Barges

Are not something you see in the San Luis Valley, but my cows act a lot like them.  The herd is meandering towards and from water this late morning.  A long string of dark-four-legged objects moving slowly, but deliberately.  They pause for a moment, saying hello to others passing by or stop and scratch an itch with their back hoof.  After returning from water they munch a little more, but mostly stand chewing their cud.  Between noon and three pm they'll lay down and bask in the sun rays and chew their cud some more.  Ruminating and thinking, maybe pondering their unborn calf that is starting to weigh heavy on them. Around three they stand expectantly.  Looking over the hot wire fence in front of them for their evening meal.  They might stalk the line, hoping I'll notice their impatience.  They are not truly hungry at this point in the day, but just like us, they enjoy an afternoon snack to get them through the rest of the evening.  

I've been left in charge of the ranch for next few days.  I have a long list of tasks to complete between chores, but over all it is calm and quiet.  I'm am starting the great packing adventure.  In a year you can scatter things out pretty well.  I've been thinking about this blog and what I might want to continue doing with it.  Where I'm moving to next only has internet in the house and I'll be living about 200-300 ft from the house in a swanky '80s trailer.  Also, I'm not moving to a new valley.  What do I do about the name of the blog? I'll be living on a ridge and there is a valley below, might count?  I know I will continue to have things to share and many of you have been loyal followers who I'd like to keep informed.  I am sure I will have interesting tree, blossom, and fruit related photos to share over the season.

Alright back to work!

A photo from a workshop I went to last week that was sponsored by my soon to be new boss Gordon.

End of winter at the Green Ranch location. Down by the river.

Gordon speaking on how to plant a tree properly and soil health

Cows!

George running the scale for once...he was surprised to find me taking a photo of him.  I typically run the scale, and he sorts the cattle in the holding pen.