Pat & Sharon O'Toole

We are here to report on the 25th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. So much goes on that it is a different experience for each person--sort of like the blind men and the elephant. One person might describe the wonderful versifying that goes on day and night, another the old time, and new time, Western music, another the dancing and cultural programs, and another the great issue oriented discussions (some of these are organized, but most of them take place at the Pioneer Bar, the Stockman's, the Star--well, you get the picture!). Gearmakers had a heyday this year, as beautiful custom saddles and other Western gear were featured. Sandra Day O'Connor was a wonderful highlight with her keynote speech. What a treat to see one of our own who has served our country so powerfully!

We did have a scare. When we were almost home, my Dad had a heart attack. Luckily, we were in town and the next thing we knew, a helicopter carried him away to the Wyoming Medical Center. He is home and doing fine now, and I don't think we can blame it on those late nights with our friends. Really.

George, Yula Sue Hunting and Gwen Peterson visiting
Convention Center
Elko, Nevada

Pat presenting a talk about the effect of energy development on landscapes
Convention Center
Elko, Nevada

Pat and Linda Hussa resolving Western issues
Pioneer Bar, Folklife Center
photos by Sharon O'Toole

Posted by Sharon O'Toole at 3:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Oscar Payano is the sheepherder who has worked for us the longest--about fifteen years. His father, Santiago, worked for fifteen years, then retired, but not before he brought Oscar into our operation. Oscar is returning soon for his sixth contract. Like his father before him, Oscar is a true sheepman. When we go to sheep camp, we know we'll find Oscar and his sheep in good order. He has such experience, and such knowledge of sheep and sheepherding, that he is a master of his trade. Like an Olympic skier, he makes it look easy. Here are some photos of Oscar, taken in all seasons.

Working the chute with Pequino
Shearing at Badwater

Oscar in the rearview mirror
Muddy Mountain, Cottonwood pasture

Tailing lambs at docking
Loco, Carbon County

Summertime in the Medicine Bow National Forest
Forks Allotment

Riding into camp in the fall
Upper Big Gulch, Medicine Bow National Forest

Late fall sorting
Badwater pasture

Moving the panels with Didi
Badwater pasture

We had to shovel them out, winter 2007-2008
Badwater pasture
photos by Sharon O'Toole

Posted by Sharon O'Toole at 3:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)