Western Mule April 2020

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The dog ccoouullddnn’’tt hhaavvee wweeiigghheeddmmoorree ththaannkkffuullmmyybbroroththeerrggoot tmmararrireidedananddmmovoevded aabboouutt MMaayy fflloowweerrss”” iiss ssoommeetthhiinngg II’’vvee aawwaayy..((OOnneeooffuussoorrbbooththwwoouuldldnn’t’tbbeealailvieve kknnoowwnn ssiinnccee II wwaass aa cchhiilldd.. SSeeeeiinngg aallll tthhee than twenty-fivvee ppoouunnddss..WWaallkkiinnggffrroommoonnee hhaaddhheesstatayyeedd.).) wwaatteerr ssttaannddiinngg iinn tthhee bboottttoommss aalloonngg tthhee fence line to thee nneexxttffoolllloowwiinnggtthheeccrreeeekk,,iitt ccrreeeekkss iinn tthhee aarreeaa,, rreemmiinnddss mmee ooff mmaannyy was common too sseeeeaaggrroouunnddhhoogguuppaassmmaalll TTaakkeeaaddeeeeppsseeaat,t,sistitbbaacckk, ,ananddenenjojyoyWWesets-t- hhoouurrssssppeennttiinnwwaatteerrssssttaannddiinngg iinn uunnffaammiilliiaarr ttrreeee oorr sspprroouutt.. TThhoosseeggrroouunnddhhoogghhoolleesswweerree eerrnnMMuuleleMMaaggaazzininee. .YYoouurrccoommmmenentstsaraereala-l- ppllaacceess aass aa bbooyy.. MMyy bbrrootthheerr LLaarrrryy,, bbeeiinngg ffuullll ooff wwaatteerr,, aanndd tthheeoonnllyyddrryyssppootttthheeyyhhaadd wwaayysswweelclcoommee. . ffoouurryyeeaarrss oollddeerr tthhaann mmee ccoouulldd ddoo tthhiinnggss II wwaass uupp aa ttrreeee.. IItt wwaassaallwwaayyssaassmmaallllttrreeee..WWee ccoouullddnn’’ttddoowwiitthhoouutthhiisshheellpp..AAss aa mmaatttteerr ooff wwoouulldd sshhaakkee tthhaatt ggrroouunnddhhoogg oouutt aanndd,,tthhaatt MMaayyGGooddBBlelesss.s. ffaacctt..hheeccoouullddtthhiinnkkoofftthhiinnggss tthhaatt hhaadd nneevveerr lliittttllee ddoogg,, nnoott mmuucchh iiff aannyy bbiiggggeerr tthhaanntthhee ccoommeettoommyylliittttlleehheeaadd aatt ssuucchh aa yyoouunngg aaggee.. ggrroouunnddhhoogg iittsseellff wwoouulldd nnaaiilltthheeggrroouunnddhhoogg APRIL 2020 • 7 ((HHeecckk,,yyeeaahh,, iitt wwaass hhiiss ffaauulltt..)) OOnnllyy bbyy tthhee bbyy tthhee bbaacckk ooff tthheenneecckklliikkeeaassttrreeaakk..IIddoonn’’tt ggrraaccee ooff GGoodd aarree wwee hheerree to speak of it. kknnooww hhooww mmaannyy ooffyyoouuwwhhoohhaavveeeevveerrwwiitt-- WWhheenntthheewwaatteerrggoottoouuttooffiittss banks and into nneesssseedd aa ddoogg toankea ognroaungdrhouongd, hbougt,IbhuatvIe tthheeccrreeeekkbbootttoommssiinn sspprriinngg,, we would har- hseaevne sfueellngfruollwgnrohwonunhdosunndost ncootmceomouetotuhte nneessssuuppOOll’’MMaauudd,,aaggrreeyywwoork horse, or Ol’ JJiimm,, aa rreedd dduunn bbaayy,, oonnee-- eeyed mule to a hhoommeemmaaddeewwooooddeennsslleeddtthhaatt Dad made. We wwoouullddhhiitttthhoosseebboottttoommss aatt ffull bore in that sslleeddaannddwwhhooooppiittuupp aass wwaatter sprayed high oonnbbootthhssiiddeess;;tthheeffaasstteerryyoouu went the higher iittsspprraayyeedd..WWee kknneeww nnootthhiinng of water ski- iinngg,,nneevveerrhhaadd sseeeenn ssuucchh aa thing; this stuff jjuusstt ccoommeess nnaattuurraall ttoo hheeaalthy boys. We kknneeww tthheemm bboottttoommss lliikkee tthhe back of our hhaannddss aanndd wweerree ccoonnvviinncceedd there weren’t aannyyssuurrpprriisseess,,aannddtthhiiss wwoorrkked great…until tthheessuurrpprriissee.. AAsstthheewwaatteerrrreecceeddeedd,, iitt wwas common to ggoocchheecckkoonntthheewwaatteerrggaappss aand repair or put iinnaanneewwoonnee iiff tthheeyy wwaasshheedd out. Once we mmeettoouurrnneeiigghhbboorr GGeeoorrggee GGiillmmoorree aanndd hhiiss ssoonnCCaallvviinncchheecckkiinnggwwaatteerrggaappss..AAlliittttllee ssiiddee bbaarr hhiissttoorryy hheerree oonn CCaallvviinn GGiillmmoorree,, nnooww lliivviinnggiinntthheeMMyyrrttllee BBeeaacchh,, SSoouutthh CCaarroolliinnaa aarreeaa..CCaallvviinniissaassoonnggwwrriitteerr,, ppeerrffoorrmmeerr,, HHooll-- llyywwooooddaaccttoorr,, bbrraaiinn cchhiilldd--oowwnneerr,, aanndd ggeenn-- eerraallmmaannaaggeerroofftthhee ffaammoouuss CCaarroolliinnaa OOpprryy,, iinnMMyyrrttlleeBBeeaacchh,,ooppeenniinngg iitt bbaacckk iinn 11998866.. II oofftteennrruunniinnttoo ffoollkkss wwhhoo hhaavvee aatttteennddeedd tthhee CCaarroolliinnaa OOpprryy;; ssoommee ooff mmyy bbrrootthheerrss aanndd WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Hello Western Mule! Ben and Neta, Magazine; there have been a lot of It is a joy to renew my subscrip- So glad I renewed my subscription changes. Western Mule gets better in time to enjoy Deb Kidwell’s arti- every year. tion, especially this time of year. cle about Ben Green’s book, Horse Even if I can’t get out and ride, I can Tradin’. I got my real old fashioned Here are two of pictures of Gerta. read, learn, and share in the fun. book (yes, Deb, you are not alone) She’s a couple of days old in one. off the shelf and read a few pages. I’m not sure how old she is in the Thank you, also, for your words Looking forward to more good ar- other one. She is twenty-five years of inspiration. You are a great bless- ticles in an excellent magazine. now and will be twenty-six come ing to many! Thanks for being down to earth and July 5, 2020. Gerta is out of a Ten- not in cyber space. nessee Walker. Sincerely, My husband David and I have two Sharon Hubbman mules: half sisters, Star and Ruby. I surely enjoy Western Mule; you Lebanon, Illinois Their stage names are “Big Nose all have a great year. Kate” and “Dirty Sally.” Sincerely, Ron Leinbach, Jr. Ben and Neta, Keep those mules smilin’! Touchet, Washington We met you at Clarence Koch’s Sandy Thomas Ron and Gerta sale, we bought Clarence’s wagon. Wellington, Ohio Keep up the good work. Ben and Neta, Yours in Christ, Here is a check for another year Janie and Ercel Colliver Tina, Missouri of a great magazine. This will be my 24th year of getting Western Mule Ben, In all the years I have been reading Western Mule Magazine, this month’s Knee Slapper (February 2020 Issue) was the funniest story I have ever read. I started reading the article, and it took me quite a while to finish; I was laughing so hard my eyes were watering, but I did finish it and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it Orlando Maez Ron with Gerta and her mama, a Pueblo, Colorado Tennessee Walking mare 8 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Ben and Neta, What a great display of God’s cre- Ben and Neta, Please find enclosed a payment ation. We especially enjoy the spiri- Please renew. Our last magazine tual influence in your magazine. for another year of your fantastic was the February 2020 issue. Never magazine. What a great source of in- Keep up the good work! laughed so hard as I did with the formation concerning all aspects of Knee Slapper. the mule. Claude and Peg Wood Meeker, Colorado Thank you, My wife and I enjoy riding our Bridget Blom mules all over the Flat Tops Wilder- Anatone, Washington ness Area near Meeker, Colorado. Hope Lucas, Mavis, and my dog LayLay This beautiful picture was taken at Uwharrie National Forest near Badin Lake in North Carolina. This photo was submitted by Hope Lucas from Clinton, North Carolina. Photo was taken by a friend who was riding with Hope. WESTERN MULE MAGZINE Happy41E7a-8s5te9r-6E8v5e3ryone! [email protected] WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 9

Love Me, Love My Dog! By Ed Haefliger “My dear readers, I wished he was a bit more weary of trying to break free from his do not grab the dogs. Prior to one of our rides, as I went owner. (He had no leash on the ropes to leave to put a bit in his mouth, I found a large dog, just his arms around the me twisting in the breeze be- infected wound on his upper lip. The vet dog.) “You could see it com- cause this is not an article that figured that Kid attempted to sniff a dog ing!” The string blew up, send- sings the praises of taking your through the fence, and the dog bit him in ing half of them trying to climb dog with you on a group trail the mouth. After Kid, that kind of canine over my riding mule and me ride or with a pack string!” tolerance has disappeared in all of my and the rest going in the oppo- Please read along with me and adventures with mules or horses. site direction, towards the trail try to understand a few of the head. That kind of scenario dilemmas I have had with dogs Let’s start my negative history with does not clean up very fast. It on the trail, even good or great dogs on the trail by asking, “Where is it took at least 30 minutes to get ones!” legislated that a rider must take his or her all of my animals past that out dog on the trail with their horse or of control mutt and back up the Look around any mule or mule?” Other than my isolated adventure trail. I was very worried about horse owner and you are bound with Kid and Molly, I have not seen any what would happen if the dog to trip over a pooch nearby. Sue really good issues come out of a dog and had managed to break free? and I are no different; under- mule/horse combination on the trail. One One can be a long way from foot will be Duffy, our Aussie time, I was packing into the Dosewallips nowhere when disaster hap- Cattle Dog. (Underfoot, be- in the Olympic National Park when I saw pens! In this case, I had all of cause wherever we are, he is!) a fellow and a husky dog leave the trail the food, tools, and camp of the He is about all the dog power ahead of me and enter into the brush to government trail crew on board that one person can handle. In keep this dog out of our way. He was off my string. Consider if this dog short, he is one heck of a lot of at least 60 feet when I went past. That’s had sent this entire operation south. A lot dog. However, this piece is not all about when the dog went crazy barking and of time, planning effort, transportation, Duffy; instead, it targets some of my ex- which equals taxpayer money that went periences involving the interaction, on into this scheduled eight day work week, the trail, between dogs and our mules and was going to be lost. Believe in signs! horses. They are there for a reason. In this case, it was deep within an area closed to all Years ago, I had a great quarter horse dogs! named Kid; he was the least concerned About twenty-five years ago, I was with any dog running around the place. packing a friend into a summer camp In fact, I used to take my Springer when the dog he brought added a new el- Spaniel, Molly, with us when we took off ement of adventure to our day. The knot- on a trail ride: just me, Kid and Molly. head would not stay on the trail and out Old Kid would make every effort to step of my way. This dog, continuously ran clear of Molly whenever she got too from the front of the pack string and to close to his feet on the trail. She would other riders, up and back. To add to the run out ahead of us and then make a turn fun, this was the time of the year when back to us in true bird dog behavior. wasps and ground bees were the most ac- However, every once in a while, she tive. The trail was very narrow and filled would inadvertently bump a muddy Kid with horses, so to keep up its front to hoof, only to have him shift it away from back course, it had to run alongside her. One day, after we had taken a really through the underbrush. Boy-o, that long ride together, I found her tiredly stirred up those nasty bugs something leaning against his leg to rest as I took off his tack. There was the time, though, WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE 10 • APRIL 2020

fierce. This went on for seven miles in how to deal with the conditions at hand. when their owner caught up to them and both directions, in and out. On one of the Would it not have been better to leave me and began screaming, “Don’t shoot laps past me, I noticed two yellow jack- that great pooch home to guard the them. Please, don’t shoot my dogs!” ets stuck to its head, drilling their place? Darn, I forgot I had a .357 hand gun on stingers in. (Paybacks are hell.) This did my hip!” But, that finger and voice of not stop this dog one bit as it kept the re- On the trail is not the only place I have mine was loaded and very effective, no mainder of the devils bugs excited, so had some negative adventures with dogs need for a gun. I sent dogs and owner off they could work us over. mixing it up with my stock. The trailhead a bit wiser. However, for a moment con- has been a challenge for me, also. One sider; how was only one lone gal going I have never had a good experience sunny Sunday, Sue and I took a couple to control those three dogs if we had met working a pack string or trail ride that of the mules out for a trail ride near our them on the trail? Not a leash or collar has had a dog component. A dog in a home. On returning to the trailer, I tied on any of them. Here is where I give you, mixed string, especially of mules or Maudie and Ms Kitty as we prepared to my dear readers, license for your imagi- horses that are not part of its herd or fam- remove their tack, prior to heading home. nation to conjure up how that story ily unit, can lead to a wreck or series of Then all of a sudden, out of the trail we would have looked! I’ll bet it came out wrecks which may injure man and beast. had just come down, came three golden pretty ugly! Wonder this out, what would the day retriever-type of dogs. In my humble look like on a group ride if someone’s opinion, more than one dog triggers a I love my Duffy dog, but he has been best friend dog just got stomped by a pack mentality, and they will react ac- lucky to be alive because we have lost mule and it now had the resemblance of cordingly. That is just what they did and dogs on the place that did not figure out, a mud hole? That would be really bad, straight toward our restrained mules; all fast enough, that they best leave the but what if the rider or his/her mount is full of snarls and wild eyed barks, they mules alone. In fact, one didn’t make it injured by a dog’s shenanigans? Now, came. This was happening in some very one full day. Mules are half donkey and this adds an additional serious problem. tight quarters, so what did I do? I jumped that half takes predator killing to an art Moreover, if this happens on a group into the mess pointing my finger at them form. Stay clear, “Warning to dog own- ride, one has those expert people emo- and scolding them shamelessly. Dogs ers, I have no way of knowing when that tionally charged opinions to deal with, on went flying and cowering. That was gene will float to the surface?” In many WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 11

areas, leash laws are posted at trail heads Author, Ed Haefliger or on the books. However, they are usu- ally poorly enforced. Make sure you in- form a dog owner of this in the middle of a dog, horse, or mule storm and see how much good it does you. Let’s get some- thing straight; I dearly love dogs until they put me or my pack string in danger. They can! (Note: I could write many more pages on the subject and the close calls dogs on the trail have brought to my pack string and me in the past. In fact, it is one of my least pleasant subjects for discus- sion.) Ride Safe and Ride Often! Ed and Sue Haefliger “In every case, the goal of intellectual life was to understand in order to teach others, to enable the next generation to learn what you yourself have mastered and to build on it.”(Quote: Unknown author) Author: “The Mountain Canary Company Packers Guide Book” and “The Mountain Canary Company Trail Skills and More” www.mtcanaryco.com or Email; [email protected] or 360-427-4297 Volunteer Packer: Olympic National Park, Olympic National Forest, Washington State Department of Natural Resources Member: Back Country Horsemen of Washington, Western Washington Long Ears Club 12 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

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MULE CROSSING By Meredith Hodges Good Basic Training Includes Common Sense, Part 4 In Part 3, your equine was properly strengthened and tem during more active use and more complicated move- balanced in good posture during the more passive ex- ments. Note: The equine that has not had this prior lead ercises in leading training over obstacles. Now, in the line balance and good posture training will have difficulty fourth and final part of this article, you and your equine in the round pen because he has not learned to stay erect will head to the round pen and learn how to balance cor- and bend his body through the rib cage when on arcs and rectly on the circle at the faster gaits. You’ll also learn the circles. more advanced and quicker moves that are required under saddle and in harness. When you are lunging your equine, stand close to the center of the round pen, focus your eyes on the lower part Only after you have adequately completed lead line of your equine’s haunches, and then give the verbal com- flatwork and obstacle training is your equine truly ready mand to “Walk on.” Let your eyes and whip follow his to move on to the round pen and begin lunging and learn- haunches while you stand in the center of the round pen. ing to balance on a circle at the more active gaits. At this If you want him to stop, say “Whoa,” and then move your stage, he should be complying willingly, walking with the eyes and body sideways so that you are more in front of lead rope slung over his neck and with his head at your him. Then raise your head and eyes to meet his eyes. If shoulder. By now, his core muscles should be properly you want him to do a reverse, give the verbal command conditioned and strong enough to support his skeletal sys- to “Reverse,” move your body sideways, and crack the whip smartly in front of him. You should now be almost directly in front of him, looking him straight in the eye. It is the movement of your body that will make the dif- ference between the halt and the turn. Notice how these subtle differences in your body affect what he does. If you practice these movements correctly and consistently, you will begin to see an improvement in your own body lan- guage and in your equine’s response. It doesn’t matter what anyone else does or says; you go right ahead and take the time you need to work out each maneuver with your equine. Accuracy is preferred over speed. Lunging involves a lot more than just running your equine around in a circle. It affords you a tremendous op- portunity to see the affect your body language has on your equine’s reactions. Lunging also helps you to understand how you can fine-tune the communication between the two of you while developing balanced, cadenced, and rhythmic gaits in your animal. So, start slow and don’t let things go beyond what you can easily control. With the use of the “Elbow Pull” (instructions on how to make an “Elbow Pull” are given in the Equus Revisited DVD), your equine will begin to build muscle over a cor- rect postural frame. This is much better than letting him develop muscle out of good posture and then having to go back later and break down established muscle that is out of frame and causing problems. The “Elbow Pull” is not in any way abusive. It is, in fact, a “self-correcting” support, designed to simply suggest to an equine that he stay in good posture. If he stays in good posture, he feels nothing uncomfortable, but if he gets out of good posture, 14 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

it puts a humane but firm pressure on his poll, his bit, be- must first build muscle so he can sustain his own balance hind his forearms and over his back. This is not unlike the on the circle before carrying a rider. This is also true if grandmother who insisted that, to assure good posture, you want your animal to learn to lunge on a lunge line. you walk with a book on your head. It may have sounded An equine that has not had enough time in the round pen silly at first, but as you got older, you were happy you did establishing strength, coordination and balance on the cir- it because it taught you good posture that eventually be- cle will have difficulty on the lunge line, because even came a healthy and habitual way of moving. The “Elbow the slightest pressure on the line will pull him off-balance. Pull” serves the same purpose for your equine and pro- Loss of balance will cause stress and even panic in your vides support when he cannot consistently hold good pos- equine, which can result in him pulling the lunge line ture, he learns a healthy and habitual way of moving. right out of your hands and running off. This is not dis- obedience but rather fear caused by a loss of balance, so Before your equine learns to balance with a rider, he do not punish him for this reaction. The animal that has had strength built on the circle before lunging and riding will not exhibit these undesirable behaviors, which are often misinterpreted as disobedience. Lunging will begin to develop hard muscle over the core muscles and tendons you have already spent so many months strengthening. It will further enhance your equine’s ability to perform and stay balanced in action. As this becomes his true way of going, you will notice that even his play patterns begin to change dramatically. Be sure to be consistent with your verbal commands dur- ing these beginning stages as they set the stage for better communication going forward. After your equine has learned verbal commands while lunging, your next step is to train him to be equally re- April s1h/o2wePrsAbriGngEMaAyDflowers! JASPER WATCH FOR FADING Buy Jasper: An April Mule’s Day book and get 800.816.7566 Jasper: the story of a Mule book & Music CD free! JasperTheMule.com SALE RUNS THE MONTH OF APRIL! APRIL 2020 • 15 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

sponsive to verbal commands in conjunction with the dri- disobedience on the part of any equine is ALWAYS the velines. This is done first in the round pen and then in an handler’s fault. Regardless of the personality type of an open arena (which will introduce him to a larger space equine, he will always have an honest response to any where he will need to become even more responsive to stimulus. If you ask in the right way, you will get the de- your rein cues). sired response. I have found that, in most cases, the larger the animal, If your equine wants to bolt when you ground-drive the more docile the personality, which seems to be a gen- from behind, walk beside him and gradually lengthen the eral rule of thumb. I have also learned that, if a donkey distance, one inch at a time, until he has accepted the dri- or mule has a tendency to bolt and run, it’s because they velines correctly, no matter how long it takes. But don’t don’t necessarily agree with what you are trying to do or work on lessons more than 20 to 40 minutes every other how you are trying to do it. Even though horses usually day, and make sure he gets his crimped oats reward for comply fairly easily, it is important to remember that any “Whoa” and “Back.” I give a lot of “Back” commands while ground driving close to an animal, and I repeat “Back” frequently at every increased or decreased dis- tance behind him. Keep things at a very slow walk until you feel relaxation through the drivelines. (There should be no hint of pulling.) Stay calm, deliberate, and go slowly, be willing to take all the time in the world, if nec- essary. Whether you are just beginning training, or are al- ready working under saddle, while you and your equine are going to and from the work areas, and during any ground interaction, always review the lessons in show- manship covered in DVDs #1, #8 and #9 of my series, Training Mules & Donkeys before moving on to any new exercises. This will help your equine to really and truly bond with you on a very personal level. If you have mul- 16 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

tiple equines, be sure to treat every equine as your very whip while in the round pen as the walls will help guide favorite whenever you interact with them. your animal in maintaining the correct position. What you really need to do is keep even contact on both lines (reins) Certain personality types such as slow learners, over- when going in a straight line (or, when in the round pen, achievers, or sensitive individuals do take longer to come on the circle). To get your equine to begin stepping later- around, but when treated with plenty of patience, kind- ally, slightly tighten the outside driveline while maintain- ness, trust and respect, they usually do. These personality ing contact on the inside driveline so that he cannot types may not necessarily be suitable for driving, but they complete the turn. Stay directly behind his haunches and can be quite suitable for under saddle. In fact, once they urge him forward. This will cause him to begin to step do come around, the more “difficult” equines, especially sideways with his face to the wall. Take only a couple of those that have previously been neglected or abused, often steps this way and then slowly straighten him out again; bond more strongly with you and look to you as their you can build-in more lateral steps as he begins to under- “protector.” They are grateful for your patience and kind- stand what you want. Be sure to reward him with crimped ness. These are sometimes the ones who will end up hav- oats every time you halt. ing more “spirit” and, thus, more athletic tendencies and ability. Once you begin ground driving in the open, you can then carry your whip in your right hand. Feed the line into Because I have dealt with many animals that were high your right hand under your third, fourth, and fifth fingers, strung, I have learned that they require tremendous pa- and then up between your thumb and index finger. The tience, but I also know that they can come around. You whip handle will be held in the palm and also come up might just need to back up and do things even more between your thumb and index finger. Tilt this hand to slowly and more meticulously than you ever thought you tap the right and left sides of your animal’s body. The left- would need to, but if you do, you should see some posi- hand driveline is fed over the index finger and held by the tive results. If you lower your expectations for a while thumb, and then falls down through the palm. To set the and try to have more fun with the basics, chances are that bend for the leg yield (opposite from the way your equine your equine will, too. will be tracking), shorten the inside rein and hold it steady. Not too much of a bend, you just want to be able Always make sure you work in areas that are ade- to see his eye on that side. Then squeeze and release the quately and safely fenced so that, if your equine bolts, directing (right-hand) driveline to indicate that you want you can more easily catch him again. If he bolts, DO him to move in the direction you are squeezing and re- NOT, under any circumstances, hold onto the reins, lead leasing. Be sure to give plenty of release between pulls or, drivelines. Just let go of the lead or drivelines if you so he doesn’t go too far sideways at first. This should be are on the ground, and let the reins loose if you are in the a leg yield action and not a “side pass.” The “side pass” saddle. Whether he is on the lead line, in the drivelines, will come later as he better understands what you want. or under saddle, when your equine realizes that you aren’t If he doesn’t follow your leading rein, you can encourage going to play “tug-o-war,” that he will get a reward for him to move over by tapping him gently on his opposite staying put, and that it is a waste of his energy to keep side. It can be very awkward at first, but with time and running, he will bolt less and less until the unwanted be- patience, these movements (both his and yours) will con- havior has stopped. tinue to improve. When ground driving, you should not worry about the Only after he is light and responsive to all commands in the round pen and he grounddrives well in the open arena, should you mount him and begin riding in the round pen. When he is light and responsive in the bridle in the round pen, you can then ride in the open, but con- tinue to work in the open arena on perfecting his tech- nique and his responsiveness in the snaffle bit. You need to be willing to spend the time to teach these things slowly and in an order that will make sense to your equine so he is not faced with learning too much too quickly. As you have probably already experienced, when you hurry through this process, he may be able to do cer- tain movements, but he will not be responsive to your cues. Unresponsiveness is a sure sign that there has just WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 17

not been enough time for the lessons he is learning to be- WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE come his habitual way of responding. If an animal is trained with sequential, resistance-free training techniques and is given adequate time on ground- work training (a minimum of one year on the lead line and a second year on lunging and ground driving), he will warm up to other people more easily and will be more “sensible” than those animals that are not trained this way. Each new owner should take the time to review these techniques with newly acquired equines, just to create their own personal relationship with that animal and dis- pel the negativity of any prior relationships the animal might have had. Spending time doing simple basic groundwork training before actually riding allows your relationship with your equine to develop in a safe and healthy way. It will teach both you (the handler) and your equine how to communicate clearly and effectively. The exercises described in this article will condition your equine’s body so he can more easily carry a rider (whether the rider is balanced or not) and help your equine to be more capable of executing whatever demands the future may hold. Remember that patience, kindness, respect, and con- sideration from you will yield the same qualities in return from your equine. When you take the time to cultivate a good relationship with him, you will find that you have a much safer and happier riding and driving companion. To learn more about Meredith Hodges and her comprehensive all-breed equine training program, visit LuckyThreeRanch.com or call 1-800-816-7566. Check out her children’s website at JasperTheMule.com. Also, find Meredith on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. © 2015, 2016, 2020 Lucky Three Ranch, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 18 • APRIL 2020

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Trail Riders and Lassos Part 1 By Terry Wagner Lassos, aka, lariats, have been the ing Fool starring Will Rogers. The silent lead rope in a clinic setting. tool of the cowboy trade for many film, is narrated by Will Rogers, Jr. In this I’m not going to try to make this a lesson decades. Lassos were first intro- old film you see some of the most incredible duced to the Western Hemisphere by the roping that has ever been filmed. in the types of lariats that are available Spaniards in the early 1500’s. The term lar- today, but I will say that the types of lariats iat is a corruption of the Spanish term “la It seems, with this in mind, that trail riders available today are a vast subject that to be- reata.” This in its simplest terms means have decided to start buckling lariat ropes come knowledgeable about takes time and “rope.” The skill of the Spaniards with the to their saddles before heading out on the dedication. Probably the two most used reata was passed on to the horseman of trail. I have seen photos of them, and I have ropes are made out of nylon or what they early Mexico, and the skill made its way seen them in person packing ropes on their call “poly ropes.” Probably the most widely north to America with the arrival of range saddles. I get requests from saddle cus- used are nylon lariat ropes. These ropes cattle to the American West. This is a pretty tomers to include a rope strap on their sad- come in various forms, lengths, diameters, simple version of the progress of the lariat’s dles. I often ask these folks if they are and “lays” or “twists”. In a nutshell, the lay introduction to America, but you get the ropers, compete in roping contests, or have of the rope is description of the how stiff the general idea. any roping skills in any form. I have yet to rope is. A hard lay or hard twist rope is a have a person answer in the affirmative. fairly stiff rope and often favored by those In the end, the lariat rope is obviously Most say they just want to carry one for roping the heels of steers in a contest or here to stay and found in various forms on “emergencies,” or as one person told me, it ranching environment. Softer lay ropes or the saddles of ranchers, rodeo cowboys, “looks cool.” I have packed a lot of lariat those ropes that are fairly limber are often packers, and those folks who usually ride ropes in the past, mainly because I was get- used by headers roping the head of a steer for a paycheck. More recently, a number of ting paid to, and they can be a very handy in a contest or for general use on a ranch. trail riders have taken to tying a lariat rope tool. Today, I don’t carry a lariat on my sad- Generally speaking, a hard twist nylon rope to their saddles before hitting the trails. I dles unless I am planning on traveling a can be really hard to tie a knot in should the saw this trend start with the emergence of long way from the trailhead. I would never need arise. A softer lay rope, on the other the modern day equine clinicians. The great tell someone not to carry one. However, I hand, is limber enough to tie at least some trainer/clinicians Ray Hunt and Tom Dor- would tell folks that it would be a good idea form of a knot in. rence always seemed to ride Wade style sad- to take some basic roping lessons in han- dles with a lariat rope hanging from the dling them. Otherwise, it might be only A trail rider could conceivably need a lar- right side. Many of their protégés did and good to accidentally hang yourself with. I iat to pull logs and limbs off the trail, drag do the same, and this seems to have passed say this because I have seen the problems firewood to a campsite, create a halter to down to lots of everyday riders. some folks have just handling a twelve foot lead a loose animal, need a tool for animal rescue, and create a high line. These are just There are ropers and then there are ropers. a few of the uses for a lariat rope on a trail Lots of cowboys get by with limited roping ride. When you start looking through a big skills while others go on to master more dif- ranch supply store or a roper supply catalog, ficult roping maneuvers such as the Del you will normally see a huge selection of Viento catches as seen in the branding pens lariat ropes of every kind and description. of California and other locations throughout My suggestion is to look under the category the American West. Some ropers go on to of “ranch ropes.” Here you will a find a become major entertainers, wowing audi- number of general use lariats. Other sec- ences with their rope spinning skills. Some tions may list wild colored ropes with of our past great ropers include Will Rogers, names like green lightning or purple thun- Monte Montana, Sam Garret, and more re- der; you name it, all words advertising cently, Brice Chapman. If you want to see speed in using the rope. Normally, the trail some great roping, there is an old silent rider needs versatility in a rope and not movie that’s still available, entitled the Rop- speed. I am going to make a recommenda- 20 • APRIL 2020 Continued on page 22 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

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tion that the best choice in a lariat rope for Next thing to consider is what diameter I prefer a 60-foot lariat. The one on the left a trail rider is the softest lay of lariat you can of lariat do you need? When it comes to the is a 60-foot 3/8 inch scant, and the one on find in nylon construction. These soft lay diameter of nylon lariats, it’s still pretty the right is a 60-foot 5/16 rope. Both have a ropes will normally be cataloged as XS, simple: 5/16 and 3/8 are pretty much the metal honda tied in them. Note how much XXS, XXXS, the X meaning extra soft. most commonly seen diameters. There is a more compact the 5/16 rope is compared to These ropes are still useful as general pur- popular third diameter called a 3/8 scant. the 3/8 scant. pose lariat ropes but are able to perform This means the diameter is slightly smaller other duties if needed, and a knot can be tied 3/8 of an inch. Continuing with my recom- If asked what rope I would recommend with them if need be. mendation of a rope, a nylon rope in a 5/16 for a trail rider, a nylon lariat in a 45-foot diameter in a XXS or XXXS is an ideal rope length, 5/16 diameter, with a metal honda, In one end of the rope is what allows for a trail rider. One reason for the 5/16 size, in a XXXS lay would be a good choice. someone to create a loop, and that’s the is that the bigger the diameter of the rope, Next and most important, is how you carry “honda.” The honda is a small loop tied at the fewer coils you can hold in your hand. the lariat on your saddle. This becomes a one end allowing length of the rope to run matter of not only convenience but one of through and create a working size loop in The next consideration is what length safety as well. You can tell someone with the rope. Photo #1 shows a honda at the end rope do you need? One consideration here some rope savvy just by the way they attach of a lariat. The leather piece at the top of the is that many of the ropes used in the rodeo the rope to their saddles. It has been my ex- honda is called a burner, and in this case is arena are 30 foot in length. That length is perience that the greener the trail rider is to made of rawhide. This prevents the body of great till you need a 31-foot rope. I would a lariat, the more leather he has holding his the lariat from chafing the inside of the rather have a longer rope and not need it rope on his saddle. One thing you don’t honda as the rope slides through the honda. than need it and not have it. I have always want is a heavy leather strap with a monster Without the honda, you have no lariat, just cowboyed with a 60-foot 5/16 nylon lariat buckle holding your rope on you saddle. If a length of rope. and found the length to be a blessing on you get hung up in that lariat, or a tree limb more than one occasion. However, handling gets stuck in it, a heavy leather strap and Another option is a lariat with a metal 60-foot of nylon rope can be intimidating if buckle will not give way and let the rope honda in the end as opposed to a rope honda you are not used to it. So, with that in mind, break away from your saddle, and you tied into the end of the rope. These metal a 45-foot long lariat is a good compromise. could be injured or even killed because of hondas are commonly found on ranch Packing the rope on your saddle is another it. I know this from personal experience. ropes. One advantage of them is, if they consideration regarding length and diame- We’ll discuss the issue in part two of this ar- wind up around the neck or leg of an ani- ter, and you will find that a 45-foot long lar- ticle next month. mal, they will immediately loosen if slack iat rope in a 5/16 diameter can be coiled into is given to the rope, whereas a honda tied in a pretty compact size. The diameter of the Tu Amigo, Terry the lariat has a tendency to tighten down rope and the lay of it will pretty much dic- and not release pressure unless pulled loose tate how big the coils will be when the To contact Terry Wagner for at the honda. I have used metal hondas on roped is coiled up. informationon on this article or prior my lariats for many years. Photo #2 illus- articles, email:[email protected]. trates a metal honda in the end of a rope. Photo #3 shows two of my ropes; again, 22 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Trailheads | Museum | Lodging | Dining | Rodeo | Entertainment Travel the trails less traveled and pack out the experience of a lifetime along with what you packed in. Shoshone National Forest the “horse forest” adjoining Yellowstone Shoshone Back Country Horsemen of Northwest WY would like to share our portion of paradise with the world-wide equine community. Having just celebrated our 2th anniversary The Buffalo Bill Center of the West (a Smithsonian as caretakers of equine trails in the Shoshone Affiliate consisting of five museums of western National Forest, we want to welcome you to history at a single location), nightly rodeos, dining, America’s first national forest, a premier equine lodging, entertainment, and western culture all destination. It was and still is affectionately known await you in Park County, WY. as the “horse forest.” It consists of 1,389 miles of non-mechanized trails winding through 1.4 million Please go to our website at shoshonebch.org
for acres, 56% of which is designated wilderness area. more information on Shoshone Back Country Horsemen and our efforts to preserve this great The Cody, WY area has trailheads, trails and heritage. scenery that will make your vacation For additional information on Shoshone National unforgettable, and is the gateway to Yellowstone Forest: fs.usda.gov/shoshone National Park. Cody is centrally located to For more information on the Cody, WY area:
experience western hospitality at its finest. codyyellowstone.org WESTERN MULE MAGAINZICNOOEPERATION WITH THE PARK COUNTY TRAVEL COUNCIL APRIL 2020 • 23

Why Icelandic? By Robert Eversole I’ve said for years, to many thou- Cocoa. Cocoa sands of people around the na- tion, that, for me, the perfect temperament, which is ironic con- to as horses. Apparently, the Shet- trail mount would be an Icelandic sidering that the Icelandic language land Isles don’t look out for their Mule. Without fail, the reply is doesn’t have a direct translation for equine friends as much as Icelanders “Why Icelandic?” “please.” do. Keep Out… And Don’t Come Iceland is far more than the vol- The Horse of Vikings (and Hob- Back! cano scene from the 2013 version of bits) The Icelandic horse has been pure- “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” The ancestors of the Icelandic Horse bred for over 1,000 years, since the It’s a fascinating country with an arrived with Viking settlers some- Viking parliament forbade horse im- even more captivating equine tradi- time between 860 and 935 AD. ports in 982 AD to prevent the dete- tion. Celeste (my MUCH better half) These same primitive horses were rioration of the breed. There are and I were introduced to the Ice- also the ancestors of modern Shet- even strict rules about bringing sad- landic breed about twenty years ago land ponies. In the Peter Jackson dles into the country. Because of the through our volunteer work with 2012 movie “The Hobbit,” Ice- import restrictions, once an Ice- therapeutic riding centers. These landics were featured for their landic horse leaves the country, it sturdy creatures are much like their shaggy, hobbitty appearance, and can never return. When you live on homeland, small but mighty, and can their smooth gait. an island, you can do these things! easily carry grown adults. Icelandics are known for their sure-footedness when crossing rough terrain and for their renowned stamina. Combine the virtues of a good donkey with natural advantages of the Icelandic and it sounds like a wonderful beast for trail riding! Here are five facts about Icelandic horses that you might not know. Benevolent Nature One of the reasons the Icelandic horse is very popular is its easy going and friendly nature. In fact, they are famous for their pleasant Minning serves as one of my best Not a Pony Walk This Way pack animals Although the Icelandic horse’s clos- The Icelandic Horse is unique as it est relative, the Shetland pony, gets is the only horse breed that can per- 24 • APRIL 2020 called a pony to its face, don’t try form five gaits while other horse that with an Icelandic. Despite their breeds can only perform three or size, Icelandic’s are always referred four. The special speed is called the WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Tölt and is a sped up version of one for myself, instead venturing walking but much more impressive. into mules and their fabulously long With only one foot touching the ears. Until now. ground at a time, the Tölt is very useful for covering uneven ground. I finally found an Icelandic mule while giving trail riding clinics in Celeste’s riding partner for the Canada. Meet Cocoa. Cocoa is a past nine years has been Minning fra 13.1 hand molly mule out of an Ice- Alfasaga, a wonderful Icelandic landic mare. So far, she seems to mare whom I sometimes refer to as embody the very best traits from the “circus pony” when Celeste is both her donkey father and Icelandic out of hearing range. A magnificent mother. Time will tell. animal, Minning not only safely car- ries Celeste through the wilderness, Celeste and Minning she also serves as one of my best pack animals when Celeste can’t ac- company me on my trips. Despite the obvious virtues of the Icelandic breed, I’ve put off trying Robert Eversole, “The TrailMeister,” started www.TrailMeister.com when he served with a mounted search and rescue team and found that accurate trail information wasn’t available. Years later, www.TrailMeister.com is the largest database of mule riding and camping areas in North America with free trail and trailhead information, trail maps, and much more to help mule enthusiasts experience the joys of trail riding. Active in the equine community, Robert is a PATH intl. Registered Instructor with over a decade of experience helping individuals with special needs experience the rewarding benefits of equine-assisted activities. Robert also serves on the boards of various equine and trail advocacy groups. WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 25

FIND A CLINIC NEAR YOU! Tres Piedras, NM June 18-20 NEW! Sahuarita, AZ February 27-29 Gunnison, CO June 25-27 2020 Clinic Wickenburg, AZ March 11-13 Fountain Green, UT July 8-11 Dates & Locations Sedona, AZ March 18-21 Fountain Green, UT July 22-25 Huntington, UT April 7-9 Fountain Green, UT August 5-8 Madison, WI April 17-19 Driggs, ID August 13-15 Red Deer, AB, Canada April 24-26 McCook, NE August 20-22 Ferguson, NC April 29-May 1 Wall, SD August 27-29 Tropic, UT May 4-6 Enterprise, OR September 9-10 Bryce Canyon Mule Days May 7-9 Elkhart, IA September 17-19 Huntington, UT May 14-16 New Berlin, NY September 24-26 Bishop Mule Days May 18-24 Palmyra, ME October 1-3 Dunnigan, CA May 28-30 Cripple Creek, VA October 15-17 Spokane, WA June 3-6 Huntington, UT October 28-30 Whitehall, MT June 8-10 Montana Mule Days June 12-14 26 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

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WHY I LIKE BOOKS By Deb Kidwell Before I start this month’s article I want to explain why I was MIA in last month’s issue. I was beaten down by technology. Yep, the almighty computer beat me like a borrowed mule. I will not get into particulars, but the bottom line was that I was a hair- breadth’s away from tossing my laptop into the lake. Anyway, I didn’t do it, so here I am. But all that trouble reiterated to my little technology-challenged pea brain, why I like books. You know, pieces of paper bound together that don’t require a battery – a real book – not on a Kindle, Nook, or website – A Book! I have no idea how many books about mules and jackasses (can’t have the former without the latter now, can you?) I have read. But it is a lot. From Aristotle’s work on natural history written in 350 BC through today. I like to read, and learn. I have read a lot over the years about breaking mules, but nothing – nothing! – has ever equaled Henry A. Castle’s words on the subject. Waxing poetic? I am not sure, but it sure made for some entertaining reading. I picked out some of the better parts to share, because old Henry got longwinded. Think of this as a kind of Reader’s Digest Condensed Book version – for you youngsters, your parents or grandparents can tell you what those were, and if you had a family summer place to go to, you probably had them all. Anyway, written in 1897, The Army Mule And Other War Sketches by Henry A. Castle, Private, Sergeant-Major and Captain Illinois Volunteers, Past Commander Loyal Legion Commandery of Minnesota, Past Commander Department of Minnesota G. A. R., sure is en- tertaining. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Keep reading ‘skinners! THE ARMY MULE -excerpts- “Iquote: “The Mule seems to excel ply tough. As to color, his muzzle was always one-sided as a Louisiana riot—seventeen ne- both its ancestral species in natural whitish, as if fresh from a meal-tub, but oth- groes killed and one white man slightly intelligence. It is remarkable for its erwise he was more various than delectable, wounded. But texture and color apart, the powers of muscular endurance. Its sure-foot- sometimes yellow, sometimes dun, some- harmless, unspeakable servitor of our march edness particularly adapts it to mountainous times sorrel, but oftenest darkly, deeply, and camp was doubtless peer of any the ef- countries. It has been common from very an- beautifully bay. Second cousin to the New fete monarchies of Europe or the East can cient times in many parts of the East, and is Mexican burro, but happily guiltless of any boast. He had no overplus of style about him, much used, also, in most of the countries traceable relationship to the disreputable but he was reliable, he was sincere, his mus- around the Mediterranean Sea, and in the Texas mustang, his aspect was liable to be as cularity was conceded by all. His facial angle mountainous parts of South America. Great was a convex curve, which somewhat im- care is bestowed on the breeding of Mules in paired his beauty, but not his utility. Some Spain and Italy, and those of particular dis- knew him who did not love him; few named tricts are highly esteemed. In ancient times him except to praise after a reasonable ac- the sons of kings rode on Mules, and they quaintance. His air of innocent gravity was were yoked in chariots. They are still used to sometimes mistaken for stupidity—most in- draw the carriages of Italian cardinals and excusable and fatal error! He could look as other ecclesiastical dignitaries.” And more to imbecile as a rustic fop playing “Glory Hal- the same effect. lelujah” on an accordeon. He could look as guileless as the youth who murdered his own We respectfully submit that here is a well- father and mother and then begged the judge buttressed certificate of character which fully to have mercy on a poor orphan. He could justified the government in assigning to this look as soulful as a law clerk summing up to useful equine mulatto the important function a jury of one with his arm around it. He could he performed in putting down the rebellion. look as sober as though his whole intellect The average American Mule has not the soft were grinding on the plus and minus of some fur, fine as dressed seal-skin and smooth as unsolved problem, like that for example coffin varnish, nor the rich shades of color- which the Book of Mormon and Mo- ing, worn by his pampered kinfolk of Spain hammed’s Koran and Clark’s Commentaries, or Cyprus or Smyrna. As to skin, he was, ha- with all their attention to detail, have neg- bitually, neither soft nor shining, he was sim- 30 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

lected, whether Aaron’s golden calf was a further seek his general merits to disclose. At all events, whether wittingly or will- Holstein or a Jersey. They developed constantly on the sensitive ingly or neither, he became as potent a factor plate of our regard, and we have waited long in the situation militant as when Samson slew Sleepy or asleep he may have seemed, but for somebody to take off a blue-print of his a thousand Philistines with the jawbone of let some small darkey imp of mischief tweak ground plan and front elevation. The posses- one of his remote ancestors. He wheeled into his patient ear, then note how swiftly that sor of many virtues, poor but honest, with a line useful, ubiquitous, proud as a deceased magnetic hoof will lift the tweaker to a pearly large circulation but small political influence, Connemarran with a solid silver doorplate on seat amidst the celestial cherubim — direct sagacious and serene he stood, thick of head, his pearl-plush casket, blazoning his immor- and speedy circuit of nerve-telephone here tough of hide, hard of heel, the proffered hero tal virtues—also quite numerous. A total of manifest, without the intervention of any of the expressive army shibboleth, “Here’s 450,000 mules and 650,000 horses served in dilatory central office. His drooping lids were your Mule.” the various armies. In 1864, the forces actu- thus but the token of a measureless content, ally in the field required for artillery, cavalry which craved not the mere bric-a-brac and He was a child of wrath, with a throat for and trains one-half as many animals as there gumdrops of existence. But it was liable to melody spacious as the funnel of a cyclone; were soldiers. As a recruit, the Mule soon be- shift its specific gravity, if any misfit perfume with dexter and sinister ears of renown; with came an object of usurious rates of interest came between the wind and his nobility, and eyes foxy but sad, and saddest when he sang. and concentrated curiosity. He was a drawing explode in a sudden touch-and go style, He carried with him the appetite of a card, a veritable bargain counter or church rocket-like, trigger-like, flashing. He could Chippewa maiden clad in cavalry trowsers scandal in his tractile powers. His fame had smile like a heavenly blessing. His expres- and a tentfly; also an inherited capacity to preceded him, and his name was a potent tal- sive yawn was widely eminent; without it no stand indefinitely on one foot and kick vehe- isman for conjuring ecstatic assemblages. His Mule was genuine. His bray, opening clear mently with all the others. He was reliable as name pronounced, the sensation seekers and sonorous, like the report of a judiciary grandfather’s clock and prompt as the rail- gathered, as in the manipulation of compli- committee, rapidly shaded off into a succes- way mail service. He was under a recogni- cated governmental machinery congress sion of disembodied shrieks and disembow- zance to support the constitution of the touches the button, and the department clerks eled groans, that sent thrills of suicidal United States, and stamp out the Confederacy do the rest, subject to approval of the salary delirium through all the encircling camps. No to the best of his ability. WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 31

and allowance division. Haled in, unhaltered, delible marks of servitude, as a blow from a blent. Entangled, prostrate, writhing like a from amid the frisking bluegrass felicities of parent leaves a scar on the soul of the child. coil of rattlesnakes; each eager nose, and ac- his pasture primeval, with his tail full of burs Harnessed and humiliated, abased and tive heel, and tufted tail, points all ways at and his gaze full of vinegar, the details of his abashed, the higher regions of pride and in- once, like a mariner’s needle in a thunder- primary instruction were, as a rule, full of ac- dependence wherein he has pranced with all storm. In this tumbling, tearing glomer a tivity and enthusiasm. In mischievous im- the lofty grace of a thoroughbred, know him philosopher might presciently discern the pulse he is fertile as those human scalps no more forever. Mirabeau had swallowed all symbol and essence of anarchy, the spirit of which raise hair enough for home consump- formulas. The Mule recruit has swallowed all centrifugality, the revolt against status quo, tion, and send a surplus to market twice a traditions, foretaste of much else, good and the protest of energetic natures against year. His venturesome instructors are wise if bad, he will be obliged to swallow,—but the human government, or self-government, or they make their testamentary dispositions in bridle-bit, of all fabricated things, alas! He any other government. It may confidently be advance, and provide abundant bandages and can not swallow. In this clinging, clanking averred that from all vital chaos a new lathed plasters, with blank coupons or certified harness-toggery cribbed and confined, he is and plastered order is ever shaping itself and checks attached to provide for extra divi- led out to where five shamefaced fellow-mar- emerging; this is as certain as that everybody dends. One out-thrust of his right front foot tyrs wait to endure with him the culminating is greater than anybody,and that discipline is has been known to reduce a newly uniformed indignity. The Mule units are now to be trans- always brought forth by a Caesarian opera- soldier to a state of nudity from his napless muted into a Mule team, for the glory of Yan- tion from anarchy. crown to his callous sole, with incidental kee Doodle, and an entirely novel contusions of flesh and abrasions of cuticle programme of acrobatic marvels is to be en- So from this sour animal effervescence of too hideous for contemplation. acted. No sooner have the predestined six insurrection miraculously unravels at last, been, with infinite patience and circumspec- scathless and satisfied, a melancholy sextette Enmeshed in surreptitious cordage, the tion, aligned and coupled and to the mon- of curbed and baffled penitents. They are speechless, untamed quadruped is thrown to strous vehicle deftly attached, than down awkward, divergent, unassimilated, to begin the cold, cold ground, where, for a time, he they all go in a heap, a rolling, plunging mass with, and must be pounded and kicked and writhes and struggles, a cheveatix-de-frise of of offensive partisanship, in one dusty burial cursed into homogeneity later on, but they black, gyrating hoofs. If he gets loose, he are uproariously recalcitrant thenceforth darts through an ambulance or climbs a tree never more. The Mule recruit has thus rap- without compunction. But he seldom gets idly developed into the Mule soldier. He has loose. When his first wild anger has been been summarily mustered in, with a rope measurably spent and the mercury in him has around his lower lip rasping it to rawness, but gone down to the bulb, five or six bow- without any very searching inquiries as to his legged hirelings of the quartermaster’s bu- uncertain age, his wholly immaterial sex, his reau, with waffle-iron cast of countenance superfluous name, or his complicated social born of smallpox, simultaneously proceed to status. administer disjointed sections of harness to the exterior of that noble form. Puck might He has been blacksmithed as to hoof (much girdle the earth for forty cents, but he could against his will), and veterinaried as to shoul- earn forty dollars in girthing a cadet Mule. der. He must now march forth in the name of With each contact of strap or buckle the white the Union and emancipation, but must first of his eye gleams poisonously and his out- be introduced to his commander — and so raged epidermis gives a sudden convulsive must you, my beloved. Ye who have blushes shudder, like a fine lady’s bare shoulder vi- to blush for your species, prepare to blush talized by a mosquito-bite. But he is helpless them now, and then proceed to bury Caesar, and supine as a fat alderman after a banquet, not to praise him.” lying stomach upwards and feebly gesticulat- ing with his heels. With the final linking to- Deb Kidwell is a mule and American gether of the detached tackle into one Mammoth Jackstock breeder in engirdling gearage, the first step in his humil- iation is completed, and the pantings of his Martin, Tennessee. To contact Deb suppressed fury mingle with the chokings of regarding this article or previous his self-contempt. From that hour he is a changed Mule. Man delights him not, nor articles, email her small boys either. Straps leave invisible, in- at [email protected] or Like her farm page on Facebook. 32 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 33

Problem Solving Part 25 Lessons to Improve Leading Manners, Part One By Monica Erman Leading your mule from point A to point B you like to use. If he doesn’t respond by moving to the shouldn’t be a momentous feat, but sometimes it left around the pen, raise your lead rope or lariat towards is! I remember when I had a mule that was a seri- his hip, but always stay at least 8-feet away from his tail. ous flight risk. I had to take precautions to lead him only Throw the rope at him if you need to but keep your body where he would be contained if he got away from me. We at a safe distance. The moment he moves off, quiet your worked through a great many lessons, and he eventually voice and body language to reward him for the choice. become a dependable and obedient mule to lead any- Repeat this sequence of asking him to respond to your where, but I vividly remember the worries and frustra- speed up cue. Repeat until he responds consistently with tions that come with not having strong ground manners forward energy when you give him a verbal cue. established. Halter the mule again and begin by standing him be- Whether your mule is two or twenty, is a little annoying tween you and the round pen fence. Hold the lead rope to lead, or has severe issues, the following exercises can in your right hand, the tail of the rope or a lariat in your improve the control you have when you lead your mule. right hand. Lean forward, step forward, and give cluck or These are lessons that can be used for breaking a young kiss as you did in your warm-up. If he does not respond mule to halter or refreshing the leading manners of a mule with a forward step, swing your left hand (with the rope) that is already saddle trained. Another true benefit of im- behind you to touch his hindquarters. If he reacts by going proving ground manners is that it will have a positive im- backwards, you’ll need to go back to improving the re- pact on other areas of the mule’s training. sponses you were looking for in the warm-up session. If he goes forward even just a step, make sure not to put any Ground manners, like any training, is all about teaching pressure on his halter and reward him with a quiet word. the mule to obey specific cues. There are dozens, if not Go forward a few steps and then ask him to stop. Repeat hundreds, of cues that fall into the ground manners cate- the entire sequence until he will begin to go forward with gory. When you have a need for improvement in your you before you even step forward. The note for success; training, being able to describe in detail the response you want from your mule is key to bringing those improve- ments about. A trainer’s ability to envision the desired re- sponse from the mule is critical to a successful lesson. Try not to think about what your mule is doing wrong. Instead, build a picture in your mind of how your mule should respond. “Your expectations are exactly what you’ll get.”- John Lyons Speed up when you speed up. A round pen is a great place for this exercise. In fact, it’s practically a must if your mule has ever pulled the lead rope out of your hands. Outfit your mule with only a halter and a lead rope that is at least 8’ long. Don’t use a skinny lead rope as this will be difficult for you to hold securely. To warm up, take the halter and lead rope off the mule’s head. Step in the center of the round pen and ask your mule to move to the left by urging towards his left hip. Use a cluck or kiss, or whatever verbal encouragement 34 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Make sure you lean forward – hesitate, step forward – you will generally have. If your mule is young and estab- hesitate, then swing the rope towards his hindquarters if lishing respect, have him to keep his nose even with your you need to. This gives him time to learn the sequence shoulder. A halter show mule may be asked to lead with and respond thoughtfully. his ear even with his handler’s shoulder; it’s all about the goal and intent of the handler. The key is to be intentional Stop when you stop. Once again, use the round pen to and consistent! work as it gives a safe and controlled place to work smoothly. Remove the halter and lead again for a warm Have your mule walk forward about 20’. Stop your feet up lesson that will affect the main part of the lesson. Send – hesitate, and raise the rope in your left hand, pressuring your mule to the left in a trot, using the cues you devel- his nose as you did when asking him to change directions oped in the first lesson. After a lap or so, step across the in the round pen session. Don’t give him so much pres- pen, heading off the mule. Pressure him to change direc- sure that he actually changes directions. The intent is to tions by raising your rope towards his nose, clucking for use half a change of direction cue, which is a stop. When encouragement. The moment he even begins to change he stops and stands still, give him a pet, letting him stand directions, stand still for a moment and then return to the for a moment as a reward. If he does not stop but shoves center of the pen. This will let him know he got the right forward past you, regain control and go back to practicing answer. Changing directions teaches the mule to respect changes of directions without the halter and lead. Practice your space and yield to your space. When he will consis- until he will stop when you stop and you don’t need to tently change directions when you gesture your rope to- raise the rope from your left hand. wards his nose, you’re ready to move on to the next step. Next month, we’ll go over exercises to improve back- With the mule re-haltered, begin again with your mule ing up from the lead rope and improving the mules re- between you and the fence. The fence takes away the op- sponsiveness to verbal and physical cues, which will tion of stepping away from you so he can more easily get promote strength in your training! the answers you want him to learn. I would love to hear from you! If you have a It’s very important that you decide where you want training problem or question, feel free to email your mule to lead beside you. Do you want his nose, eye, or ear even with your shoulder? It’s a personal preference me at [email protected]. but know that the further forward he leads, the less control WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 35

“Perfection is the Enemy of Progress By Ty Evans From left: Tobin Allen and Ty Evans at a cow-working clinic in Sahuarita, Arizona Photo credit Skye Evans “Perfection is the enemy of called “Finding the Feel,” and my friend member, the mule learns when you quit. By progress.” What a profound Warrick Schiller, was the guest. He used an knowing when to quit, you will know when statement. I’m not sure who analogy on the show and talked about this to progress. I like to judge my progress by authored the quote, but my wife, Skye, very thing. He compared progressing to the how mentally comfortable my mule is to- found it and posted it on our Facebook and next level with horses (mules) to progress- ward the end of the exercise. If they line out Instagram profiles the other day. It really ing to the next level in a video game. Video and are showing signs of understanding and got me to thinking, and I reflected back on games won’t let you move on to level two comfort, then I know it’s a good time to end. days gone by and mules that I have crossed until you can pass level one. You can’t pass I am not necessarily talking about ending paths with. Oh, how many times have I level one if you die (i.e. make a mistake). If the session; I might just leave the mule pushed too far and expected too much. On we are constantly making mistakes, or our alone for a few moments and then move on the other hand, how many times have I let mules are making mistakes at level one, to the next step. I would work through that perfection hold me back from helping a then why would we move on to level two? for a little while until I got a desired change mule progress and be the best it can be? It wouldn’t make sense. On the other hand, or improvement and again I would quit, ei- How do I know when to move on? This is we don’t have to have the record high score ther for the day or for the moment. The probably the thing that holds most folks in the video game to move on to the next thing to be aware of is what I call “hitting back from progressing with their mules. It’s level; we just can’t make a bunch of mis- the wall.” This means that the mule has common for individuals to be unsure if they takes. It’s the same with our mules. We learned what they are capable of learning should move on to the next step and if their don’t have to have things absolutely perfect, that day. At this point, you would no longer mules are ready to do so. Knowing when to but there definitely needs to be a level of work on progressions, but you could just take the next step is an art, not a science. understanding or else we won’t build a sure work on maintenance. That means going What one person perceives as advanced an- foundation. back and reviewing previous steps that you other might see as complete novice. So, let’s know the mule is confident on, and doing talk about this for a minute, and I will share So, when do I take the next step? It those exercises a time or two then quitting with you some thoughts on when I like to doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be for the day. For example, if I was working move on and when I’d hang in there. better. Many times instead of doing the best on picking up a soft feel at a stand still, and for the mule, we keep pushing and we miss it was going great so I move on to picking I was listening to a pod cast the other day out on optimal learning experiences. Re- WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE 36 • APRIL 2020

up a soft feel at the walk, and it’s extremely difficult, then I know I have “hit the wall,” and I finish up my session on previous steps. I like my mules to end on something they can be super successful at. I like to build winners out of my mules, and I like them confident. Every ride I make on my mules ends with a review of something the mule is good at, but I push a little every ride as well and strive to bring out the best in my mules performance, both physically and mentally. The point is, don’t be scared to move on to the next step if you feel your mule has an understanding of the previous step. Like I said, it doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs to be better. Don’t let the illusion of perfection hold you back. And remember that advancement in mulemanship is just getting the basics better. I hope this gives you something to think about this month. Thank you for taking the time to read, God bless, and I hope to see you at a clinic sometime. WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 37

Missouri Horse Council Missouri Horse Council Hosts Annual Meeting WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE By Cindy K Roberts, Secretary – Executive Committee The Missouri Horse Council had their annual meeting on January 25, 2020, held at the Missouri Farm Bureau in Jefferson City, Mis- souri. Proactive horse and mule owners attended and voiced their concerns about issues that could threaten the future for our equines. A silent auction raised funds, and several speakers gave updates on critical issues to be aware of statewide. An election of officers took place, and they are: Executive Committee: Chairman: Sherry Copeland – Marshfield Vice Chair: Dr. Lynn Martin – Centralia Secretary: Cindy K. Roberts – Chesterfield Treasurer: Melody Canote – Hallsville Director - Stacie Smith - Pilot Grove Director - Debbie Birk - Cape Girardeau Director - Becki Krueger - Kahoka Past Chair: Joe Eddy - Rocheport Advisor - Kelly Smith And just who is the Missouri Horse Council? We are an organi- zation of organizations. Members can and should include breed as- sociations, show associations, industry trade groups, equine related businesses and entities. It is our aim that through coordinated com- munication we can strengthen each other. We believe there is strength in numbers. The equine industry is large but quite frag- mented. We want to bring all stakeholders together to provide one voice for Missouri’s equine industry. The benefits are numerous, including a stronger voice in economic development initiatives, promoting equine education, improving communication of health threats, and unifying a strong voice in political discussions and vot- ing. Our Purpose: To promote the general welfare of equine organi- zations through a unified approach of communication, education, and advocacy. There are several committees that could use your special talent; don’t sit on the fence, join us! Your horse will appreciate it! For more information, go to www.missourihorsecouncil.org. 38 • APRIL 2020

TRAIL TIP #144 Preventing A Saddle Emergency By Terry Wagner Have you ever seen a saddle roll Most people give this very little tween the mule’s front legs like a bell under the belly of a saddle thought, but it can be a real lifesaver. clacker, it won’t do much good. It mule or horse? I have, and it’s One requirement, however, is that you should be attached with no visible slack not pretty. In fact, it’s probably the ulti- have the collar properly adjusted. The in it. If things go south on you for some mate wreck. Over the years, I have seen three-piece collars run along both sides reason, your saddle might go to one side four instances where saddles rolled of the mule’s neck along the slope of the or the other from center, but the prop- under the belly of one mule and three shoulder and attach on both sides to a erly adjusted three-piece collar will horses. The result each time is a buck- point on each side of the front fork of keep it from going under your mule. ing mule/horse nightmare. In none of the saddle. A strap attached to the bot- these wrecks did the saddle come out in tom of the collar goes through the front Tu Amigo, Terry good shape. One had a fender and stir- legs and attaches to the front cinch. This rup leather torn completely off the sad- strap is the key to keeping the saddle To contact Terry Wagner for dle, the other had a large portion of the from rolling. If you have it swinging be- information on this article or prior skirt lining removed, and all of them articles, email:[email protected]. suffered major damage to the overall looks of the saddle and various portion APRIL 2020 • 39 of leather removed. I can still see the saddle with the fender kicked off of it under the belly of Smoky, a big grulla gelding, and his left hind foot through the roping stirrup kicking it around like a dishrag. Most people don’t think about a sad- dle going under their mule or horse till it happens. Most of these wrecks occur because of a lack of attention to what the rider is doing. The cinch comes loose, and the saddle rolls to one side. In the process, we step off, and the sad- dle rolls further under the animal. In Smokie’s case, the owner pulled the saddle off with the flank cinch still buckled. In the other three cases, the cinch was loose, and the rider was riding without a breast collar. I have talked to a lot of people who find using a breast collar, britchen or crupper a real inconvenience when saddling their mules. I have heard others say, “My mule doesn’t need a breast collar.” However, the three-piece or “Y” style collar can prevent your saddle from rolling off your mule if things go wrong. WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

National Western Stock Show Results January 11 through January 26, 2020 / Judge Kelley Reames Photos courtesy of Jodi Stonner 2020 Mule & Donkey Division High Point Awards Mule Trail Challenge High Point Amateur (high score overall in trail classes) MV Limited Edition, Owned and shown by Terri Hurley Tie MV Limited Edition, Owned and shown by Terri Hur- High Point Youth ley MV Bens Dixie Dell, Owned by Debbie Walkinshaw, Teters Copy of Brandy, Owned and shown by Jo Teter shown by Tessa Walkinshaw High Point Open Mule High Point Donkey I’m Foxy and I Know It, Owned by Mary Burns, shown Ima, Owned by Dana Heath, shown by Tim Phillips by Tim Phillips Class Placing Three Year & Younger Saddle Mules- Jennets & Geldings (48.01” and over) Molly (PtHA) (PtHA) Open Donkey Trail (PtHA) 1. Ima, Tim Phillips Heath 1. Too Foxy To Care, Dan Holland 1. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley 2. Ai Pad, Jessica Meuth 2. Ima, Tim Phillips 3. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley Three Year & Younger Saddle Mules- 3. Ai Pad, Jessica Meuth John (PtHA) Senior Mule Trail (PtHA) Grand & Reserve Champion Donkey 1. MV Limited Edition, Terri Hurley 1. Fox In The Henhouse, Dan Holland (PtHA) 2. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 3. Sonny’s Boss Man, Tabitha Holland Four Year & Older Saddle Mules-Molly 1. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley (PtHA) 2. Ima, Dana Heath Junior Mule Trail (PtHA) 1. Either Lick It or Stick It, Samantha 1. Lilac Lady, Jo Teter Mattox Open Donkey Showmanship All Ages 2. You Bett I’m Hott, Robert Kidd 1. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley Waugh 2. Ima, Tim Phillips 2. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd Four Year & Older Saddle Mules-John 3. Ai Pad, Jessica Meuth 3. Greystone Silhouette, Tim Phillips (PtHA) Open Donkey Hunter Under Saddle Amateur Mule Trail (PtHA) 1. I Only Date Foxes, Dan Holland (PtHA) 1. Teters Copy of Bandy 2013, Jo Teter 2. Sonny’s Boss Man, Tabitha Holland 2. MV Limited Edition, Terri Hurley 3. Greystone Silhouette, Amy McLean 1. Ima, Tim Phillips 3. Teters Dazzle 2011, Jo Teter 2. Ai Pad, Jessica Meuth Draft Mules All Ages (PtHA) 3. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley Youth Mule Trail (PtHA) 1. Belle, Jodi Stonner 1. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 2. Brodie, Terri Wagner Youth Mule Hunter Under Saddle 2. Pistols and Posies, Tessa Walkinshaw (PtHA) 3. Sonny’s Boss Man, Ella Huckaby Grand & Reserve Champion Mule (PtHA) 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Ella Huckaby 2. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 1. Lilac Lady, Mark Mattox 3. Foxy Duns And Roses, Esme Waldman 2. Belle, Terri Wagner Junior Mule Ranch Riding (PtHA) Youth Mule Showmanship 13 & Under Open Mule Pleasure Driving Hitch 1. Either Lick It or Stick It, Samantha 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Ella Huckaby (PtHA) Waugh Youth Mule Showmanship 14-18 1. Charlie & Belle, Terri Wagner 2. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd 1. RD Gwenevere, Patrisha Schoenbacher 2. Pearl & Nellie, Tom Mowery 3. Greystone Silhouette, Tim Phillips 2. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 3. Bess & Brodie, Dennis Klinkerman 3. You Bett I’m Hott, Esme Waldman Senior Mule Ranch Riding (PtHA) Amateur Mule Hunter Under Saddle 1. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips Amateur Mule Showmanship (PtHA) 2. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dan Holland 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dr. Kimberly 3. Teters Copy of Bandy 2013, Jo Teter 2. Something to Tuck About, Amy McLean 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dr. Kimberly 3. MV Limited Edition, Terri Hurley 2. Something to Tuck About, Amy McLean 40 • APRIL 2020 3. MV Limited Edition, Terri Hurley WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Junior Mule Hunter Under Saddle APRIL 2020 • 41 (PtHA) 1. Greystone Silhouette, Amy McLean 2. Either Lick It or Stick It, Samantha Waugh 3. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd Senior Mule Hunter Under Saddle (PtHA) 1. Something to Tuck About, Amy McLean 2. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 3. Sonny’s Boss Man, Tabitha Holland Open Donkey Barrel Race (PtHA) 1. Ima, Tim Phillips 2. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley 3. Ai Pad, Jessica Meuth Junior Mule Hunter Hack (PtHA) 1. Greystone Silhouette, Tim Phillips 2. Either Lick It or Stick It, Samantha Waugh 3. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd Senior Mule Hunter Hack (PtHA) 1. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 2. Something to Tuck About, Amy McLean 3. MV Limited Edition, Terri Hurley Open Mule Parade Hitch (PtHA) 1. Bess & Brodie, Terri Wagner 2. Charlie & Belle, Terri Wagner 3. Rockytop Jodi, Stonner Stonner Open Mule Flag Race (PtHA) 1. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 2. Teters Copy of Bandy 2013, Jo Teter 3. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd Open Mule Obstacle Driving Single (PtHA) 1. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 2. Pearl, Terri Wagner 3. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dan Holland Open Mule Obstacle Driving Team (PtHA) 1. Bess & Brodie, Dennis Klinkerman 2. Lucy & Lill, Doyle Prawl Youth Mule Barrel Race (PtHA) 1. Foxy Duns And Roses, Esme Waldman 2. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 3. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Ella Huckaby Open Mule Keyhole Race (PtHA) 1. Buckshot, Abby Jodi 2. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd 3. Rockytop, Jodi Stonner WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Open Mule Pole Bending (PtHA) Open Mule/ Donkey Costume (PtHA) 1. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd 1. Action Jackson, Bill Lee 2. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 2. Rockytop, Jodi Stonner 3. MV Limited Edition, Alyson Hurley 3. Teters Dazzle 2011, Jo Teter Open Donkey Western Pleasure (PtHA) Open Mule Barrel Race (PtHA) 1. Ai Pad, Jessica Meuth 1. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 2. Ima, Tim Phillips 2. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd 3. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley 3. Teters Copy of Bandy 2013, Jo Teter 42 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Senior Mule Western Pleasure (PtHA) Open Donkey Pleasure Driving Single 3. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dan Holland 1. Rockytop, Jodi Stonner (PtHA) 2. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dan Holland Junior Mule Western Pleasure (PtHA) 3. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 1. MV Bens American Girl, Terri Hurley 1. Greystone Silhouette, Amy McLean Hurley 2. MV Ben’s Platinum Scotch, Alyson Youth Mule Western Pleasure (PtHA) 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Ella Huckaby 2. Ima, Tim Phillips Hurley 2. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 3. Either Lick It or Stick It, Samantha 3. Foxy Duns And Roses, Robert Kidd Open Mule Drive & Ride (PtHA) 1. Rockytop, Jodi Stonner Stonner Waugh 2. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips Amateur Mule Western Pleasure Right: Miss Rodeo Colorado, (PtHA) Hailey Fredericksen, rode “Rockytop” 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dr. Kimberly in the grand entry Huckaby of the The Rocky Mountain 2. V Limited Edition, Terri Hurley Horse Expo. 3. Rockytop, Jodi Stonner Jodi Stonner is the owner of Open Mule Pleasure Driving Single Rockytop (PtHA) 1. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Dan Holland 2. I’m Foxy and I Know It, Tim Phillips 3. Pistols and Posies, Dan Holland Youth Mule Pleasure Driving Single (PtHA) 1. MV Bens Dixie Dell, Tessa Walkinshaw 2. Foxy Duns And Roses, Esme Waldman 3. Fifty Shades of Foxy, Ella Huckaby WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 43

Dutch Oven COOKING Super Simple Apple Cobbler 1 can sweetened condensed milk over 6-8 coals. Add the brown sugar and 12” Dutch Oven 1 cup chocolate chips lemon juice and heat until the sugar dis- solves. Pour half of the brown sugar mix- 3 large (21 oz.) cans apple pie filling Combine cake mix, eggs, and oil and ture over the bananas in each pot. Sprinkle 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (like press 2/3 of it into a greased 12” Dutch the coconut over the brown sugar sauce. Pillsbury) with icing Oven. Combine milk and chocolate chips and place over 5-6 coals, stirring well to Pour the cake batter over the top of the Dump all three cans of pie filling in your allow the chocolate chips to melt and blend coconut in each pan, dividing equally. Dutch Oven. Open the cinnamon rolls and smoothly with the milk. Pour chocolate separate into individual rolls. With kitchen mixture over crust. Sprinkle remaining crust Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until a shears, quarter the cinnamon rolls and sprin- over chocolate. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 toothpick comes our clean. Use 16 bri- kle in a single layer over the pie filling. minutes or until they start to turn golden. quettes on top and 10 briquettes on the bot- Bake at 350° until the cinnamon rolls are Use 16 briquettes on top and 10 briquettes tom. Remove from heat and let sit for 10 golden brown. Use 16 briquettes on top and on the bottom. Serves 12. minutes. Invert onto serving dishes. Serve 10 briquettes on the bottom. Drizzle with warm. Makes 2-10” cakes. icing and serve. Banana Coconut Upside Down Cake 2-10” Dutch Ovens Chocolate Picnic Cake Upside-Down Strawberry Shortcake 10” Dutch Oven 12” Dutch Oven 1 yellow cake mix 3 eggs 2 (1 oz.) squares unsweetened chocolate 1 cup mini marshmallows 1/4 cup oil 1 1/4 cups flour 1 (16 oz.) package frozen sweetened straw- 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 teaspoon baking soda berries, sliced 1/2 cup water 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 (3 oz.) package strawberry gelatin 6 bananas, sliced 1/4 inch thick 1 egg 1/2 cup shortening 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut 1 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup packed brown sugar 3/4 cup cold water 3 eggs 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 Tablespoons lemon juice 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 2 1/4 cups flour 3 teaspoons baking powder To prepare the pots, oil the bottoms and In a small Dutch oven, over 5-6 coals, 1 cup milk fit each pot with a piece of parchment paper melt the chocolate and then allow it to cool that is cut to fit inside, then oil the parch- for 10 minutes. Combine the flour, baking Sprinkle the marshmallows into the bot- ment. soda, and salt and set aside. In a mixing tom of a greased 12” Dutch Oven. In a bowl, beat the egg and sugar. Beat in the bowl, combine the strawberries and gelatin Combine the cake mix, eggs, oil, water, water and oil. Stir in melted chocolate and powder; set aside. In another mixing bowl, and sour cream and mix vigorously for 2 dry ingredients; mix until blended. Pour bat- cream the shortening and sugar. Add the minutes. Place the banana slices evenly on ter into a well greased 10” Dutch Oven. eggs, one at a time, beating well after each the bottom of each pan. Sprinkle with chocolate chips. Bake at 350° addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine flour, for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick baking powder, and salt; add to creamed In a small Dutch Oven, melt the butter comes out clean. Use 16 briquettes on top mixture alternately with milk. Pour the bat- and 10 briquettes on the bottom. Cool on a ter over the marshmallows. Spoon the wire rack. Serves 8-10. strawberry mixture evenly over the batter. Bake at 350° for 45-50 minutes or 12-Inch Dutch Oven until a toothpick comes out clean. Use 16 briquettes on top and 10 briquettes on the Temp °F Coals/Top Bottom bottom. Cool. 300° 14 8 Fudgey Cake Bars 12” Dutch Oven 325° 15 9 1 yellow cake mix 350° 16 10 2 eggs 1/3 cup oil 375° 17 11 44 • APRIL 2020 400° 18 12 425° 19 13 450° 20 14 500° 21 15 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

CLINICS APRIL 7-9 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Huntington, UT - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 269.) APRIL 17-19 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Madison, WI - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) APRIL 24-26 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Red Deer, AB, Canada - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) APRIL 29- MAY 1 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Ferguson, NC - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) MAY 4-6 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Tropic, UT - 801-598- 7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) MAY 7-9 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Bryce Canyon Mule Days - Tropic, UT - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) SHOWS / EXPOS MAY 14-16 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic - Huntington, UT - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) APRIL 29-MAY - Dawson Springs Kentucky Mule & Draft Horse Days - Mike Russell 270-339-6150 or Tommy Gunn 270-871-1959 MAY 18-24 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Bishop Mule Days (See page 6.) - Bishop, CA - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) MAY 28-30 - Ty Evans’ Mulemanship Clinic – Dunnigan, CA - 801-598-7465 or www.tsmules.com (See page 26.) MAY 19 - 24 - Bishop Mule Days, Bishop, CA - 760-872-4263 or SALES www.muledays.org (See page 19.) MAY 30-31 - Mule Mania Show - Dayton, WA - 509-382-4825 or APRIL 4 - Highway 43 Auction Company - Mule & Work Horse [email protected] or www.mulemaniadayton.com Auction - Columbia, TN - 931-993-3127 or 931-993-4886 (See page 12.) APRIL 10-11 - Oklahoma Mule Sale - Ada, OK - 270-435-4229 JUNE 12-14 - Montana Mule Days - Whitehall, MT - 406-219- or 580-465-8727 8155 - www.montanamuledays.com (See page 29.) APRIL 24-25 - Baumli’s 86th Draft Horse &Mule Sale - Maryville, JUNE 17-21 - Jake Clark’s 23rd Annual Saddle Mule Days - Pow- MO - 660-652-4454 or 660-582-2981 ell, WY - 307-754-4320 or www.saddlemule.com (See page 2/3.) MAY 7-9 - The Chrome Canyon Premier Mule Sale - Tropic, UT, during Bryce Canyon Mule Days - 307-272-5039 or premiermule- sale.com (See page 13.) For free event listing in our calendar & our online listing, contact us at 417-859-6853 or [email protected]. WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 45

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WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 47

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS MULES Bishop Mule Days DVDs 2009 thru 2019 Anza, CA 92539. Visit www.westernmule- available now (2015 no longer available). magazine.com or call 417-859-6853. SELLING DUE TO HEALTH PROB- Experience the fun and excitement right there LEMS: Black, 14.2 hand, 8-year-old, fox trot- at home in your living room. Each DVD con- I Should’ve Been a Cowboy - Covers such ting john mule. He is easy going, gentle, and tains one year of viewing. $28 each, includes thoughtful subjects ranging from getting older easy to shoe. Anyone can ride him. $3,500. shipping. Send check or money order to West- to that quick shortcut on a path less taken. Also, a 14.1 hand, 4-year-old, black, john ern Mule Library, PO Box 46, Marshfield, From Lecil Hadley’s evening in the hoosegow mule. (He will turn gray and is already starting MO 65706, or call with credit card, 417-859- and his attempt at ordering pizza, to a leisurely to turn.) He is a straight going, good riding, 6853, or visit www.westernmulemagazine bicycle ride down a quaint, mountain trail, gentle mule, and stands good to shoe. $3,000. .com and go to Mule Media. Tom also covers the disease all mule owners Also, three coming two-year-old mules, never fear, SMDS, and he also laments wistfully been handled; 2 molly mules (that should be BOOKS about his calling in life and what should have gaited) and one john mule, Kentucky, 270- been. Just when you thought it couldn’t get 348-0760. (1) The Horse Whistler - By Thomas J. Firth. any worse, Thomas proves time and again that Ever been atop a runaway mule in a round it not only can, it usually does. $14.00 plus VIDEOS & DVDS pen, encountered the Beast in Waders, or $3.25 s/h. OUTWEST TALES, PO Box come face to face with a Bigfoot? If you’ve 391215, Anza, CA 92539. Call 417-859-6853 Auctioneering/Motivation/Success! - ever been hunting, fishing, packing, or spent or visit www.westernmulemagazine.com. Learn from Leroy Van Dyke, “The World’s time around livestock, this collection of out- Most Famous Auctioneer.” Six cassettes or door humor stories is sure to tickle your funny NEW IN E-BOOK FORM CD’s and textbook. 1-800-316-1236. bone. $14.00 plus $3.25 s/h. OUTWEST Think the West was won on horseback? TALES, P.O. Box 391215, Anza, CA 92539. You haven’t read the Mule Alternative: The MULA - Why would a most spectacular horse Call 417-859-6853 or visit www.western- Saddle Mule in the American West or and mule raid take place in California in mulemagazine.com. HorseMuleGrizzlyIndianBuffalo WRECKS 1840? Everyone wanted mules. Americans of the Frontier West - $18.95, postpaid: Med- were on the move, headed West, and there was A Perplexing Addiction - By Thomas J. Firth. icine Wolf Press, 3694 Register Road, Amer- no sturdier, more powerful and reliable means Now you, too, can possess your very own ican Falls, ID 83211. NEW - The Mule of travel than a mule. Today, mule people are copy of this literary masterpiece, jam packed Alternative is available as an expanded 2018 just as enthusiastic about their mules as they with humorous outdoor stories ranging from e-book edition from Amazon or as a hard copy were in the 1800’s. 98 minutes. $23 includes mule handling finesse, fishing, hunting, and from Western Mule. $20.00 includes postage. shipping. Send check or money order to Wes- other entertaining subjects. $14.00 plus $3.25 Visit www.westernmulemagazine.com or call tern Mule Library, PO Box 46, Marshfield, s/h. OUTWEST TALES, PO Box 391215, 417-859-6853. MO 65706, or call with credit card, 417-859- 6853, or visit www.westernmulemagazine- Classifieds Work! .com and go to Mule Media. 50 cents per word, $12 minimum (24 words). Deadline is the 10th ofthe month. Payment must accompany your ad. Call:417-859-6853 or / email: [email protected] Canadian orders, please contact us for shipping rates at [email protected]. 48 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE

Mules were used for farming in this country roughly 1785 to 1950 or 165 years. Mule numbers peaked in the US at 5.8 million in 1925, but there were still 1.9 million mules in 1940, and that in- cluded 209,000 in Missouri. Quotes used in this column and most of the material used comes from stories in the book, That Son of a Gun Had Sense: Mule Stories From the Bootheel During the 1930’s-1940’s Era. (This segment is taken from the story titled “He Liked to Have of water at the end of the field underneath a shade tree. Scared Me to Death” as told by Betty Webb from the Son of a I stayed in school and worked Saturdays during the school year. Gun book. Webb speaking.) We would get up at 5 a.m., do milking and chores, and then harness f you’re raised on a farm, you learn to ride horses and drive a the mules and go to the field. I usually milked five or six cows, team at a young age. I was driving a mule team through gates morning and evening. to pick up pumpkins and corn when I was 10. I started plowing with mules with a walking cultivator when I Dad didn’t get a little Ford tractor until I was in high school in was 13. I took over when Ben left for the service. My younger 1947. We didn’t get electricity out where we lived until 1949, after brother, Meridith, was too little. I was dad’s right hand man for I had graduated from high school. three summers. I worked from when school was out in the spring until school started back in the fall. I am selling the new book at an introductory offer of $16 (which I farmed with Toby and Nig, two gentle mules. Toby was a small includes postage). The price will later move up to $18. Mail buckskin mule with black mane and tail. Nig was a gentle ole mule; check to: Thiele at PO Box 884, Poplar Bluff, MO 63902. Phone you could depend on him. He was brownish 573-300-3085. black, bigger than Toby. You could ride Toby, sometimes. We could be riding along pretty good and ‘Wham!’ You’d find yourself on the ground. He bucked me and my sister off when I was 5 years old. Dad was driving some cattle across a ditch, and my sister and I decided we wanted to go. I imagine the flies might have been a factor. When I went to the field, Mom made me wear bib overalls, a long-sleeve shirt, and a bonnet to protect me from the sun. Mom was very particular. I wore whatever shoes I had; sometimes, I didn’t have any shoes to wear. I would get blisters on my feet, try to put some- thing on them, and keep going. I was usually in one field working Toby and Nig while Dad was in a nearby field. I would have to disk and harrow, and he’d be in the other field planting with Pat and Jet. I used the plow lines and commands, “Gee and haw” and “Getup and go.” Dad usually kept a jug WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE APRIL 2020 • 49

Advertisers’ Index 43. American MuleAssociation 43. Mules & More Magazine 19. Bishop Mule Days 12 Mule Mania - mule show 13. Chrome in the Canyon - Premier Mule Sale 52. Myler Bits 06. Dawson Springs Mule & Draft Horse Days 11. Packers Guidebook & Trail Skills & More - books 25. Jackson’s Western Store - saddles/tack/clothing 16. Reed Tack - saddles & tack 2/3. Jake Clark Mule Days 23. Shoshone Back Country Horseman of NorthwestWyoming 15. Jasper the Mule - dvds and books 49. Thiele, Lonny - That Son of a Gun Had Sense - books 27. Jones Gentle Saddle Mules - personal coaching and more 21. Three Bells Mules - saddles & tack 35. Landmark Studio 26. Ty Evans’2020 Mulemanship Clinic Schedule 51. Lucky Three Ranch 04. UC DavisAnnual Production Sale 29. Montana Mule Days contest winners full bleed 50 • APRIL 2020 WESTERN MULE MAGAZINE