Ranching Freely

Memorial Day is a day to remember and give thanks to all who have sacrificed themselves for our freedom. No better way of doing that than by taking advantage of that freedom and branding some calves. Jason and Boni Kuhbacher once again hosted our Memorial Day branding. God bless America! 

Buffalo Brothers  

Devlin, FB, John, and Mason.

Four of us came up the night before, including Jared from Gillette. Once arrived, we picketed the horses and set up camp. 

After we got the fire going and let it simmer down, Jared cooked us up some steaks. Good stuff. 

After a couple of hours of shut eye, we were up with the sun. 

First things first. Celebrate Mass. 

Then we rendezvoused at the branding pen to get our roundup orders. 

Cows and calves were scattered all over. 

Jared and Chief really got riding figured out. 

We held our bunch up until the rest were gathered. 

Then made the mad dash to the corrals. 

Got 'em. 

After separating the cows, we stoped for an early morning break. Diane made monster cookies. A touch of salt on the top really brought the flavors alive. 

Then we got to work. 

Plenty of green wrestlers this year. By the time it was said and done though, it was old hat to all. 

Just ranchin.

Just ropin. 

After the first bunch, we packed up and headed to the next pasture. 

By this time the sun came out and cleared the clouds. Still a nice cool day for working cattle. 

Devlin and Chief pared up and did some slick horn roping. Looking good.

After 300 head, it was time to dine. 

Freedom doesn't come free. However, if you don't use it, you'll loose it. If we don't get out and enjoy life, we can loose an appreciation of what so many have fought for. I love having the freedom to run cows, something a lot of places don't have. It is a nice idea, but a better reality. Nothing better than sharing that gift with others. Jason and Boni are great about letting us city folks come out and enjoy their ranch. Thanks be to God for all who have, and who continue to sacrifice themselves to ensure our freedom. The ranching world is appreciative.