Success is Reason Enough

Breeding at 7-UP

2012-01-25T19:02:00.010-06:00

Some people get excited over a new car, a new boat, or a new snowmobile.

Us....we get excited over new cattle equipment. :D

This summer, Clint & RJ bought a new breeding box and have been using it for breeding projects this winter.

It's been a great investment. It's handy, quiet and efficient.

Cattle walk right in, stand, and when the job is done, they walk right on out.

Rarely is there any banging, thrashing or kicking from the cows.

Low Stress = High Conception

It's design fits three people and all of the {stuff} you need to breed cows.

And it keeps the wind out.

That's pretty important when you live in Eastern Oregon! :D

This week, we've spent the past two mornings in the box at Terry & Debby Anderson's 7-UP Ranch helping them time breed their cows.

Kevin Hughes helped RJ and Clint breed, since there were so many to do, and Jesse and I pulled the semen. Terry & Debby had also put together a great crew that brought the cattle to us.

And really, whether you're breeding cows, or completing some other task....

When you're surrounded by great people,
working efficiently towards a common goal,
what more can you ask for?

Success is Reason Enough.

Thankful, even in the trying moments.

2012-01-23T16:48:00.004-06:00

“Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.” - Dale Carnegie

While we never lost hope, I'd be lying if I didn't say we had some trying moments over the past few days.

Wednesday night, we had a nasty ice storm hit us and it finally (FINALLY!) left our area Saturday when "The Great Thaw" began.

The ice and all that it covered looked pretty....but only if you didn't have to be out in it.

I was able to close our office for two days so that my employees didn't have to risk traveling on the ice. But unfortunately, we can't tell the cows that there's {Adverse Weather} conditions, and ask them to stay home and carry on.

Rather - the weather just makes things that much more difficult. Especially if you're a heifer about to have her first calf. Not shoes I'd want to be in.

So we worked to make their lives a little more comfortable...even if it meant our lives were a bit more uncomfortable.

I just kept thinking to myself...

It could be worse.

And to focus on the positive, I just kept telling myself -

I'm thankful for:

- A warm calving barn. So warm, when you opened it's garage doors to the outside frozen world, steam came rolling out.

- Small bales of barley straw light enough for me to lift and jostle by myself.

- Enough big bales of straw to bed down new baby calves. I know we slept better knowing they had a warm, dry place to lay.

- Chains. Lots and lots of chains. On the 1960's feed truck, on the pickups, on the 4-wheelers, on the feedlot mixer trucks, and on our feet.

- Jack, who checked heifers at night so we could get a few hours of sleep, pitched in to feed extra groups, showed up when we needed an extra body, and who picked Clint up a pair of stretchable ice picks that went over his shoes.

- Tumbleweeds. I've never been more thankful for those tumbleweeds, who even when covered in ice, were the only thing it seemed like in the fields that provided enough traction to walk on.

- A washer and dryer that kept turning out clean, dry clothing.

- A calf cart that slid easily over the ice and brought cold, wet new babies and their mama's to warmth inside the barns walls.

- Heifers who were calm enough to come into the barn with just a bit of coaxing.

- Extra calm heifers who didn't mind doubling up with another pair when we ran out of stalls. In a barn that's supposed to hold 13 pairs, on the worst night we were able to safely nestle 24 pairs out of the weather.

- Water troughs that didn't freeze. (Well that's not really true - some did freeze - but not so heavily that they weren't easy to chop through, or run a hose to.)

- Friends who called or stopped by to see how we were doing.

So while I only captured one picture, the memories, lessons and continued love for my husband after an unexpected four day weekend live on.

But I'm glad the ice didn't.

Here's to clear skies, healthy calves, and more days that look like this:

PS - For those of us who know what it means when someone says "You really know you love your spouse when you can work cattle for an entire day, and still love them at the end of it", be sure to check out today's Beef Daily blog!

Preparing for the Winter Olympics.

2012-01-20T15:58:00.005-06:00

Ice skating anyone?

We had freezing rain move in Wednesday night and since then, it's left a few inches of ice build up in it's wake.

So much ice, that even areas that aren't flat - like the pastures - are like skating rinks too.

Just with hills.

Too bad the cows and calves here don't know how to lace up skates. ;)

With heifers calving, this weather has been a bit tough on them. Thankfully there's a nice calving barn that we've been able to get new babies into - the calf cart works great on the ice....it just slides along behind the Rhino - and we've been able to get them warmed up before they head out to practice for the Winter Olympics!

Stay safe and warm friends!

And on two feet. Don't be like me and fall on the ice.

I now just take to crawling when I have to go a long distance....that or scooting on my rear.

But you won't find me posting any pictures of that!
*grin*

Calving out of their tails.

2012-01-18T12:16:00.005-06:00

When you have little boys that are spending the day with you,

and you live on a ranch that also has a feedlot,

with trucks, and tractors, and cows that are calving out of their tails ('wink'),

it's easy to keep them entertained.

We had a great Friday with Mason and Mack.

We made time to watch a few silage trucks get dumped, delivered cupcakes to everyone working that day, and then wrapped up the day by helping Clint go around and check heifers that were calving -

After which we were told that Mack went home to his parents

- who also have cattle -

and asked

"Daddy, why don't we have cows that have babies out of their tails like Clint?"

Out of the mouth of babes. Priceless. :)

Patience

2012-01-10T18:27:00.004-06:00

Patience.

I had told Lindsay last weekend on the phone that I needed to pray for patience.

Clint started calving heifers last week, and while it happens every year, I had somehow forgotten how hard the start of a calving season can be.

Normal every day duties like going to work, making meals, doing laundry and cleaning house still have to get done. I also have a husband who's busting his tail to make sure that his normal work (feeding, doctoring calves, etc.) gets done along with the added responsibility of calving.

And right now - he's calving heifers.

If you haven't been around cattle much, I'll tell you this:

Heifers calving for the first time can be a little unpredictable.

They usually need a bit (or a lot) of extra care.

Vets sometimes have to be called.

Calves often have to be pulled, or grafted and cared for.

And our sleep patterns - well they become more like a newborn parents.

There are no 8 to 5 hours when it comes to ranching.

(Which makes me very thankful that I get to go to my job and have a schedule.)

But I'll just tell you this -

It's all worth it.

And I'll tell you another thing - this man is worth it. He loves his job, and cares deeply about doing it well.

And I'll help him however I can - even if it's just riding along with him to open gates during his midnight checks.

........

So while I may not have a {word} for 2012;

I do have one for January.

Patience.

Patience to know that I might not get everything done.

But the important things will get done.

And the rest....well, hopefully I'll have tomorrow for those.

Here's to patience.

Who knows - it might just be my word for February......March too.

But the cows should be done calving by April, so I'll have a new word by then.

Which is good....patience has never been my thing.

Here goes nothing.

Four things.

2012-01-05T17:06:00.000-06:00

Hello 2012. You've been a great year so far.

So excellent in fact that you've left me little time to put together composed thoughts. Not that I'm complaining....just saying.

Instead of not posting anything this week....for lack of words that comprehend with one another, or time, or energy....I thought I'd just share four things I'm loving right now in this first week of 2012.

I'm hoping the next week of 2012 brings my thoughts back together!

This punch.
I've adapted this recipe to use limeade, but this is a great punch to serve and can be a great mixer for mixed drinks too! PS - It's yummy. You'll be glad you made it.

This makeup.
I don't think of myself as high maintenance but I guess I do like to look nice when I walk out the door. And in October 2006 (yes, I specifically remember the month...it's that life changing) my friend Becky introduced my to Bare Minerals. And my skin has sung songs of Hallelujah ever since. The makeup while a little on the expensive side at first, lasts FOREVER and my skin kinda loves it. I'd never bought the eye or foundation primer before this week....but when I found it on the Last Chance site I took the plunge and can I just tell you how AMAZING it is! Seriously. Loving this stuff.

This blog post.
Because if you've started 2012 with a resolution to eat healthier, I can imagine you're feeling the same way Melanie is. Read to the very end. You'll be thankful for the laugh you get. :)

This weather.
Seriously - while in the back of my head I know if it sticks around we'll have some serious problems this spring - I've still been enjoying it. And with the first calf of 2012 on the ground as of yesterday, I think the heifers calving will be enjoying it too! (Plus, it makes it a lot easier to get out of bed at midnight to check heifers, or help feed in the mornings when it's 40 degrees outside!)

Worthy for the New Year.

2011-12-31T08:57:00.001-06:00

2011 was quite the year for us.

After trying to make all of the pieces fall into the right places in Nebraska, and not having it work out, we decided the best place for us was back in Oregon. So we packed up, moved back across the country, started new jobs, moved into a new house, and settled back in to a routine.

Oh - and we had our 1st anniversary....which looked a lot like a wedding. ;)

.................

Lots of other great things happened in 2011 too:

In January we helped with National Western judging contest in Denver and went on the Sandhills Cattlemen's Tour .

February brought the Nebraska Cattlemen's Classic judging contest and a trip back to Oregon to celebrate Beau & Allison's wedding .

In March, Clint judged the Mid Nebraska Spring Show (with the help of his nephew Jace), and we began the moving process.

April was a 50/50 month. Clint headed back to Oregon, while I stayed a few weeks to finish up at work and celebrate Mel's birthday before I headed West. We made it to a few brandings too.

May took us to Madras, and I was spoiled by a beautiful wedding shower.

June was a big month - the 102nd PI show and a small anniversary party. ;)

In July we celebrated the 4th in Ukiah with the Murdock & Jensen families and made a trip to Nebraska to
celebrate our wedding with family & friends there.

Clint put up hay in August, wheat harvest wrapped up, and we made a few trips to Joseph.

In September, we made it through the 101st Pendleton Round Up, and Clint volunteered in the Happy Canyon Quad Drille event.

We carved pumpkins in October, and spent time with my dad.

I celebrated my first annual 29th birthday in November, we made it to an OSU football game, and worked cows.

December brought what it always brings....the UCCA ball and breeding cows.

.................

So what will 2012 bring?

.................

We received the words below in a Christmas card from good friends, and I just thought they summed up what is {worthwhile} in striving for in the new year.

.................

We rather think that God is pleased when we
have lived well, laughed often, and loved much.

When we have gained the respect of intelligent men and women,
and the love of children.

When we never lack appreciation for the
Earth's beauty or fail to express it.

When we follow our dreams and
pursue excellence in each task.

When we bring out the best in others and
give only the best of ourselves.

Let's resolve now to seek His help to make
2012 our most wonderful yet.
.................

Happy New Year!

Modeling the Double M.

2011-12-30T16:14:00.000-06:00

Last Friday, the ranch Clint works for had a Christmas party for everyone who works on the ranch and in the feedlot.

It was a fun, fun, evening filled with great food, lots of visiting, card playing and gifts.

One thing everyone walked away with that evening was a new Double M hat.

Oh, you want to see what they look like?

Here - Clint & Lindsay will model them for you.....

Christmas Wrap Up

2011-12-30T07:43:00.003-06:00

Like all good things, our Christmas was wrapped up with love, family, fun and good times.

My dad came over Friday and spent the weekend with us.

As is normal in our world, the cows still had to be fed....holiday or no holiday.

After the cows were fed, and Lindsay had arrived, we got down to business....

and took a nap!

And it was a great nap, let me tell you.

But after the nap, we really got down to business and started opening presents.

Saturday afternoon my mom and brother came over, and we repeated the present opening again.

Mom was sent on a scanvenger hunt for her present...

Which led us to finding some more 'hidden' presents in Lindsay's trunk...

After presents, we went and saw the movie 'War Horse' (excellent!) and wrapped up the weekend with another Christmas dinner.

PS - We had steak. Of course. :)

........

I hope all of your Christmas memories were wrapped in love!

Christmas came early.

2011-12-27T18:40:00.001-06:00

For the dogs here at the ranch, Christmas came a few days early.

Normally when there's work to be done at the chutes,
the dogs stay in a pickup so the cows don't get agitated.

But last week, the dogs got to stay out and play -
and for the most part, they stayed out of the way.

And then....Christmas came early.

Or rather, lunch was served, and since we were eating outside by the chutes, the dogs had a feast too.

Because how can you resist puppy dog eyes who just want a little piece of your bread?

Or a puppy who just wants to be held?

(Yes, Sarge is really a puppy....just a very LARGE puppy!)

Merry Christmas.

2011-12-25T08:03:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas friends!

I hope your holiday is overflowing with family, friends, comfort, happiness and wellbeing.

A visit from Doc.

2011-12-23T13:05:00.006-06:00

We got an early Christmas present yesterday;
a visit with Doc, and a great day of transferring embroys.

We're blessed!

Clint's worked with Doc (Dr. Greg Garcia - Precision Embryonics) since 2003, when they started putting embryos in cows at the OSU ranch in Corvallis, and now we still get to work with him when he comes to put embryos in cows at Double M.

He's a great friend, and we deeply respect him and his expansive knowledge base.

It's not uncommon for him and Clint to be going over heifer protocals or breeding questions at 9 or 10 pm at night.

So we were excited to get a chance to catch up with him when he and Victor (his technician) were at the ranch yesterday putting in embryos.

After the embryos were placed in the first group of cows, the calves were returned to their momma's, and we'd all had a chance to eat a wonderful lunch (thanks again Patsy!) we started all over again with the second round of cows.

Except, my camera's battery died and we were using all of the electrical outlets to plug heaters into, so there aren't any pictures of the afternoon.

I don't think too many of the guys were dissapointed with that news! ;)

Hello single digits.

2011-12-22T22:20:00.005-06:00

It was cold here today,

but we had a great day of

putting embryos into recipient cows.

I'll post more pictures tomorrow, but tonight is the first night we haven't had to heat detect or breed cows in awhile.

So we're headed to bed.

Early.

Hooray!

And that is a GREAT way to end what was a great day.

The week before Christmas.

2011-12-21T15:58:00.007-06:00

'Twas the week before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

.......

Do you want to know why?

Because all of these {creatures} were at the corrals breeding cows.

Isn't that what everyone does the week before Christmas?

Or is it just us? ;)

At least we've had nice weather!

2011 Breeding Season at LGW Ranch - Hermiston, Oregon

RJ, Jess, Clint & Lon

Retirement.

2011-12-19T17:08:00.000-06:00

Lindsay has been joking that since Austin is getting older, she needs to come {retire} at her house.

So when she stopped by last night to pick up some things on her way home, she thought maybe she should take Austin along too!

Austin looks really excited to be headed to the {retirement home}, huh?

No worries - she stayed with us! :)

Having a Ball.

2011-12-15T18:09:00.000-06:00

People in agriculture like things they can count on.

Because there's a lot they can't.

I mean - how often does a day in the life of a farmer or rancher go exactly as planned?

Not too many.

Water troughs freeze.
Calves are born backwards.
Cows break down fences.
Vets are called at midnight.
Market prices fluctuate.

These are unpredictable, but very {normal} things for those of us who live this life.

So when a fun event comes along that we can all count on going well

- like the Umatilla Cattlemen's Ball -

there's usually a pretty good turnout.

And where there's a gathering of great people, over a great meal, and with great entertainment....

Well, that's a ball!

2011 Umatilla Cattlemen's Ball - Pendleton, Oregon

The post that will be a random list.

2011-12-12T16:56:00.000-06:00

1. It's Monday - and things are well. But when I finally woke up this morning after pressing the snooze button five times, all I could think about was {maybe} calling in sick and then going back to bed.

I didn't. But I'm looking forward to sleeping tonight!

2. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas here.

We've had freezing fog for the past week, so while it hasn't {snowed}, it has been a white wonderland.

3. We had a very full weekend. Breeding cows, heat detecting, the UCCA dinner, baking holiday treats with L1 and L2, more breeding, giving shots, and normal housework. But we're thankful for the life we get to lead. It's a good one!

4. Lime green house paint makes for very inexpensive tail chalk. And it goes on fast. Thanks Jess for helping a friend out!

5. Freezing tempeartures bring freezing pipes. And that can be frustrating when you're supposed to have frost free spouts. Oh well - we were thankful there were pastures with ditches nearby to turn the cows out to.

6. Horses picture well in the fog. At least, I think so.

7. Bunco is tonight. And I'm looking forward to a very fun evening with 12 very fun women!

Why I judged livestock.

2011-12-08T19:00:00.007-06:00

One afternoon, early in the fall term of my sophomore year of college, I walked into Clint's office to ask him if I could reschedule a midterm he had planned since I was going to be in Louisville working at the National FFA Convention.

I remember him telling me I could take the midterm earlier....and what was I doing on Monday and Wednesday afternoons?

I told him I wasn't doing anything - why?

He said he thought I should join the livestock judging team.

And I distinctly remember thinking in my head, "This guy doesn't know what he's talking about. I mean - I've never judged a class of livestock in my life. Like...ever. Sure, I've judged dairy cattle and had some success, but that's the complete opposite of judging livestock."

And then I told him that...in about as many words.

He said he could teach me to evaluate the livestock....because what he needed was someone who could {talk}.

Boy did he ever get what he asked for! ;)

And that's how I became a member of the 2004 OSU Livestock Judging Team.

And friends, I have never experienced as much failure in life as I did in that year.

I mean - I was bad. Really bad. Especially in the beginning.

I'm pretty sure I dropped 192 points at the Arizona National...and that was just on placings.

We'd turn in cards during a workout, and I knew from Clint's face when he read them that he was disappointed.

And the flood would start....Oh the crying!

And I NEVER cried before I started judging...in fact, my state officer team used to always joke that I lacked tear ducts, because I never cried...ever!

Yup - I was that bad.

Let's just say there's a reason I've never been asked to judge a livestock show.

But I worked at it....and grew.

I never won a contest....but I learned A LOT that year.

And not just how to evaluate livestock - because judging livestock teaches a person more than that.

It teaches you to be analytical.
How to be descriptive.
To be competitive and keen.
When and how to place emphasis on particular items.
How to budget time and balance commitments.
How to commit to something.

And it taught me how to comfortably seat 13 people in a 12 passenger van using a lawn chair as the 13th seat....but that's a story for another day.

For me - livestock judging taught me to fail, and keep trying. It was a good lesson for me to learn at that point in my life. Because I think if I hadn't have been so committed...I would have quit. And it's good for a person to not be {perfect} at something, but still enjoy it.

So when Nick Nelson, the judging coach at Blue Mountain Community College here in Pendleton, asked if he could bring the team out to the ranch to workout, we were excited to help them sort through some heifers.

For some, they're still getting their 'judging legs' underneath them....and I could totally relate.

But I believe that what they're doing is valuable....life changing....and important.

They're headed to the National Western in Denver next month, and we wish the team continued growth....because success is reason enough.

'Tis the season.

2011-12-07T16:30:00.000-06:00

To be jolly.

To be thankful.

To decorate.

To be graceful.

To give to others.

To be grateful.

I had some {lovely} free time last weekend to put up Christmas decorations, and had such a great time.

Except I can't find our darn star....but I know it's in a box somewhere!

Now if I can just get our Christmas cards addressed, we'll be in business!

......

Enjoy this time of year everyone -

It's not about how much money we spend,
or what presents we get or give,
or is our house decorated the 'right' way,
or do I have the right outfit on for the Christmas party?!?

Although it's so easy to get caught up in all of it!

With everything that goes on during this time of year, it's important to take a breath, and remember the real reason for the season.

P.S. - If you need a daily reminder, (I know I do) and haven't been reading over here lately, you should!

Is there any other way?

2011-12-03T21:56:00.000-06:00

We're in a bit of a transition period right now.

The spring calves are weaned, processed and in the feedlot, and all of the fall calves are on the ground.

The grass has about wrapped up it's contribution to 2011, and the feed trucks head both to the pastures, as well as the feedlots.

While Clint's had a bit of time to {breathe}, there's still a lot to get done before spring calving starts.

.......

Lindsay and I were talking on the phone yesterday about how both of our husbands could use some more sleep right now.

The thing is, they're probably not going to get it.

And actually, it's just going to get worse.

Right now they're at least getting to sleep through the night.

For us this month will be filled with breeding fall cows, setting up recip cows and transferring embryos at the end of the month.

And in a couple of weeks spring calving will start....

and the sleep will stop.

.......

Some people don't get why they do it.

Or why ranching families put up with it.

We don't get to {take the day off } for holidays.

Ranchers are still up on Thanksgiving & Christmas morning making sure the livestock are fed before they are.

They do it because they love it.

And the families around them support them as they do it because it's the right thing to do.

And for me - because I love it too.

We get to live a great lifestyle because of it.

We get to spend our days with great people.

I mean - do you know better people than those involved in ag?

Saturday is just another day around here.

Clint's up and at work at 6 am (along with the rest of the guys) and they all work until noon.

This Saturday, a big group of spring calving cows needed to be moved to the pasture they'll calve in.

So Clint got to it - setting gates, directing feed trucks, checking fence and gathering cows.

Another day.

Another project done.

But there's a calendar sitting on our kitchen table filled with tasks to be done.

And I don't think we'd have it any other way.

A well spent Saturday.

2011-11-30T12:27:00.001-06:00

We spent Saturday morning moving a set of Double M cows, and rolling up hot wire fence off of a circle.

After meeting RJ at the house, we grabbed a quick lunch and headed to the Murdock's.

After reading the one-liner's below, can you guess how we spent Saturday afternoon?

.....

I ran out of horse today.

Send the dogs.

I don't think you have enough rocks.

She's bred!

FW?

She's bred - early!

Just work her.

She's bred for Echo.

Do you need a flashlight to read that eartag?

She needs a double check.

.....

Pregging cows....

a necessary item to check off the list each Fall for most ranching families.

And at the end of the day, when your {open} pen only has a few stragglers -

Well that's something to be thankful for.

I was thankful for a Saturday filled with good people....

Funny conversations....

And lots of pregnant cows.

Receiving with thanksgiving.

2011-11-28T18:28:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving the holiday may be over....

but the thanksgiving continues here....

1109. Warm, windy mornings that carried me to work.

1110. A flowering Christmas cactus.

1111. A Thanksgiving feast shared with friends and family.

1112. Gathering around tables playing games. Loved playing the new to me game of "Headbands".

1113. Black Friday shopping with Anna, Jenny, Lindsay & Hannah.

1114. Spending time with Clint, my sister and my dad.

1115. A phone call to say Happy Thanksgiving to my mom and brother.

1116. An event free day at work on Friday.

1117. Decorating for a retirement on the sly at our office.

1118. Lots of pregnant cows for the Murdock's.

1119. Walking into a kitchen and pantry that had everything!

1120. Sleeping in.

1121. Lunch at the sale barn.

1122. A nice trip to Tri-Cities with Clint.

1123. Christmas wreaths decorated on the cheap!

1124. Two fabulous friends who drove all the way from Albany (after driving from Palm Springs) to deliver Clint & I a BEAUTIFUL Christmas tree. Thank you again Dave & Betsy!

1125. A 9:13 pm Christmas tree drop off at Space Age.

1126. A small, leather bound book pressed into my hand before she headed back to Albany.

Today's devotion from that book:

"...The best response to this glorious gift is a life steeped in thankfulness. Every time you thank Me, you acknowledge that I am your Lord and Provider. This is the proper stance for a child of God: receiving with thanksgiving. Bring Me the sacrifice of gratitude, and watch to see how much I bless you."

- Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

The Outtakes.

2011-11-25T16:34:00.001-06:00

I don't think words are needed for these.

:)

Happy Friday!

Thankful for him.

2011-11-24T08:24:00.000-06:00

Today on Thanksgiving, I'm thankful for much.

Good health.
Good family.
Good jobs.
Good friends.

But most of all - I'm thankful for him.

I love you Clint -

Forever & ever, and no matter what.

Thank you for being the best husband & friend I could ask for.

Just because....The Family

2011-11-23T15:59:00.005-06:00

And the wedding pictures continue! :)

"The love of a family is one of life's greatest blessings."

Just because.

2011-11-22T19:49:00.004-06:00

I know our wedding was back in June, but Shannon delivered our final pictures this week and I've so been enjoying looking back on that day.

Because when you have the friends & family we have....

Well, there's a lot to be thankful for.

......

So I'll be posting some of my favorites here this week.

Just because.

......

The Wedding Party

- Happy Tuesday Friends -

We have some of the best! :)

Greatness....found.

2011-11-21T18:22:00.005-06:00

Well, a lot of great things happened last week.

A lot of great things happen to each of us...every week. It's just up to us to find them and give thanks for them.

1091. I made it through my first week of reduced Diet Pepsi intake with minimal Advil.

I know some of you are shaking your head - but DP has been my one vice in life. However I'm kind of getting the hang of only having one in the morning.

1092. I had my 1st annual 29th birthday.

That's right - I'll be having my 2nd annual next year. Who needs 30 when they can be 29 forever? ;)

1093. We enjoyed a wonderful {fancy} steak dinner with the Murdock family. Complete with paper airplanes and door prizes.

And the blessings kept raining down....even if it was snowing here. :)

1094. Pizza and competitive games of Sequence.

1095. Watching the kids have a blast in the hot tub. Thanks Anna for planning Friday night!

1096. 4 happy kiddos.

1097. Throwing peanut shells on the floor at Texas Roadhouse.

1098. A wonderful birthday dinner with Clint, Lindsay, Jamey, Anna & Terry.

1099. Debating with Terry on the drive home....we usually never agree, but it never turns into an argument.

1100. Flowers from L1, L2 and Jamey. (And they even coordinated!)

1101. Skiffs of snow in the hills.

1102. Helping friends haul cows to cornstalks.

1103. Beautiful views.

1104. Birthday cards and wishes.

1105. Weighing the Charolais calves, and seeing good gains.

1106. A text from Shannon saying our CD of final wedding pictures was in Hermiston.

1107. Breakfast burritos from Western Express.

1108. An evening of rest.

Oh Sweet Diet Pepsi.

2011-11-17T18:04:00.006-06:00

I went and saw my doctor last week, and when the blood pressure cuff came off, she wasn't really thrilled with the number.

I told her I haven't ever had a problem with my blood pressure in the past, (and I go to the doctor pretty regularly, so it wasn't like I was exagerating), so then she asked;

"How much stress do you have in your life?"

Me talking to myself in my head - Ummm, a crapload. But how do you explain that to someone who has no idea what you do, and when you say you sit at a desk, she'd think you were lying?

So I said - "Kind of a lot."

Then the Dr. asked, "How much caffeine do you drink?"

Me - "Well, I try to stay under a 6-pack of Diet Pepsi a day."

Let's just say she wasn't real thrilled with that answer.

So along with reducing my Diet Pepsi intake (oh sweet Diet Pepsi....how I longed for you this week!), I'm also trying to reduce how much stress I put on myself at work.

While this week (and month) probably hasn't been the best one for working on this, a girl's gotta start someplace.

So tonight
- as I head into the weekend (so thankful for a 4 day week!) -
I'm going to leave my stress at the door.

I'm going to have a great time at Bunco tonight.
I'm going to enjoy spending time with my husband.
I'm going to visit with friends.
And I'm going to enjoy myself.

And next week, when I get back, I'm going to keep reminding myself to keep calm.

Marathon shoes....not sprinting shoes.

Here's to a less stressful week next week....for all of us.

Because to be honest - I think reducing my stress level will be easier than reducing my caffeine consumption. ;)

Ready to ride.

2011-11-14T19:17:00.005-06:00

Usually when Clint asks me if I want to ride, I decline.

(My track record with horses isn't exactly the greatest.)

So I think Clint was pretty happy when Mason came to our house this weekend with spurs in hand, ready to ride.

Mack was a good sport too....

But only as long as Mason was in the saddle with him.

A glove puppet helped bring out a smile though...

Thanks Ian & Lindsay for letting the boys stay with us this weekend!

To have more than I need for.

2011-11-09T17:03:00.002-06:00

I woke up this morning and went into the kitchen to cut up apples and onions to pile over a pork roast in my slow cooker.

I showered, dressed, put on makeup, and kissed my husband good bye.

I got in my new car, turned on my seat heaters and sipped my iced coffee as I pulled out onto the freeway and began to read my normal blogs on my drive to work.

And as I pulled over the top of Reith hill I read this post and this post.

And when I pulled into our parking lot 11 minutes early, I had tears welling up in my eyes.

My co-workers who pulled in beside me probably though I was having a melt down - but I had to keep reading.

About pig farmers, and fashion experts, and children who live & thrive with less than I could.

.......

This morning -

I woke up in a warm house.
Covered in blankets.
Surrounded by electricity.
We had clean running water.
I stepped into a warm shower.
Got ready with a hair dryer, curling iron and name brand makeup.
I had a closet full of clothes to choose an outfit from.
New boots to pull on over clean socks.
A refrigerator that held a bounty of food.
A husband who said he loved me as he headed to a good job.

More than I need for.

.......

And as I sat in our parking lot and finished reading Ann's words, I realized once again how very lucky I am.

How lucky we all are.

How all of the 'wants' we have - I want more money, I want more clothes, I want a newer car, I want to eat dinner out, I want... I want... I want...

- well, they're just that.

Wants.

Because what we need - we have.

We really do...and we have so much more.

.......

“Gratitude is born in the heart. And it leads you to action.”

.......

And while today we might not be able to save the world, or sponsor a child, we can all live a life of gratitude for the {things} we have.

Starting now.

We can be thankful, express thankfulness, and live thankfully.

Because I'd bet that each of us would say that we have more than we need for.

.......

Happy Wednesday friends - I'm thankful for each of you.

Homecoming at Corvallis.

2011-11-07T18:50:00.003-06:00

Stanford vs. Oregon State

We were prepared for an ugly game. (Stanford was ranked #3.)

The Beaver's didn't win....but it wasn't a shut out either.

In fact - the 2nd half was worth coming back for.

(And we did....but not before we tailgated at the Colson/Jones tailgater first!)

We had a GREAT weekend in Corvallis.

A big thank you to my sister for organizing the group tickets, to TJ & Sam for hosting us at their house, and to Jamey for coming along with us.

"A joyful & pleasant thing it is to be thankful!" ~ Book of Common Prayer

1063.Dressing up for Halloween at the office.
1064.The cutest trick-or-treaters ever visiting our house!
1065. 50% off Halloween candy.
1066. Baked acorn squash.
1067. A four day work week.
1068. Homemade muffins & cookies for the office.
1069. Getting to catch up with my peers at the DD meeting.
1070. "Does it smell like permanent solution in here?" ;)
1071. A waited for email for Virginia.
1072. A new fuel filter.
1073. Truck stop service centers that are open 24 hours a day.
1074. "Homemade" cinnamon rolls made by Sam.
1075. A morning spent sleeping in, catching up and visiting.
1076. Tailgating, beer margarita's and red beer!
1077. A decent game....when we thought we'd be humiliated.
1078. An early birthday present from Lindsay.
1079. Dinner with TJ & Sam, Lindsay & Jamey and the Hinton family.
1080. An extra hour of sleep.
1081. Getting to see Pete, and meet Clint (the bull calf).
1082. Hearing 'Vidalia' called across the field by a little boy who loves her.
1083. Looking through cattle and loading up a new (to us) pickup truck.
1084. Safe travels back to Hermiston.
1085. Three dogs who were well taken care of by the Francis family over the weekend.
1086. Driving to work in the daylight.
1087. Monday matchmaking and a phone call from Cliff.
1088. Boxes sorted & back rooms organized.
1089. Making it to Hamley's semi annual sale at lunch.
1090. Retail therapy & a new pair of black boots.

Cow vs. Cow Dog

2011-11-04T07:41:00.005-05:00

The other morning, Clint was moving heifers into a new pasture and between him opening the gate, and me shutting another gate, a pickup door got left open.

Our puppy Leo found this a prime opportunity to get out and stretch his legs.

Because, you know he'd been in the pickup for a whole 5 minutes.

So as the group of heifers came through the gate into the new pasture, they bunched up and started to look around.

And when they turned and spied our little Leo....

It was cow vs. cow dog.

And I think Leo forgot that he was the cow dog!

Guess who was ready to be back in the pickup?

:)

Give Clint a camera...

2011-11-03T06:40:00.000-05:00

And you never know what you'll get!

Although I really kind of like the 1st picture...

What....

2011-11-02T06:38:00.000-05:00

is everyone laughing at?

;)

Halloween at FSA

2011-11-01T06:34:00.000-05:00

When you come into the Umatilla County FSA office on Halloween,

You might get your fortune told....
You might be shipwrecked with a pirate...
You might be attacked by a spider...
You might have to confront the deviled egg...
You might have to watch a plumber work...
You might have your path crossed by a black cat...
You might get to see a rodeo clown and her two trick dogs perform...

Or you might just get to enjoy a fun day filled with Halloween tricks and treats!

Pumpkin Carving!

2011-10-31T16:57:00.008-05:00

When it comes to carving pumpkins, we don't mess around....

And when it comes to hosting pumpkin carving parties, the
Murdock's don't mess around either!

Happy Halloween!

I hope you have a spooktacular day! :)

Fall at Double M.

2011-10-28T12:47:00.001-05:00

New baby calves hitting the ground.

Spring calves getting their first meal from a bunk at the feedlot.

Wide open views of the meadows and mountains.

Cool mornings and even crisper evenings felt as we head to the pastures to check pairs.

Leaves changing colors right along with the grass.

Mornings spent getting ready for work while listening to freshly weaned calves bawl across the freeway as the feed truck heads their way.

They're all signs of fall here at the ranch my husband works for.

And while a lot of work comes along with the fall months for him, I just feel blessed that we get to live the life we do....and enjoy the experiences that come along with it.

Winner winner, orange spiced harvest dinner.

2011-10-25T18:36:00.004-05:00

Congratulations Lindsay!

Your comment "cows coming home :)" wins you the Orange Spiced Harvest Scensty bar!

Now for my secret....
when I first had random.org generate a number....
it generated the number 2.

And that was a comment I had left responding to Sarah.

So I had it generate another number.
Because unlike Bunco, the hostess doesn't get to win her own prize.
(But all bets are off this Thursday when I host Bunco at my house!)

There - I'm glad I got that off my chest!

......

By the way, one of the gals I work with is placing a Scentsy order this week. Sarah's recommended Autumn Sunset, but I'm going to buy 3 bars so I get a better price - because I'm cheap like that.

So - any other recommendations?

And thanks to everyone who commented!
- Here's to a great Fall 2011 -

A chance to change.

2011-10-23T17:25:00.002-05:00

Well - it's Monday. And when I got to work and was asked "How was your weekend?", all I could say was...

"It was a weekend."

Exageration on the "a".

So today I've been asking myself....

Was my attitude positive this weekend?
Did I try to see the best in my spouse first?
Did I think about others before myself?
Did I ask to help others and really mean it?
Was I thankful for all I received this weekend?
Was I as patient as I could have been?

I'd like to say that I could answer 'yes' to all of the above.

But I'll be real....I can't.

I'm human.
The people in my life are human.
And when you throw livestock into the mix....well, so much for having a plan.

We all get frustrated.
We all get cranky.
We all get sick.
We all get tired.
We all get discouraged.

But the beauty is....we're all forgiven.

"Listen. You have not been sprinkled with forgiveness....or spattered with grace...you have been immersed in it....you are a minnow in the ocean of his mercy. Let it change you!" - A Love Worth Giving

And in most cases, we get another chance to change.

We get another day to wake upon on the right side of the bed.
A day to be rested and well.
A day to see the best in others.
Another day to see the many blessings that immerse us.

Because some day....we won't have another day.

So it's up to us to make the days like {today} - count.

And if you look at it that way - we're beyond blessed.

1042. Cousins, an aunt and a grandma who called to check in.

1043. A dad who was able to get back to work for a bit this week.

1044. A sister who cleared her schedule for Thursday.

1045. A beautiful week of weather.

1046. A calf who finally stood up on day 3.

1047. A husband who has a truckload of patience.

1048. A husband who puts up with me when I lack the aforementioned truckloads.

1049. To do lists marked off.

1050. Pictures hung, dishes done and laundry baskets emptied.

1051. Getting to hang out with Lindsay and Nichole over dinner, beer margarita's and the OSU vs WSU game.

1052. A ten minute nap....that turned into an hour nap.

1053. A sister who woke me up and let me know the Beaver's had won.

1054. Go Beavs!

1055. Getting to sleep in.

1056. A day of rest for Clint...kind of.

1057. NyQuil, Tylenol PM and Coricidan.

1058. A weekend free of calving problems.

1059. A full fridge and easy dinners to put together.

1060. Phone conversations with friends.

1061. A full week at work...but I'm so thankful for the job I have.

1062. A new day to be a newer (and better) person, wife and friend.

Falling for Fall.

2011-10-21T07:58:00.000-05:00

So I looked up from my {life} and realized that October is almost over.

Umm, hello? September, I missed you. Where did you go?

And October - well, I guess we're having a short term relationship too...and for that, I'm sorry.

And really, it's too bad. Because I think Fall is my favorite time of year.

.......

I love being able to wear long sleeves to work and not having to worry about sweating.

I love using the seat heaters in my car.

I love having cornstalks and cat willows and a scarecrow tied to our front gate.

I love fall colors.

I love college football. (Although I'm not loving how the Beavers are playing this year, but I know they can pull out the stops this weekend against WSU. Go Beavs!)

I love breaking out my fall scents - if you're a Scentsy fan, I'm loving Spiced Orange Harvest right now. Although that's kind of a tease, since it's a discontinued bar....sorry! But their Honey Pear Cider is a great fall scent too!

I love watching weaned calves grow and change.

And I love pulling the covers up at night and curling up with my husband.

......

So I'm curious....What's your favorite thing about Fall?

......

One person who leaves a comment on this post gets their own "Spiced Orange Harvest" Scentsy bar.

I loved it so much when I bought it in July during their "Bring Back my Bar" promotion, I turned around and ordered more so I'd have a stock pile. I promise - it won't dissapoint!

I'll choose a random winner Monday - and get your Scentsy bar to you so you can enjoy before Fall dissapears!

The Power Dog.

2011-10-19T17:59:00.000-05:00

We have a pretty special dog in Austin.

Clint's had her since she was a puppy, and I remember many judging trips where she'd curl up under the first bench seat in the 12 passenger van and just ride quietly along for miles and miles as we drove across the country.

And when we'd get to a workout, she'd hop out of the van when Clint called her and stay right by his side. Working when asked, laying down and staying put when idle.

She doesn't ride in too many judging vans anymore, but if there's a car or pickup door open, and you can't find Austin anywhere, she's probably curled up on the floorboard ready for you to take her somewhere. Not on the seat though, because she knows better than that.

One of our neighbors was over the other day and was asking about our dogs as they were all around us playing in the lawn. She remarked that Austin must be just a puppy because of how small she was.

Well, that 'puppy' is 8 years old and the gray is starting to show in her face.

While she's older now and is more easily tired, she still loves to work.

I wonder how she does it sometimes....

To head off into acres of tall grass in search of cows, and not being able to the cows or us or over the grass. I mean, it has to be similar to the feeling I get when I head into a field of corn.

I'm not sure why I think about that, but I've been pondering it.
However she does it - she always gets the job done.

But no matter her age, or ability to work,
she'll always be our {Powers} and the power dog of the group.

Looking for more.

2011-10-17T16:44:00.004-05:00
I haven't had time to put together a cohesive post for awhile, and this post isn't cohesive in any way, but I've been thinking a lot about how when people choose to count their blessings, and be thankful - it's visible.

Both to themselves, and also to other people around you.

So in the whirlwind that's been these past few weeks, I've been keeping a notebook in my car and trying to jot down the many blessings that surround me.

I've missed writing down many this week....but that just means there's room for more.

And I'll take {more} blessings over {fewer} blessings any day of the week.

1019. A visit with Mel.

1020. 62 bred heifers!

1021. Co-workers who know the right questions to ask.

1022. A suprise package in the mail - love the T-shirts Kristi!

1023. Catching up with Jace & Jacobi.

1024. Dinner conversation with Tom, Wade & Clint.

1025. PR YG 1 - figured out. Can you?

1026. A cute new puppy for Jess.

1027. Sunsets and looking thru cows for sale.

1028. A sunny drive - no rain thru the Gorge!

1029. Dad getting to go home from the hospital....or in his words "getting released!".

1030. Wheelbarrows of wood filled for the fire.

1031. Shingles nailed down and steps that can be made surely.

1032. Neighbors who stopped by to check in.

1033. Catching up with L1 on the drive home.

1034. Fall bulbs planted! All 244.

1035. Creating fall decorations with Mason & Mack.

1036. Sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, washing & tidying - DONE.

1037. Visiting over dinner.

1038. Stocking up at Costco and spending the afternoon with Lindsay.

1039. Bunco prizes and Christmas shopping attended to.

1040. A husband who does the laundry.

1041. The time we get to spend together.

"There are no such things as limits to growth, because there are no limits to the human capacity for intelligence, imagination and wonder." - Ronald Reagan

To be thankful, in spite of it all.

2011-10-07T12:16:00.001-05:00
Our family was thrown a curve ball last week.

One I'd like to throw right back, but am starting realizing that that won't be possible.

And so I'm working on adjusting - is that possible?

I've wanted to write down my thoughts, but nothing I've written, or re-written seems to be adequate.

And I don't even know if this post is what I want to write, but like a friend who's been going through the same thing told me this week...."Try to feel everything. It'll be difficult, but it's a step."

And so in the midst of all that's been happening, I'm trying to feel out the blessings. And wandering and hoping that it's OK to focus on them, instead of the other thoughts that wrestle in my mind....

My multitudes from September 26-29, 2011
Fall.
Cool evenings and mornings that were welcomed in a light jacket.
Morning sunrises.
The tinkle of ice that joined my morning iced coffee.
Laughter and the decompressing that Bunco brings.
Seeing little Royce and his funny antics.
Leftover peach pie.

And those from September 29 - today....
A phone call and voicemail. Even though it was hard to make.
A sister who went with me.
All those blank white boxes on the calender.
Nurses and doctors who care and guide.
Co-workers who visited.
Friends who cared.
Tests and scans that helped make decisions.
Getting a chance to say "I love you".
And having more days ahead to repeat it.

The Crown Jewel Event - The Candids

2011-10-02T08:45:00.002-05:00

The post that was 100 pictures.

Well - maybe not 100 - but there's a few.

Lindsay and I made an unexpected trip to Salem, so I'm a few days late in getting these posted, but here's a few candids from the 2011 Crown Jewel Event held at the Gohr Ranch in Madras last weekend:

The Crown Jewel Event - Part 1

2011-09-28T18:56:00.007-05:00

This post could be 100 pictures long.

But today - it will just be two.

No guarantees about tomorrow though!

............

Sunday was the inaugural

Crown Jewel Event

at

Gohr Angus & Hereford's

This sale was spectacular.

And Brad & Dawn are two people who deserve all of the success this event brought.

Congratulations Gohr Family!

Success is Reason Enough.

Becky's Baby Shower

2011-09-27T17:50:00.000-05:00

If I know one thing....I know this:

The Hogan's know how to throw a shower!

On Saturday, Lindsay and I headed to Tillamook to celebrate my good friend Becky and the upcoming birth of her and her husband's first baby

- Joseph David Heimerl -

or JD for short.

It was a HUGE gathering a great women
and the shower was filled with many special touches.

Becky was showered with fun and unique gifts, and while she may not have a way to get them back to her home in Wisconsin yet
- another story for another day -
I hope she knows how loved she and Joe are,
and how special their new baby is to so many people.

Congratulations Joe & Becky!
We can't wait to watch JD set the world on fire!

1,000 and counting....

2011-09-26T17:20:00.001-05:00

I woke each morning, and went about my daily routine.
Wake, prep, work, meetings, dinner, laundry, chores, dishes, bed.
Wake again and repeat.

I found myself wishing for the weekend.
Wishing for more {free} time in the evening.
Wishing for dinners to be made and laundry to be folded and already put away.
Wishing for more, more, more!

But what I needed wasn't more.
It was more from me that was needed.

I needed to show more patience.
I needed to show more love.
I needed to breathe slower and think kinder.
I needed to show more thanks.

......

Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone. ~G.B. Stern

......

And so as I work this week to be more positive, show more daily love, and take deeper breaths before thinking criticizing thoughts, I'm also working on proclaiming bolder, louder thanks.

992. Making salsa with Anna.
993. Fresh tomatoes to take home.
994. Halloween costumes from Goodwill.
995. Two sweet boys who were good all day long.
996. Junking with Lindsay. :)
997. Country Living.
998. Leftovers and PW on DVR.
999. Cool evening nights with the windows open.
1000. A husband who makes sure he doesn't leave the house without saying good bye first.
1001. A trip to Tillamook.
1002. Celebrating Becky & the anticipated arrival of Baby JD
1003. Getting to see college roommates & good friends from the dairy farming community.
1004. Rita's quiche.
1005. Holly's mad crafting skills.

1006. Seeing my mom and finding some good deals.
1007. My wonderful sister - who is a fabulous traveling partner!
1008. The Jetpack.
1009. Cheese curds from the Tillamook Cheese Factory.
1010. Dancing....of all varieties.
1011. "Classic".
1012. A huge crowd and well presented cattle.
1013. Funny t-shirts.

1014. Sweet Gunnar's 1st birthday!

1015. A hugely successful sale at Gohr Angus.

1016. Getting to see so many good friends.
1017. Beautiful scenery on the drive home.
1018. Safe travels back to Hermiston.

If you count all your assets, you always show a profit. ~Robert Quillen

Vaccinating at the Murdock's

2011-09-23T07:16:00.000-05:00

We woke up late last Sunday (if 6:30 can count as late) and after tagging calves and checking cows, we headed to the house to eat breakfast.

Ian called and said he was vaccinating his newly weaned calves, and would we be able to help?

Thinking he was short handed, we asked Lindsay, Jamey & Haley if they wanted to join us - they did, so we all loaded up and headed out.

Randy & Nolan were also there, and by lunch time all of the calves had been processed.

Many hands make light work....and make for fun times.

Happy Canyon

2011-09-22T17:37:00.001-05:00

From the Happy Canyon website:

It's a show depicting the settling of the American West, beginning with a portrayal of the Native American way of life prior to the arrival of the white man, continuing with the arrival of Lewis and Clark, followed by the prairie schooners of the pioneers of the Oregon Trail and concluding with a reenactment of a frontier town's rollicking main street mishaps.

The actors are members of the community, mostly volunteers, and include many Native Americans from many different tribes, who travel from all parts of the northwest to participate in what for many is a longstanding family tradition.

....

Clint was asked to ride in the Happy Canyon Quadrille team this year (which I have been calling 'Horse Square Dancing') and was in each evening's performance. Lindsay, Haley & I went to the Saturday evening performance, and I was blown away by how detailed the performance was. The Quadrille team wraps up the event (Clint's in a white shirt), and the crowd loved them Saturday!

Let 'Er Buck!

2011-09-20T18:09:00.000-05:00

2011 celebrated the 101st anniversary of the Pendleton Round Up.

Round Up is a full scale event for this small Eastern Oregon town. Over 50,000 people attend the rodeo, schools & businesses close down for the week, campers fill the school parking lots, Main Street fills with vendors, the bars are packed and cowboys on horses are often seen walking down the sidewalks.

It's a crazy week.

Hundreds of local volunteers work to make sure that each performance, parade and event is well executed and a shining example of how a small community can put on a big show.

I was able to catch the tail end of Friday's performance (thanks Lindsay for the ticket) and then Clint and I caught the majority of Saturday's performance. We were running late, and I forgot my camera in the car so the pictures below are either from Friday afternoon, or from my cell phone Saturday.

While I may not have gotten the pictures I wanted....the memories are there!

RJ & Terry entered into the Wild Cow Milking contest, and placed 2nd during their go on Wednesday. Lindsay had an extra ticket for me Friday, so after work I ran down and was able to snap a few pictures of their second go. While the cow won Friday, we still were cheering them on!

Let 'Er Buck!

What matters.

2011-09-19T17:58:00.008-05:00
I love the Pendleton Round Up and all that the 2nd week in September brings.

While some people choose to get out of town and avoid the craziness, we were {crazy} enough to stay and partake in most of it. Happy Canyon each night, the parades and Round Up performances are the best way to spend the second full week in September if you ask me.

And while the flowers didn't get watered regularly, my laundry basket overflowed and my floors didn't get swept until Sunday, it didn't matter.

Friends and good times mattered. And we were filled with both.

I'll put up more pictures this week, but here are some of our {multitudes} from our week of Round Up.

968.Hard work.
969. CRP contracts signed in all the right places.
970. Feeling caught up at work.
971. The color orange & Beaver spirit.
972. Leather Oregon State tag ties.
973. Parades, people and pictures.
974. Being just a little bit rebellious.
975. Kerri, Haley, Jamey & Lindsay visiting.
976. Migas for breakfast.
977. Funny puppy dogs who always know where to find a spot to cool off.

978. A cow who found the right gate, and a horse that gave me a safe ride.
979. Steers sorted & paper plates for sorting paddles.
980. Letting 'Er Buck at the Pendleton Round Up.

981. Getting to see friends succeed.
982. Catching up with friends not often seen.
983. Laughing during Happy Canyon skits.
984. A 7th grader who has the maturity & bravery of an adult.

985. The show going on.
986. A morning spent at the Murdock's.

987. A {delicious} lunch prepared without much notice - thanks again Lindsay!
988. Cows who calved without problems.

989. Ear tags with easily read numbers.
990. PW on DVR.
991. Seeing the bottom of my laundry baskets.

Westward Ho! and OSU

2011-09-17T13:05:00.000-05:00

{The OSU Contingent at the Westward Ho! Parade}

{The Jensen's}

{The OSU Wagon & the Wolfe's}

{We want YOU to come to OSU!}

We just love Betsy's dad Dave - he's such a caring, nice person and has a wicked sense of {practical} humor. And this picture just makes me think of the Uncle Sam picture, but with a bit of Beaver spirit!

It was a great day to be a Beaver at the Pendleton Round Up's Westward Ho Parade!

Have a great weekend & Let 'Er Buck!

Westward Ho!

2011-09-17T08:38:00.001-05:00

There are two parades during the Pendleton Round Up. The first is the Dress Up parade, and is always the Saturday before Round Up begins. (That is the parade we had our USDA float in.)

The second parade is the Westward Ho! parade, and this year was my first year watching it. Can I just say this....IT IS AMAZING!

All of the entries are either horseback or are people in wagons and carts that are pulled by teams of horses, oxen or mules. It's a reflection of what it was like when the West was settled, and is a beautiful tradition here in Pendleton.

We had an {office staff meeting} during the parade, and wouldn't you know it....these pictures showed up on my camera....imagine that! ;)

Last year was the 100th Anniversary of the Round Up, so they began the parade with 100 riders on horseback, each carrying an American flag. It was SO popular, that they carried on the tradition, and it was how the parade began. God Bless America!

Pendleton Round Up Queen MacKenzie Beard

The Happy Canyon Princesses

The Happy Canyon Directors

The Pendleton Mounted Band
They play their instruments while they ride - pretty fun!

All of the entries were just amazing, and we all enjoyed ourselves so much.

Err....I mean, it was a very productive staff meeeting!

Let 'Er Buck!

We are Orange.

2011-09-16T12:03:00.001-05:00

You normally see OSU's slogan as "I am Orange".

But last night, we were all orange!

The great folks at OSU hosted a dinner at the Slick Fork Saloon in Hamley's, and it was so fun to catch up with good friends and support the Beavers!

.....

Lindsay & Betsy

Me checking out Betsy's fabulous camera and bounce flash....jealous!

KJ & Jeanne

Randy, Karl & Ian telling stories

Clint & Dave

A packed crowd of OSU supporters!

Betsy - A true asset to the College of Agriculture!

Randy & Beth

Lindsay & I

Steve & Randy - The hosts of the evening!

A fun evening, filled with orange & black, agriculture & wonderful people!

Go Beavs!

Weaning.

2011-09-15T18:34:00.001-05:00
The ranch Clint works for weans all of their spring calves at once over a weeklong period.

So each morning they gather a group, sort off the calves and then send the steers to their feedlot to be processed by that crew there, and then they take the heifers to their heifer lot and process those there.

I didn't have to work last Friday, so I helped gather in the morning, picked up Mack and made lunch for the crew, and then hung around and took pictures while they processed the heifers.

Everyone knew their job, and did it well, and by 3:30 the last heifer had been through the chute!

And wouldn't you know it....we weaned the last spring calf of 2011 at 3:30pm on Friday, and the first fall calf of 2011 was born the next morning!

The cycle continues...but I don't think we'd have it any other way.

Go West!

2011-09-14T16:58:00.001-05:00

It must be from a movie, but one of Lindsay's favorite lines is:

"Go West!"

She even quoted it to me this weekend when we were cruising around Tri-Cities.

When she says it, I always think she's quoting Horace Greeley's

"Go West, young man....Go West."

.....but something tells me she isn't. ;)

Either way, that's all I could think about when I saw this picture:

I snapped it while Clint was telling the dogs to "Go around!" a group of pairs he was trying to gather, but I think it's funnier if we imagine him saying "Go West!".

Well, at least in my mind it's funnier.

And that has to count for something, right?

A week of {much}.

2011-09-12T18:38:00.008-05:00

May 4th.

It's the last time I listed my multitudes.

I figured it's time to get back on the bandwagon.

Because in a world that can be filled with people who complain about much....

I want to be a person who praises and is thankful for their {much}.

Will you join me?

946. A three day work week.

We like to joke in the office that Labor Day is the beginning of "the good times"....because between now and President's Day in February, there are 8 Federal Holidays....aka extra vacation days!

947. A {new} horse...well, at least new to Clint.

948. Gathering pairs in the early morning.

949. Getting to hang out with Mack.

950. A new Friday lunch tradition.

951. Homemade peach pie. (I followed the pie tutorial on PW's website....so easy and the pie came out wonderful - if I do say so myself.)

952. "Hiding" from Clint under the feedlot office counter.

953. Ranch humor.

As the last heifer came through the chute to be processed after weaning 1000+ calves last week...

Jack: "Heifer, we've been waiting for you all day!"

Dwayne: "All day?!? Heifer, we've been waiting for you ALL WEEK!"

954. A 4 year old who just wanted to go and dig some more.

955. {Driving} the Rhino.

956. Sargeant and the entertainment he provides for Leo.

957. New FSA shirts from AJ's.

958. Parades and our office's float.

959. Someone else to organize the float.

960. Sharing iced tea, cold beer & conversation with Lon, Jess & Jackson.

961. A date night dinner at The Local Place.

962. The first fall calf of 2011 welcomed into the world.

963. Her very aggressive mother....at least we didn't have to worry about her leaving the calf!

964. Shattered glasses replaced with a brand new set.

965. A relaxing Sunday afternoon spent with L2.

966. A shopping list checked off.

967. The beginning of the 101st Pendleton Round Up - Let 'er Buck!

Branding at the Lindsay Ranch

2011-09-08T17:37:00.009-05:00
There's something about

chaps & chinks...

horses & tack...

cows & calves...

sharp knives & vaccine guns...

ropes & branding irons...

and great people that know how to get work done...

that can turn an ordinary Saturday morning...

into a Branding.

Guilt by association got me invited along....and while both of my feet stayed on the ground - even after multiple attempts by others to get me to ride....it was a pretty great Saturday morning.

And peach pie after a homemade lunch by Mrs. Lindsay didn't hurt the cause either. :)

Happy Weekend friends - I'm headed home to make my own peach pie and help wean the last of the calves tomorrow. May your weekend be filled and fulfilling!

A Labor of love.

2011-09-06T18:18:00.001-05:00
I love this dog.

Even when she's trying to climb into your lap because she just.hasn't.had.enough.attention!

I love how much energy she has.
I love how much she loves to work.
And I love that she can go and go....and then go some more.

We have three Border Collies who'll work their hearts out for us.

Heat, rain, wind or muck.....they can't wait to unload and get to work.

Monday when I was moving pairs and a group of bulls by myself (Clint was covering the feedlot)....I had Katie Mae and Powers with me and they were on their A-game. Heat and all.

Which made Labor Day....well, not so laborous!

Building Fence.

2011-08-31T18:14:00.001-05:00

The calves had been weaned from the cows, and the cows weren't happy.

And usually where there are unhappy cows, there's an unhappy fence.

So he gathered his nails, washers, hammer, chainsaw and new boards....and went to work.

In the {cooler} evening hours, armed with tools and an arm that struck with purpose....he took what was broken, and made it new.

The hammer found the sweet spot, and the nails drove deep.

Another piece finished. At least for this day.

Sometimes, it's a series of small things that lead to a big breakdown.

Other times, we're going along through the day just fine, and someone knocks us with a comment, and one of the nails holding together our confidence just can't stand the load and breaks.

But when we love on those around us....

those who are broken, and mis-shapen, and missing a few boards...

{And which of us isn't?}

We can help build back up the fences of our friends and families around us.

Sometimes it's a series of small taps, and gradually the nail sinks in.

Other times, it's a whammy of a compliment, or good deed that drives the nail into it's resting spot.

Building fence isn't always easy.

Loving those who are hard to love sometimes, isn't easy.

Being kind to the ones around us who are the most dependent on our daily love in our work and personal lives, isn't always easy.

I challenge you to ask yourself, as I ask myself...

Who will I hammer with love today?

What nails of gratitude can I drive into those around me?

Whose confid{f}ence can I help bring into line?

Let's pick up our hammer and nails, kindness and compliments, and go build some fence.

Let's Go Work.

2011-08-25T17:53:00.001-05:00

I'd call our weekend up at Wallowa Lake/Joseph a vacation.

But can you call it a vacation if you're working?

Whatever you call it....
we had a great time last weekend with
Lon, Sheri, Jess & RJ pulling blood on a group of LGW cows.

LGW = Let's Go Work

So Let's Go Work some cows!

Such a great way to spend the weekend. You felt like you got something accomplished, but also the work was a lot of fun.

And like Lon says....
"You just have to do something every day. That's the key to staying young."

Pretty good advice Lon.

PS - Afterwards, we had lunch at Terminal Gravity in Enterprise, which is SO my favorite place to eat right now. Such yummy food and great beer! If you're in the area, you need to try it. Don't let the hippy atmostphere put you off....the food is worth it! :)

Wallowa County.

2011-08-22T18:29:00.005-05:00
We've been up to Wallowa Lake & Joseph twice now in the past month, and I can't get over how beautiful it is there!

The scenery is breath taking and I love driving by the old restored barns, and the patchwork of fields that make up the farms & ranches in the community.

As we drove around, I thought about how neat it'd be to live in the area.

But then....I thought about what it what it's like to live there in the winter...because in Wallowa County, the farmers have chains for their combines for a reason.

Winter starts early there and doesn't let up until May or June many years.

And then I remember why I'm happy to call Hermiston home! :)

The Charolais Calves.

2011-08-19T18:30:00.005-05:00

We processed the Charolais calves on Wednesday,
and it was fun to see how much they've grown....

We like our cattle to be calm but sometimes when you're trying to get them to move {and they'd rather stand there and graze} that thought process backfires on you.

But after a little bit of noise, and a few passes on the Rhino, they headed to the barn so we could sort off the calves, load them up and take them to the squeeze chute.

"Where do you think you're going with our babies?"

"Who are you lookin' at?"

Before we moved back to Nebraska, Clint used to talk about how he wanted to convert his portable squeeze chute into a hydraulic chute.

Not ever having used a hydraulic chute, I thought there was probably a better use of money.

The ranch Clint works for now has multiple squeeze chutes in different locations - and can I just tell you, if you're thinking about a hyrdraulic chute, and have the funds to buy one - do it! They're so nice to have when you're working cattle.

And rarely do you have to pay the crew a six-pack because you missed one through the chute!

Just think about all of the money you'll save there. ;)

Leo.

2011-08-18T18:28:00.003-05:00

Hey there -

My name is Leo.

But sometimes I get called "Leo-Ba-Deo" or "Lee Lee".

Crazy humans.

I'm a Border Collie puppy. And I like feet.

Specifically, toes. Toes are my life.

And when there aren't any bare feet around, I'm pretty good at finding a flip flop to chew on.

Flip flops are my other life.

Mason's Spiderman flip flops, Darcy's river flip flops, it doesn't matter.

I like them all.

I mean, is there a better chew toy than a flip flop?

I didn't think so.

When I'm not busy chewing on a flip flop, you can usually find me out in the field.

You might even call me a working dog.

I mean, Clint takes me to work every day.

That is, when he can find me. Sometimes in the morning, I like to wander down to the shop and see what's going on there.

I don't know why Clint or Darcy always show up in the pickup a little later on and make me go home.

There's good things happening down at the shop.

Anyway, usually after Clint brings me home, he'll let me go chase cattle with Austin and Katie.

But when my mom (Katie) gets yelled at for not listening, I usually just slink off and hide under something.

Then Clint comes and finds me, and has me load up into his pickup.

Except I'm no pickup bed dog.

I'm a front seat dog.

"Load up" means through a door.

Not over a tailgate.

And when Darcy takes my seat, I guess I'll sit in the back.

I'm a gentleman that way.

You might even call me, Mr. Leo.

And it's a good thing these people don't drive single cab pickups.

A note from Darcy:

It's hard to believe we've only had Leo for a little over a year.
Some days I have to remind myself that he's still a puppy.
And on other days, I have to remind myself to buy a new pair of flip flops.

The Gorgeous Wedding

2011-08-15T18:46:00.005-05:00

In college, we used to call him Jesse Gorgeous.

Because well, he was....
(and is - I can say that right?)
and because gorgeous was easier to spell then Warntjes ;)

I remember all of us roommates teasing him when he & Jason would come over to study with Becky & Katie for classes.

Oh the fun times we had at OSU in our little two bedroom apartment that slept us five girls!

The nickname stuck, and even our younger siblings who took classes from Jesse when he was an instructor at OSU called him Jesse Gorgeous.

Well, after this weekend there's now a Mrs. Gorgeous, and we couldn't be happier for the two of them.

It was wonderful meeting Anna, who was a beautiful bride.

Pretty fitting, if your new last name is Gorgeous.

Err....Warnjtes!

Congratulations Jesse & Anna!

Love is Reason Enough.

A tribute to farmers.

2011-08-10T12:00:00.002-05:00

I ♥ Farmers!

Harvest.

2011-08-08T19:08:00.006-05:00

Every year, farmers in our county work each day towards harvest.

Seeds get planted.

Soil is tested.

Fertilizer is applied.

Crop growth is monitored.

Machinery is serviced.

They invest time, money and care into a crop that they can't be certain will succeed.

Each year is a gamble. A roll of the dice.

Farmers can't control the weather.

They can't control the markets.

They're at the mercy of something bigger than themselves.

And yet still - still - they farm.

****

There's a lesson to be learned from the farmer.

The time we spend caring, nurturing and growing our own {crops} is worthwhile.

Droughts will happen. Markets will fall. Yields won't be as great as we anticipated.

****

But yet every year, no matter the hardships, summer rolls around.

And then in the months of summer - big or small - the crops are always harvested.

An entire year's worth of labor leads up to a week or two of bounty.

What {crop} are you working towards harvesting?

What is it that you are putting time and energy into?

Are you growing friendships?
Are you fertilizing your marriage with compliments?
Are you cultivating a business?
Are you tending to your children?
Are you testing who you are as an individual so that you can grow to be your best?

****

This year's harvest has been plentiful.

High yields = Happy farmers

And the time spent, is well spent.

I hope the same is true for you and your {harvest}.

Handy.

2011-08-05T18:31:00.008-05:00

A list of things that are handy when you're pulling blood on cows for preg tests:

1. Friends & family who can all work together.

2. A bar.

Probably the handiest thing you can have at the chute.

3. A good dog.

Hi Gus - love your collar!

4. Cows who don't shoot manure the instant you open the back gate.

Unfortunately, we didn't find many of those Wednesday night. Let's just say it wasn't Clint's night to stay clean. :)

Green grass = LOTS of green manure!

Here's to high conception rates for the Francis Ranch in 2011!

Let the flood begin.

2011-08-04T18:18:00.000-05:00
We got our proof CD from Shannon at FotoNovella this week.

I love, Love, LOVE! Shannon's pictures.

I hope you enjoy these sneak peeks.

I know I sure did!

"Let our love be like the misty rains, coming softly, but flooding the river."

The Nebraska Reception

2011-08-03T19:20:00.007-05:00

After a day of tanking, we headed back to Hyannis for a wonderful reception hosted by my in-laws, Dave & Mel.

Mel, her sister Lorrie and my sister-in-law Kristi really
hit the ball out of the park with the food
- wonderful salads, beautiful fruit trays -
and so many choices!

The Twin Rivers Band played after dinner, and we were
blessed to have so many good friends and family turn out for the evening.

Thank you to everyone who made it to the reception -
we can't express how thankful we are for you,
and for your support of Clint & I and our marriage!

I wouldn't consider any of us to be {poor}, but I stumbled across this quote today, and I just thought it summed up all of the love and gifts of time and energy and thoughtfulness that all of our family {on both sides} gave up for us in this whole wedding process:

.....
"I don't care how poor a man is;
if he has family, he's rich."
.....

I continue to be amazed at how {rich} we are.

We got tanked....again!

2011-08-02T17:24:00.004-05:00

I think Kristi, my sister in law, puts it best:

......

"When we went to Oregon, our family took us to the zoo and to the beach...

You know, normal tourist attractions.

When our family comes to visit us in Nebraska, we take them tanking.

Because that's all there is."

......

And while there's really more to do in Nebraska than tank,

I can't think of many things that are more fun!

Clint & I along with Kristi and the kids had been tanking before,

but it was the first time for my mom, brother and sister -

For those of you who didn't read about when we went tanking last September, basically your groups gets in a steel livestock water tank, you load your coolers in and push off into the Middle Loup River, which is a slow, shallow, winding river in Western Nebraska. There are little metal benches that you sit on {and your life jacket makes a nice seat pad}, then you just float a few miles {which takes a few hours} and hop out at the end.

Good times!

- PS -
We tried to tank here in Oregon on the Umatilla River behind our house.
But the river was too low, and unlike the rivers in Nebraska, the river bottom was big rocks, instead of sand, so I think it's a no-go here.
But we can float down the Umatilla, so the next time anyone's in the area, we'd love to float with you!

To the Badlands and back.

2011-08-01T13:26:00.002-05:00

So I'm going to be real honest here:

I am WAY behind on my blogging/posting/picture taking.

Like almost a month behind - I was sorting through pictures today at lunch that were taken 7/9/11 and I haven't done anything with them.

But can I just tell you how much I've gotten done this month?

I've taken naps, and done yard work, and rearranged furniture, and cleaned my house.

Taken dogs to the vet, helped work cows, floated down the river a few times, and talked to friends and family on the phone.

And I've slept in a few mornings - hey, I said I was going to be honest.

And during this entire past month, I didn't have to plan a single wedding detail. Let me just tell you how much time that freed up!

(Althought the wedding was SO worth it - and Shannon dropped off our proof CD last week so we got to see ALL of our pictures - I'll post some of my favorites soon!!!)

So my goal this week is to wrap up the 'old' stuff, and start taking pictures of the new stuff!

Here goes nothing. :)

.......

The last leg of our roadtrip before we headed to Nebraska for the reception was through South Dakota's finest:

Mount Rushmore and the Badlands

Mount Rushmore was just as grand as it was before, and our trip through the Badlands was picturesque.

Minus the bumpy roads. And the bad directions. And having to turn around a few times.

But other than that, after three days, six states and 2517 miles later - we made it to Hyannis.

And had a WONDERFUL reception with family and friends.

Pictures of that to come....it's all about having goals, right?

It takes two.

2011-07-26T17:38:00.000-05:00

Moving cows down the road is a task that occurs often in Clint's work day.

And while he can do it by himself, it's easier (and safer) if two people work to get the job done.

Morgan spent a few days here earlier this month, and was a huge help to Clint. Sometimes {misplacing a wallet} can be a good thing! :)

Yellowstone!

2011-07-10T18:38:00.000-05:00

Fact #1.
I had never been camping - like pitch a tent, sleep outside, have to hike half a mile to a bathroom camping - before.
Now I have.
(Thanks Browning's for letting us hijack your tent!)

Fact #2.
The night we camped in Yellowstone was the same night that a bear attacked and killed another visitor. No worries - we weren't aware of it until after we left the park. The whole 'what you don't know can't hurt you' - right?

Fact #3.
Old Faithful blew just as we were walking in from the parking lot...there couldn't have been more perfect timing!

Fact #4.
Yellowstone is beautiful!
Just see for yourself....

Fact #5.
We saw a buffalo.
But we followed the flyer we were given, and were not gored by it. :)

Utah Copper Mine

2011-07-08T09:09:00.002-05:00
After visiting the Great Salt Lake, we headed south to the Utah Copper Mine in Bingham.

If you haven't visited, words and pictures can't describe the enormity of the mine and the machinery that they use to mine the ore. It's something you have to see for yourself!

From a plaque at the visitor's center:

"In 1906, this was a mountain....the beginning of what is now the world's largest open pit mine....today the mine is 3/4 of a mile deep and stretches 2.5 miles from the widest points at the top of the pit....this man-made object can be seen by astronauts from outer space."

AND they produce enough copper annually to fulfill 1/4 of the USA's copper needs.

*It's hard to show the scale of the trucks they use to move the ore from the pit to the processing facility, but you can kind of see by us standing in front of the tires, and then in the first picture, that's a pickup truck driving by one of the ore movers. Those suckers cost $3.5 million a piece, and they have 80 running full shifts every day! That's a lot of pennies!

Salt Lake....and a bit 'o randomness.

2011-07-07T08:30:00.000-05:00
Clint & I had our Nebraska wedding reception last weekend, and decided that due to the amount of stuff we needed for it, that it'd be best if one of us drove. Since I had some vacation time at work, I did the driving, and Lindsay came along with me.

Tuesday after work, Lindsay and I met in Hermiston, packed the EQ, and headed out on our roadtrip.

Lindsay liked to note that while Clint & I had our 2nd annual wedding, this was her 2nd annual road trip to Nebraska. Last year she helped us move, and drove one of the pickup's and a trailer out to Nebraska with Clint. So that was her 1st annual trip, with Clint - and this year was her 2nd annual trip, with me. She thought maybe next year during the 3rd annual roadtrip, all three of us could go together at the same time. :)

Our first stop on our trip was at the Small Bed & Breakfast, also known as Wade & Cara's house, in American Falls. We got in a little late Tuesday night (2 am) to see them, but got to visit and see sweet little Paisley the next morning. (Thanks again Small's for letting us crash at the B&B! I don't know what we're going to do when you move to Nevada....maybe detour???)

After a short visit in the morning, we were back on the road and headed to Salt Lake, Utah.

Side note - Did you know that the rest area's in Utah have amazing views?

Because they do - really!

Then it was on to the Great Salt Lake -

The views were amazing. But just as I'd remembered it, the lake is a bit - well, gross. There's gnats all along the water's edge, and the water is murky and filled with floating "stuff". I don't even know what the "stuff" was, but we braved it and headed in.

The Great Salt Lake was - well, great!

And now for the randomness....

What started out as 'walking back to the camera after Lindsay took a picture of me in front of the lake'.....

Turned into this:

More pictures of the 2nd annual roadtrip to Nebraska to follow!

4th of July

2011-07-04T09:49:00.003-05:00

Every year that we've lived in Eastern Oregon,
we've celebrated the 4th in Ukiah with the Jensen & Murdock families.

(Along with a whole host of other families who celebrate there too.)

My sister Lindsay and our friend Jamey
(also Lindsay's roommate) joined us too,
and we just had the best time cruising around in the Rhino.

......

And while there may be a different
way to have a great time on the 4th,

I'm pretty sure in the future....

we'll continue to find ourselves in Ukiah.

Who can beat the scenery, people, and crazy illegal fireworks that the town starts planning for a year in advance?

God Bless America!

And God bless good friends, good food,
and the freedom we have to make our own plans & decisions in this country.

First time in the round pen.

2011-07-01T23:05:00.000-05:00

Pace.

Rhythm.

Patience.

Consistency.

Trust.

.......

The goal is {simple}.
Put the saddle on the horse.
And teach it to yield to pressure.

........

I won't claim to know the first thing about breaking a colt.
Or in this case, a four year old mare.
But when I watch Clint in the round pen, I know that these strengths he has...

patience
consistency
expectations

They'll be found.

Success is reason enough.

2nd Annual Wedding - Video

2011-06-27T19:52:00.003-05:00

Shannon Boettcher, from Foto Novella, did our wedding pictures and did an AMAZING job!

And it was neat that both Clint & I knew her as a friend previously.

She was nice enough to leave us with a video of a few {sneak peaks}.

So thank you Shannon! We can't wait to see the rest of pictures!