Keepin' On

Not much has changed in the last 10 or so days.  We are “keepin' on keepin' on.”  We made a short trip back to Volente last week to pick up prescriptions and some meat from our freezer.  We found traffic light and almost everyone practicing a lot of hand-washing or using their hand sanitizers.  We did the same.  So far, Hamilton County, where the farm is located, has only one confirmed case of COVID-19, someone who was not from this area who was treated and transported elsewhere.  We are trying to abide by all the rules, and hope that we can avoid the virus.

Back at the ranch, we are continuing with our chores…clearing cedar and other invasive species, along with Michal’s brother and sister-in-law, Allan and Jefflyn Jones.  

Once the brush is cut and stacked and has dried a bit, we set the fires.  John's propane "pear burner" (aka flame thrower) helps get them started in a hurry.

The dogs watch from the safety of the ‘Gator while we light and tend the blazing piles.

Then, when released they do what dogs do…run and have fun!

Cousin Rosie is thrilled to have time with her cousins, and spends much of her time with her pack.  At seven months, she puts a Tasmanian devil to shame for activity, and draws her share of "border collie smiles" from Rue and Cody. 

Rue, of course thinks the most fun thing is to be with her cows. 

When they graze close to the house, she takes advantage of the situation and spends some quality time with them.

Our small herd doesn't just graze in the pasture, though.  If someone leaves the yard gate open, they come in to mow and fertilize. 

Rue and Cody are happy to escort them out when they're finished. 

For the next several months, they will have one less animal to herd.  General, our 1800-pound Hereford bull is going on vacation.  On Thursday, he left to spend several months with another rancher's herd.  

This will allow our cows to calve and then all breed back within a short time when General returns.  That way, most of our calves will be the same age when we are ready to sell them, making life much easier for us.   

In terms of other news....  

The anniversary gift John ordered for me finally arrived.  How many of you have your very own, personalized boot jack!?   I feel very special.

We're also pleased to have both stock ponds full and the creek running well.  

One of the cardinals that flit through the trees around the house has discovered the bird seed I put out.  Maybe soon he will find the feeders as well.

The iris are blooming in our front yard, 

and the wildflowers are coming into their glory,

giving me a chance to get this year's first dogs-in-the-bluebonnets portrait.

And, this season's last (we hope) cold front gave me an opportunity to make my favorite Italian sausage, potato and spinach soup.  Yum!  We're thinking of all of you and praying that you are safe and well, as well as well-fed and well-stocked with toilet paper.  Take care and we hope to be able to hug you soon.