Yes, I've been out of the picture for a while. I worked a different job starting last March, ending in October. After that I had foot surgery, which has had me laid up for a bit. But now I hope to get back to my blogging. Now, just because I have been laid up, does not mean the work stopped. Our cowboys have been out there every day, in every kind of weather keeping things running smoothly. They were nice enough to share some pictures they took with me.
In October the cows need to be checked to see if they are pregnant. This is done by our local vet. The cows are put through a chute and the vet checks them. (yes, you are probably picturing it correctly. No ultrasound, just the sense of feel). The cowboys also spent time on the mountain looking for stray cows that didn't come home with the rest.
Also in October the first herd of cows is taken to winter range on the desert. These pictures were when they were taking the cows across the hard pan. (a dry lake bed, I guess is what it is).
In November more cows are taken from the fields and out to the desert. It looks like the weather has changed. The cowboys are really bundled up. We also had a very special visitor in November. We like to start 'em young.
December is more cold weather riding. We have more cows to take out. We will have five different herds of cows in different areas on the desert. The last picture above, is of the cowboys gathering a few stray cows that were finally spotted on the mountain. Brrr
The cows on the desert have to have water. Beings it's a desert, that means there isn't much "live" water. We have to take water with a semi truck to tubs. The weather is cold, and that means ice. Each day someone has to go out and break the ice so the cows can get a drink. The tubs are also moved frequently, along with the cows, so that they don't over graze one area.
This is Christmas day. Dave and I went to the feedlot to see if there were any sick calves that needed doctoring. This is another task that the cowboys have been doing every morning since weaning. Looks like a pretty good Christmas setting to me.
I finally helped out for a while today. It was cold, but so so pretty.
Well here's to saying good bye to 2018 and ringing in the New Year. I hope to be back to my regular blogging. See you soon.
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