The Chuckwagon

As I mentioned in my last blog, My Daughter-in-law's parents, Trish and Tom have a chuckwagon, which they had set up at the "Christmas at Old Fort Concho" event. The chuckwagon was used in earlier times in the old west. Most of us have seen these in western movies and tv shows. The name of their camp was "Bertie Belle Camp" after Tom's mom. He has a picture of her hanging up on the front of the chuckwagon. I'm sure she is smiling down on them!

Tom designed and built his chuckwagon himself. I'm no expert, but to me it looks very authentic. He and his wife, Trish have been in cooking contests with other chuckwagon owners. There is a chuckwagon association they belong to and there are strict rules they must follow. The food is furnished to them and they are told what to cook. They can win cash prizes. But, it's not really about that. For them it's the friendships they've made and the "love of the sport".

At the event this past weekend, they were more on their own. They had homemade chicken soup, beans and rice (a southern favorite), and biscuits with homemade jams and jellies. Also popcorn and candies for the kids.

Next weekend they will be in the downtown area again for another event.

Tom also built and designed a jail on wheels and named it "Lonesome Dove." The kids all seemed to love this. It is now set up in my son's yard and is for sale in case anyone is interested!