From horses and tack to the presence of family, we’ve rounded up some of the most memorable gifts in the West.
Just before Christmas, we asked our readers to share the most memorable gift they’ve ever received. Here, we share some of the heartwarming stories from holidays past.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Lisa Flood
A pony, when I was in kindergarten. I have always been crazy for horses, so you can imagine my excitement!
– Cecilie Drege
My first “big horse” saddle when I was 12 from mom and dad. I still have it 60 years later.
– PL Packer
A beautiful embroidered Orvis dark red scarf. Given to me by my good friend Colette, now in heaven. Once I wore it to see the sunrise at the Grand Canyon. Suddenly it was not around my neck. I was so sad to loose it. But lucky me, some good samaritan found it and tied it to a park bench. I found it on my way back to the hotel. Thank you to who ever you are. The experience for ever will be in my heart.
– McNichol Sylvia
Sixty years ago I got a blue rope halter and lead rope. I said “There better be something to put it on.” Four or five months later there was. I still have the halter.
– Arlene Hoffman
My “cowboy outfit.” First hat and boots. I was about 3.
– Kathy Fisher
A photo album filled with pictures of me growing up along with tons of family pictures.
– Terri Bugbee Zischke
The most memorable would be the hand forged (V - O) brand made by the blacksmith at Knotts Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, that I received from my sister-in-law. I’ve had it for roughly 20 years and recently registered it in Texas where we now live.
– Rick Van Osdel
The presence of the whole family.
– Sam Massey
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Cover image) Sara Forrest
