I miss some of the old fellers we were so fortunate to know

I am proud to announce my close relative got home and I am now being fed properly again. I ate three meals at the local coffee emporium and all three had at least a half pint of lard included, free of charge! That tasted good but my innards aren't used to that, so I will feel fitter (is that a word?) after today. She also said she spent some money. I didn't feel up to asking questions.

The calves are coming fast now. They are pretty and, so far, so good. No scours and no snotty noses. We have not had to assist any births and that sure makes the EPDs worth the effort. I like to eyeball bulls but I am so thankful for the numbers to compare to all the bulls. You still don't want a bull with no muscle or a head the size of a wash tub, but not many of those make the sire directories.

Genetics are a firm science and men smarter than the average bear are still discovering what traits are genetically imposed on progeny. Crossed toes are passed to the next generation and many of the tendencies for diseases are thought to come from a certain gene. Making my life easier and your steak better is what I like!

Our covered working pens have played a big part in the use of artificial insemination of our herds. It is easier to do the work in protected areas when rain or snow and even wind are factors. I have been surprised at the shelter from wind that we have. Not moving cattle from dark areas to pens in sunlight is also a bonus. The continued light keeps them quieter as they can see where they are going.

Old Dog and I are still hauling hay. The offspring are doing what else has to be taken care of and I will not complain one bit. I get to see all the cattle every day and act like the boss if I spy something that needs attention. Makes Dog feel important, too! We have seen several big old owls this year and we hear them every evening. The eagles are plentiful and if you want birds, just put out some sunflower seeds. They will come.

There is a little suggestion I'd like to pass along. Hang the bird feeders over grass. I don't care if it is a good place to see the birds; if it is over concrete, the mess will not be worth it! I am going to put my foot, or maybe both feet, down next time a feeder gets hung around here. The same goes for the barn swallow nests. They can build under the eaves of the house, but not where I will be passing!

It is my opinion, and everyone has one, I miss some of the old fellers we were so fortunate to know. My friend Jim, the one with one eye, moved to town with his sister when he had a heart attack. Gerald Long left this world one morning as he tried to repair an electric problem in his well house. S.T. Burns left a big gap when he divorced his bride and she got the farm. He never came around after that. So I am looking forward to doing some heavy visiting shortly!

Always wave back on the highway!

Bill is the pen name used by the Gravette-area author of this weekly column. Opinions expressed are those of the author.