This is a superb opening chapter. You have a knack for getting inside Buck's head to show just where Kitty sits in relation to the Badge. Looking forward to more of one buckskin's POV as he & his human travel south.

Fantastic read. As an animal lover I love the idea of Bucks attachment to Matt and his insight to the M&K relationship. Cutest line: they mocked him as a worrywart.

I'll admit, GunShy, when you first told me you wanted to write a story from Buck's POV, I thought you'd been exposed to the harsh prairie sun a smidge too long, but you sure showed me, sister. Course, I shoulda realized that Matt Dillon's noble steed would be positively bursting with personality, humor, courage and thoughtfulness, not to mention a keen insight uncommon to most of the equine species.

Lucky for us readers, he is uncommonly nosey as well, or else we wouldn't hear near as many juicy Matt and Kitty details as we are privy to in this horse tail, I mean tale. Your Matt, Kitty and Festus are perfectly portrayed in Buck's mind and made me smile in spite of the Kitty Tears-the circumstances were so typical of Gunsmoke and Kitty's comebacks so perfect the reader wants to nod in commiseration with our favorite redhead and say, "Yeah, Matt, what is it with those Mexico trips anyways? Explain that whole deal to me and Kitty both."

I can't believe you sucked me into your horse story, GunShy. I guess you know this means you are a very talented, *imaginative* writer, whether you choose to believe me or not. ;-)

This is wonderful, GunShy. I love how you have what I would think of as a great personality for Buck. Strong, proud but insightful - just like his human. I am so looking forward to reading more.

Just discovered this little gem, and I'm looking forward to reading more of Buck's thoughts on his adventures with his human. And I love that Ruth "was a bit stubborn about things."

I think this is very good.
happy I can skip "Matt's love story".
virginia

FANTASTIC!
Cannot wait to hear what comes next. Most excellent observations, perceptions and insights. Of course, getting Buck's view as they continue along on this particular trip will be most interesting.

You've done an awesome job, Gunshy1. Thank you!

Excellent start I may have inspired you but don't sell yourself short. I don't think I could have written any better,

Oh wow! (Squeals with delight) another story to read from you! And such a great start! Very much looking forward to more! :)

Delightful! I'm happy to learn that horses have sayings. Buck's observations and relationships are astute, humorous, touching and interesting. I'm looking forward to the next installment.