"Hi-Yo, Silver! Away!"

       That's right, You recognize the old, familiar catch phrase of the Lone Ranger.  And so does my little, the rough and tough, big horse wanting little boy.    And Mom and Dad, we did good.  We bought them a "Big" Horse who has been around a while.  A "Big" horse named "Tom" who knows what to do, because he's been doing it for years.   I put my sweet boys on and Tom does what he knows to do, He takes my oldest on a slow trip, and responds to a gentle guide from him.  Tom restores my oldest son's confidence.  Its been gone since that rodeo about a year and a half ago when he was thrown off as he was riding around barrel one.   I see my son rigid at first, then relax more and more at each pass through the arena.   My youngest, with no fear at all, jumps on with no abandon, gives a big yee-haw and with a Hi-Yo, Silver, he is away.  He holds up his hand and tells me, Mom, I got this.  He may not, but that 26+ year old horse with a history does.


       Tom was originally a work horse.  I real live cowboy horse.  The gentleman that first had him tells stories how he would take Tom to work cattle.  Most cowboys would bring 3 horses and rotate them in as they got tired.  But not Tom's.  He brought Tom only.  And Tom didn't let him down.


       We know Tom's next owner well.  He is a dear cousin which my boys realize didn't hang the moon, but is real instrumental in keeping it there.  He bought Tom his junior year in high school.
As Jarod was learning to rope, Tom was one of the teachers.


       The next owner we knew of.  We would always ask about Tom when we saw him.  A young boy received Tom, and Tom taught him to Rope and Playday.   Tom and that boys playdayed all though Central Texas winning and riding. That young man is an 18 year old now that is interested in trucks and welding now.  Tom is a bit tired and skinny, and needs a new purpose. 


       We went and picked Tom up on Saturday.    His new purpose is to teach my sweet little boys to cowboy.  He knows the patterns better than I.  He can tell the weight and experience of his rider.  He knows those are my special boys on his back.   Tears are falling as I thank God for that sweet bay horse Tom.   I promise sir, to take care of you until your last breath with us.  I pray that you enjoy us as your last family.