Tiny Cowboys and Their Hogs

(*this is a repeat from last year's stockshow. Will update with my latest visit, soon!)

Nope, this is not about midget football players on Harleys.

Went to the Stock Show yesterday afternoon. The sun was out, the temperature a glorious 73 degrees. Quite spectacular day for January. Me and about 10,000 other folks thought so.

First livestock barn we walked into was in the midst of a hog judging. Most competitors were under the age of 16 (the human handlers, that is, not the hogs!) and the porcine entries were young New Hampshires.

In the midst of the all the grunts and squeals and the announcer's voice, you could hear the "snap" of a leather crop being used against the hindquarters of the pigs. This is akin to a pop on the butt of a rowdy kid with your hand. Not hard enough to hurt, but sure 'nuff gets your attention. The young future ranchers used the little quirts to keep their pig moving around the arena and looking lively.

Two young cowboys caught my eye - one in full western attire, complete with a Stetson hat adorned with a turkey feather. The other little cabellero (perhaps aged 6?) was hatless, but wearing his Wranglers, boots, and white western shirt with pearl snaps. They were putting their pigs through their paces, keeping an eye on the judge to see if they were going to make the cut. As the judge singled out each pig and owner, assistants in the arena would help the youngsters corral the prized porker into one of several small pens, First Place, Second Place and so on. Mr. Turkey-Feathered Hat took fifith.

Finally, the little cowboy in the white shirt was left alone in the arena. He was the youngest and smallest contestant, but he stayed right with his pig until the very last. Working his animal around the steel railings of the arena and keeping his determination focused. I think this little boy was the crowd's favorite, I could see the smiling faces of admiration for such showmanship. Even though he went home without a ribbon, little Mr. Pearl-Snaps can be proud of his performance. I hope he will go onto bigger competitions, both in the arena and in life, and keeps his chin-up pride.

The Stetson tip-of-the-hat this week goes to this tiny cowboy and his pig. You made my day, kiddo.