a game of “Betcha Can’t”.
A round rock was the only toy around, so the game begins. Don’t be fooled this is not about fun. Even though they act like it. It’s a competition. I can do this longer than you; I can do this better than you. I can outlast you. At some point in our lives we’ve either thought or actually spoken it out loud.
Competitiveness among peers is a good thing. It brings out our best. It pushes us harder to go farther. Using this psychological tool strengthens the human spirit.
So if you want to get the best out of your crew or some individual, try offering up the phrase “Betcha Can’t.”
Company Pride
Early mornings, fueled by coffee and anticipation of the days possibilities, he hits the road. Travels lead to adventure and new experiences. From L.A. to New York, this faithful servant performs his magic.
The product is irrelevant; it may be steers in Montana or stocks in Manhattan. It’s his job, his responsibility. Pride in his effort quickens his step.
On the ranch we call it “riding for the brand.” It means we represent, we stand behind and we honor our word. You can count on it. You can count on him.
This is the modern day working professional. Proud and focused for they have “Company Pride.”
Gratitude
Realizing that this may indeed be their last trip together, maybe for the rider, maybe for the horse or maybe for both; who knows?
What is there at the end? The end of a day, the end of a job, or the end of a career?
To say thanks, well done or we appreciate all you’ve done seems hollow. At some point in our lives, we will all be forced to face this quiet giant. What do you say, what do you do? How do we truly say how much you have meant to us?
I don’t have the answer, but I know you will figure it out. Just know you have my deepest, heartfelt most sincere “Gratitude.”
Heritage
His years are many and his eyes have seen much. The changing of the seasons, the migration to lower country before the snow begins to fall.
With new births, and the burial of his fallen tribesmen. Battles won and battles lost, yet he still stands capable and willing to serve.
This is instilled in his heart and soul for this life is his people’s prayer.
Give me the strength, the courage, and the pride to maintain our “Heritage.”
Lines of Communication
Sometimes the weight seems too heavy. A young man trying to carve out a living ranching. Family land helps, but the other costs have things pulled pretty tight.
There is no expense account, no company truck, and no cost of living increase. Just a product and a market that is extremely unpredictable.
His pride spurs his want. A want to prove to everyone that he can make it. That he can survive.
With so much ahead of him, he pauses for a moment to give thanks for his blessings; the little things, things that really do matter. Well-oiled bridle reins for direction. Steering a good horse that could probably lead himself. A good catch rope, for doctoring and relocation; but most of all, the strings of the heart. These little blessings are his lifelines.
His “Lines of Communication.”
With Respect
On the ranch hierarchy is a position called the “Cow Boss”.
They only answer to the ranch manager or the owner. This position is not the one you apply for, you can only get there by earning it.
They have done and can still do whatever is required to make sure the cattle responsibilities are fulfilled. They would never ask the cowboys to do anything that they haven’t done before and believe you me, they had better not have to ask you to do it. If it needed to be done you had better have seen it and do it before it needed to be discussed.
Cow Boss….. “With Respect.”
Cold Water
Big pastures on a hot summer’s day.
After making his afternoon rounds, that old saddle starts collecting some heat. Not to mention that hot horse underneath him is like sitting on a furnace.
“Better check the windmill,” seems like a good idea. Windmill inspection of course means that water is involved.
Stepping out of the saddle, he takes a good long look around to make sure the coast is clear.
Skins out of the things he doesn’t want wet and steps into the water trough.
Lowering himself into the water his focus switches to a sense of renewal… “Cold Water.”
Next Big Thing
Springtime brings new colts to the ranch.
Careful planning has gone into breeding these mares. Matching the right stud with the right mare is a strategic process. Do these genetics match up? Will he help this outfit produce the best offspring for our program? What are we trying to do?
Prettier heads, bigger hindquarters are great but, we want a good mind and a colt that has a lot of cow in him. After all we’re raising ranch horses.
Sure he looks good but will he be the “Next Big Thing.”
October Sky
On a frosty morning there is a chill of anticipation in the air. The kind that makes your stomach feel a little funny, waiting on the horses to come in, he can’t help but wonder, which horse, what’s the plan, or what tasks are in front of him.
Still he is full of anxiousness about what lies ahead, it’s just then the chill hits, it runs up his back and exits out his shoulders, he’s done this work all his life, is it nerves, anticipation or just this cold “October Sky?”
Rainmaker
Revered by the tribe for his connection with the spirits, the BlackfootShaman is a leader of men whose advocacy is required by his people.
Inside the tent he is neither the chief nor an elder, but it is his word that they rely on.
Aware of his ancestry, the Shaman sees the future with a deep respect for the past.
He knows when to climb the mountain and when to walk the valley.
When his people are sick, he heals the body, mind, and spirit.
When his people seek advice, he counsels.
And when there is thirst…., he is the “Rainmaker.”
Breaking News
Cowboys are given a section of the ranch for which they are responsible. This means daily circles through the pastures, checking on new babies, health conditions or just getting a head count on his part of the herd.
A solitary part of the job, just him, his horse and Mother Nature.
Stopping to get a cool drink of water, he squats down by the stream; silence surrounds him.
Just then the quiet is broken by cracking limbs, crushing leaves and a rustling in the brush. Hopefully it’s just a rabbit or a deer and not something of greater concern. Either way it’s “Breaking News.”
Winds of Change
The role of the frontier woman is the same as it has been since the west was born. Up before sunrise, working long hard days till well past sunset. Generations of western women have followed the footsteps of their female role models, mothers, grandmothers, or just icons of admiration. Passing the torch down has brought about new and fresh ideas.
These women truly have become the “Winds of Change.”
The Story Teller
Every group has one, that guy; the guy who has a story, a story better than the one just told. If you feed this guy some libations you can actually watch his stories get bigger and bigger. The stories usually start out with “Hey, did I ever tell you about……or you probably won’t believe this but, I swear it’s true. They usually end with another swear of the truth.
It seems that these stories are related to time somehow. The later the evening, the grander these tales become.
We often take his stories as they say “with a grain of salt”, because we know him, we love him, and we know he absolutely means no harm.
If you think about it, he’s in the entertainment business and that’s a good thing, otherwise, one of us would have to be “that guy”, you know….. “The Story Teller.”
Summit
The physical beauty of the horse anatomy in motion has always been an astonishing sight. So fluid is the ability they have to create momentum.
Running, bucking, the ability to slide to a stop, spin on a dime and their ability to create extreme power is paramount. It is truly amazing that a creature of that size can control such energy.
Upon reaching the apex before coming down, this is the highest attainable level of achievement.
This is the “Summit.”
Traditions
Fire branding animals goes back to the ancient Romans around 2700 BC. It was started as a magic spell to protect animals from harm. As it was progressing on across Europe, it became a popular method of identifying ownership. Primarily on thick hided animals such as oxen. This tradition was imported to the Americas by the Spanish Vaqueros.
In the American West, it has developed even further. Not just for marking livestock but as a symbol for a particular ranch, family or enterprise. Today’s ranchers consider their brand to be synonymous for Integrity, Quality and Honor. The brand is a march toward the future with deep roots in the past. It’s not just their pride, it’s their “Tradition.”
Emergence
Rising up from the obscure or inferior is a trait sought after but not easily attained by everyone.
If a man possesses this kind of standard, he will be accountable to himself every day, in everything he does. He then will manifest himself to become known and rise above the crowd.
This internal condition is one that very few men embrace. As for those that do, their legacy will be one of “Emergence.”
Yes You Can
The dreams of our children are precious and very powerful. As a parent we don’t take these lightly. We will do anything to help them reach their goals. Now take that and amplify it thousands of times and you just might get a glimpse into the mind of Dick Hoyt.
While creating this bronze I couldn’t help but think about my own children. What would I sacrifice for them? How far would I go? How much would I do to ensure that their hopes and dreams become possible? It’s immeasurable!
The story of Dick and Rick Hoyt is one of dedication, love and determination and is beyond inspirational. It is historic and a story to tell for decades to come.
So many times, we think we have gone the extra mile. Team Hoyt has surpassed that and beyond.
Love your kids and hug your kids. We are here for such a short time. It is our decision to get the most out of our lives. So, reach, attain and give back and if anyone asks, your reply is “Yes You Can.”
“Yes You Can”
Spurred On
Defined as encouraging someone to do something, by using comments to create a means for forward progress.
We all need to be spurred on from time to time. Sometimes it is forced upon us and other times we willingly accept it.
Everyone enjoys a motivating speech,
uplifting song or watching an inspiring film.
It does our psyche good. It helps us remember why we got up and the possibilities that we have for the day.
Life cannot be just about a job or our career. We want more, we need more.
We need experiences that speak to our soul. We need that “Hell Ya” Factor.
To go out into the world each day would be incredibly mundane if we didn’t have some spark to drives us.
A desire to go, say and do, helps us believe we really can make a difference.
So, each day we should seek out what lifts us up and feeds our spirit.
Through our words and actions, we too can help someone else who needs a reason to be
“Spurred On.”
Ascending
Like the sun rises each day, so do we.
There lies within each day, distinct opportunities.
The opportunity to start again, to get a fresh start
and maybe a chance to rebuild the disappointments of yesterday.
To accomplish great things, we must rise-up and take chances.
To experience growth, do we not have to take on these challenges?
A challenge is something that motivates, interest or engages oneself.
The acceptance of this practice is what helps us facilitate our brain to succeed.
We should look for and expect positive results.
Each of us is called to escalate our minds.
This rising is a chance for individuals to be a part of the
select few who are seen as
“Ascending.”
Confident Aire
We are required each day to be outgoing, confident people with the ability to approach individuals or large groups of people. People from all walks of life. Those who are just like us and those who are vastly different from us.
Where does our confidence come from?
Confidence comes from a feeling of wellbeing. Accepting your strengths and weaknesses; physically, spiritually and emotionally. To have the belief in your own ability, skills, and the knowledge you have learned from past experiences.
Confidence is a much sought after attribute. It’s not easily attained. It takes practice and knowledge to train yourself to think positive. Though once acquired it takes on a visual appearance. Others will notice in the way you manage your life. Better relationships with not only colleagues but, with friends and family.
All the facets of a better you with a positive presence and a more
“Confident Aire.”
Majestic
Equus is a genus of mammals in the equine family. In this depiction, the wild horses of North America. Their origin dates back 2-3 million years ago. They travel in groups called bands. Each band is led by a dominant alpha male. These stud horses have gone to battle and must constantly fight to protect and retain leadership of their band of mares. Magnificent animals! They are referred to as the spirit animal.
Horse symbolism has long been documented and admired in literature, folklore and mythology. Terms that include determination, endurance, valor, freedom, beauty, majesty, and spirit. Qualities that I think we all hope would be symbolic of our own lives. It is said that horse people focus on the goal and not the obstacle. Each of us hold within us the capacity to dream, to set goals and see them through. These attributes contribute to our own mobility and leadership. Allowing each of us to become just a little more Majestic.
Trail Blazer
There is probably not another cattle breed that is as rich in heritage and symbolism as the Texas Longhorn.
This hearty majestic animal is a direct descendent of the first cattle to the New World.
Christopher Columbus and the Spanish colonist brought the Iberian Long Horned cattle with them when they landed on the Caribbean Island of Hispaniola.
These Long-Horned cattle have endured droughts and disease to become what is now a thriving breed.
Known for their longevity and the ability to survive makes the Texas Longhorn a true
“Trail Blazer.”
Sense of Urgency
We live at a fast pace.
Our time has become our most precious commodity.
We have all heard the phrase.” When do you need this?” Yesterday!! We want faster service.
In today’s face-paced world people often express a strong need for speed in various aspects of their lives. Everything from technology and transportation to communication and productivity. Why? So, we can selfishly get to having fun faster?
Maybe we need to re-evaluate our priorities. Instead of looking for the speed in attaining a solution, maybe we should look for the quality of the solution.
To do a job faster allows individuals to accomplish more but, does it mean the job was done any better? There still should be pride in a job well done. A sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.
That fulfillment is what allows the important things in life to become richer. Things like faith and family.
These are the things I do believe require a
“Sense of Urgency”.