As I sit here in my cozy ranch house, surveying the horizon of the wide open Texas prairie, I’m overcome with a sense of pride and contentment. I have been a Jacksonian cowboy for close to 30 years now, living and working on the ranch, and raising my brood of nine. I can still remember, like it was yesterday, when I first came out here and discovered the beauty and majesty of these lands. I was the definition of a naive city slicker back then, but I soon learned the art of being a Jacksonian cowboy – a rugged yet wondrous lifestyle that I still practice to this day.
The prairie is my sanctuary, my place of solace. Whether it’s moments before the sun rises, or in the coolness of the evening air, I take time to pause and appreciate the wild expanses around me. Every morning I tend to the herd of cows, horses, and goats, assisting in their daily routines, building strong relationships with each of them. Afterwards, I’ll saddle up on my steed and journey out across the plains, ever so often coming across a spectacular vista of untamed beauty at every turn.
The Jacksonian lifestyle isn’t for everyone – there’s no running water, no electricity, and no modern luxuries here. But there’s a certain pleasure derived from living off the land, of being part of a unique community rooted deep in the culture of Texas. The people I’ve met have shared with me stories of bravery and tenacity, of determination, and of joy. I’ve found myself in the middle of some exciting adventures too, such as attempting to herd howling wolves, and running with wild mustangs.
No life is without its challenges though – I’ve had to serve as a nursemaid to injured animals, deal with the Texas heat, and, unfortunately, have a chronic backache that won't seem to ease up. Despite this, I remain ever optimistic, resilient, and filled with a sense of purpose. With each passing day, I’m reminded of why I chose to stay here and become a Jacksonian cowboy.
As I wrap up this post, I’m thankful for the opportunity to share these stories with you all. I’m grateful to the prairie for showing me a life of quiet solitude and of adventure. Most of all, I’m proud to call myself a true Jacksonian cowboy.