Saturday, May 20, 2023

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.



Friday, May 19, 2023

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.


 

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

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.  









Risen Signs

Let the signs of God point you to Christ's resurrection.             https://youtu.be/vUwfdB8nPts