This book has been in process over a span of forty-nine years. I've been able to document many details-names, places, dates, descriptions-through letters, photos, and newspaper clippings. In some cases, details have been recalled from memory and may not always be accurate, but they are true in essence. Some stories, such as the first three chapters, were written in sequence, but many began as stand-alone vignettes. Those written as individual stories have, of necessity, repetition of descriptions, explanations, and details. There are so many people, places, and things introduced throughout the chapters of Saps From The Pines, that I hope the repetition is helpful in putting the pieces together, rather than distracting. In selecting which events to include, I've considered my audience to be a mixture of family, friends, and those interested in Colorado history. Not all chapters will be of equal interest to this variety of readers, but my hope is that those of you who have the nerve to delve into this book after seeing the title and the cover photo will find some things that strike your fancy.