It was a short ride this morning but a long time trying to get warm again! I was deep into the main cow pasture when the sky broke open and, since I have the new Jack, I try to ride and save gas! You know better; I ride because I love it.
But anyway, the rain didn't come in drops, it fell in sheets. Wondering what the new horse would act like in rain, I was a little concerned but he seemed to not care. This horse was raised in the dry part of Texas and I don't know if he had ever been drenched before!
I did get the cows counted and looked at some of them but, knowing I had to return, I wanted to be dry. I got to the barn and put up horse and saddle, walked to the house and disrobed in the utility room. My boots weren't muddy, just wet, so I was not in trouble! I was shivering, so decided to take a hot shower and it did help but then I needed a nap. You know that is not normal for me and I was pretty sure I was coming down with lazy.
The story is I did get back to the cows in the pickup and the sun was out so I could see them all and gave out the sack of cake, cubes in this area. The cows are so happy in the spring, calves on the ground and all is well. Now is the time to sort the herd and get the spring producers back in business.
The offspring are going to cut hay next week. We are going to lose a field of clover if they don't get it pretty quick because it will fall in the first breeze. Sure is pretty now, but I am holding my breath when I drive by and look at it. One year we had a late frost and that was almost a total loss.
My close relative is having a "grand" day and the females are taking some of the younger ladies to shop. I guess they are going to teach the children to buy good clothes, spend good money and have a good time! I really think they just want a day without the intrusion of masculine pheromones!
Two pretty bulls are going to hit the sale barn tomorrow. They are yearlings, good bloodlines and healthy. I knew they were not the kind of dispositions I like to feed and they proved it to me several times. When a bull snorts in your hip pocket he needs another home. Maybe turned out in Montana or Wyoming would be big enough for either of them.
It is my opinion, and everyone has one, many young men and women are making that move away from childhood at this time of year. I know several and I see the relief and then the agony on the parents' faces. They graduated, they made it, and now, oh no, they are ready to fly! Have faith, you broke and tired parents, they are gonna be fine and will be back to do laundry and eat! We lived through it and you will make it!
Keep your powder dry, saddle soap your wet boots and buy more ammo. Remember the Alamo!
Bill is the pen name used by the Gravette-area author of this weekly column. Opinions expressed are those of the author.