JP started helping in a saddle shop when he was about thirteen years old. As the friend of a saddlemaker's son, JP was often put to work while hanging around the shop. After school and during the summers if the boys weren't out someplace horseback they could be found in the shop edging and rubbing strap goods, setting rivets or working on repair saddles. The most important job in a saddle shop was also delegated to them, "sweeping the floor". A clean shop makes for clean work, is what JP was always told. After finishing high school he pursued other trades for several years before building his first saddle. The day after JP finished his saddle he loaded up and headed to Montana for a stint of cowboyin' and guiding hunters.

After returning to Oklahoma he married his best friend Donette. JP was also given the opportunity to apprentice under John Willemsma, the same saddlemaker that put him to work while taking up space in his shop as a boy. After nearly six years under his teacher's watchful eye JP has opened his own shop. JP believes God gives everyone talents and a calling. When we search them out and apply what He gives us we find purpose and meaning to life. JP counts himself blessed to have discovered his.


A NOTE OF THANKS
I would like to say thanks and give my deepest appreciation to a few people. First to my wife for her support and encouragement while on this journey, they have proved to be invaluable. Also to John Willemsma for giving me the chance to make him a hand. I could never thank you enough for the opportunity. And to Ray Dorwart for the countless conversations about everything under the sun and guidance through this life. The list is just too long to list everyone.
Thanks to all,
JP