Trail Wisdom

I've come to the conclusion I was born more than 100 years too late. Were this the 1870s or 1880s, I could see myself earning a living driving cattle out on the open range. As it is, I have to be content writing about it.

I learned a great deal during my adventure on the Great American Trail Drive.

Like, it is possible to get callouses from riding. I have never ridden that long and hard that many days in a row before. Even the callouses were enjoyable.

The biggest luxury in life is being able to spend three or four days with the cell phone turned off and without a watch. Out on the trail, the sun is your clock. Of course, there were a lot of drive participants who couldn't part with their cell phones. We'd be riding out in an area where was absolutely no sign of civilization and you could transport yourself back 100-plus years ... until someone's cell phone would ring. I'm not convinced cell phones should be considered a societal good.

The backs of my hands suntan very nicely. That was about the only portion of my body that wasn't covered by either a shirtsleeve, hat or other garments. Now I have to figure out a way to let my arms catch up with the backs of my hands.

By the way, if you'd like to have more information about the Great American Cattle Drive or would like to plan to attend with me next year, drop me a note at pwahl@tackntogs.com. I'm going to start an email list to keep everyone up-to-date. I guarantee you, you will remember this trip the rest of your life.

My wife and I will be in Door County, Wisconsin for the next few days. I'll chat with you more when we get back.