Sometimes Jesus leaves to make room for the Holy Spirit.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Monday, May 15, 2023
Sunday, May 14, 2023
Thursday, May 11, 2023
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.
Monday, May 8, 2023
Sunday, May 7, 2023
Friday, May 5, 2023
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.
Thursday, May 4, 2023
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Monday, May 1, 2023
Spring Training
The time has come for the horses to go to work. I have no doubt that if needed, I could jump either horse and at anytime hit the trail. But I like to take time to set us all up for success. Mollie and I didn't end on the best note last year, so I especially wanted to start out fresh with her. No better day to get going than the feast of St. Joe the Worker.
Looking good. I have been pleased with the saddle rigging adjustments we made earlier this spring. I especially like the way it sits on this brute. Mollie wintered well, probably too well. The back cinch is in the last hole on both sides.
One new addition that I'm happy to report is this lawn chair with a canopy. Now I'll have shade no matter what side of the trailer I'm sitting on.
Last year we introduced Mollie to a pulling collar. What I mainly like it for is to keep the saddle centered. Mollie is like saddling a 55 gallon drum, she has no withers and the saddle will hardly stay put. The pulling collar really worked good for that, but Paul wanted his back. So Mom and Dad bought me one for my birthday. Thanks folks.
Pulling collars also put the pull where it needs to go. When you dally on the horn the pressure goes directly to the horse's chest.
I said plenty of Hail Mary's and prayed to my guardian angel before I swung on her. One cool thing Paul and I did when we started Mollie is equip her with an e-brake. Every time we worked her we constantly made her give her neck back to her shoulder. Now she'll give it no problem in all circumstances. So I did my ground work before I swung on this year, but once she felt me in the saddle, the dance begun. Thankfully, I had her nose sitting at my knee in no time and she had no choice but to settle down. After a ride or two in the round pen I reintroduced the rope to her. No problem at all, but I like to rub it all around her so that she knows it's not a snake that's gonna bite her.
As for Chief... he's always ready.
The fastest way to train a horse is slow and easy. Most problems happen in life when we get in a hurry. This is especially true with horses. If you want a calm and cool horse, take a calm and cool approach to them. It'll pay off for the both of you. Spring ball is over though, it's now time for these players to go to work. May is all about cowboying. Let the good times roll!
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