Slick Rock Ride

A painting I did as a tribute for my brother, who we lost June 2007 in a work related accident. 45 years old seems to short of a life, but only our heavenly Father knows when our time is up. He was one of the toughest men I ever knew, but at the same time one of the most tender hearted.

Slick Rock Ride was the perfect choice for our 2008 Christmas Card since many of you that get our card knew him. You can read the tribute I wrote for him in the Cowboy Tribute section of my BLOG. Please take the time to read & leave your tribute to your favorite cowboy.

This little poem is about an actual instance that happened in his life, one of many. The little girl in the poem was his daughter that was only 4 or 5 years old at the time.

Just Sew It Up

There is one less bedroll in the bunkhouse, one less horse in the corral. The bunkhouse stories have changed, their storyteller gone.

They now speak of a not so old a cowboy that rode through this way, bringing happiness and smiles to everyone, he happened along on the trail.

He was a tough young cowboy, why once I know of a time, he quickly slipped into the bathroom & sewed up his own chin. When he smiled he had a gapping hole, wasn't worried how he looked.

Can't scare that little girl, when she saw that big gapping cut. So quickly with a needle and thread, he got to work. No need for antiseptic or doctor, just sew it up. This story just one of many cowboy tales.

About the memory of a cowboy, we all knew so well. We miss you brother, Thereisa Myrick Housley

Chuckwagon Time

Whether the ranch hands are taking the cattle along the trail to market or out on the back range checking the herd, the Chuck Wagon Cook had a very important role.

He not only kept the cowboys fed, he was also the camp doctor and barber. He was whatever the cattle drive demanded. He led the drive; he would scout on before the herd, set up camp and have a hot meal ready at the end of the day. He helped keep the spirits of the cowboys high and their bodies nourished enough to begin each day.

I hope you enjoy "Chuck Wagon Time" as much as I have enjoyed painting it for you. Each painting I do involves careful research for the creation of authentic western art. What a day and time back in "Chuck Wagon Time"!

Joe Standrige Homeplace

Joe Standrige Homeplace 12 X 24 Oil on Canvas was commissioned by a young woman in celebration of the life of her Mother & the memories of her childhood. Miss Bonnie grew up in a large family close and loving, back in a time when people and families had time for each other. Was it that they had time or was it that they made it a priority?

No modern conveniences and promises of hard work back in this day, but look how peaceful and inviting this painting is. The painting depicts an early spring morning. The smoke is billowing out of the stovepipe from the old wood cook stove.

All the provisions they made for the winter before have gotten them through until spring. I can just smell the home cured bacon frying in the skillet and all the aroma of home cooked love and care. Preparations are being made for the new day, a new year, & another cycle of life with God’s continued blessings.

Heading Home

A commissioned project 16 X 20 Oil on Canvas for a young woman in my area.

A painting of her Dad with his favorite miniature mare & custom buggy. I wanted the painting to be of a peaceful spring day, it depicts his life gone by and he's headed home. The dirt road leads to the cross.

Vincent will be remembered by many giving local children buggy rides after school. I am certain the children will never forget.