Should have been a cowboy…
There is no doubt where my ideals came from when you realize how “big” the cowboy and western culture was when I was a kid.
My grandparents sent me a shiny metal pair of six-guns (cap guns)in a black leather double holster for my 6th or 7th birthday. The finely tooled leather sported the knight chess piece emblem from “Have Gun Will Travel”. (Wish I still had them today!)
They were heavy and looked real! I don’t believe I have ever felt more awesome than when I buckled on those peace-makers. The smell of leather and sulfur still make goosebumps.
Most of my heroes were male since females, in those days, were portrayed as weak and vain.
I never thought of hurting anyone with those guns. I find the present culture is blaming guns for violence when they might due well to focus the blame on the break down of the family unit and the crumbling morality in this culture. There are “good guys” and “bad guys” whether it is politically correct to say it or not.
Larry the Cable Guy said it best,” If guns can be blamed for killing people then my pencil can be blamed for bad spelling.”
Sillyfrog's Blog 
Yeppers, I always played like I was Roy Rogers, and rode my stick broom (horse) all over the house, yard, and the street where we lived.
My grandparents bought a pony for me when I was 5. I had the thrill of being Annie Oakley on horseback! What a charmed life I have been granted ❤
Great post! My cousin and I were both Paladin fans. Had the guns, hat, business cards–the whole shebang. I have a picture of the two of us in our getup, and I wrote a poem for my cousin which features our chilldhood days and Paladin. I’d link both of them for you, but they’re on my computer that’s in the shop.
I enjoy your writing!
Thank-you Charles! “Those were the days my friend!”
Please post your poem when your computer feels better 😉
Great post and I just love the photo. I’ve been running a favourite toys from childhood linky over on my blog. Would be lovely if you could add yours http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2012/04/childhood-toy/