Blooming

This year's spring blossoms around Campbell County rival that of the Willamette Valley in Oregon. I spent four years in college seminary out there and the trees around here reminded me of those days. Beautiful.

I think this is a Flowering Pear tree.

I'm calling this one a Dogwood.

Pretty sure this is a Chokecherry tree. 

People around here are saying this is a once in a 40-50 year event. Arborists in the area even predicted it would be a good tree budding year. The long cold winter and good spring moisture made for a burst of beauty. I bet the late spring helped too, with the trees not having to contend with freezing mornings. Whatever the case, the blooming trees around Campbell County are off the charts beautiful! Thanks Lord.

Dave, Bob, and I

Dave's father-in-law Bob has been wanting to get a tour of the country where our cattle graze. With his time around Gillette winding down, today looked to be the day.

This South Dakota native likes to see new land. Dave's taken him all around Campbell County. Now Bob can say he's been deep into the Black Hills of Wyoming.  

While the boys traveled in style, I got some miles on the brumbies.

Bob held Mollie while I went in search of the critters. 

Sitting in the shade. They seem to be loving life.

Whitey seems to be filling out too. We then took a loop around the rest of the pasture before loading up and heading out.

After a burger and a beer at Devil's tower we headed for home. As always, Chief was glad to get the saddle off his back.

Thanks partner. You're always welcome around this ranch.

 

Little While

Pray a little while for an increase of the Holy Spirit. 

           https://youtu.be/L3FrdLCDIu0         

Perfection of Reason

The Holy Spirit perfects our natural faculties. 

           https://youtu.be/v7jR7iUQ_CM         

Darkest Before Dawn

Sometimes Jesus leaves to make room for the Holy Spirit. 

           https://youtu.be/Rh5EZezf5F4         

 

Communion of Saints

St. Isidore, pray for us!

           https://youtu.be/nLiWUULLXrQ         

Rumble Strip

God's commandments keep us on the straight and narrow of life.

           https://youtu.be/5cG85TVkA1E         

Church Teaching

Listen to our Mother.

           https://youtu.be/4NVSKSzVwSk         

Hank

Many have wondered about the origins of the shadow man Hank. It's a mystery about when and where he shows up. But when he does, his presence is always welcome. 

Weighing in around 225 and somewhere about 6'6" tall, Hank looks to be wearing a pair of 34x55 Wranglers. 

He was first sighted by Fr. Jim Heiser in the spring of '17. I shot him this picture of the rising Little Wind River and He asked, "Who is that in the shadow?" I answered, "Must be Hank Williams."

Since then, Hank has appeared at special memorial markers. 

He always loves to stack hay. 

And haul it to the corrals. 

Horseback is a common place to find him.

Seeing him in the early mornings with a cup of coffee is not uncommon either.

Welding around the ranch is one of his favorite places to help out. 

In general, Hank is just an all-around cowboy. 

I love Hank. He is a reminder of God's love shining on us. The Lord's presence is everywhere, even in the shadows. It doesn't matter how dark life gets, there’s always a bright side. Be on the lookout, I bet Hank is following you too.  

Holy Spirit

When is your Confirmation anniversary?

           https://youtu.be/Fv9C_uej12U         

Father

Jesus came to lead us to the Father.

           https://youtu.be/x1LJ7R0CU7k         

Cattle Company Day

Next to Easter, my annual Cattle Company Day has to be my favorite day of the year. It's so amazing to reflect on everything in life that has occurred to make a day like this come together. From my ancestors who forged this path, to my upbringing and ranching experiences as a young man, to my time in seminary which formed me as a priest and encouraged me to live out of my sonship, to the people and places that allow for running of a few cattle in some of the most beautiful country in America. It is a gift, and I am thankful.

Lungren Brothers is a sentimental handle. It was the name of Grandpa's farm growing up. LB is also the brand my brother bought me some 20 years ago.

Needing some good cowboy help I turned to my buddy Kelly Hand. An education he gave me: fast is slow, slow is smooth, smooth is fast. Thanks partner. 

After loosing the hair off my hand getting the fire started, we were ready for work. 

Work smarter not harder. The right equipment helps take the stress out of ranching. A good squeeze chute and hot irons make all the difference. 

Welcome to the herd. 

We ended up with a total of 5 cows to fatten this year. Less than years past, but I'm thankful. Two from Etchemendy's, two from Isenberger's, and one white one from the sale barn to keep things interesting. 

After a smooth branding, we trucked it up to Hulett to the Raney Ranch. These girls are gonna have fun. 

I had already stashed the horses up here on a previous trip. John and Chief were ready to ride. 

Such cool country. The red rocks and green grass makes for some beautiful landscapes. 

There are surprises around every corner.   

The best thing for the inside of a man is the outside of a horse. 

Happy campers. 

Good luck girls. The grass up here has a good start. A little more sunshine and a drink or two, and it'll be knee deep in no time. It's hard to put into words a day as good as today. Gratitude, I suppose is as close as it gets. That's really our only response to God's gifts. Sure we have to be open to receive them and cooperate with the grace He gives us. But ultimately, life is gift. Might as well thank God and enjoy it.