Joy is experienced in a million different ways

No, I am not through with the spring cattle roundup. We have a couple more days -- full days -- ahead of us. It was going good and there were not any big wrecks, just takes time to do all the things right. We are down to not any extra help from grands and so we are trying to hire another hand for tomorrow. I should say, they are looking for a hand; I am looking for supper and the bed!

I am feeling sorry for the weather people this spring. I prepared for rain and storms two days last week and they missed us completely. I am sorry for the ones who got it and would like to be able to calm the storms, even the ones we miss. You know the forecasters are running a war with the nature of the world.

The best of the meteorologists work long hours and use technology that is sure stuff of the future. I am thankful for their dedication and the time and money spent for their educations. Many lives are saved by the expert predictions they are able to make precisely. I feel sorry for the ones who work on a front for a week, trail it right up to the state line and then the thing gives up the ghost or goes south. I am a believer in the absolute power of God and He can't let any human get too cocky, so there you go!

We are fighting the weeds this spring. Looks like it may be a losing battle, but I never say die! My close relative has had the yard covered with that weed killer and fertilizer for the grass. Now her lawn will have to be mowed three times a week. I would like to spread the stuff on the pastures but it is too costly for me to use. The evil weeds, hemlock and thistle, are sucking up the moisture and producing sturdy root systems and stalks.

Easter was celebrated by this family in a big and wonderful day of church and eating. We had sunrise services, breakfast at church, regular services and then home for more food and fun. Eggs were dyed and piled up in baskets waiting to be hidden by the oldest grands and then hunted by the least oldest ones. The years are coming so fast that it may have been our last egg hunt due to the ages of the hunters.

Easter baskets were filled with treats and surprises for every member of the family and hidden around flower beds for discovery after church. Chocolate rabbits and jelly beans are my favorite and I got plenty! It is a fun and pleasant activity with squeals and giggles filling the yard!

It is my opinion, and everyone has one, joy is experienced in a million different ways. Enjoying your work, waking up in the morning, drinking cool, clear water, watching your children grow and sitting down to a meal with those you choose to share it with. Joy is not elusive; you can find it pretty easy if you look around and your belly isn't empty and gaunt. Just check your attitude and, if needed, add fuel!

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