I was running the air conditioner in the pickup today and glad to have it. I cut a rick of wood and was plumb hot when I got it loaded and started to the house. We have already burned one rick of wood trying to get the old headquarters warm. Then, today, it was almost 70 degrees. I'm not complaining, just wondering if it can last!
We are sure looking forward to the week of Christmas, although the two weeks before have us running wide open. There are school programs and church programs and the shopping trips my close relative thinks she needs help with. You know, I am not worth a nickel on a shopping trip except to pay out and carry the stuff. I thought about packing a lunch for the last trip because I got so hungry before she looked at each and every item at least nine times! She raised eyebrows at my suggestion of a slab of cheese and some crackers, so I just suffered.
I gotta add this to that. I suffer painlessly when it is time for getting things for the family and friends. Never mention that in public or it would ruin my act. The holiday decorations are a never-ending pleasure to see, and I enjoy all the busy and full stores. I probably never will become a real adult.
The livestock is all being fed, so the cows seem to be fat and happy. I am so thankful we are not doctoring anything at this time -- a snotty nose and droopy ears on a few, but the sunshine seems to clear that up. We are putting out hay and the cattle still pick around on the grass until a cold snap brings them to the ring. Things are looking so desolate with all the trees bare. I been thinking it will be about 10 weeks after Christmas before we can see some grass sprouting. I'd rather think in terms of weeks, as months sound way too long!
I think all the fellers at the coffee emporium are doing pretty well. I had coffee with them yesterday and they were discussing the cost of bottled water. One of the fellers, Ted, said that, if his close relative would stop buying paper towels and bottled water, he could save enough for a new truck. I inquired if he had suggested the idea at home and he allowed he was smarter than that! Some things are better thought than said.
It is my opinion, and everyone has one, the professional -- and we are professionals -- beef producers of America are so much wiser and better at producing quality beef than we were 50 years ago. I am thankful for the improvements in ag medicine and the excellent tools we have to work with. Our profession is never going to be easy, but we do this because we want to! I will say it now while the sunshine is still on the grass, I would never be satisfied in any other work. If you feel the same, tell Jesus thanks for another blessing.
Bill is the pen name of the Gravette-area author of this weekly column. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
Editorial on 12/20/2017