Date: Thu, 28 Nov 2002 09:56:22 -0800 (PST)
From: Waddie Greywolf <waddiebear@yahoo.com>
Subject: "Cabbage Patch Cowboy Part 16"

DISCLAIMER: WARNING!!  This is a work of homoerotic fictions written by an
adult for the purpose of entertainment for other adults.  If you are not
eighteen year of age or you have any problem with this type of literature
then this is a warning to read no further.  The author will not be held
responsible for any reason if you do.  (Codes: M/M M/b M/t Gay Incest Anal
Oral True)

Comments/questions:  waddiebear@yahoo.com
Copyright 2002 Waddie Greywolf

=====================================================================
CABBAGE PATCH COWBOY PART 16

Everyone was up early the next morning, the women had a big ranch breakfast
ready for the men. Bubba was pleased that Carol Anderson and Jannie had
stayed over.  Jannie was so happy to get to see Bubba before he left.
Carol Anderson was most attentive.  She and Bubba conversed like they'd
been old friends for years.  She sat with him at breakfast.  There was
nothing overt nor anything to give anyone cause to look at each other
knowingly, but they were noticeably comfortable with each other.  Of
course, that wasn't missed by anyone there, large or small.

C.D. and Mavis, Mavis Lyle, and the deputies left to clean up and get ready
for the day.  Oatie was staying the day with Clyde and Gip at the ranch.
There were more hugs, kisses and tears telling Bubba goodbye.  He told them
he'd see their little buddy in about six more days.  Gip and his brothers
each gave him a hug and a kiss to give their brother.  Bubba handled the
goodbyes well, better than he expected but when Dan Justin grabbed Bubba,
hugged him, gave him a kiss and called him, Son, Bubba lost it.  He
apologized to Dan and Dan told him not to be silly, he was loved by them
all.  Get use to it.  Bubba laughed.

Buck and Linda Sue said their goodbyes as they walked Bubba to his truck.
Buck hugged him real big, kissed him and told him to come home anytime he
felt like it.  They'd love to see him.  Bubba winked at Buck.

"Thanks, Sheriff, I appreciate that."  Buck winked back and looked at the
rise in Bubba's jeans.  They both laughed.  Linda Sue didn't have a clue

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Something the Crenshaw boys were doing or maybe it was the good food but
Waddie's ass was healing by leaps and bounds. All the larger scabs had
washed away and it was healing properly.  There was very little trauma to
it.  Uncle Enid came by and picked up Waddie on Thursday to spend the day
with her.  Waddie told her about going to the Crenshaw's ranch and falling
in love with their dad and Bubba's dad.  Enid took him on a tour of her
factory and Waddie was thrilled to see the boots actually being made.  They
got out front in the lobby and Enid looked at him.

"Wanna' take your new dad's a pair of boots this weekend."

"Would I?  Oh Lord, Uncle Enid, you've done one hell of a lot of nice
things for me and my brother but that would be about the best thing you
could ever do.  They're fine men, Uncle Enid.  I'm proud to call them
`dad.'  I can't believe I fell in love with two families in one weekend.
It usually take me at least two weekends."  said Waddie disconcerted.  Enid
picked up on his joke and laughed with him.

"I heard the love in your voice when you talked about `em and just felt you
might like to do something nice for `em."

"Uncle Enid, you know I love you but that would make me one hell of a happy
buckaroo."

"Pick `em out, Son.  You know their sizes?"

"Yes `um.  Billy Bob and Earl D. told me their dad's size and Brenda Lou
told me Dad Franz's size."

"Waddie picked out a handsome pair for each.  He knew what Dad Crenshaw
would like and he was pretty damn sure what Dad Franz would like from
talking with Brenda Lou."

Enid insisted she take Waddie to her doctor and let him have a look.
Waddie didn't want to put her out but she was firm in her resolve.  He felt
she needed to do this for him.  Waddie was a part of her family and she was
doing what she could to let him know she was sorry it happened and she
cared.

The doctor and Enid winced when they took a look at Waddie's butt.  The
doctor just shook his head.

"Is he being removed from that home, Enid?"

"Last I heard, as of two days ago it was done.  The legal papers were
served to his dad."

"Glad to hear that.  It's healing nicely, Son. The ointment the men are
using is good but I'm going to prescribe some for you that'll heal you
twice as fast and take all the pain away.  You can bust a bronco if you
want to."

"God, Stan!  Don't tell this kid that!  Fuck, he's liable go out and do
it!"  Uncle Enid threw back her head in laughter.  "He and his brother, my
cousin's boy, were junior rodeo champs two years in a row now."

The doctor was impressed.  He wrote out a prescription and told Waddie to
keep cleaning it twice a day like his care takers were doing.  It was
coming along great but if he used the medication he prescribed he would see
major improvement in a couple of days.  Waddie was thrilled.

Enid took him by a pharmacy and bought six tubes of the medication for him.
She didn't want him to run out.  They had lunch together at an expensive
restaurant but the help treated him and Uncle Enid like they were royalty.
Enid was a big tipper.  They didn't get back until almost six and Waddie
insisted she have dinner with him and the boys.  She was shy about it but
once she met Earl D., Billy Bob, and Mrs. York she couldn't say `no.'  The
boys wanted to know what was in the big packages and Waddie wouldn't tell
them.  They acted hurt their little brother wouldn't share with them what
was in the big packages.

"In due time, Gentlemen, in due time."  Their little brother admonished
them.

"Damned, if he don't sound like our old man!"  Billy Bob told Earl D. and
they laughed.

You can bet, talk was lively around the table that night.  The Crenshaw
boys loved Uncle Enid. She had no problem with any of them referring to her
as Uncle Enid.  They couldn't thank her enough for their boots.  They were
thrilled.  They asked Waddie and teased him as to what was in those
packages.  He'd just wink at Enid and tell them they didn't need to know
everything about him.  He had to have some privacy.  All the ball players
laughed and hooted at Billy Bob and Earl D.

"You tell `em, Waddie," said one of the huge line backers that Waddie
really liked named Phil Rejensky.  "Them two stick their noses in
everybody's business."

"Only because we love you, Rejensky..."  Laughed Billy Bob.

Waddie told about Enid taking him to her doctor who told him the boys were
taking good care of him but gave him some more medication that would take
away all the pain and heal it twice as fast.  The boys were thrilled to
hear that and thanked Enid like Waddie was their natural brother.  Waddie
was beginning to feel that way.

Dinner was over, Enid said her goodbyes to all and told Waddie she'd come
back one day next week and show him around the city.  He thanked her for
everything and told her he loved her again.

"Oh hell, Waddie, you know I love you, too, ya' little shit.  Gimme' a hug
and a kiss."  Waddie gave her a big hug and a kiss.  "Oh by the way,
Cowboy, thanks for humoring an old lady today and letting me take you to my
doc.  I appreciate you trusting me."

"I'd trust you with anything, Uncle Enid, take that to the bank."  Enid
roughed up his hair, turned , got into her truck, and drove away.  He waved
until she was out of sight.

Waddie walked back in to help Mrs. York clear the table and give her a hand
cleaning up.  After he once asked her to let him help her she only told him
`no' a couple of times. She thought he needed to go and do something on his
own.  Get away from the place.  She was right.  He was always in good
spirits when he returned and had a lot to talk about.  She loved to hear
him tell what new things he saw and wondered about.  They were about
finished when the huge linebacker Phil came into the kitchen.

"I've been sent to get you, Little Man."  Phil pointed a finger at Waddie.
"They're dying of curiosity about what's in them bags.  Don't tell `em I
told you.  Play along with me and protest me taking you up to them. Okay?"
Phil begged like a little boy.

"Sure, Buddy, our secret, huh?"  Phil had all ready picked him up;
Mrs. York's laughed.  He threw Waddie over his enormous shoulder and
carried him out of the room kicking and screaming.  Waddie was hollering
and yelling at Phil to put him down this minute.  Phil was laughing his ass
off at Waddie's protests.  The kid was good.

"Put me down you big ape.  I've got two legs, two feet just like you do and
if I wanted to go to my room I would.  I ain't a' through help'n Mrs. York.
Now put me down.  You've gotten your last banana from me `Jocko!' My Uncle
is sheriff of my damn county I'll have him throw your big, wide ass
receiver in jail."

"Oooff, Waddie, that hurt!"  whispered Phil and laughed harder.  He carried
Waddie to Billy Bob and Earl D.'s room and set him down.

"One handsome, young cowboy delivered as ordered, Math'sters."  Phil said
with a decided lisp.

"Very good, Big Man.  Well done.  Give the animal his treat, Brother."
Earl D. said to Billy Bob.  He threw Phil a piece of candy.  Phil caught it
and in his best Igor impression spoke,

"Oh thank, you, Math'ster,----!"  Then lumbered off like Quasimoto.

"All right, Cowboy.  Now are you going to tell your big brothers what's in
them packages or do we have to tickle torture you?  Grab him Billy Bob."
ordered Earl D. grinning from ear to ear.  Billy Bob was fast as a cat and
had Waddie.  Earl D. started ominously toward him.

"Touch me and our dad hears about this.  He's gonna' turn both you bad boys
over his knee.  You think my ass looks bad...?"  Earl D. stopped abruptly.
He looked at Billy Bob.

"We didn't think about that, Brother.  At this point our Little Brother
holds the trump card.  Let him be."  Earl D. laughed and so did Billy Bob.

"Well, since you guys are my brothers and you're not spoil sports, I guess
I could let you see.  Come'mon!"  Waddie motioned for them to follow him to
his room.  They were right behind him.  Waddie handed one package to Billy
Bob and one to Earl D.

"Now open carefully, I don't want them messed up, understand?"

"We promise, Little Brother." replied Billy Bob like a young kid.

"Open your's first Earl D."  Waddie instructed.  Earl D. opened the box and
whistled.  He saw the size on the box and knew immediately who they were
for.

"Oh, Waddie!  Damn!  Our old man's been putting off getting a new pair of
boots for himself for over three years now because one of us has always
needed something and they never had the money to buy him a new pair.  Oh,
my God, will you look at those Billy."  Billy Bob's eyes were watering and
a tear rolled down his cheek.

"Come'mer, Little Brother."  Waddie went to Billy Bob who just held him for
the longest time then gently kissed him. "Talk about your dad messing his
pants,---our dad may come close when he opens that box. Finest looking pair
of boots he's ever owned; right Bro?"

Earl D. grabbed Waddie, held him close and kissed him.  "He'll trade us in
fur' sure now, Billy!"  Earl D. laughed.  "Waddie he ain't never had a pair
of boots this nice.  Did you ask your aunt for them?"

"You men know I don't lie.  Cowboys don't never lie, you know that.  I told
her what a good time I had going home with you and I fell in love with Dad
Crenshaw and Dad Franz.  She asked if I wanted to pick out a pair for each.
I couldn't say no, guys.  Y'ain't mad at me or nothing?"

"How could we be mad at you, Darlin.'  Hell no!"  said Billy Bob as he
opened Gus's boot box. Again they gasped, "Damn, Waddie!  Gus and dad are
gonna' fight over you, I swear!"  said Earl D.

"He ain't kiddin,' Little Brother.  Gus got us aside and wants you to come
back this weekend as bad as dad does.  Dad called us again this afternoon
to make sure we were coming and bringing you.  He's never called us two
times in one week since we been in school; right, Bro?"

"Honest Injun,' Buckaroo."  Earl D.  held up his right hand.

"So are we leaving tomorrow morning?  We don't have classes tomorrow, we
could even go tonight if'n you felt up to it.  It's only seven thirty,-we
could be there by ten."

"If we go during the day you guys make better time and it's less time I
have to sit."

"Can't argue with logic like that, Bro.  Our brother's right!"  Billy Bob
said to Earl D.

"I agree.  Once again we didn't think about our little brother."

"Aww, come'mon guys, it's a mistake anyone can make.  Y'ain't perfect.
Neither am I, except I'll bet you'd have a hard time convincing our dad
after I hand him these."  Waddie grinned wickedly.  Earl D. and Billy Bob
fell on the bed laughing.

"You're right, Waddie.  He was so disappointed you weren't here to talk to
so's he could invite you again. He didn't want to talk to us very long. He
didn't have a hell of a lot to say, except bring my son home with ya.'"
They fell out laughing.  The Crenshaw boy numbered three in that room.

The men decided to pack and be ready to leave first thing after breakfast
the following morning. Everything was ready to go.  They talked and laughed
for a while with the other athletes that came into Waddie's room.  They
thought nothing of walking around buck ass naked and sitting down and
talking to him. It made Waddie nervous, so he got up and shucked off his
clothes.  The men laughed at him. Phil grabbed him.

"Som'bitch, Guys,----look at the pecker on`nis kid!"  Phil had one huge
hand on Waddie's shoulder and turned him to his buddies.  They all gawked
and whistled."

"Yeah,-"said Billy Bob dryly, "that man be a Crenshaw, right Bro?" he
nudged Earl D.

"Definitely, Brother.  No doubt about it." Earl D. backed up his brother.
The men laughed.

"Ya' don't feel so nervous no more, do you, Cowboy?" Phil asked him
grinning real big.

"Naw, if I learn't one thing from my brother, Oatie, it's: `----if in
doubt, remove all clothing immediately, you can't go wrong!  If someone
gets upset, he figures it's their problem."  the men howled with laughter.

"Show `em the boots your Uncle Enid gave you for our dad's, Waddie."
Waddie handed a box to Phil and one to another player named Stan Lexington.

"You have the boots for Dad Crenshaw, Phil, and you have the boots for Dad
Franz, Stan.  You guys didn't get to meet Mr. Franz's son, Bubba, who saved
my life.  Ya'll were gone last Friday when I arrived."

The two men opened the boxes and showed them to the other guys who
whistled, oouhed, and ahhed over them.

"Your aunt bought these for you to give as gifts to these two men, Waddie?"
Phil asked in amazement.  The other guys were wishing they had an aunt like
that.  The three Crenshaw boys laughed together.

"You know what, Waddie, we never gave them Uncle Enid's last name, did we?"
Waddie tried to remember, shook his head, he and Billy Bob agreed, they
hadn't.

"Uncle Enid's last name, Gentlemen," said Earl D., "is the same as the name
of the boots your holding.  She just happens to own the company."

"No Shit!  I knew there was something I liked about your Uncle Enid,
Waddie."  They all laughed.

Earl D. and Billy Bob got undressed and excused the three of them.  They
had to shower, take care of their little brother and get to bed.  They were
getting up early and leaving immediately after breakfast in the morning.
The other players grumbled good naturedly but understood.

Earl D. and Billy Bob showered with Waddie and cleaned him good.  He ass
was healing up well.  His back was not so black and blue.  His eye and face
was beginning to have the natural color return.  Waddie attributed a lot of
it to Mrs. York's cooking.  She served healthy, fresh food and he was
eating more than he ever had before.  He was no longer skinny.  He bought
his jeans a size too large so he would grow into them.  They weren't loose
nor baggy.  They fit like a glove.

The boys used the new medication and Waddie told them he could feel it
taking the pain away. It took all the pain away.  The good thing about it
was it was a cream instead of an oil based ointment.  It was easier to keep
things clean and it washed out easier.

The men went to sleep in Waddie's room again after saying their prayers
looking forward to a long and wonderful weekend with their family.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

All the other guys were jealous.  They wanted to go to Bandera with the
Crenshaw men. They were promised another time.  Mrs. York hugged and kissed
Waddie goodbye and like any good house mother, told him to be good.  He
smiled and thanked her.  The boys were off.

They arrived in Bandera about ten-fifteen in the morning and once again the
whole herd came pouring out of barns, house and the workshop.  Billy Bob
honked their signature honk as they drove by the Franz's to let them know
they'd arrived and to come on over.  They knew they'd be there in ten
minutes.

Dad Crenshaw came lumbering out the back screen door of the house with Ma
Crenshaw and wouldn't look up.  Billy Bob turned to Earl D., they looked at
each other and giggled.

"You know why our old man ain't looking up at us, don't you, D.?  Waddie?"

"He don't want us to see the big grin on his face."  The three of them fell
out laughing as Dad Crenshaw finally arrive and held his arms open for
Waddie.  Waddie didn't hesitate. He was home.

"Welcome home, Son. Damn, it's good to see you again, Cowboy.  Glad you
could make it.  We was a' hoping you might."  said Dad Crenshaw as the boys
gathered around Waddie wanting a hug.  Waddie was polite and hugged and
kissed Ma Crenshaw and handed her a small gift of perfume his Uncle Enid
had bought for her.  She bought another kind for Ma Franz.  She even bought
some for Brenda Lou.  Then Waddie went down the line and got a hug, a kiss
and a welcome home from all the boys.  They were thrilled to see him again.

"Billy Bob, Dearest Brother, are you sure we didn't take a wrong turn back
there somewhere.  Nobody here seems to recognize us."  Earl D. wiped away
an imaginary tear.  Billy Bob slapped him on the back and laughed.

Dad Crenshaw held out his arms for his two big boys, then the younger ones
wanted their share.  No sooner had they said all their `hello's' than the
Franzs drove up. They'd been invited for lunch if the boys came home.  They
heard the horn and jumped in the truck.  Waddie ran to the truck followed
by the rest of the boys.  He helped Brenda Lou down from the truck then
turned to help Ma Franz.  Waddie handed his other two gifts to Earl D. and
Billy Bob.  They were right behind him.

Brenda Lou offered her arms and Waddie hugged and kissed her on the cheek.
She returned his greetings in kind and told him how glad she was that he
could come.  Earl D. handed him his gift to give to Brenda Lou and she was
thrilled.

Next was Ma Franz and Waddie handed her his small gift, she broke into
tears and hugged him.  Gus was beside himself to welcome Waddie and finally
got his hug and kiss.

"We're glad you could come this weekend, Waddie. We were all hoping you
were better and might be able to rope a little more for us.  We sure
enjoyed seeing you rope last weekend.  Can't remember when I ever saw any
one's good as you and Randy."

"My aunt took me to her doctor, Dad, and he gave me some new medication I
think is gonna' do the trick.  Don't you guys?"  Waddie asked his two big
brother.  The both agreed as they shook Gus's hand to say, `hello.'  They
hugged and kissed their sister and Ma Franz.

They went into the house to have lunch.  They caught up on
everything. Waddie told his new family about calling back home to talk with
Bubba who spent all afternoon with Waddie's family.  They grilled steaks
for him and he said they were the best damn steaks he'd ever eaten.

"He fell in love with my brothers and family, Dad Franz.  Said he was
gonna' try to get home a couple a days after his next run.  Hope he'll be
here when I am.  I'd love to see my big buddy again and rope for him."

They had a wonderful lunch.  The three of them, Earl D., Billy Bob, and
Waddie decided not to give the boots to their dads until after lunch.
Waddie wanted the boots to be from the three of them and they reluctantly
agreed.  Mrs. York had a couple of small cards she gave them and they
signed their names.  Uncle Enid put her own card in that simply read,

"You've taken in and loved my nephew as part of your family, for that I'll
always be grateful.  Besides, the dad of eight such fine boys deserves to
wear the best,----Justin /Nacona Boots."

Best wishes, Enid Justin

The boys were wowed by her card.  They signed their card, from the Crenshaw
wild cards, Love, Waddie, Earl D., and Billy Bob.  They had similar cards
in Gus's boots.

Waddie remained at the table as Earl D. and Billy Bob excused themselves to
get something out of the truck they forgot.  They winked at Waddie.

Billy Bob and Earl D. walked back into the dining area and handed each man
one the big sacks.

"What's this?" asked both men rather taken aback.

"There's cards inside, Sirs."  Waddie , Earl D. and Billy Bob laughed and
the other boys were laughing.  Brenda Lou grabbed her dad's arm she was so
excited for him. A big grin came across each one's face.  Dad Crenshaw
looked straight at Waddie, grinned and shook his head.  They opened the
box's and each pulled out one of their handsome new boots.  Both men had
tears in their eyes.  The boys went crazy they were so thrilled for their
dad.  Earl D. started applauding and the boys picked it up until every one
was applauding for the two fine men.

They read the cards and shook their heads and handed them to their wives to
read.  Dad Crenshaw stood and looked at Gus.

"You want first shot at `em, Gus?"  Everyone roared with laughter. Gus told
him to go ahead.

"Well, Son.  I can't turn you over my knee; wouldn't anyway.  This has to
be one of the nicest, most thoughtful gifts I've ever received and you can
bet I'll wear `em with pride."

He sat down and everyone applauded again.  Gus stood.

"Sons, Waddie, Earl D. and Billy Bob.  I'm so touched by your gift I don't
know what to say, except, thank you, and I love you.  Hell, I love all you
boys."  He sat down to more applause.  He and Dad Crenshaw had to try them
on immediately.  They fit like gloves.  The were so proud of their new
boots.  They came over and hugged the three again.

"I want you to know, dads, both of you, this wasn't my idea.  You know I
don't lie. It was my aunt's idea, I just finished a tour of her factory, I
told her what a good time I had with you and your families and that I was
going back again next weekend.  She asked if I wanted to bring each of you
a pair, so the real thanks goes to her.  Us boys just played Santa
Clause. Good thing my sister and I had a little chat last weekend about
your boot size, Dad Franz.  Your big boys squealed on you, Dad."  Waddie
giggled at Dad Crenshaw.

"Now, Randy, you take them boots off and put `em in your closet.  You're
going to church in those and you can wear that other pair now."  Ma
Crenshaw commanded.  Dad Crenshaw obeyed.

"You, too, Gus.  You don't wear those outside and get `em all messed up."
spoke Ma. Franz.

Everyone laughed good naturedly.  The women were right.  They were too
expensive and nice to knock around in every day.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Dad Crenshaw and Dad Franz couldn't keep their hands off Waddie.  Either
one or the other had their arm around him, talking to him.  Earl D. and
Billy Bob laughed their ass's off at the attention their little brother was
receiving.  He deserved it. They were convinced he was a damn good kid and
they loved him, too.  He was kept busy constantly.  One of the boys had him
cornered and he would patiently give of his time.  Dad Crenshaw, Gus, one
of his big brothers, even is sister would come and rescue him.  Dad
Crenshaw wasn't going to let Waddie ride but he insisted he was much better
and the new medication was wonderful at killing pain.  He wouldn't overdo
it this time, he promised.

"They saddled up `Whiskey' for him again.  He liked the horse and made damn
sure he brought him a treat.  Whiskey fell in love with Waddie. He could
get that horse to do anything by talking softly to him.

Waddie and Dad Crenshaw roped together first and blew away all their times
from the previous weekend.  Once again Dad Crenshaw was in heaven.  All the
boys roped better.  They obviously had been practicing.  They listened to
Waddie and learned.  He never yelled at them after they finish their run.
He wouldn't say anything if they didn't ride over and politely ask if he
might offer any suggestions.

Waddie would never tell them they were doing anything wrong.  He would only
ask them if they'd considered trying this or that.  Or you might try doing
this way.  What if you didn't do this and did that instead.  Then he'd
always ask them,

"Do you think that might help a little?"  If they listened and did as he
suggested their times improved considerably.  Earl D. and Billy Bob were
getting good.  J.R. and Cassidy were coming along, but the brother Waddie
most wanted to rope with was Toller.  He wasn't in the arena.  Waddie rode
over to him and asked him why he wasn't on horseback?

"Dad said there might be too many in the arena.  He didn't want the
confusion."

"Do you want to rope with me today, Brother?"  Waddie asked him.  Toller's
eyes lit up and his face became a huge smile.

"Oh yes, Waddie. That would be great but I'm afraid dad won't let me.
Maybe if you asked him."

"Leave it to me, Little Brother."  Waddie rode back over to Dad Crenshaw.
He sat next to him on Whiskey and quietly watched the other men rope.  He'd
applaud when they made a good catch.

"Something on your mind, Son?"

"Yes, Sir, but I don't want to be out of line nor seem out of place, Dad.
It's the last thing I'd want to do."

"You want to rope with your little brother?  I saw you talking to him a
minute ago.  I thought too many out here might tire you but if you think
you can handle it I'll let him saddle up.  I was gonna'ask you after we'd
been at it for a while if one more might be too much."

"Not at all, Dad. I'm so much better and that medication takes all the pain
away.  You talk about a dead ass.  My butt is so dead right now you could
kick my ass up between my shoulder blades and I wouldn't feel a thing."
Waddie grinned at Dad Crenshawand winked.  He roared with laughter as Billy
Bob and Earl D. rode over.  Dad Crenshaw yelled at Toller.

"Toller!  Get chur' pony, Son!  Saddle up!" he smiled and winked at his
boy.  He didn't have to ask Toller twice; didn't take him twenty minutes
and he was riding into the arena.  He rode over by Waddie's side.

"Thanks, Big Brother, I owe you one."

"Don't owe me nothing, Brother.  I wanted to rope with you.  I wanted to
show your old man what you can do.  I know what you can do.  I don't think
he believes me.  Don't let me down, Brother.  I believe in you."

"I promise, I won't, Waddie."  Waddie teamed with Toller next.  Toller rode
heeler. Waddie reviewed everything he'd told him from the last weekend.
Toller repeated it back verbatim.  The kid was serious about roping, Waddie
could tell.  One last thing Waddie told him.

"The most important tip I could give you, Brother,----relax, enjoy yourself
and have a good time.  If'n we don't even make the catch, so what?  We'll
get it next time.  I'm not gonna' think less of you and you ain't got
nothing to prove to nobody `cept'n yourself.  Let's have some fun,
Brother."

Toller smiled real big and went to his position.  He'd been wanting to rope
with Waddie since he first saw him make a catch.  He prayed all week he
might get a chance if Waddie returned.  He was disappointed when his dad
cut him out.  Waddie could feel his disappointment all the way across the
arena and it was painful to him to see his little brother hurting.  He had
a gut feeling Toller was the finest talent there;---- maybe, even more than
him.

The barrier was dropped, Waddie nudged Whiskey who took off like a rocket
sled after the critter.  Waddie landed his rope, dallied and Whiskey turned
the steer.  Toller made his catch quicker that Waddie had seen a man or boy
do in a long time.  Toller trained his own pony and they were a team. The
pony had the steer pulled tight in seconds.  Their time beat the last best
time of his and Dad Crenshaw's.  Dad Crenshaw was wowed and speechless as
the two older boys laughed their ass's off at their dad.

"Son of a gun,----Toller,----Waddie, that was one hell of a run.  You done
good, Son, damn good."  Dad Crenshaw was shaking his son's hand and
grinning.  Waddie didn't pay him any attention and just grinned to himself
as he rewound his rope. Billy Bob and Earl D. knew what Waddie told their
dad about Toller's talent and he just proved to their old man in spades.
Waddie showed Dad Crenshaw he knew what the hell he was talking about.

"All right!  All right!  You win, I concede."  Dad Crenshaw spoke to Waddie
and he winked to his boys.  Waddie laughed and so did the big boys.  He
rode over and shook his dad's hand.

"Love you, Dad.  Didn't mean no disrespect, Sir." he said still grinning
from ear to ear.  Randy Crenshaw knew he was in love.  He couldn't help
himself.  He was so taken with Waddie's giving, selfless, and humble
personality he couldn't help love the boy.

"Think you men can repeat it?"  Dad Crenshaw challenged.

"Why repeat it?"  asked Waddie winking at Toller.

"To see if it was a lucky catch."

"That's not what I meant, Dad.  Why repeat it when we can better it."

"Lets see it, Son."  Dad Crenshaw challenged again good heartedly.  Waddie
rode slowly back over to the gates with Toller and gave him a couple more
tips.  Toller listened intently and nodded his head he was ready.  Waddie
knew, all he had to do was tell Toller what and how to do it and the kid
was like a machine.  He nailed it every time.

Their next run was eleven seconds better; another arena record.  Toller was
thrilled, so was his Dad.  He was about to burst with pride.  Gus was on
the fence yelling for Toller.  He liked Toller.

"Come'mon, Toller.  Rope with your old man.  I'll ride header."  Dad
Crenshaw spoke to Toller.

They made their run and Toller was right on.  The time was slower but it
wasn't Toller's fault.  The five other men saw what happened.  Their dad
couldn't keep up with Toller.  The kid was just to fast and accurate for
him.  Randy Crenshaw had egg on his face.  He was going to have to practice
to be as good as his son.  He rode back over and the guys were humoring him
telling him it was a good catch.

"You guys ain't gonna' tell me but I know.  It wasn't your fault, Son." he
turned to shake his son's hand.  Toller smiled sheepishly, "Your old man
wasn't fast enough nor accurate enough, but I promise, I'll get better with
your and Waddie's help.  Also, from now own, you saddle up with the rest of
us, understand?"

"Yes, Sir, thanks, Dad."

"You earned it, Son.  Come'mon,----lets try that one more time."

They made one more run and bested their previous time.  Waddie rode with
Tollar again and set another arena record.  Then he rode with Dad Crenshaw
again and tied the time.  By the end of the day all of them had improved a
lot.  Billy Bob and Earl D. were really coming along and they were
thrilled. J.R. and Cassidy were moving ahead of their older brothers.  They
were hot that afternoon. Young Toller was in heaven and idolized Waddie.
Waddie roped with all of them until they put away the ponies to get ready
for supper.

Talk was lively around the table that evening. Everyone was having a good
time and enjoying each other. The Franz's stayed for dinner as well.  They
spent all day watching the men rope.  Gus Franz was wowed at how Waddie was
bringing all the Crenshaw boys along in their roping.  He was really
complimentary to his friend, Randy Crenshaw, and all the boys.  He couldn't
believe Waddie.  The kid never missed a throw.

After dinner the Franz's said their goodbyes and went home.  The Crenshaws
retired to their living room and spent the rest of the evening chatting and
catching up.  Waddie couldn't remember a time he felt more loved and wanted
than that evening with the Crenshaws.  Earl D. and Billy Bob had him sit
between them on the couch; otherwise, his other brothers would end up on
top of him.  They adored him and wanted to be as close to him as they could
get.  He was giving to them and they couldn't be more grateful.  He wasn't
conceited nor prideful.  He knew his abilities and was comfortable with
himself. He wasn't stingy with his tips and recommendations.  Dad Crenshaw
couldn't have been happier.

"How you feeling, Son?"  he asked Waddie.

"That medication the doctor gave me is a wonder, Dad.  I was on Whiskey all
afternoon and had a couple of twinges but nothing like last weekend.  I
felt so bad about that.  I was embarrassed to cause you folks such
concern."

"Waddie, we're you family.  It's right for us to be concerned.  You'd be
concerned for anyone of us.  Look what you did for the little one."  Dad
Crenshaw motioned toward Toller who was sitting as close to his dad as he
could, "We ain't gonna' get that damn smile off his face for a week. It was
because you cared about your brother.  You knew his abilities and proved
`em to his old man. "  Dad Crenshaw assured him.

Waddie was beginning to think he just might have some self worth after all.
Their phone rang and Ma Crenshaw went to answer.  She came back and looked
at Waddie.

"It's for you, Dear." she said to Waddie not giving any clues.  Waddie went
to the phone.

"Hello."

"How's my little running buddy, tonight?"

"Oh Bubba, it's so good to hear from you again.  I know I just talked to
you Wednesday night but I'm so glad you called.  You must have called the
boarding house and someone told you we came home."

"No, Sweet baby, I just called Dad, Ma, and Little Sister and they told me.
My old man thinks you hung the moon and set the stars out, Son.  He was
thrilled with those boots.  He's crazy about `em. My old man started crying
on the phone and he rarely ever cries.  It really moved me, too, Waddie, to
hear such happiness in his voice.  I can't tell you how good that made me
feel and how much I appreciate your goodness to him.  Little Sister and Ma
are about to nominate you for Saint hood.  They loved your gifts.  Seems
like you got two more families, Son."

"I have a gut feeling, Big Man, you do, too."

"Have to tell you, Waddie.  Never met a group of people that made me feel
more at home. You were right, I fell in love with them; Gip and your Dad
Dan in particular.  Buck goes without saying.  Ain't no way anybody can get
away from that man's love and, Son, you have that same love in you.  I
thought to myself.  That's Waddie standing there in twenty-five years."

"That's damn nice of you, Bubba.  I sure hope you come to visit after I get
home.  Where did you stay?"

"In the loft with the kids and I mean all the kids."

"Lemme' see, that would include, Uncle Buck, Dad Dan, Doc Dyer, Don, Lyle,
Quinton for big kids and Clyde, Oatie and Gip for younger kids."

"Exactly.  Loved your little brother, Gip.  You chose well, Son; who could
help loving Oatie and Clyde?  Clyde don't say much but when he does you
wanna' listen. Oatie told the most outrageous story abour you guys trying
to haunt Willie's room.  Laughed almost as hard as you telling your
stories.  I really had a good time.  I'll go back.  Buck and I are too
close not to.  I know I'll find myself missing him just like I'm a' missin'
you, Sweet baby."

"I know what you mean, Big Bear.  I don't wanna' be selfish and take up all
you time. You wanna' talk to anyone else?"

"Yeah, let me have a holler at your dad, Waddie and I'll have him let me
speak to the terrible twosome.  Then I'll say goodbye to you."  Waddie
turned and hollered.

"Dad, phone...."  Dad Crenshaw came in and Waddie smiled as he handed him
the phone.  He went back in to talk with the family to give Dad Crenshaw
his privacy.  Earl D. went in next to talk with Bubba and then Billy Bob.
When he finished he hollered for Waddie again.

"Damn, Son.  What chu' doing down there.  Them folks think the world of
you.  Dad can't say enough good things and he loves those damn boots.
Woah!  Have you captured his heart?  I'm so proud of you, Baby."

"I'm proud of you, too, Big Man.  I'll always love you, Bubba."

"I'll always love you, too, Little One, with all my heart.  Gotta' run, but
I'll keep in touch, Darlin.'  Love you."

"Love you, too, and thanks for calling."

Waddie walked back in with a tear in his eye but he didn't care who saw it.
He missed his big buddy. Billy Bob put his arm around him, pulled him close
and stole a kiss.

"He'll be back a'fore you know it, Waddie." Billy Bob consoled him.

"I know and I don't want you folks to think I love him more `cause I miss
him.  I miss you as much when I ain't here.  Hell, I couldn't wait to come
back this weekend.  I was so lonesome for all of you even though I had two
of you with me.  You know I love Earl D. and Billy Bob, but them and you
together is what I really love."

"I think it can be safely said, we feel the same `bout you, Cowboy."  Earl
D. mused while rubbing his chin in contemplation.

"Yeah,...said all his brothers."  Dad Crenshaw just grinned and nodded.

The family went to bed.  Billy Bob and Earl D. once again helped Waddie.
As they were finishing up Dad Crenshaw knocked quietly on their door.

"Everything all right in here, men?"

"You know it is, Dad, you just came in to give Waddie a goodnight kiss."
laughed Billy Bob and Earl D. backed him up.  Their dad blushed then
laughed with them.

"`Fraid they're right, Young'un. You don't pay them no never mind, they's
just jealous. Give me a hug and a kiss, Son."  Waddie was more than happy
to give Dad Crenshaw anything he wanted.  Waddie got hard and blushed but
he wasn't going to let it get the best of him.

"That's how much I love you, Dad." Waddie winked at Dad Crenshaw.

"Good thing you can't see mine, Son, we'd both be blushing."  He and his
boys shared a good laugh.  "Some neighbors got wind you might be here this
weekend and wanted to drop by to watch or maybe compete.  Think you're up
to it, Cowboy."

"I'm feeling pretty damn good, Dad; however, maybe you should ask my
keeper's for their opinion."

"He's much better this evening.  We were expecting it to be bloody again
but it wasn't.  I think he's healing properly and this new medication is a
wonder.  It's healing him twice as fast.  You can see it in his face and
back, Dad.  Roll over there, Brother and let dad see,----" said Earl D.
Waddie didn't hesitate and rolled on his stomach.

"You do look one hell of a lot better from last weekend, Son.  If you get
tired tomorrow and need to take a break.  Let us know.  We'll sit with
you."

"I think I'll be all right, Dad, honest."

"Good!  Gimme' another hug and a big ole kiss; your old man wants to see
how much you really love him!"  The four men broke up as Waddie hugged and
kissed Dad Crenshaw again.  They even laughed more when he got harder.

"Damn, the boy does love me, don't he?"  He asked his other two sons in
jest.

"Quite a bit, I'd say, Dad."  laughed Earl D.  They said their
goodnights. Earl D. and Billy Bob got into bed on either side of their
little brother.

Poor Waddie.  It looked like he was going to be submitted to another
evening of being taken advantage of.  So many stolen kisses the boy had
suffered from these two ruthless bandits.  He felt weak and helpless
against their massively, more powerful bodies.  What choice did he have but
to succumb to their demands? Fighting the good fight against the onslaught
of their greedy passion and overwhelming man power he waved a white flag of
surrender.  Then through the tenderness and gentility of their assaults,
one after another, his plan was to speak of truce,----but, every time he
opened his mouth,---- one would gently cover it with their own and suck the
words from him.  Was our hero doomed?  Would he survive?

`Hell, who cared?' he thought, 'If he didn't, what a way to go.'

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The next day everyone was up early.  There were chores to do, breakfast to
eat and other things to get done.  Waddie pitched in and helped anywhere he
was needed.  So did his big brothers, the football stars.  They were home
where their achievements were appreciated but where they were also just
another one of the family. If they were there, they were expected to pull
their weight.  Earl D. and Billy Bob weren't tainted by their athletic
stardom.  Every time they came home it pulled them back to their roots and
humbled them real quick.  They could see the same in Waddie and they adored
him.

After breakfast, around nine o'clock trucks with horse trailers started
arriving.  There must have been fifteen or twenty.  There were whole
families riding in on horseback.  The Franz's arrived in a very handsome
black carriage with a black canvas top pulled by two matched white
Morgans.*

Waddie helped Gus free them from their harnesses and put them in an
adjacent pasture to spend the day.  Gus really liked being around Waddie.
Waddie loved Gus and thought he wasn't a bad looking man at all. Gus had an
earthy, handsome ruggedness that made him comfortable for Waddie to look
at. He had the look of a middle aged, weathered cowboy that you can never
be really sure of his age.  He could be much younger or even older.  It
didn't matter, young or old, that look was what Waddie wanted look like
when he got older.  He thought Gus was hot.  He knew Gus thought Waddie was
hot.  Waddie could see him dripping in his jeans.  Gus's snake would
crawled down his pants leg trying to sneak out.  Especially when Waddie was
sitting close to him on the corral fence.

`Could it be that Bubba and Gus,----?  Naw, never happen, but then
again,----.'  Waddie thought to himself.

Waddie was introduced to a lot of people.  He knew he was going to have a
hard time remembering all their names.  He talked with Dad Crenshaw and
told him when he wasn't riding he'd be sitting on the fence with Gus so he
wouldn't spend all day in the saddle.  Dad Crenshaw thought that was a good
idea.  Everyone arrived and there seemed to be a rodeo atmosphere about the
day.  People were coming and going all day.  The women loaded the back of
their family's pickups with food as well as kids.  They got together and
started pulling picnic tables together into a central area for food.  They
made sure they brought enough for the host family.

Waddie met the gentleman he gave Uncle Buck's address and phone number at
the sheriff's station; Johnnie Mack Tamplin.  He grabbed Waddie up and was
so glad to see him.  He'd called and talked to Buck on the phone.  He told
Waddie all about their conversation.

"Your Uncle Buck loves you a powerful lot, Son.  He couldn't believe I met
you in church.  He told me all about meeting your angel on Iwo Jima and him
saving his life.  It was so good to talk to him.  Buck was like a big
brother to me.  He looked out for me and was the first one to me when I
fell.  He stayed with me `til a medic got there.  He went on, then came
back and carried me behind the lines.  They were gonna' leave me there.
Buck came back for me, he my life, Son.  I thought I was dreaming when I
heard Buck's voice.

`I gotcha, Little Brother.  Old Buck'll get you back, don't you worry none.
I ain't a' gonna' let chu' die in this God forsaken place.  I'll make sure
you get home, Johnnie.'  Mr. Tamplin repeated to Waddie as his voice
cracked.  He wiped away a couple of tears.

After I was sent back, I lost touch with him and always wondered and prayed
he made it back.  He meant a hell of a lot to me, Waddie.  I got to go
shake that man's hand and thank him in person. I owe him that, Son.  Hell,
I owe the big man my life.

Next summer, come hell or high water, me and my wife are taking a trip to
your town to visit Buck and his wife.  I told him how impressed I was by
you and the wonderful words Randy Crenshaw got up in church and told
everybody.  I heard old Buck weeping on the other end, Waddie. He told me
he misses you so much but he knows you're in good hands and you'll come
home when the good Lord tells you it's safe.

He told me his wife can't have no kids and you're the nearest thing to a
son he'll ever have.  I told him you look just like him.  He laughed and
told me the same thing you did, `We get that a lot.'  Johnnie Mack laughed
and a booming bass-baritone voice.

Johnnie Mack was a handsome, good hearted man.  He introduce his tiny
little wife, Millie, to Waddie.  She was barely as tall as Waddie.  Of
course, Waddie was shooting up in height that summer.

Johnnie Mack asked if he was going to ride today and Waddie told him he
probably would.  Unknown to Waddie his new dad was making a few wagers on
Waddie and his boy Toller.  When Waddie found out he laughed his ass off
but told everyone not to tell Toller.  He didn't want any undue pressure on
the kid.

If they lost Waddie didn't want Toller to suffer a lot of guilt.  Waddie
wasn't worried for himself.  He thrived on a challenge.  That was when he
became his coolest, calmest and focused was under pressure.  He had worked,
talked with, prayed with, and told Gip to learn the same.  Gip did and he
was almost as good at it as Waddie.

Waddie and Toller were to go up against the top roping team in five
counties.  They were two fine looking cowboys, grown men, but pretty damn
cock sure of themselves that two kids weren't going to beat them at team
roping.  Ridiculous!

Waddie and Toller went first. They were the first team that morning.
Waddie talked to Toller all through breakfast and most of the morning.
Toller asked intelligent, useful questions and was sucking in Waddie's
knowledge like a sponge.  Waddie only had to tell the boy or demonstrate
once how it should be and Toller nailed it every time after that.  He was
young and ready to learn.

He and Waddie developed a closeness only two ropers can describe.  They
didn't speak a lot to each other except when Waddie was teaching Toller
something.  They didn't have to talk much.  They read each other's minds.
When they were lined up ready for their run, Waddie looked over at Toller,
winked, and set his concentration.  That was Waddie's signal to Toller to
do the same and the damn dogie didn't stand a chance.  They were almost
flawless. Their catch and time left a few mouths open.

Their first run that morning bested the record time they set the morning
before.  The crowd was wowed and yelled and cheered for Waddie and Toller.

The older men for all their cocksureness were thirty five seconds short of
the boy's time.  They were true cowboys though.  They rode over to the boys
and as a sign of respect to another cowboy of any age that had just bested
them, they took their hats off.  They shook Waddie and Toller's hands and
were nothing but compliments.  The boys got to be good friends with them
before the day was over.

They weren't so cocksure anymore but not to proud to admit they'd made a
mistake and try to learn from it.  During lunch one of the men asked why
Waddie wouldn't give them any pointers?  If `n he's a real rodeo cowboy he
would.  Gus heard the man and without a break in eating turned to the man,

"J'u ask him?" ask Gus somewhat disgusted.

"Well, no----."  he reluctantly replied.

"The young man's a real rodeo cowboy all right; bet your boots on that.
Waddie and his brother were junior champion ropers two years in a row.  He
don't tell nobody nothing unless asked.  No real rodeo cowboy's gonna' tell
you a damn thing less'n you ask him right nice."  Gus said in defense of
his boy.

Randy Crenshaw giggled and patted Gus on the back.  All the years he'd been
neighbors and good friends with Gus he'd never heard him raise his voice
nor jump to anyone's defense like he just did. Then he couldn't contain it
any more and laughed heartily.  The rest of the men at the table laughed
with Mr. Crenshaw.  Gus had nailed the man to the barn door and describe
their cowboy brother in spades.

After lunch, Billy Bob and Earl D. were in the next set and won that round.
Cassidy and J.R. won easily against the two grown men they went up against.
They rode over to Waddie sitting between Gus and Toller on the fence and
were basking in the glow of Waddie's compliments of all the things they
were improving, how much smoother and professional they appeared, and best
of all, they were calm and collected.  They asked Waddie if he saw anything
else they might do to improve?  He told them two or three things.  The next
round they were even better.

Dad Crenshaw roped with both his boys, Waddie and Toller.  He introduce
everyone to Waddie as one of his boys and Waddie couldn't have been
prouder.  At the end of the day, the team that made the best time of the
day was Waddie and Toller.  Their dad couldn't have been prouder of them.
He won himself a little extra cash which he promptly gave to momma.

Folks didn't start going home `til late afternoon.  Dad Crenshaw had the
boys put up the stock.  That meant rubbing the ponies down and feeding
them.  Waddie helped Gus hitch the Morgans to his carriage.  The youngest,
Shad, started helping them then wandered off.  Gus was talking with Waddie.

"Never seen Randy Crenshaw this happy in a long time, Waddie."

"He always seems pretty happy to me, Dad."

"Nobody will tell you because they don't talk about it.  They had another
boy exactly your age that was a rising talent in roping like you and
Toller.  He came down with some rare blood disease almost overnight and
died within a weeks of the doctors discovering it.  It almost tore Randy
and Sarah up.  For a while the only dad the boys had was me, the older two
boys and Bubba.  Bubba came home and stopped driving for a little over
eight months to help Randy and Sarah get back on their feet."

"That must've been horrible for them, Dad."

"It was.  That's why Randy hasn't worked with Toller like he should.  He's
afraid he might lose another son.  It wasn't until Sarah got pregnant with
little Shad that Randy started coming around.  He got back on his feet but
there's always been a hole in his heart for Thane.  That was the boy's
name, Thane.

You came along and he's back being his old self again.  You don't know how
much that means to all of us.  Especially the older two.  They've mourned
the lost of Thane and their dad for almost five years now.  That's only one
more reason the boys think you're the greatest thing since sliced bread.
You've given them back their dad."

"Thanks for sharing that with me, Dad.  That means a lot.  I was beginning
to wonder.  I ain't done anything so great to merit all the attention
they've showered on me but now it begins to make sense.  It don't change
anything as far as the way I feel about them.  If anything, it makes me
want to love Dad Crenshaw more.  I'm surprised Earl D. nor Billy Bob never
said anything to me about it; or Bubba for that matter."

"They've tried to put it behind them.  They've gotten so use to not talking
about it that they suppress what happened so's not to bring it up around
Randy.  He still hasn't dealt with the loss of Thane that I know of.
That's why it's so great to see him coming around.  One of these days he's
gonna' snap and it's all gonna' come pouring out and that's when he'll need
all of us including you, Son.  That man seriously thinks of you as his son;
not a replacement for Thane but another son.  I'm proud to say I do, too,
Waddie."  Gus smiled at Waddie.  Waddie hugged Gus and told him he felt the
same way.

"By the way, Son, Bubba mentioned visiting your family and couldn't say
enough good things about your dad, Buck, and the rest of your family.  He
considers he has another family out there.  He also told us he met a fine
woman who he likes very much and is considering dating.  She works for your
dad or Uncle Buck, you call him."

"Oh really, how wonderful.  That would be Mrs. Anderson.  Jannie Anderson's
mother.  Jannie and my brothers are in the same grade together.  She sure
is a pretty little girl, Dad, and she gets her looks from her mother.
Mrs. Anderson's a fine looking lady.  I'd be thrilled if something came of
that."

"You want the truth, Dora and I would, too.  We'd almost given up hope of
grandchildren but we ain't gonna' get worked up to much about it.  He's a
little worried how you might feel about his dating Mrs. Anderson.  I told
him I thought I knew you well enough to know you'd be the first one to tell
him you were thrilled."

"You're right, Dad, I would be.  More than thrilled.  Should I say anything
to him about it?"

"He's gonna' be through with his run Monday or Tuesday.  Said he's gonna'
spend some time with you and then come home for several days.  I think he
plans to talk to you about it then.  I think he'll bring it up.  If not,
use your best judgement, Waddie.  You're a sensitive man and I know how
much you and Bubba love each other."

"You're right about that, Dad.  I ain't ashamed of the love I feel for
Bubba.  I love him enough I want him to be happy and if that would make my
buddy happy, I'll be the first one to wish him well.  Actually, I couldn't
think of anything that would make me happier.  The only mom I had until my
dad married my real mom was Mrs. Anderson.  I know that sounds confusing
but you have to understand some things-."

"Bubba explained to me, Waddie.  Randy doesn't know but you can tell him if
you need to. Bubba said Urial told him you and Randy Crenshaw are going to
need each other very much quite soon.  I won't tell him anything, Son,
that'll be up to you.  I have told him there are miraculous things about
you that he and Sarah don't know yet but they will."

"Dad, can I ask you a personal question?"

"Sure, Son, anything."

"Did Bubba ever love you the way he and I have loved each other?"  Waddie
asked looking down at his dirty work boots.  He raised his head slightly
and hit Dad Gus with his killer grin and winked at him.  Gus all ready knew
what Waddie meant but chuckled to himself.  He wasn't gonna' lie to the
kid. The boy was too bright and would know if he lied to him.

"Sure, Son.  I never asked him to. I caught him, Billy Bob, Earl D. and the
Moffet boy across the way.  Earl D. and Billy Bob were scared to death.
They thought fur' sure I was gonna' tell their Pa.  I didn't but I come to
find out, Randy knew about `em all along.  Still does.  He don't care.
He's proud of his boys and he loves Bubba like one of his own.  I've often
suspected Randy and Bubba mess around some but I would never ask either
one. S'none of my business.

I assured the boys I wouldn't tell their Pa's.  I told the Moffet boy the
same and told `em to run along on home to help their dads.  I was gonna'
give Bubba the standard fatherly sermon or at least what I though I was
suppose to tell him. I had conflicting thought about it.

I remembered the days when I was a young buck going to every rodeo in the
area ever chance I got.  I experimented around with several of my buddies.
I never minded getting my dick sucked, I just couldn't never do it to
nobody else.  Ain't a man or a cowboy out there ain't had his dick sucked
by another man one time or other.  I don't care how much he swears he ain't
he's lying.

I told Bubba what he and the boys was doing might be looked on as a bad
thing by some folks. That's probably because they don't know about love and
don't care to learn.  I told him I was sure they'd grow out of it in time
and start to consider women.  Then he surprised the hell out of me by
telling me he'd always wanted to show his love for me that way and would I
let him?  I thought about it for a minute.  Not a very long minute,
though."  Gus threw back his head and laughed.  Waddie laughed, too.

"Dora and I'd been through a long dry spell and Bubba seemed honest about
his need to show me his love that a' way, I thought, `What could it hurt to
let the boy take care of his old man once? `Sides, I'd been so horny for a
week or more the crack of dawn was looking good to me.  I love Bubba so
much.  He never gave me any cause to raise my voice at him let alone punish
him for anything.  He was a good boy but I was never sure I was showing him
enough love.  I'd never had kids before.  If that's what he needed to show
me his love,---to relieve me,--- I was, at least, gonna' try it once.

Well, Sir, my boy was damn good.  I didn't know having another man do that
for you could feel so good.  In my younger days, it was okay but the cowboy
that was a' sucking my dick usually weren't that good.  They always got me
off, it just wasn't satisfying.

It was so good with Bubba I found myself making a little love to my boy.  I
let him have as much as he needed.  I thanked him and toldl him how much I
loved and appreciated him.  I was a little worried about it at first but it
just felt right.  It broke down the barriers and I was able to tell Bubba
how much I loved him.  It came to be something I wanted and needed every
now and then.  I thought it was just because I was getting my rocks off but
it was more than that.  I come to realize I needed Bubba to show me his
love and he needed me to let him.

I began to understand that once in a while I needed that feeling of
closeness with my boy.  I'd wanted with it for a long time.  Bubba was so
natural about it.  He is with everything.  He made me feel relaxed enough
that I'd ask him occasionally.  It's wasn't because I ever stopped loving
Dora, she's a wonderful woman.  She'd have to be to put up with me all
these years but as women get older they don't seem to want
to,...well,....you know.

It became a wonderful thing I shared with my boy and brought us closer
together.  Because of that closeness there were no doubts in his or my
mind, he had become my son.  Everybody saw the change. They didn't know
what brought it about, but we knew there were a lot of folks out there that
thought they had the right to judge Bubba'n me.  Weren't nobody's business
but me and my boy's.  He never said `no' if I needed him.  You have no idea
how I missed that when Bubba went away.  Would you believe I have a wet
dream ever now and then dreaming about my boy,----? "

"I'd be honored and proud if you ever saw fit to allow me to love you that
way, Dad."

"Are you sure, Son?  You're awfully young, Waddie.  You don't have to do
nothing like that for my love.  You all ready got it, Cowboy.  I love you
as much as Randy Crenshaw for damn sure."

"If I didn't feel that love from you, Dad, I wouldn't have been so bold to
ask. It's just something that would make me feel closer to you and I think
I need that from you.  If you say `no' I ain't gonna' love you a whit
less."

"Well, I assume you and Bubba have,----."

"Yes, Sir, I begged Bubba.  Weren't his idea, just like this weren't your
idea, neither.  I didn't know whether Bubba would let me.  I know he has
some pretty strong ideas about right and wrong, fortunately for you and me
he has that one ironed out right.  I know you might think I'm just a kid
and in some ways I still am.  I ain't in no hurry to grow up, Dad, but I'm
old enough to know how I feel and what I want.  It would be an expression
of my respect and love for you.  Besides, I just know you'd taste real
good."

"You think Bubba would be angry with me?"

"Gosh, no, Dad.  He loves us both. I'm his little brother.  Can't his
little brother love you as much as him?  In the same way?  He'd be
thrilled, if I know Bubba like I think I do."

"You'd have a hell of a time getting away from here by yourself."

"You look awful tired from today, Dad,-----' Waddie winked at Gus.  Your
son is gonna' ride over with you to help put the horses away and walk back
across the two meadows.  You walk me to the low water dam to make sure
nothing happens to me."  Waddie winked at his new dad.  `Damn,' he thought,
`I just know Gus is gonna' taste mighty fine.'  He watched Gus's snake once
again crawl down his pants leg and they both laughed.  Waddie grabbed his
own to show Gus.  Gus fell out laughing.  It was like an ice breaker
through tropical waters.

"Sure could use your help, Son."  Gus said and they both chuckled at his
double meaning.

"You got it, Dad.  Trust me.  You only got room for four in the carriage
anyway."

"You're right."

Gus, Sarah and Brenda Lou were the last to leave and Waddie had all ready
asked Dad Crenshaw's permission to ride over and help Dad Gus with the
Morgans.  Waddie told him Gus would walk him to the low water damn to make
sure he got home all right.  He'd only be about an hour.  He'd be home
before dinner.  Randy Crenshaw had no problem with Waddie's thoughtfulness
and sent him on his way with his blessing.

Dora and Brenda Lou were pleased to have Waddie ride back with them.  They
thought it was nice that he volunteered to help his new dad with the team.
It took a good while for one person to get the horses out of the rigging,
rubbed down and fed.  With two working together it didn't seem to take long
at all.  Besides, it's always nicer to have someone around to talk with
while you're working.

They arrived and Waddie said his goodbyes to the ladies as he was returning
as soon as he finished helping Gus.  He and Gus got busy and took care of
the horses.  The continued their conversation and talked about many things.
Waddie was beginning to see a deeper side to Gus he hadn't seen before.
The more his got to know Gus and be around him the more he craved to taste
his cowboy come.

They finished and Gus told Waddie they would walk by an older barn about
half way to the low water dam.  Gus used it for hay storage and equipment
that needed repair.  Gus was sure they wouldn't be disturbed.  Waddie
thought that was a great idea.

They walked slowly toward the old barn.  Gus put his arm around Waddie and
pulled him close as they walked and talked.  Gus didn't appear anxious but
Waddie got a glimpse of Gus's snake trying to crawl down his leg to get out
of his jeans.

It made Waddie feel good to know Gus was looking forward to being a little
closer to his new son. They walked into the old barn and Waddie asked Gus
if he'd like to sit on a bail of hay and relax.  Gus sat down and undid his
big rodeo belt buckle.  He'd won a few rodeo's in his day bronc busting.
Waddie asked him if he could take it out of his pants for him.  Gus just
sat back and smiled letting the boy take over.

When Waddie took Gus's cock and balls out he smiled.  Not because of it's
size but the beauty of Gus's dick.  Gus had a classic seven to eight inch,
uncut, cowboy dick.  Waddie almost came in his jeans thinking how good it
was going to taste.  He looked up at Gus, smiled real big, and winked like
he was very pleased with his find.

Waddie could smell a full days worth of Gus's male odor.  Gus was a clean
man but any man after a full active day is going to have a nice, strong,
healthy male scent to him.  It was almost hypnotic to the boy as he
breathed in Gus's aroma deeply.  Waddie kissed, licked and cleaned Gus's
cock. enjoying the taste as well as the wonderful smells he was getting
from Gus's crotch.

Waddie couldn't have been more turned on.  He gently took Gus's balls into
his hand, kissed each one like a holy relic.  He proceeded to clean them
with his tongue getting all of Gus's good male flavors from them.  He could
taste and smell the fullness of the man bursting forth with flavor into his
mouth, through his nose into his lungs.  He was becoming intoxicated with
Gus's tastes and smells.

Waddie took just the head of Gus's cock into his mouth and began to suck
gently.  His tongue found the entrance of Gus's foreskin and began to
explore underneath.  Gus was beginning to move on the hay bail in ecstacy
at the feel of Waddie's tongue on his cock head.  Waddie plunged deep to
get the best flavors from around and underneath Gus's cock head.  Gus was
going crazy.  Waddie knew a couple of hits on his dad's cowboy dick would
bring him to climax.

Gus was a bit smaller than Bubba but a little bigger than Ed.  Waddie did
his lunge to the base and he thought Gus was going to jump off the hay
bail.

"Som' bitch, Darlin'!  That was something extra special.  You didn't tell
me you were experience at this. Oh shit!  Son,----you don't know how good
this is for your old man. I'm honored and proud you consider me one of your
dad's, Sweet baby.  I almost came in my pants when I pulled that boot out
a' that box yesterday.  Boots are a very personal thing to a man and to
have another man give you such a fine, handsome pair, say's more'n just I
love you.  I felt the same way, Son."

That's all Waddie needed to get him a taste of a fine looking, mature
cowboy's come.  After the second lunge Waddie knew Gus was going to shoot.
He lunged the third time and felt Gus flowing though his penis like a
volcano about to erupt.  Waddie pulled back just enough to catch every drop
in his mouth.  Gus erupted like Krakatoa, West of Java.  Waddie didn't stop
until he was damn sure he drained his cowboy dad's balls.

He wasn't sorry he did either.  Gus had the best tasting come.  He kept
coming and coming.  Waddie didn't think he'd stop.  Gus went physically
limp like his bones had turned to used Jello.  He was spent.  He had both
hands gently rubbing Waddie's head as Waddie cleaned him and got the rest
of Gus's great tasting come.  He cleaned under Gus's foreskin to get his
come from underneath.  There was something about the come underneath the
foreskin mixed with the pungent male flavors that kept Waddie hard for
hours later.

He cleaned Gus really good.  Reached back and grabbed his bandana to gently
dry Gus before returning him to his jeans.  Gus pulled the boy up into his
arms and held him tight.  He kissed Waddie full on the mouth inviting
Waddie to take as much love from him as he needed.

Gus didn't want to overwhelm the boy but he wanted to show him all the love
he needed and could handle from Gus.  Waddie wasn't greedy but he took
himself a deep, well deserved, drink from his new dad's well.  Waddie
didn't hold back.  He hadn't make sweet love to anyone since Bubba.  The
Crenshaw boys would steal kisses from him and hold him but there was no
sex.  He wasn't complaining.

`Hell,' he thought to himself, `I'd sleep twixt them two ole boys anytime
and gladly have them steal ever-damn one of my kisses.'

"I love you, Cowboy." Dad Franz said to him, "It feels good to say that,
Waddie, and feel this close to you.  Thank you, Son, for taking me.  I had
no idea you had that much experience.  I've never had a feeling like that
even with Bubba.  Don't get me wrong, ain't nothing wrong with my boy,
Bubba, but, Son, you're special.  I just feel it and know it.  You know how
to make love to a man and make him feel like a king."

They kissed deeply again and Waddie was enjoying the warmth of Gus's arms
but he knew he had to get back.

"I'd love to stay a little longer with you, Dad, but we'd better be on our
way.  I promised I'd be home for supper.  You know I love you and know that
you, Bubba, and the Crenshaws are gonna' be in my life for a long time.  If
Bubba ain't around and I can help you, Dad, I'd be proud and honored to
help my dad out anytime he needs it."

Gus kissed Waddie again.

"You know I will, Son.  You need my love as much as I do yours.  Thanks
again, Son.  I love you."

"Let's go dad."  The two men left the barn with Gus's arm around Waddie.
He held him close the rest of the way to the low water dam.  When they got
there they were hidden from the sight of both ranches.  Gus took Waddie in
his arms one final time.

"God be with you, Son."

"And with you, too, Dad."

They kissed again then Gus watched as Waddie walked across the low water
damn to the other side.  Waddie waved goodbye and started walking toward
the other ranch.  He barely got out of sight of the low water dam when he
saw a lone figure walking toward him.  It was Dad Crenshaw coming to meet
him.

They met and Waddie was happy Dad Crenshaw walked out to meet him.  He
offered his hand to his new dad and got the feeling his new dad wanted to
embrace him but he didn't.  He put his arm around Waddie and they talked as
they walked the rest of the way to the house.

Dad Crenshaw was in a great mood and the evening around the supper table
was fun, filled with lively conversation.  It had been a long day and after
dinner everyone retired to the living room.  Once again Shad crawled up in
his big brother Waddie's lap and promptly went to go to sleep.  Waddie held
him tightly, stole a kiss and that was the last thing he remembered.  They
were both asleep propped up against Earl D.  The other boys were dropping
like flies, one by one.

Randy Crenshaw's heart hadn't been so full and happy in a long while. He
smiled to himself at what a wonderful moment this was.  The two older boys,
Randy and Sara had to pick up each one and carry them into bed.  Waddie was
the last and Dad Crenshaw insisted he carry him into the boy's room.  They
both giggled and nudged each other.  They watched as he gently laid Waddie
down and stole a kiss.

They were amused because they planned to wake Waddie anyway to bathe him.
He'd had a long day but he didn't spend it all in the saddle.  He was
smart.  When he wasn't riding he sat on the corral fence next to Gus and
posted Whiskey.  The boys woke him and carried a groggy, half awake, half
asleep cowboy into the shower.  Earl D. held him as Billy Bob cleaned.
They cleaned him good, dried him, and laughed at his zombie like state.
They no sooner got him on his stomach to apply the medicine than he was out
like a light.

They finished and moved him up to the middle.  They turned out the lights
and lay there gently rubbing their little brother's shoulders and stealing
a kiss or two.

"Have you fallen as hard as I have?"  asked Billy Bob in a whisper.

"Harder, Brother, much harder." Earl D. replied shaking his head.

"What's with this kid? Every one he meets falls head over heels in love
with him?"

"It's everything he is, Billy.  But I'll bet chu' a blow job that trip to
help Gus wasn't only to unharness the horses."  Earl D. laughed quietly.

"I wouldn't take that bet but all I can say is, if so, good for them.  I
watched him today. He was attentive to Gus all day. It was like he was
worried that Gus might think he loved dad more than him.  Gus ate it
up. His dick stayed hard all afternoon watching Waddie rope.  He was
thrilled by Waddie's attention, so if they shared a little love,----more
power to `em."

"Do you get the idea dad would-?"  asked Billy Bob then stopped.

"In a `Cow Town' minute, Brother!"  Earl D. didn't hesitated to answer.

"You think Waddie would----?"  was Billy Bob's follow up question.

"Does a cow go `moo'?"  laughed Earl D.  "Haven't you seen the way this one
looks at dad, like he's the last doughnut in the box and everybody's had
one but him.  Be the best thing in the world for the both of `em. There's
things we don't know about this one yet, Brother.  Bubba said they were
amazing things."

"When will we find out?"

"I have a feeling, real soon."  replied Earl D.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The next morning was Sunday.  While every morning on a ranch is an early
morning it was a little more relaxed.  Waddie woke up to his brothers
tickling and teasing him. He slept so hard he had a difficult time waking
up.  He couldn't remember a time he'd slept that deeply. He was groggy and
wanted nothing better than shuffle back to dream land.  His brothers
weren't going to let him.  He tried his damnedest to ignore them. They
needed to get him up, in the shower, medicated, and dressed for breakfast.
It was go to church day.

Waddie woke up somewhere between getting bathed by Billy Bob and herded by
Earl D. back into the bedroom to lay on his stomach.

While Earl D. was medicating his backside, Waddie promptly went back to
sleep.  His brothers had to carry him into breakfast in a state of
somnambulistic ennui. There was a slight response to external stimuli but
limited motor coordination noted; however, the head lights didn't seem to
want to come on and the starter gear refused to engage.

The family got a chuckle at their groggy, sleepy-eyed, cowboy brother. Dad
Crenshaw was laughing at Waddie.  He knew Waddie had a full day yesterday
and it took it out of him. His dad came to his defense.

"The kid ran himself ragged yesterday but he seemed like he was having a
hell of a good time.  It's no wonder he's a bit groggy.  Give him some of
your coffee, D."  he instructed Earl D.

The smell of breakfast, a few sips of Earl D.'s coffee and Waddie was
resurrected.  There was life after sleep!  He finally came alive and was
talking to everyone.

After breakfast, everyone got dressed for church.  When the family gathered
Waddie and his brothers admired their dad in his new boots.  They were a
handsome compliment to such a fine looking cowboy.  The total package was a
knock out.  Earl D. and Billy Bob told their dad how good he looked.  Randy
Crenshaw blushed and hugged Waddie to thank him again for his new boots.
He was really proud of them.

"I think you look very handsome in them, Dad.  It's not too often, but once
in a while, I do something right.  Bringing you and Gus them boots was one
of my better efforts."  Waddie told his dad.  Randy Crenshaw stole another
kiss from Waddie and the Crenshaws were off to church.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Church was pleasant.  It was a beautiful day and folks were standing out
front talking when the Crenshaws arrived.  Gus, Dora, and Brenda Lou were
all ready there.  Everyone was glad to see the Crenshaws and many greeted
Waddie.  He got a hug from Gus and a hug and a kiss from Dora and Brenda
Lou.  Johnnie Mack Tamplin came ambling over to shake hands.

They all entered and took their seats.  The circuit preacher wasn't there
that Sunday and a lay preacher from the congregation led the service.  The
man's name was Gerald Walker. He was a good enough leader but he lacked a
lot when it came to being a dynamic speaker.  He read from notes and it was
long and dull.  Waddie had to keep nudging Dad Crenshaw to stay
awake. Gerald Walker was well meant but lethal.  He finally finished, said
a prayer, they sang one more hymn and the service was over.  Waddie never
saw a group of people more happy to be out of church.

Several of the men asked Dad Crenshaw if they were going to be rodeoing
that afternoon.  He told them `no,' yesterday was the only day they were
receiving folks for rodeoing.  He needed some time with his boys.  Three
would be leaving Monday morning and he wanted a chance to be with them.
The men understood and everyone went home.

The Franzs fixed Sunday dinner for everyone that day and the Crenshaws
gathered at the Franz's.  Dora and Brenda Sue out did themselves with fried
chicken and all the trimmings.  It was a wonderful meal. There was lively
conversation around the table.  Gus said he thought old man Walker was a
bore.  Everyone broke up.  He was pretty deadly.  Waddie looked at Dad
Crenshaw and winked.  He laughed at Waddie and thanked him for keeping him
awake.  The afternoon went by fast and the Crenshaws headed back over to
their place.

Dad Crenshaw told Gus they'd probably be roping some.  They weren't going
to push it but if he'd like to join them, come on over, he was welcome.

Gus thanked him but said he thought he'd stay around the place he needed to
get a couple of things done.  They embraced and the Crenshaws went home.

They did do a little roping that afternoon but the youngest boy Shad was
pestering Waddie to teach him to rope.  Waddie wished he had his junior
rodeo roping rope to teach him with.  It was so much easier to learn with
than a regular rope.  He saw Ma Crenshaw was using a pretty heavy corded
rope for clothes lines.  He asked her if there was any left over and she
told him she believed there was.  She found it for him underneath a cabinet
on the back porch and he sat down at a picnic table near the arena and made
Shad a practice rope.

Waddie had repaired his, Gip, Clyde and Oatie's learning ropes so many
times he could make one in his sleep.  He got the loop just right and while
the cord was a bit heavier than their practice ropes it was perfect for
teaching purposes.  None of the boys had ever seen a practice rope
especially a junior version.  Waddie found an old wooden nail keg sitting
in the barn and brought it outside.  The boys helped weight it down by
putting big rocks inside.  Waddie drew a big circle in the dirt around the
keg.  He told Shad is was the walk around line.

The idea was to walk around the circle twirling the rope, not stopping and
throw to catch the barrel.  If you stopped, stepped over the line or didn't
make your catch, you were eliminated.  First he taught Shad how to twirl
the road to get it ready for throwing.  Shad was well coordinated and
learned fast.  Faster than Waddie thought he would for a five year old kid.
But then he was only five when Uncle Buck bought him his first rope and
Quinton taught him the same way.  Of course the two older than Shad wanted
to learn too.  So Waddie let them practice on their own and made two more
practice ropes.

Dad Crenshaw, the two oldest boys, and Toller came over and sat with him
while he was making the ropes.  J.R. and Cassidy were in the arena.  He
could tell Dad Crenshaw was a little disappointed that Waddie wasn't out
roping with them but he was pleased the boy was trying to help his little
brothers.  Dad Crenshaw was impressed and admired Waddie's knowledge.  He
could see Waddie knew what he was doing teaching the three younger boys to
rope and rope the right way.  He watched the meticulous manner in which
Waddie made the ropes for the boys and marveled at his dexterity.

"I was gonna' wait `til these boys were a little older to start `em
learning." said Randy Crenshaw.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Dad.  Am I doing something wrong?  I should've asked but
Shad kept pestering me and you know I have a soft spot for him.  He's my
little buddy." responded Waddie.

"No, Son, not at all.  I'm really happy they're interested in learning.
It's all because of you, you know?"

"Shad's the right age, Dad.  So's the other two.  You'll have some fine
ropers before you know it.  Look at my brother Toller, here.  He started
when he was six.  He's doing all right, Dad.  Toller's one of the finest
young ropers I've seen in a while, and I'll tell you right now you've got
three more on your hands that are just a talented as Toller."  Waddie
looked at Toller,

"You might want to consider working with your youngest brother Toller.  It
will be hard bringing him a long at first but once you get him broken in as
your partner,- woah, dogies,- you'll win every junior rodeo around.

"How can you tell so quickly a kid has talent, Waddie." asked Earl D.

"I can tell the way he first handles the rope.  Whether he begins to use it
as just a tool to catch something or as an extension of himself.  Watch the
three of them.  I've all ready drilled it in Shad's mind, not to pick up
the rope until he thinks of it as an extension of him, his arms, his body,
his soul. Every time he makes a throw, ----it's his `all' he's throwing out
there.  Now, see the difference?  I haven't told Jeb nor Brant.  Now watch
Shad."

The men watched intently as Shad smoothly and effortlessly landed the rope
easily around the keg.

"I'll be damned.  I sure as hell can see it.  You boys?"  asked Dad
Crenshaw of Earl D., Billy Bob and Toller.  They agreed with their dad.
"That's amazing, Son.  You have a knack for teaching folks what you want
`em to learn."

"Just teach'n `em the way I was taught, Dad.  The same's my older brother,
Quinton, taught me.  No different.  Now watch this."  He laid the two
lassos out on the table and called for Jeb and Brant.  They came running
over, saw the ropes Waddie made for them and went to pick them up.  Waddie
stopped them.

"Jeb, Brant, I made these ropes special for you.  They're your practice
ropes, and they're just like Shad's.  Get your dad to help you mark `em
later so's you won't mix `em up.  Only your rope is gonna' feel right for
you.  Later, if you swap ropes with either of your brothers and try to use
it, it will have a different weight and feel.  You'll know immediately it
ain't your rope.

Now before you pick it up, close your eyes and think about picking up
something that's gonna' become an extension of you; of your arm, of your
body, of your soul.  Think,---- this is the minute your practice rope is
joining with you to do what you want it to.  Don't pick it up until you're
sure you see it the way I've told you."  The boys closed their eyes.
Waddie told them again, slowly, exactly, word for word, how he wanted them
to see their ropes as an extension of them.

"When you think you can feel it,---open your eyes and pick up your rope."
The boys continued to stand there for a minute weaving a little then opened
their eyes.  They reverently picked up their ropes.  They thanked and
hugged Waddie for making them.

"Now, every time before you pick up your rope to practice, close your eyes
and think for a minute what I just told you.  It's important, can you
remember?"

"Yes, Waddie.  Thank you, Brother."

"Okay, then, go on.  Practice with your brother."  They ran off and started
walking around the circle with Shad.

"Now watch, Dad." Waddie said somewhat smugly.  The men couldn't believe
what they saw.  The way the boys twirled and threw the rope was smooth,
flowing and they, too, began hit every time. Before,... they couldn't even
get the loop open enough to catch the keg and were frustrated that their
younger brother was better than they were.  No more, though.  They were
catching up fast.

"I'll be go to hell!" said Billy Bob.

"In a hand basket, ----." added Earl D.

"Son of a buck, Waddie,----."  whispered Dad Crenshaw, "you just taught
those boys what it would've taken us, combined, a year or more.  Right
men?"  They all agreed.

"I'd appreciate it if'n you'd make me one of them practice ropes, Waddie,
when you have time." Toller asked him seriously.

"You know, Brother," Waddie looked at Toller, "I still practice with my
practice rope.  All my brothers practice with theirs, too.  Every now and
then we'll get `em out and do exactly the same thing those three are doing
right now.  It's great practice.  I'll be happy to make you one, Toller.
You'll notice within a week how much more accurate it'll make you."

"Could you, please, make two more, Waddie."  Billy Bob and Earl D. looked
sheepish.

"Better make that three more, Son, if you have time. I'd appreciate it."
the boys laughed at their old man, "What? Your old man ain't beyond
learning.  I may be old but I ain't blind.  I can see what it's doing for
them kids and fully agree with you, Waddie.  They'll be a handful when it
comes to competing."

Dad Crenshaw found some more corded rope and Waddie made one for Toller and
taught the other three men to make their own.  They were perfect when they
finished.

That evening at dinner there was no longer the big guys talking about
roping and the little guys being left out.  Sarah Crenshaw smiled at what
had suddenly come over her men.  They were speaking the same language;
roping.  She hadn't seen her husband this happy since before they lost
Thane.

She had a tug at her heart.  Mother's aren't suppose to have favorites but
she admitted only to herself that two of her boys were most dear to
her. The older one wasn't even her biological child.  Earl D. had grabbed
her heart within the first week he came to live with them and never let go.
She tried not to, God knows she tried hard, but there was just something
special about Earl D.

He didn't take her for granted like all the other boys except Thane.  Thane
was the nearest thing she could imagine to being an angel.  He was the
sweetest baby of all the boys.  He never gave her a moments problem.  He
rarely cried.  He wouldn't even cry when he messed himself.  She'd have to
check regularly to see.  Earl D. immediately loved his little brother,
Thane, and took him everywhere he went.  She never had to worry about Thane
being looked after.  Earl D. was right there.

She loved them so but was afraid to tell either because she didn't want the
others to think she loved them less. It wasn't a matter of the degree of
love.  It was because the two boys were special.  One was taken from her.
Had she sinned?  Was loving this child in a special way the reason God took
him away?

She immediately transferred most of her love for Thane onto Earl D. She was
so afraid to lose him.  The other brothers saw it but overlooked it. They
saw what it did to Earl D. when he lost his little brother.  Earl
D. suffered almost as much as his parents because he'd invested so much
time and love into his little brother.  He often wondered to himself if he
had sinned against God to have his beloved little brother taken away for
him.

The boys knew and understood Earl D. needed extra love from Ma and Pa.  He
lost his parents and now his beloved brother.  They even loved Earl D. more
because of it; especially Billy Bob.  He worshiped Earl D. and loved him
more than just a brother. Billy Bob could see Earl D. loving Waddie the
same way he worshiped Thane.  At first he was uneasy about it but then
began to see his brother bloom again with love, not only for Waddie but for
life itself.  Billy Bob knew it was good.

Sarah Crenshaw knew this new son was special.  His charms and
thoughtfulness reminded her so damn much of Thane. She'd even seen him walk
with the same swagger as Thane. Even the soft unassuming way he talked to
her and his brothers reminded her of Thane.  The respect he showed for his
dad and his unconditional love for her never gave her reason to doubt his
sincerity.  She wondered if Randy had noticed.

She didn't have the heart to ask.  All she knew was she was taken with
Waddie as much or more than any of them. He went out of his way to include
her in everything they talked about.  She could feel the same feelings
welling up within her that she felt Thane.  That evening as he hugged her,
told her he loved her, kissed her gently, Sarah looked Waddie in the eyes
and spoke softly to him.

"You may never know what you've done for us, Waddie, especially me.  Trust
me, you've done as much for us as we have for you.  For that, I'm grateful
and love you more than you can know.  Don't let that frighten
you,----you'll always be my boy same's you are Randy's.  I just wanted you
to know when he tells you, you're welcome here, he means it for the both of
us."

"Thanks Ma, I appreciate that. You have the sweetest of dreams, Ma."

"Tonight, Sweetheart, I promise, I will."

That night, for the first time in a long while she gave herself to her
husband.  Something had happened to him.  He had never made such love to
her in all their years together.  She never knew such love was possible.
Before her husband moved to take her she found herself begging him.
Begging him with all the need and pent up frustrations of five years of
unsuccessful attempts to mourn; unable to communicate to each other the
depth of their loss.

Sarah urged her husband to take her with swiftness and strength. Let us
bring our bodies together and mourn our loss through our ecstacy.  Let us
share his love, and our loss in this time of coming together.  This
reawakening of hope and this moment of trust reaffirming our faith that
love such as his for us and our's for him will never die, can never be
taken from us, and will abide with us forever.  Love is stronger than
death. Let our love that created him be our reaffirmation.  Let us release
his love we held so close, so dear, back to our Father.

Randy Crenshaw found himself lost in his wife's ecstacy and saw a new
direction in their love.  He had always taken what was his by right of
marriage and it worked until this night.  He suddenly realized his wife had
made it work for him.  This night it was his turn to give; to make it work
for her.  They lay together afterward crying in each others arms, kissing,
making love, crying some more.  Not a word was spoken.

She didn't want him to leave her. He felt her need and they remained
together all night.  They awoke the next morning as he began to grow strong
within her.  She encouraged him with gentle movements of her hips as she
lay in her husband's protective arms.  Sarah received his gentle kisses as
the nectar of his love for her.  They had forgiven themselves and in turn
each other.

And the Lord saw that Sarah and Randy Crenshaw had come to know the joy of
love again and blessed them that night with their eleventh son, including
Gip and Waddie.  Waddie jokingly insisted they name him, Cowboy.  His full
name on his birth certificate; Cowboy Waddie Crenshaw.  His big brother,
Waddie, was the first to hold him in his arms after his ma.  He gently held
the babe like he was gold, kissed him gently on his forehead and wept at
his beauty.


End Part 16
Cabbage Patch Cowboy
Copyright 2002 Waddie Greywolf
Questions/comments: <waddiebear@yahoo.com> <mailto:<waddiebear@yahoo.com>>

*The Morgan horse is a beautiful, gentle breed of horse. Originally bred in
the Southern U.S.