Observing a group of seniors, I just had to break out in a sly grin as one fellow became ecstatic over seeing an old glass and tin fly sprayer sitting on a shelf. We were all browsing through one of the many interesting shops and galleries inherent to the northwest (Old Wild West) of Wyoming and Montana. “Hey look here,” he said to his wife, “didn't we sell one of these in our garage sale?” as he took it down from the shelf giving us all a demonstration in fly annihilation.” “And to think these people believe this is an antique!” The rest of his group started chiding him about his and their ages then told him to adjust his glasses and look at the girls running the store; they were kids which might account for the fly sprayer being displayed as antique. I moved on happy to hear them in the distance still razzing each other about sundry things and feeling good to know that age is limitless. Aging is an interesting process. A person becomes nostalgic and most of the time more patriotic. History becomes more important as if we are trying to preserve the past for the future.

On a pleasant stroll through the town Jackson Hole, Wyoming you'll find a fabulous artisan and Wyoming's best kept hidden treasure, at work attempting to preserve the past for future generations through the work of bronze sculpture. Artist, R. Scott Nickell, of Galleries West, artwork is certainly distinguished by the intricate bead and historical accuracy of the costume dress such as headdresses, moccasins, and other traditional beadwork worn by Native Americans or western cowboys and cowgirls of yesteryear. Mr. Nickell tediously researches his sculpture subject and takes meticulous care to extract every detail from historical documents, photographs, and museums which are both private and public collections. Interestingly, one would believe such talent should take years to develop, however, in R. Scott Nickell's case he originally worked in Texas as a geophysicist and desired to own a bronze. Upon expressing this desire he states, “My wife told me if I wanted a bronze I could learn to make my own.” For a birthday gift Nickell's wife signed him up with a bronze sculpting class in Texas and during the class he discovered his true talent! The rest is history in bronze! For more information regarding his galleries and available pieces visit his website at www.gallerieswestjacksonhole.com or call 1-307-733-4525 for colored brochures. If I had not taken the time to walk into that quaint looking gallery, I would have missed the opportunity of a lifetime to see him at work as he sat sculpting on his latest piece (see my photo of R. Scott Nickell's at work).

Traveling and shopping can be quite exciting especially when you find those incredible treasures! No, not the tin can fly sprayer! Ok, so maybe shopping isn't your bottle of beer. After all we are talking about Wyoming and Montana, home where the elk and buffalo roam! On this exploration trip you'll get plenty of fresh crisp air and exercise as you walk around town and try experiencing some of the Wild West dining! Seniors, you'll enjoy a variety of sandwiches, burgers both beef and buffalo, soups, and ice creams throughout the lunch hours in these western towns and dinner time will bring meals such as country fried steak, pork ribs, pizza, baked chicken, prime rib, or your choice of burgers! When in doubt, go with the buffalo burger. It's lean, mean, and full of protein! Really gets your motor going! No wonder a buffalo can charge up to 30 miles an hour. Put some buffalo in your senior engine and see how high you can click your heels!

One of the great advantages of small town USA is short walking distances and the ability to have self-guided tours to see the attractions. West Yellowstone has one of the largest IMAX theatres in the country with on the hour programs presenting historic National Geographic movies especially two which show the Lewis and Clark Trail which opened up the gateway to the west and Yellowstone , the history of the geological beginnings of the first national park. Is a self-guided walking tour just not appealing? Well then, why not try the Yellowstone Park Bus Tours at www.YellowstoneVacations.com . They give AARP and Senior Discounts, and provide knowledgeable guides. Seniors will enjoy the scenic and educational tours as well as no driving stress or parking hassles!

Seniors groups or family groups can charter their 28 passenger luxury tour bus and view the scenic loops throughout Yellowstone National Park. In West Yellowstone there are numerous types of accommodations ranging from rent-an-rV, rent a cabin, stay in hotel, reserve bed and breakfast, tent camping within a park campground, fifth-wheel, stay in a reserved lodge, or inn. Whatever your age, the Wild West proves once more that history will continue to intrigue those young at heart and willing to explore intriguing nooks and crannies. Happy Traveling!