Breakfast with the Widows

The Hubby and I took a spin into Cave Creek for a Sunday pancake breakfast. What the Oaks lacks in ambiance, it makes up in human interest. The average clientele can cause severe neck-swivelitis. There is New York bling, bikers, fellas just off the range, squinty-eyed loners, and the servers all call you, “Honey”. That day it was better than usual. The Winchester Widows were in town, dressed in their 1890’s black and all packing. Here in AZ , one does not need a permit to carry a gun and these gals weren’t carrying 22 caliber pea-shooters. Horse riders carrying Winchester rifles, they were participating in a local parade that day. I talked to a few of them about their outfits. All are authentic widow’s weeds from the late 1800’s. I recognized some snappy looks from my great-grandmother’s photos. The dresses were original antiques/made from original patterns with traditional fabric/a blend of both. Everyone had some antique piece on, a broach, the gun belt slung around the hips, a hat, lace at the throat. They looked right at home in Cave Creek. The Widows help support the Challenge Ranch – a nonprofit riding program for underprivileged and disadvantaged youths in San Diego.