Before the surplus oilfield pipe
replaced the split redwood posts
and creosoted oak railroad ties,
we remember the old board pens,
acorns tucked twixt crack and plank,
fiery lichen on the backside
of weather-worn 2 x 8s:
distant brandings—
deceased men—
voices imitated—
old saws saved
that we exchange,
each triggering the next
underhanded head loop loosed
to hang for an instant,
we snare memories
like calves to brand—lifetimes
stretched from hand to hand.
Very nice tribute John! I feel that I am getting near the end of my trail. So many of the cattle buyers I knew and dealt with, feedlot owners and ranchers I had relationships with are gone. So your words have special meaning. Rich/Seven H Cattle Company
drycrikjournal 
Really a beautiful poem John. I will miss seeing you and Robbin at Elko.
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Thanks, Heather. Getting tougher as we get closer.
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Love this, I will miss Elko but feel grateful for continued inspiration around us and the lives we live. Hope to “tune in” on the 30th.
Chris Ryden
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Really appreciate Rabb Branding, maybe because I am close to as old as those 2x8s!
Jim
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Very nice tribute John! I feel that I am getting near the end of my trail. So many of the cattle buyers I knew and dealt with, feedlot owners and ranchers I had relationships with are gone. So your words have special meaning. Rich/Seven H Cattle Company
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