Do you like this?

Ran across this scene years ago somewhere in Montana. Such depictions are not necessarily to my liking. They speak of disappointment, disillusionment, discouragement, and despair. And those are just the "D's". But, such seem to remain popular as "telling a story."

Hits a little too close to home for those of us who have experienced some of this. We'd rather not recall hopes abandoned and dreams forsaken.

It reminds me a bit of Christina's World, the famous work by Andrew Wyeth, hanging in the Museum of Modern Art.

Cool Mule in Blue

Mules are valued for their economical "keeping" qualities, their sure-footedness in rough or mountainous terrain, their soundness (hoof-wise), and useful intelligence when assessing challenging situations. Some enthusiasts think mules are more companionable than horses.

At any rate, take in a mule show where the versatility of this American icon is displayed. You'll be impressed.