Living in this part of the world is, sure enough, a blessing

The sun came up. I know because it is daylight, but the gray clouds are so thick we have no shine! That is fine with me, I need rain and would be very grateful if the ponds were to fill to overflowing. I have not had too much rain in so long I can't remember fussing about a muddy lot. The little showers have been very beneficial for the pastures, but the old stock tanks are edging towards dry every day.

I worry about a billion things every day, and I know who takes care of all things and I trust Him. I guess I think He might need my assistance since I am so brilliant as a boss! I try to not worry, to just be concerned, and sometimes I almost make it! We got four cuttings of hay this summer. Four, and good hay to boot. Now, I am worrying about the old hay truck holding together to get that good hay hauled out and fed. We put most of what net comes from the farm back into the farm, so we stay almost as dry as the weather!

The grands took the weekend over and we rode our trusty steeds until we were worn out. What a great trip I had, both days, and fun every step of the way. We had all of them out except the oldest, who was gone for a big football game. We checked cattle and then rode through the timber, across the ridge and the creek. Snip and I needed the exercise and we both enjoyed ourselves. Snip still wants to show off sometimes and did a little crow hopping just for the heck of it!

My close relative outdid herself with the spread of food when we came home on Saturday. The whole gang showed up and we ended the evening by telling stories about our day of adventure. The grands have inherited the gift of tale-telling and we laughed hard and often during the evening. We made a deal to meet quickly after church on Sunday for the ride. Maybe that activity will help me stop being so worried all the time! I know it was good for my soul!

The cattle are all eating and sleeping this week. Not one floppy ear or snotty nose to be found, and no holes in any fence. The feed room is full, hay barns are full, and this might be the only week in the year when all I can think of is one job to be working on. The squeaky hinges around the place, like the gates and barn doors, need some lubrication. I have a new can of the super-duper stuff and that is my plan for the morning.

It is my opinion, and everybody has one, living in this part of the world is, sure enough, a blessing. As we drive by fellers, we all wave and smile. We have pleasant meetings at the emporium and the feed store, all folks being friendly. The unwanted trip to the grocery store is even nice, all the employees speak and inquire about the family. We are a community of one in a million, not dead like many our size, but not growing faster than lightning either!

I am going to grease hinges and count my blessings today and suggest you do the same!

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

Editorial on 11/15/2017