Chet and Blackie

oil on panel, 16 X 24"  Framed.

Competence in the young has declined in recent generations as we've urbanized.  Not so with the kids who remain with their families on the land.  Chet's parents manage a big pasture in Southern Alberta, and he and his siblings have been raised as part of the crew.  They also make most of their gear.  Chet's mom makes beautiful mohair cinches and blankets, and Chet, now and adult builds saddles & chaps and continues to work with his dad. The responsibility, with appropriate support, develops strong, capable, confident and resilient people. I wish it wasn't so rare these days.