Rosehips & Roundups

Fall color on the grassy ‘high plains’ is more subtle, but just as lovely as the tree’d up hill country nearby. On the ranch, we’ve been doing a lot of ‘fall-work’. Socially, my farmgirl pals and I have been having a rollicking good time and savoring every autumn moment. Come on in and see for yourself …
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  1. Helen says:

    Shery,
    Just want you to know that I look forward to reading your blog each week or so. Love your photos and your thoughts. I am a farmgirl, too. I currently live north of Colville, WA, on 20 acres, with my daughter, rat terrier-type dog, couple of cats, 15+ hens. As a California transplant, I am "living my dream", of being in the country, although I commute to town most days for a desk job, to pay for it all! I envy you your beautiful ranch, horses, etc….not that I don’t like my own place, but love yours, too!
    Thanks for taking the time to share your days with us, Sincerely HW

  2. Maura says:

    Wow…lots of interesting and fun stuff to read about this week! You live in such a beautiful area…I love the rolling pastureland. I wish we had that surrounding us other than farmland. There’s nothing at all wrong with farmland and it is beautiful when the crops are growing but when the fields are left bare and strong winds hit them BOY do we get hit with dust! I found your info on RT’s very interesting…we’ll have to consider that breed. Loved the party pictures…too bad about the horse having a sore hoof. The trees are just starting to turn color here on the farm..this is my favorite time of year. I’m definitely not looking forward to winter and I’m hoping that this year is a lot kinder to us. Enjoy your weather!
    Maura 🙂

  3. Debbie says:

    Really Shery? REALLY???? You get me everytime I read your posts! LOL!!!How do you do it??? I know, you’re a talented gal that’s how!!! Oh, the beauty of your photos and images formed in my head by your words can transport a gal 3000 miles from home and in a nano second, I’m there ( wish I was )!!! It’s all so warm and fally looking… Your info on RTs was very interesting… Being a Corgi lover ( and owner ) I was SURE they were the only dog for a farmgirl! HA!!! You know I’m kidding….WE do love our Max… he’s great with the hens and a wonderful companion dog… We just don’t say the words sheep or cow around him…He’s in the herding group and we don’t want him to get his hopes up! LOVE LOVE LOVE~ ALL OF IT!
    FARMGIRL HUGS and a very happy Farmgirl Fall to you!
    Deb ( your beachy farmgirl pal from the shorelines)
    PS. Pat the ponies for me!!!

  4. Rebecca says:

    Thanks for taking the time to take photos and tell us all the tiny details about your farm girl (ranch) life. It is very interesting and I get a lot of ideas from it. I am in a new area, hubby and I just bought a mini-farm and I would love to belong to a farm girl group but there isn’t one around here. I don’t know if I have the confidence to start one myself. Maybe someday.

  5. Grace~katmom says:

    As always… I love "visiting" with you at your blog…
    I have to share with you… for me, RoseHip tea is a Winter staple… I have been drinking it since I was a little girl. When I lived in germany, my Oma (grandmother) in Germany would serve it to me as a source of vita-C.
    To this day, I still drink it in the Winter…and I have family send it to me from Germany…somethings one just can’t change, and getting my RoseHip ‘Hagebutten’ tea from Germany is a tradition.
    Wish I could have been at your delightful Harvest Fest event… I luv all the goodies I see/saw in your posting.
    Oh sigh! part of me is not yet ready for Winter & yet another part of me want’s to start decorating…
    What’s a gal to do? lol!
    hugz
    >^..^<

  6. Terces says:

    Dear Shery,

    I don’t know how you do it. Most days I feel like I am barely keeping up and you make it all so beautiful, so heartwarming, so fun… I love reading your blog, keeps me inspired and remembering to stop and smell the hay some days!
    Thank you.
    Love.
    Terces
    ————————

    Dearest Terces, Many days I barely keep up. Some days I just don’t. So, move over and we can sit on a big ole pile of laundry & share a glass of wine :o)  Nothing rids us of the tyranny of obligations, so you might as well enjoy peace-of-mind moments and tell ‘life’ it can wait for your soul to catch up with you. Thank you for the kind words…and you’re welcome.  Shery

     

     

  7. Love the pictures, looks like you all had a blast at your fall sale. Sounds very similar to the Harvest Festival the Lamoille Women’s club puts on every year. That’s where I first tried homemade apple butter.
    I have yet to try rosehip tea but I did pick a bunch last year and made rosehip jelly. I may have to go pick what’s left in our favorite choke cherry foraging spot to set aside for tea.
    I brought home a Jersey cow too!! I love love love her! The fresh milk, butter, cheeses, cream…how did I ever get along without her?! I’m currently milking her in my newly finished green house, until the milking parlor gets its makeover.
    Sounds like that fall festival was a lot of fun too. Too bad about the horses’ sore foot, but at least he got lots of pats and well wishes.
    Thankx for the visit (pictures)!

  8. Jeanne says:

    Your pictures always take my breath away. The high plain meadows are beautiful. Reading your blog always takes me away from chores for a spell.
    I love Michele’s "art junk" bird houses. Are they just for decoration or can they be hung in a tree to be used? I would love to buy one.
    I am in Southern Colorado and it is getting very cold here in the early mornings and my daughter told me next week it is going to be really chilly. She even got out her bed quilts and comforters. Guess I had better do the same.
    Blessings, Jeanne

    ————

    Hi Jeanne,  Some of Michele’s birdhouses are not just decorative. Several of them have a hinged door so that they can be cleaned out. But, she just sells them locally and at shows. I’ll sure tell her that you like them though. :o)

    Thanks you for the kind words.   Shery

  9. meredith says:

    I have to put my vote in for the corgis! We have had them for years, they are the best pets, herding dogs, and as soon as I teach them how to get varmints, well, they will be great at that too! Ha! Loved the info on the RT- might have to look into that breed one day! Thanks for your fabulous post, as always……Meredith

  10. Rene Foust says:

    What a beautiful life! I love your posts they are always so inspiring, beautiful and informative. I always learn something new after reading your posts, thanks so much.

  11. Sondra K says:

    What a wonderful blog. Thank you for taking the time to share it with everyone. So much to feast my eyes on. I especially loved all of the outdoor photos. The part about the rat terriers was very educational. I might consider getting a rat terrier if I get to the point that I need another dog.

    Your horse is beautiful. I’ve never seen that shade of palamino before, but up close, she certainly is. With all of those lovely dapples, I was expecting a grey at first. Beautiful, beautiful.

    I’m very envious of all the grass that you’ve got. It looks like a perfect location for a ranching farmgirl.

  12. Sondra K says:

    What a wonderful blog. Thank you for taking the time to share it with everyone. So much to feast my eyes on. I especially loved all of the outdoor photos. The part about the rat terriers was very educational. I might consider getting a rat terrier if I get to the point that I need another dog.

    Your horse is beautiful. I’ve never seen that shade of palamino before, but up close, she certainly is. With all of those lovely dapples, I was expecting a grey at first. Beautiful, beautiful.

    I’m very envious of all the grass that you’ve got. It looks like a perfect location for a ranching farmgirl.

  13. Amber says:

    What a great blog

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These Boots Are Made For…

Nancy Sinatra’s 60’s mega-hit made it clear that her boots were made for walking. Those groovy Go-Go boots had an agenda in the song. Her boyfriend was doing her wrong … so goes the story. If you don’t know the rest of the story … take a fresh listen to “These Boots” via the YouTube link below … and then read on about the life & times of my favorite footwear.

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  1. Grace~katmom says:

    Speaking of boots, you inspired me to show some pics (on my blog)of my boots working around our place…. lol!
    Happy Trails to you….

  2. nameDonna Shaw says:

    I love reading your stories and your picture so beautiful.Thank you so much for taking the time to share with us your lovely life.

  3. kristy says:

    Now tell us about hats. Some of you pictures show them, some don’t.

  4. Ann says:

    This may inspire me to get a pair of boots! I impulsively, finally bought a cowgirl hat at the encouragement of my family, so next stop – boots! Love your pictures and prose as always, also your Cluck posts.

  5. JoAnn says:

    Oh those Go Go Boots!!! I loved them & I wonder whatever happened to them and the Hot Pants we wore. Who knows maybe they will come back some day – just like the Bell Bottom jeans. And as for Cowboy Boots – even though it’s only my husband and myself at home now I bet there are at least 10 pairs in the mudroom right now. Love Them!!!

  6. linda says:

    The pink cowboys caught my eye. Can you tell me about those boots?

    ——

    Hi Linda,  The little girl’s boots?   Shery 

  7. Marly says:

    What a beautiful blog!!!!!!! The pictures are so crisp. I’m a boot girl. I should own 20 pair, but only have one. After seeing those absolutely beautiful boots, I shall look for more in all kinds of colors and patterns. I am inspired now!!!! Like Linda posted, my favorite boots were the pink ones.
    Hugs to your horse Dolly.
    Marly

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Betwixt The Two

September is when summer isn’t quite over and autumn hasn’t yet taken hold. We’re betwixt the two.

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  1. Veronica says:

    Enjoyed your post this morning. Thank you! So true about September… and sorry about the camper. Have a blessed day!

  2. Junebug says:

    Oh my, I even have tears over that Shasta!! Someone got very happy that day! I still have dreams of finding one. How cute are those hats. I think I need to make four for my darling granddaughters. Enjoy betwixt, it is beautiful out!

  3. juniperlover says:

    I really enjoyed your betwixt post this morning. I live in southern Colorado and your landscape reminds me of mine! We too are enjoying this in between time when the days are warm but the sun has finally lost the intensity that sends us looking for shade. We had a light frost two nights ago…it’s Autumn sending a shot across our bow! Enjoy these sweet days before the winter winds start to howl!

  4. Sharon says:

    Hi Shery 🙂

    I always enjoy your posts and photos. Just beautiful! Sorry about the Shasta, I guess that means that the Lord has something even better in mind for you! Michele’s hats (and model!) are adorable and what a blessing that birdhouse is 🙂

    Here are a couple of Green Tomato recipes for you 🙂

    Green Tomato Chutney

    Four cups peeled and chopped tomatoes
    Two-third cup chopped onion
    One-quarter cup yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
    One small garlic clove, minced
    One cup packed light brown sugar
    Two-third cup cider vinegar
    Two Tablespoons peeled and minced fresh ginger
    One teaspoon coarse Kosher salt
    One Tablespoon mustard seed
    One-quarter teaspoon ground turmeric
    One and one-half teaspoons grated lemon zest
    One cup golden raisins

    Place all ingredients in a large, nonreactive pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the mixture is very thick, 1- ½ to 2 hours. Let cool slightly. Ladle into hot sterilized half-pint jars and seal. Yield: 1-½ pints.

    *************************
    Green Tomato Marmalade

    4 lbs green tomatoes
    1/4 cup finely chopped ginger
    6 cups sugar
    5 lemons
    1/2 cup water

    Chop tomatoes, add grated rind and juice of lemons, ginger and water. Simmer 1 hour stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Add sugar. Simmer until sugar is dissolved and then boil rapidly until consistency of jam (about 25 min) pour into jars and seal. I’m afraid I don’t remember what the yield is, it has been a few years.

    Have a blessed day!

    ~Sharon

  5. Janice K. says:

    Did you hear my ‘AAAARRRRGGGGHHH’! all the way to Wyoming? Yes that would be my dream of a lifetime, too. That along with a lovely robin’s egg blue 1954 Chevy pickup to tow it with…We can still have our dreams!!!
    The metal roofing lids look wonderful, too. How lucky you are to live in an area that still has preserved some of it’s local history.
    Have a wonderful fall…

  6. Nicole Christensen says:

    Shery, LOVE THOSE HATS! So cute. Can’t wait to see the pattern. I love your pictures, too. Great post. Happy Fall, your blogging sister, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl Blogger)

  7. Terry says:

    Yep this time of year is down right enchanting. It’s catch-your-breath at breath-taking scenery or scents. This Saturday our son David is raising his timber frame for his straw bale home! My thinking is that it’s a most perfect time of year to be doing it! Shery, have you thought about finding the buyer of the trailer and offering more money for it?

  8. bonnie ellis says:

    Shery: Now you have the "one that got away story" but I know how you feel. You were hoping for That one. Love your blog and all the fantastic pictures. Wish I was closer to visit in person. Hope you will find the perfect one soon, but won’t it have to be pulled by a horse? ho ho. Your farmgirl friend Bonnie.

  9. Carol Norwood says:

    I love this post and the accompanying photographs. All of them are wonderful but my absolutely favorite are the tin can lids all over … fabulous. I can just hear the rain pitter, pattering as it hits the lids! I love it! Thank you ….

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Merlita Mornings And Musings

Until they leave later this month, Redwing Blackbirds have a place in my early fall routine. They crowd an open feeder to gobble up sunflower seeds just as soon as it is light in the mornings. My fellow farmgirl friend, Michele, makes a wood & screen feeder and she gave one to me; she said it would likely attract birds that do not normally come to a feeder.

So many things to cover this week! It feels like harvest time all the way around. Nature produced a bounty to prepare us for the coming winter. Let’s see if we can make a place in the ‘pantry’ for alllllll that I have to share with you in this installment.

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  1. karen bates says:

    Wow, just love this post…I have a new appreciation for blackbirds…of which, I have many in their flocks around my property.

    This is a time of bounty and I thank you for showing me the wonderful beauty (in photos) of this time.

  2. Ann says:

    That cloth bird at the beginning of your post really caught my eye as well as your lovely vignette. I will go back to the Cluck site and look for this pattern. As always, your photos are stunning. I did not know this about blackbirds. I just wish they weren’t so raucous in the mornings around my house! Sometimes it would be nice to sleep in!

  3. Lori Nichols says:

    ALL of my favorite blackbird references … thank you Shery for your words and your insight and for reminding us that without the black, dark and shadows of creation, the light would never shine so bright….

  4. Bambi says:

    What a great post! In the photos of your Black Hills drive, can you tell me what the plant is in the first frame. (green with purple edges) Thank you for all the effort you put into your posts, I always look forward to reading them. Keep up the good work!

  5. Brenda says:

    Shery, what a wonderful post. We had a ton of red winged blackbirds in the area I grew up. But not here. We do have a lot of crows, large groups of them that make a lot of noise at us when we walk through the woods or work in our back garden. I will look at them differently after reading your post. Happy Fall Shery!

  6. Betty Benesi says:

    We have many black birds and crows as well. The crows particularly have become more abundent the last few years and have pushed out the blue jays. Very few jays around anymore. Both really squawky (SP). The Black bird song has a particular meaning for me as well. It was on the radio when I found out one of my horses, Ruby had been put down.
    She was a profoundly disturbed little horse who I loved dearly, but could never ride. She was pretty and playful but I always felt that life had not been particulary good to her. So at last she could fly.

  7. Janet says:

    Sherry
    Yours is the only one of the blogs I truly enjoy and this one took the cake. Thanks for sharing all of what you enjoy. Just wish we could be neighbors….

  8. Grace~katmom says:

    Hey Shery,
    Karen Bates (above) is a dear friend of mine and we will be camping next weekend….hurry & get a lil vintage trailer & come join us….then we can sit around the firepit, museing and sharing life’s adventures.
    Happy Autumn from my side of the State to yours.
    <><

  9. Julia Hursh says:

    Oh, how I enjoyed the writings and pictures you shared!!:) We live on a remote ranch in the Chihuahuan Desert in far west Texas…. so I just loved seeing a different part of our country. Thanks for sharing your life and surroundings. May you and yours have a blessed day – Happy trails – J

  10. Brenda says:

    Shery, just found your blog for the first time today. How wonderfully insightful you are. Reading your words of encouragement and viewing the stunning photography have given me a feeling of excitement to start my day. Oh, I miss my farm. I long to experience the abundance of life that each day offers when one lives on a farm. I think it’s time I make this dream into a reality again and shop for a little land. You’re an inspiration.

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Sunny Saffron

Sunflowers, sweet corn, goldenrod, crook neck squash, the juicy flesh of ripe peaches, and many other harvest-time goodies … they all suggest that yellow is August’s favorite color. The saffron beauty of sunflowers attracts bees and artists alike.

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  1. Connie Mac says:

    Shery, First I have to admit this is my first comment despite lurking since I joined MJF. I love your blog. It is the first one I check. Thanks for going to the trouble and taking the time to make it so enjoyable!
    Now my sunflower story … I planted sunflowers outside my west facing kitchen window once many years ago. My sister came to visit around 6 one evening and I was so excited to show her how well they had grown. She gazed out the window and with a quizzical look on her face said "They are beautiful but why didn’t you plant them facing the window?" My laughter made her mad and to this day the subject of sunflowers is taboo. Paine’s poem brought that memory back. Thanks for the remembered laughter!
    Sister #2880 CMac

  2. I just love this article. I have been planting the huge Mammoth flowers to border my Chicken coop and raised garden. I would love to get some merlot sunflower seeds.
    I harvest my seeds for snacks…soak them in salt water and roast them the next day! I still have some left so I may just cut them for decorating this fall. Thanks again for your article.

  3. karen bates says:

    Simply stunning…oh, how I love their faces. I have just had a hankering for some photos of them this year….thanks for the fabulous post…as always!

  4. Cyndi says:

    I adore your blog posts and always read as soon as I get your email from Mary Jane. Your photos are always fabulous and so interesting.

    I do love sunflowers and this post is beyond excellent!
    Thanks for sharing all you do with us Shery!

    Smiles, Cyndi

  5. Treese says:

    Here on my Colorado ranch I only have a single Sunflower, but every year I can count on it coming back. It is a little bigger every year. It always makes me smile to see it return year after year.

    Colorado Cowgirl.

  6. Kare says:

    Oh how I love sunflowers. They just cheer you up looking at them.

  7. Jan Ogden says:

    You are an amazing lady. Love to read your blog and see what you are up to next. I just have to share about this lovely sour cream that can be made out of sunflower seeds.

    1 Cup Sunflower Seeds (Raw) (Roasted can be used, but the raw blends better and is better for you. )

    1 1/2 cup water
    1 tsp. onion powder
    1/2 tsp. garlic powder
    1/2 tsp. Salt
    1 fresh lemon- Squeezed

    Place all the above ingredients in your blender and whiz until creamy and smooth. The longer you blend it the smoother it will be. (About 5 minutes)

    If not thick enough, add a few more nuts.
    If too thick, add a little more water.

    Enjoy it on your favorite baked potato, or tacos, or your favorite Salad, Brocalli etc.

    Much better for you than the High Cholesterol real Sour Cream.

    I love making this. Hope you will like it too. And you’ll be
    excited about what can be made when your lovely sunflowers are mature.

    Thanks again for taking the time to share with us each month!! Jan

  8. REBECCA ROSBERG says:

    A BIG HELLO FROM MY LITTLE PART OF THE WORLD.. SUNNY SOUTH FLORIDA !
    I HAVE WRITTEN BEFORE … I WAS THE ONE THAT THOUGHT "WHAT WOULD I HAVE IN COMMON WITH A RANCH GIRL" AS I LIVE WITH ONE FOOT IN THE COUNTRY AND ONE FOOT IN THE BIG CITY OF PALM BEACH FLORIDA.

    BUT THE ANSWER IS I SEEM TO HAVE LOTS IN COMMON WITH THE RANCH GIRL ! I JUST LOVE YOUR BLOG AND THE WAY YOU DECORATE.
    IT ALWAYS FASCINATES ME THAT AROUND THE WORLD THERE IS A SMALL GROUP THAT DECORATES AND LOVES THE SAME JUNKTIQUES THAT I LOVE !
    I RECENTLY RENEWED MY SUBCRTION TO MARYJANES FARM … AND LOW AND BEHOLD THE FIRST ISSUE I GOT WAS THE WONDERFUL ARTICLE ABOUT ALL THE THINGS YOU COLLECT !
    DO ANY OF YOU OTHER FARMGIRLS OUT THERE FIND THIS INTERESTING … WHEN YOU MEET PEOPLE WHO LIKE THE SAME KIND OF "JUNK" THAT YOU LIKE … YET YOU NEVER MET.

    WELL SIGNING OFF FOR NOW … I WONDER IF THERE ARE ANY OTHER TRANSPLANTED FARMGIRLS DOWN HERE IN SOUTH FLORIDA ?
    FROM REBECCA HERE AT SUNNYBROOK FARM !

  9. MerrieJayne says:

    Thank you for this lovely post. My home is known as The Sunflower Ranch here in central Arizona. We love our sunflowers.

  10. Betty Stone says:

    I’ve grown the teddybear sunflowers and must say they grew taller than the three feet listed on the packet. They were more like six feet. Gorgeous flowers because they always make me smile. I have a few in my garden also and one that seems to be pushing nine feet–Russian Mammoth. Thank you for sharing your sunflowers.

  11. Maria Kaul Casper says:

    I really enjoyed reading your blog – I have in my spare time been working on a revised book of the secret language of flowers – Sunflowers say, "I admire you and desire to look upon you always. And as the the sun moves across the sky, east to west, my flower head follows the sunlight and rays – so do I desire to follow you. As the sunflower head droops and fades when the sun is gone from the sky, so do I miss you and long for you when you are not near me." Like a heliotrope turning toward sun light, so I turn toward you as you are the bright light in my life." Say all these things by giving sunflowers to the one you love.

  12. Janice K. says:

    YAHOO FOR SUNFLOWERS! This year is the first that hubby and I actually didn’t plant any sunflowers, we relied on the volunteers that pop up in the compost bed and other places in the veggie garden area. We went to a neighborhood BBQ and my closest neighbor (over the fence) told us how she missed the regular group that peeked over the fence line each year. Guess what?? Next year we will plant some more in that area.
    I also have tried to save seeds and end up with a completely different version of flower. Could it be something to do with cross pollination???

  13. Debbie says:

    Shery my dear,
    As always I can count on you for a colorful blog both in words and images! I too enjoy Sunflowers. Everything from the range of colors and sizes to the sentiment of sunniness too! When we left Nevada for the east coast we drove across our great United States in the last week of July. Guess what we saw mile and miles, acres upon acres of? SUNFLOWERS! It was then that I learned Kansas was the Sunflower state and I finally understood what " the heartland of America was ". It’s easy to take for granted where the ingredients for many of the products made for us come from until you see it first hand. I gained a great appreciation for the growers of the heartland after driving through it… As for my own little patch of earth, I’ve grown Mammoth Sunflowers, and kids sized ones too, and some of my favorite perennials are in the sunflower family: ( Prairie Sun ) Helianthus Maximiliani, and new to my garden this year, Lemon Queen which has small paler yellow blossoms and grows to 96 inches tall in one season! Heliopsis is another favorite of mine that grows 3-6 feet high… I leave the flower heads on for the entire winter for the birds.
    YOUR sunflowers are delightful and I love the deeper colored ones… Great way to ease into fall color…Thanks as always for a wonderful blog! You’ve done it again!
    xo
    Deb ( beachy farmgirl )

  14. Brenda says:

    I plant sunflowers every year. Although this year I put them in late and they are very little and not much to look at. I will find a new spot next year. Have a great week Shery!

  15. Nancy says:

    I have one row just for sun flowers in my garden in South Dakota!!!!

  16. Sarah says:

    I love sunflowers, but I’ve never grown them. Maybe next year…but I do LOVE the color that’s the first burst right before all the fall colors really kick into high gear. As we slide into reds and oranges and golds and browns, the yellows of late summer are a great last hurrah!

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Pickles & Pie and Ribbons & Rabbits

August is when things come together. It is harvest time … a month of hot days and cooler nights … when corn can be heard growing and when fruit on the ground, on the vine and in trees ripens. Gardens fill canning jars for the pantry and for the county & state fair. Amidst all the other things that make August a very full month, this is Fair time. I’ve got a lot of ground to cover and “fair time” is the first stop on our scenic tour of August.

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  1. Susan Sharkey says:

    Shery,
    You do beautiful work! I so enjoy reading what you write, looking at what you capture through the lens and wearing what you create. You are sooooo talented!
    Susan

  2. Denise Botkin says:

    Bestest part of County Fairs is all the kids and their animals and projects and knowing they will carry on the traditions!

  3. Joan says:

    Shery,
    Thanks again for a fabulous visit!!! It is about the same around here but I hadn’t taken it all in in the loving way you described – great wording. Would love to have your Mother’s beet relish recipe. May God continue to bless you and in turn bless each of us who are lucky to read your lovely words and see your exquisite pictures.
    Joan

  4. Mary Ann says:

    What a beautiful story and beautiful baby!

  5. Michele says:

    Shery,
    I so enjoyed all your photos from the fair and of your beautiful farm. I hope you know how blessed you are to live such an idyllic lifestyle!! I know that there is LOTS of hard work involved but you must be sooooo satisfied and fulfilled at the end of the day

  6. Sarah says:

    My MIL hates ground cherries. She never could develop a taste for them, and she said they are prolific producers,weedlike and impossible to kill once they get established. Of course, I’m only repeating what she told me, I have no idea, but that’s what I’ve heard about them. From her comments I would say that means they are hardy plants with vigorous growth. 🙂 I look forward all week for your post Shery. You do have a way with words and photos.

  7. Debra Brown says:

    I was in 4-H and showed a lamb and as I got older I put a quilt in the Colorado State Fair and got second place. I was on top of the world when I did that. My children where in 4-H and showed their lambs also. Now I get to put my grandchildren in. It is great for you. Thanks

  8. I just want to say how much I enjoyed reading your blog. I love your photos and your photojournalism. Nice writing.

  9. Kim Manning says:

    Thanks, Shery,
    You again brought back many wonderful memories of my fair days. Although I did live for awhile in Weston County too,
    I wasn’t in 4-H until we were in Niobrara county. I received blue ribbons in baking and one year did get a ribbon in Douglas at state fair. You have recaptured the special time during Fair Days exquisitely! The only other thing I remember was it became my first time to see and experience square dancing. What a treat! Thanks again!

  10. Brenda says:

    Hi Shery! Catching up with my blog reading. I got a few ribbons at the fair. A crocheted afghan, handmade dolls, things like that when I was a teenager. It was always one of the most looked forward things to go to in the summer when I was a kid. I still have a niece that shows llamas and has a horse/pony that she shows. And I add to her button collection when I find old buttons that I can bear to part with. Your flowers and hens are pretty, thanks for sharing!

  11. Lori says:

    Enjoy your blog so much. Love looking at the pictures. You have a wonderful gift of being able to write so beautifully.

  12. Doris says:

    Nice to read your blog

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Farmgirl Hochepot

When you’ve got a jumbled mix of things and you toss them in the same pot, you’ve got a “hochepot” – the french word for hodge-podge. A little of everything went into this article, resulting in a heaping helping of hochepot “pie”. Also included is the edible recipe!

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  1. michele says:

    Shery,

    I had a great time on our ride…Pictures are awesome! I always enjoy hanging out with my farmgirls…and I’m sure everyone that reads your blog will feel like they were in the saddle with us:) See you soon my friend.
    Always Michele

  2. Ruth says:

    Shery,

    Your words never fail to create scenes so vivid and real that they are almost palpable! It’s so easy to just join you on your journeys and in your stories. Always a blessing! Always a gift!

    Thanks for sharing and gifting me with a beautiful and pleasurable escape in my hectic day! You are a treasure!

    In deep appreciation,

    Ruth

  3. Joan says:

    Oh I had a wonderful time on the ride and the parade AND the sale – what fun things to see – Yes, I know this fun was all through your wonderful pictures and writing but as always YOU made me feel like I was THERE!!!!
    Thanks,
    Joan

  4. Thanks for taking us with you on the ride! It looked lovely.

  5. Vickie says:

    Shery,
    Your blog is wonderful. It describes the lifestyle that I wish I had. So, living it vicariously through your experiences and photos makes my day.Thank you so much for the time you give to this effort.
    Vickie

  6. Judi McQuaig says:

    Incredible pictures. Great fun to read about it all…thanks for sharing.

  7. Cyndi says:

    Shery,
    I always read your blog and love your photos! Your stories are enchanting and I wish I could go horseback riding also. Your sisterhood is to be cherished as I am sure you know. You are very lucky!
    Smiles, Cyndi

  8. Ann Sampson says:

    Are you in Upton Wyoming?? My husband and I use to go up there yearly with my inlaws and hunt Antelope….hunted on the Barton’s ranch back then, but haven’t been back there for many years since our family grew bigger. We live in eastern Nebraska and I totally LOVE the country and all the miraculous sites!! Thanks for sharing and it’s so cool to see the pictures!! 🙂 btw, would LOVE to learn to make a basket like you showed!! NICE!!

  9. Mary Ann says:

    Shery,

    I, too, have been meaning to start on my badges forEVER. I mean, really, I should at LEAST have the gardening ones, doncha think?

    As always, I love your blog posts. Wish I was there to ride with you and the gals.

    Mary Ann

  10. Cora Jo says:

    Shery, Great photos as always…I’m headed outside in a few minutes to get John out there. After major foot surgery, he is "walker bound" and in the house most of the time. I hope to remedy that. Picnic in the yard is better than nothing. Thanks for sharing Wyoming…still very homesick.

  11. Love the old Ford pickup. One of my dream "to owns". The pictures of the wildflowers are beautiful. Was out at my piece of Wyoming yesterday enjoying the Black Eyed Susans.

  12. Rhonda Sjolund Smith says:

    I love your blog … I was raised a "city girl" in a small town, and have always enjoyed the outdoors! Your blog makes me want to move out into the deep woods and live off the land! Well, maybe not entirely off the land! 😉 But, I would really like to find some acreage and get a few horses to ride, and take time to smell the wildflowers! Thanks for sharing … until I get to do my dream, I will live vicariously through you!

  13. becky groff says:

    hi
    i have a daughter and son-in-law who live in weston, very small community about 60 pop. they go to oshoto community bible church. the nearest town is gillette an hour south of them. wondering if you had heard of it or are you near there? thanks
    they are managing a 700 acre cattle ranch.
    becky

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Chuckling Trees And Busy Bees

Cattle pant in the leafy shade of trees. Horses perspire at work and later stand in the pond fighting flies with the wet brush of their tails. July … steamy afternoons, sticky necks, salty sweat. July … picnics, straw hats, iced tea and sugar snap peas.

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  1. Debbie says:

    Hello Shery!
    Oh how I wish I was laying in that tall green grass, gazing up at the sky! Well, your photos take me " there " every time!
    I guess I’ll have to be happy with that. Your July looks full of wonder and life to the fullest! I too was delighted to see your Collection’s in the magazine. I loved the piece and your can do attitude that came with it.
    July is the month for my Garden… I have been sticking close to home, watching it unfold daily. It’s also the time of year we look forward to our extended stay at the cottage… It’ll be here before we know it!
    As for the small simple pleasures of July…fresh cool watermelon, crisp salads, smoothies and iced coffee, fresh blueberry pie, peach cobbler, and watching our children grow taller and wiser…What’s not to love about July? I can only think of one thing…HUMIDITY… Thank goodness for Air Conditioning…
    Thank you for the trip through your busy July! I loved it!
    Deb

  2. Terry wright says:

    Is it possible? You have such a way with words. You say it all so articulately, but with so little effort. I can smell the thunder clouds rolling in, and the fresh green fern under the trees. Bless you.

  3. Veda says:

    Your photos are beautiful…you are very talented with a camera. You should offer some of your photos as cards or
    something…I would buy some! Also, love your jewelry.

  4. Marcia says:

    Shery~~You should consider entering a photo contest~~Absolutely stunning!!!!

  5. Julie A. Weaver says:

    Dear Shery,

    As I read your article this go-around…my tears fell. I have always wanted to live in the country on a farm. I, too, have a love of horses. But it is much more than that. The way you express and describe your life and the way you live it is just beautiful. Though I may never have that lifestyle as my own…I pledge to work toward a more simplistic way of life and one that has more meaning to it.

    Thank You,

    ClaireSky
    MJF #399

  6. Your blogs are my favorite! I get so excited when I open the mail and there is a new blog from you! Just like receiving a letter from an old friend and catching up on what is new!

  7. Joan says:

    Because of your wonderful blog – I am typing through joyous tears of remembering the Sunday drives and the comforting feeling of your writing. I can always feel myself right there with you, smell the new mown grass, hear the sounds of the machinery and MY LIFE comes flooding back over me. Yes I had that life as a child into early 20’s but then – well a new life began – now I am in between the two lives, near enough to a town that it doesn’t take but all day to do things and close enough to the sweet smell of God’s earth. And I love your jewelry, collecting – I too am eclectic, started when I was a small child finding treasures that no one wanted any more. Shery you are a blessing in my life and by the way I have the latest issue of MJF – as I call it and I bathe in it each evening. Well I had best get going – my home/yard is on the local Garden Club tour tomorrow and there are a few tweeks to be done. Again THANK YOU!!!

  8. Julie says:

    It’s almost as good as driving over for a visit, Shery. Love you artful photos, as always—dripping with honeyed color, succulent and fresh. Refreshed. Thanks for the virtual visit.
    Julie W

  9. Hello again my farmgirl friend…someday we will have to meet. I always so enjoy reading your blog and wishin I was riding through that spectacular country with you… (when was the last time I was on a horse????) I ooh’d and ahh’d over your article in MJ’s magazine…. being a collector since I was young I appreciate that in you and loved how you said "I prefer items that once worked for a living"! I know what you mean. Where DO you find all that stuff. Loved your jewelry too… I think my daughter would probably buy you out if she saw it. Looks just like her. Anyway… take care and hope your farmgirl arts & crafts show goes good. You girls sure are talented back there!

  10. Megan says:

    What a great post!
    Your photos are absolutely gorgeous!
    I live by the ocean, so we don’t get to see such lovely clouds most of the time. We do get to make hay though, but it’s earlier in the season.
    I love your jewelry, especially the color combinations. Is that carnelian and turquoise? Beautiful!
    I’m looking forward to my first cucumber!! It hasn’t gotten warm enough here for tomatoes in the summer for the last two years. (a mile away from the ocean makes for a mean marine layer, but the 68 to 75 degree weather is nice) September and October are a whole different story though!

  11. Grace~katmom says:

    Oh Shery,
    Thanx for letting me mentally slip in the back kitchen door & sit a spell…
    As alway, it was delightful to hear your musings….so much of what you have said has (as it always does) touched my heart…..for that I Thank you…
    Enjoy the remainder of your Summer as I will do so to…. in fcat, I just might grab my Maryjanes Farm magazine, my 2 kitties and go out to my vintage trailer to relax and read my magazine.
    Happy trails….
    >^..^<

  12. Jena Giest says:

    I love your pictures, I can close my eyes and imagine being there in the cool grass and open plains. I loved your piece in the latest Mary Jane on all your collectibles. It was wonderful. Keep it all coming!!
    Jena

  13. Lisa Bascom says:

    Shery, I used to be a Jespersen from the Henry Neil side of the family. Maybe we were related!
    I am happy to see that there are women out there who are doing what they love to do and share it with those of us who would love to be having such a wonderful life. I am on seventeen acres of land by the Mojave River in Victorville, California. This place has been an enigma to me. I do not own the place, my elderly Mother in law does, my husband and I take care of her. We are artists, well I keep the heartbeat going at least. You could look up Earl Bascom and see that he was a true cowboy and sculptor. We are a mess around here, life is interesting though. Maybe one day I will be able to paint a nice picture of what it is through photos like you are doing and be able to write about it. We have had some real problems with lawyers, siblings and such. We pray that we will hold onto it and make something more of it one day. I am very imaginative and can see what can be instead of what is. I do like creating and sharing a good cooked meal with family and friends. We are musicians and jam often. We used to have horses, now we have five grown dogs, two pups we have to sell, a rabbit, beta fish and a crab. My garden is out the front door of Mother Bascoms house, it was the only way I would get it done. Oh, I know that I’ve gone on too long for this to be a comment, anyway, keep up the good work!

  14. Brenda says:

    Hi Shery! It has been a busy summer and the end of July brings a wedding in our back yard. Our youngest daughter is getting married on July 30th. I have been planting, painting and trying to keep everything alive. The Japanese Beetles found my roses up front without me knowing it. Now I am keeping watch on my back arbor, just one more week…..I just read your article a couple of days ago. Got my new issue last week but it got set aside until I had some time. I love the cottage look also and like you it is sometimes hard to bring it to life in a more modern home. We live in a modular home that was brought in and set upon the basement in 3 pieces and then the insides finished off. I would have picked an old farmhouse any day but slowly we are changing what was left by the previous owners and making it ours. Love your collections. Enjoy the rest of July!

  15. Laura Twaddle says:

    Dear Shery,
    I love your pics (what an eye!), your blog (you make me cry!) and your horse (nothing feels better). I would be your neighbor in a heatbeat! Then we could trade piles of collected " stuff"
    I’m looking for information on the picture that I saw on page 80 of the Aug/Sept 11 issue of your living room. The picture of the cabin on the lake sitting above a large, wooded framed mirror is identical to one I remember in my Granmothers house. Can you tell me who the artist is or the title of the picture. I’ve seached every antique/resale/junk store I can find to no avail yet. However, if I had something more concrete information maybe I could seach on-line.
    Thanks for all you do. Please don’t stop writing! ~ Laura

  16. Rene Foust says:

    Your blog is the best!!!! I love to read your poetic words and live vicariously through your beautiful pictures. Thanks so much for sharing!

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Seventh Heaven

Those who live in a northern region understand front to back and top to bottom what the arrival of summer means (plants, animals and humans). Winters on the Great Plains are especially long and severe – it seems like springtime will never come. June is, to us, a breath of Heaven. To get a feel for what I’m talking about, read on and ride with me out where the deer and the antelope play.

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  1. Karin says:

    As always I love your blog. I know life on the ranch isn’t easy, especially these days. But your stories tell me how wonderful it really is. Thanks again for sharing.

    Karin
    Farmgirl #2708

  2. Debbie says:

    Just beautiful Shery! June is a wild month for everyone it seems…so much to catch up on and new things to begin too.
    Thanks for sharing your Seventh Heaven…I think most of us can relate to the long awaited warmer temps, blue skies, wild life, blossoms and a change in the wind…Summer is the PERFECT season to appreciate of all of these.
    Sending love and a farmgirl hug!
    Safe and Happy Independence Day to you and yours!
    Deb ( your blogging sister from the shorelines)!

  3. Stacy says:

    I live in Moscow, ID and recently heard of MaryJane’s farm and so signed up to be in the Sisterhood. I was looking at your blog through her link and read about where you are from and your post about going to the Green Bean in Belle Fourche! My family lives in Belle Fourche and the I have a small jewelry business. One of the places I sell my jewelry is at the Green Bean in Belle Fourche! What a fun and small world. 🙂 I grew up in Upton Wyoming and love your pictures and blog. Can’t wait to keep following you.

  4. Joan says:

    What a wonderful blog!!! I feel like I just spent time in your chest pocket – that way I could see it ALL, smell it ALL, love it ALL. Hang in there on the soap box – seems like ‘those’ who think they know – don’t and even since I was a little girl – still no change in their listening to those who do KNOW. I am so in love with the joy you bring to your blog – makes me feel like I am part of your ‘sisterhood’. Thanks again, God Bless you,
    and
    God Bless America
    Joan

  5. Brenda says:

    Love love this one. Made me feel like I was right there with you and it also made me realize I need to get out and enjoy the things around me more. Your pictures are beautiful and I can’t wait to try the slaw and the cake.Thank you again.

  6. Lisa Price says:

    I wish I lived there, you are so lucky.

  7. martha cook says:

    Shery, I thought I was the only one who dressed like that to go shoo something away! One night, I slipped out of bed to shoo away a herd of elk, which I could hear running by my bedroom window. Afraid that they would reach over the 6-ft. cage around my 4 year old crabapple tree, I went outside in nightgown, rubber boots, jacket, with flashlight — as I neared the elk, I wondered what I would "spook" them with, just "shoo" wasn’t going to work, and I didn’t want to wake my family by yelling aloud. I was chuckling about how silly it was to go out there with no tool of self-defense, but the elk did "shoo" – they must have been very surprised. It is quite private at our rural place, so often I am out dumping the compost bowl, in my p.j.s and robe, some outside shoes, and a big straw hat! Remember Maudie Frickert? Wasn’t that one of Red Skelton’s alter-ego’s? Thanks for a wonderful article!

  8. Jeanne says:

    I get so excited when I see a Ranch Farmgirl Blog has arrived in my inbox. It is like an old friend has shown up to take me away for a little break. Thank you for sharing your slice of heaven each month. I look forward to reading your blog and seeing your pictures. Dolly is so beautiful. All the horses that are pictured are so ultimately groomed. I live in a little town in Colorado and the only place in Wyoming I have seen that is so beautiful was up near Yellowstone and Jackson. I use to travel Interstate 80 frequently and enjoyed the little towns but it is not as beautiful as your neck of the woods. Keep sharing Shery. I can’t wait to try the slaw recipe. Happy Fourth of July.

  9. Snowy says:

    Hey, subtle must be your middle name. Great post!

  10. Rene Foust says:

    I absolutely love all of your pictures! They make me feel like I am there!

  11. Cheri says:

    LOVE you blog as always. Do you ever sit down? Doubt it- but yet you seem to have a great sense of calm and appreciation. Quite a few years ago, I was cleaning for the arrival of my in-laws, and noticed that both barn doors were open. The thoroughbred and 2 ponies were in the FRONT YARD. UGH. I got 2 of them back in, while big ol’ Jake ran off down the road to see what he could find. WELL- I grabbed some grain and a halter/lead rope and jumped on my daughter’s bike. I was dressed in my FAVORITE pink nightshirt MAJOR LOL. Took us about 20 minutes to get a halter on Jake and I had a great NEIGHBORLY conversation about my not so appropriate attire, but just like the country – she said- looks just fine to me.
    I think most horses know how to act with little ones- lol she is a blessed little girl.

  12. cora jo says:

    Shery, I have been without a computer for 2 months…if I thought I could easily live without it, I was wrong…I missed your blog very much. I love your taking me "home" to Wyoming every time. Thank you, my friend. As my granddaughter would say…"you rock". cora jo

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Back In The Saddle Again

After many months of winter and then recovery from knee surgery, “I’m Back In The Saddle Again”…quoting the old cowboy song. Come along for a springtime ride on the Plains.

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  1. Debbie says:

    O.k. Shery! Now you’re just messin’with me! All of this post is wonderful and your photos just spectacular, but here’s the deal from here on out… if you’re gonna post pictures of sagebrush you better be prepared to send me a snip or two in the mail! One thing I didn’t mention in my previous BEACH BLOG post was the fact that one of the gals in my chapter hails from Wyoming (Once upon a time, she stumbled upon a handsome Yankee in her travels too; she’s a transplant like me) and carries sagebrush in her truck. She brought it inside during our meeting to share it with the other gals "who haven’t been to the West." She and my mom and I had a little sagebrush love fest that night in my kitchen! We just kept sniffing it and saying Ahhhhhhh! Nothing beats the smell of the high desert after a gentle rain… dirt and sage and fresh air mingle together creating the most refreshing scent. Hey, we need to make a perfume out of it! Now, on to the horsey pics!!! Lovely… especially ‘yours and his’. Thanks for this inspiring visual of your cherished ranch life and congrats for being " back in the saddle again "…
    farmgirl hugs!
    Deb (your beachy farmgirl blogging sister)

    P.S. I’m not kidding about the sagebrush… I’m emailing you my snail mail address RIGHT NOW! 🙂 🙂 🙂

  2. Debbie says:

    The yellow cabinet: I love your idea of sanding it and aging it a bit with antiquing glaze. There are also waxes available that are tinted that give a similar effect and leave a matte finish which is nice. The door: I like decoupage too and can picture some vintage images (which you love and collect)or some of your photography adhered in a collage fashion, perhaps with some inspiring text incorporated on the door. Red cottage roses would be pretty and romantic! Anything that would inspire you in your new creative space! Have fun! The yellow it is now reminds me of our kitchen at the cottage!
    xo
    Deb (MJFBeachfarmgirl)

  3. Rene Foust says:

    I love it!!! The pictures are so wonderful, they make you feel like you are there. Thanks for sharing.

  4. Brenda says:

    Glad you are all healed and living the life you love in the saddle. I lived in the city for so long that I never think about going out the door before getting dressed for the day. I think I miss a lot sitting inside with my coffee before hitting the blow dryer and dressing for work. Here I live with the woods between us and our neighbors. I think I will take my coffee out with me in the morning and sit on my deck in the morning and read my devotional outside. Your pictures are lovely. Love ‘his and hers’, love it. I live Deb’s idea of decoupage on your cupboard.

  5. Su says:

    I love the pictures! There’s no comparision to the country life.

  6. Terri says:

    I look foward to reading your postings and enjoying the photographs. Both take me to places that I have never experienced and they always enrich my day.

    Thank you.

  7. Terry wright says:

    The fuzzy little things are called "pussy-toes"!!

  8. Rachelle says:

    Love, love, love your photos! Ah I can just feel the cool breeze! What we would give for some chilly mornings here in Texas! Here everything is just about dried up. Gave up on the garden, it is burned to a crisp. No grass for the horses or cattle around here. So it is very refreshing to see your pictures and read your blog. Glad your surgery went well and you’re back in the saddle. :o)

  9. MartiBee says:

    So were you sore after your first day back?

    I want your life. Ranching is soooo much more different here in the State of Florida.

    And, of course there are horses in heaven. That’s why it’s called heaven.

    Keep up the great blogging. I always look forward to your entries.

  10. Joyce Wiley says:

    Ok, so you made me homesick for Daddy’s ranch in Wyoming! I live in Colorado now, but used to get to do all those things on Daddy’s ranch. It is a good life!

  11. bonnie elllis says:

    Shery, You did it again. What a wonderful group of pictures of your life. I can get back in the saddle again after my broken femur. I am SO glad you are able to ride also. You share your love of your life with all of us. Thanks
    Bonnie

  12. What wonderful pictures! We farm here in Nebraska, lots of flatland, (between Grand Island and the big town of Chapman)! I love the wide open spaces and love my horses! I own three gals (mares)…Sherri, Georgia and Mia. Mia is in
    training (she is 3) with me. I wish I had the plains to ride her in instead of "roundpen" time. Anyway, again, your pictures are devine! Thanks for sharing them.

  13. Dirtduchess says:

    Beautiful pictures. Your life is a lot like mine in Texas. Our roundups are a bit smaller than yours. But the work is the same. I have been off my horse for over two years. A mama cow didn’t like my closeness to her new calf. She attacked me twice. I received two splintered bones in my right leg. I am up and walking. But I haven’t had the nerve to get on my horse. I know how happy you are to be back in the saddle.

  14. Brenda says:

    Thank you for sharing part of your days, the pictures were all beautiful and you made me feel like I was right there. Hope you aren’t too sore after getting back in the swing of things; makes me wish I lived near you. I have horses and because of things in life happening I haven’t been able to ride much but maybe someday.

  15. Marsha says:

    I love your blog, it is so uplifting. You certainly know what is important in life.

    I just wanted to give you my two cents about your yellow cabinet. I think it would look beautiful with little drilled holes in it that make a design; like a pie safe. That’s what I have been wanted to do to my bathroom cabinets.

    Double nickels plus one for me soon; and probably knee surgery :-/

    Life is good tho!

  16. Michelle Hoyt says:

    As always Shery, your photos and comments/ wisdom from the saddle and your view of life and loves on the range inspire me and make me feel kind of lazy! You walk the walk and talk the talk gal. Give Dolly a kiss on the muzzle from her ND friend.

  17. bonnie says:

    I like the idea of Chevis and Dolly images on your yellow cabinet…such sweet and touching photos, and you said she is a fav of yours…why not remember her on this chest?
    Herbs and Flowers from your native soil could be added for special touches…have lots of fun with it!

  18. Debbie Strong says:

    It is always such a pleasure to look at your wonderful pictures and read your upbeat words, Shery. Thank you so much for sharing your art.

  19. GeorgeG says:

    I am just now coming back from a horrible case of heat stroke. I even had to go to the hospital, but I knew the family was taking care of the ranch. I am glad I get to go back out there now, so I really understand how great it feels to get back in the saddle again.

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