October 7, 2013. Harper, Texas. Communications.

During the year of communicating with friends and relatives about the 55th, it has become apparent that sometimes my verbiage was not precise.

I was asked if there were special clothes to wear when riding the mules.  In fact, the mules are machines.   They are small tractors with 4 wheel drive that we scoot around the ranch with them.   But I omitted to tell folks that they would be driving in a vehicle, not on the back of a real live mule.

And then it was the question of cattle guards.   I was asked if the guests should expect an armed guard at the crossing of the cattle.   Again, I was imprecise and assumed that everyone knew what a cattle guard looked like.   I was wrong.

And lastly were the clothes.   I suggested casual clothes and sturdy shoes.   There will be many friends and relatives walking around at the ranch wearing new cowboy boots.   I can almost guarantee that they did not buy a boot jack.   At the end of the day, when they have worn those boots all day and their feet are swollen, those boots will not come off with out a boot jack.  Fortunately, we have one in the courtyard.  I should have recommended the folks to buy Ropers if they are inclined to buy Texas boots.  But it is too late!!  It should be interesting.