Despite the ongoing drought our hay barn is nearly full this fall, and what a blessing. In such a drought, our pastures and fields cannot provide enough forage for all the horses and cattle to eat in the warm months, in addition to enough hay for the winter.

But our neighbors, John and Samantha Brandreth, of Brandreth Farms, generously gave us several of their hay fields to mow, fluff and bale. And right now we have leased neighboring pasture for current grazing to give our pastures a rest. We drilled grass seed a week ago and we are anxiously waiting for the necessary rain to cause the seed to germinate. Then we will fertilize. Pray for rain, and soon.

What a pleasure it is to step outside. To feel the crisp, clean air and just look around. The leaves are turning now at the ranch and all around us on the mountains and foothills. It feels like just what it is, nature’s last technicolor production before the quiet, bare bones beauty of winter. Come see for yourself.