Shauna Hicks was one of the first Methow residents who allowed me to tell her story on video, soon after I “graduated” from Wild Mind Film Camp. For years, Shauna and her husband, Dave, have managed Dr. and Mrs. Prewitt’s cattle ranch on the Twisp Winthrop Eastside Road. Their annual cattle drive through town was a traffic-stopping spectacle, a reminder of a way of life most Americans no longer witness.

A colorful storyteller, Shauna informed me that “cowboy is a gender-neutral term, like pilot” and that “asking ranchers how many cattle they have” (which had been my very first question) was a bit “like asking someone how much money they have in the bank.” Nevertheless, she good-naturedly let me tag along on their fall bull drive to winter pasture, and on a few other occasions afterward, explaining to a greenhorn a thing or two about cattle ranching.

The Hicks are leaving the Valley in May, as the Prewitts are getting out of the ranching business, have already sold off most of the herd, and have other plans for their property. In preparation for their departure, the Hicks are holding a yard sale this weekend, Saturday, April 28. Stop by and pick up a few collectors’ items and take an opportunity to say goodbye, even though, as Shauna reminds me, “We’re moving, not dying.”

Here is the link to Shauna’s video. Happy trails to you both, Dave and Shauna, wherever you travel. Thank you for your generosity of spirit and years of contributions to our community.