Open Range

John and I have done a lot together: worked bison, served Mass, held retreats, had dinner... the list goes on. But we have never ridden horses together. Well, no better time than the present. With both of us having a couple free hours Sunday afternoon, we decided to saddle up and explore the Durham Ranch. 

Fr. Bryce and John Flocchini ranching in a free world. 

Once unloaded and saddled, we headed east of his house. 

The first stop was to see some old teepee rings. 

From my understanding, the Indians would use these rocks to hold down the bottom portion of their teepee covering. When they'd leave they'd just roll them off and walk away leaving a ring of rocks. Cool.

Mollie is loving this new bit. So am I. 

These segmented rocks are crazy. You often see them perched on ridges around this prairie country. 

They sure look like a fossilized sea creature of sorts. Though most people I talk to say they aren't. 

Scoria of varied colors is common around here. 

It's basically baked clay from ancient burning coal seams. 

John's eyes are always fixed on the ground, checking out the soil and the grass. 

And even finding an occasional fossilized sea shell. 

Seeping springs are not uncommon in the draws between the hills. 

Good ride cowboy. Thanks for the tour. 

Day is done. 

It's hard to beat a couple hours of horse back on the Wyoming prairie. Of course, if you're with a good buddy, all the better. John is a generous man in more ways than one. But he really shines when it comes to stewardship. From the ground to the critters to the guests, this land is your land this land is my land. In the end, John understands that this land is God's land. And he, for now, is it's care taker. Well done, my friend. Keep up the Good work.