The Life Of A Ranch Wife

THE LIFE OF A RANCH WIFE: Mamas don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys

BY KATE SANCHEZ

Youngster in cowboy costume watching the rodeo at the San Angelo Fat Stock Show, San Angelo, TX

©Russell Lee

We all know the lyrics of “Mamas don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys”. What’s most amazing about this song is that everything that’s mentioned, those things perhaps thought to be some of the downfalls of these men, is exactly what makes us all fall for that baby who grew up to be one.

As I’ve written about before, I come from a place with few cowboys, if any at all. Upstate NY doesn’t boast a population of Wrangler or Levi wearing, straw hat sporting, pearl snap shirt type of men; not to say that there’s anything wrong with that, it’s just fact. So, when I moved to Portales, NM over 10 years ago, I was not only in for a culture shock in terms of location but also because of how people treated one another, especially this breed of men who were around every corner.

I remember walking into the dorms on campus one afternoon, after a long tiring day of soccer practice (had I mentioned that I attended ENMU on a soccer scholarship?), and having a door held open for me, by someone my age, for the first time in my life. I thanked the gentleman, and he said “yes, ma’am”. Now, looking back I understand, that was an eye-opener moment to me which would only become more common in my life.

When I met my husband I quickly learned that manners and respect weren’t just a façade or tall tale about cowboys. Everything you read about them is pretty accurate, the songs that are written about them ring true in many instances, and when you hear someone say that they are a rare and dying breed, take heed to that.

Haven and her father Ben Sanchez

©Kate Sanchez

Majority of the time, being men of few words, cowboys only say what they mean, but always mean what they say. Silence is golden to them, and if it’s not worth saying, they don’t bother. Often approaching life with reckless abandon, some might call them drifters, ruffians, or men with a “gypsy soul”; but they experience life in a way that very few ever can. When they rise before the sun every morning, they may not always know where they’re headed or what they’ll be doing; but you can guarantee that they’ll be breathing in the dust of their biggest dreams. Whether it’s on a wagon for spring works, or just out in the pasture on the land assigned to him, a culture of men has been developed like no other. They’re kind, light hearted, and often witty, but level headed and realistic. They approach life one instance at a time, because they know if they do too much planning ahead that they’ll be two steps behind the rest of the day.

Hayes and her father Jordan Selchow

©Hazel Lights Photography

In a world where respect, honor, and dignity are becoming so lost,they continue to be time-honored traditions of these men. Not onlydo they tend to the land, the cattle, and horses and everything thatgoes with it; but they pay attention to detail, are courteous, and alwayspunctual. I’ve been present more than a few instances when I’ve seenthese men take the time out of their busy schedule to help a youngchild work on their roping skills.

Basilio Fermin Aja, Basilio Aja II holding Basilio Estevan Aja and Basilio Aja

©Lauren Maehling

I’ve seen them gather up a newborncalf and pack it several miles on their trusty horse because it’s too weak to make it all the way with mama. I’ve been there when a young man, new to a ranch or operation, listens and takes advice from an elder, who shares his wisdom of the country and the cattle; how to work with a crew, and how to utilize the tools provided to the best of the newcomer’s abilities. And I’ve been there in what could be the toughest of times for these men who seem so bullet-proof. When their best dog, and best friend of several years must be put down, or when a calf is lost in the middleof a snow storm. Perhaps it’s when their biggest role model, the one who has shaped them into the person they are, passes way, and the tears aren’t held back any longer. No matter the situation, I’ve been fortunate enough to see the cowboy in many different lights, and good or bad, the world could use more men like them.

Colten Donaldson with his father Samuel at Thurber Division, Greaterville, AZ

It appears legend has it that a cowboy will never settle down, thathe’ll be wild his whole life…. maybe only part of that is true. The same man who is compassionate about his job, the land and livestock will treat you that same way. He’ll be attentive, a nurturer and a provider. You’ll be guaranteed lots of laughs, quite a few tears too; and while there may not be a white picket fence surrounding your front yard, your heart will be full. You’ll always know you’re loved by a cowboy…you’re loved by the very best. So, mamas, I plead to you: please let your babies grow up to be cowboys.

Canyon Kelly and her fathter Ty on the 6k6 in Greenlee County

©Gena Burris