News from the Ranch

Hi Friends and Family,

The chill is in the air and it seems fall has arrived.

So much is happening, I can't believe less than a year ago I was complaining because I wasn't socially involved. During the last couple of months, Hank started his Junior year at Wiggins High. For those of you that remember when he was born, it probably as hard for you as for me to imagine him so grown up. See his recent picture!

Again he is running cross country and posted his best 5K time of 19mins 38 seconds at the Fort Morgan Invitational race two weeks ago. With the small number of members on the team it's understandable that they are a close knit group. At a recent meet in Limon, CO I met my friend, Kris's, mom and sister. Here is there picture, see the family resemblances.

For the first time ever, my son will be on the stage for a performance of Huck Finn. He landed the part of the Con Man and a Slave Trader. When I told him not to get too comfortable with that role he said, "Mom, there are going to tar and feather me. I think I'll learn my lesson". Ha! Hank assures me that his grades are good and classes are going well - progress meetings won't be far off so...

The Fort Morgan Chorale began practicing for the Christmas performance. Guess what? Henry decided to sing also. Yeah! I'll be glad to have him go to practice, especially on snowy or foggy nights. It will also be nice to get to know folks as a couple, there are several husband and wives that sing together. Haven't got the performance dates but expect it will be early December. I'm selling tickets so come on out, I even have a spare room for out of town guest.

Speaking of out of town guest, Jane and Cathy came for a 5 day visit. We had a great time!! Our days were spent bumming around the ranch, watching the Elk mating activities at Estes Park, attending church at the Air Force Academy, and shopping in Manitou Springs. The cog railroad trip to the top of Pikes Peak was in our plans but a forest fire prevented our trip - oh well, something for the next vacation. On the last day Cathy planned our agenda so we could drive to Applejacks. Applejacks is a huge wine and spirits store and professed to have the largest collection of Colorado wines. I don't know if that is true, but they have a huge selection that spans the globe and Cathy wanted to read all the labels. She is becoming quite knowledgeable and even helped us pick out some to take home and test. Monday evening we had our own wine tasting party.

Oh, oh, oh, since I last wrote I learned that not only am I going to be a grandma, IT'S A BOY!! Now we'll have a grandson to add to the two fine sons we love so much. Can't wait until Jan. 13th.

On a lesser note, Grizzly mated with Chloe so in late November there will be some little Bischon-Poo's born up on the ranch. Chloe is a prissy little Bischon, all white and fluffy and you've see Griz so just image what these pups will look like. Don't worry, I'll send pictures.

Henry is doing great. Hay baling is still in full swing and the cattle are moving from a summer pasture to a good winter spot. There is lots of activity which means lots of equipment to move or fix. Loran, a ranch hand, took Henry to an action. Henry came home with saddles, blankets, reins, bridles and all that other horse stuff. You'd think he expects me to ride Grilly. He got the saddle on and took her for a walk. I hear tell that it went pretty well but there was some kicking going on at one point, although that is hear say.

Finally, our new home is feeling more like home. The new bathroom upstairs is nearing completion and painting is done for the most part. Warm country charm is how I'd describe the place. I hosted the Wiggins Book Club it seemed that the 12 folks felt pretty comfortable hanging out with us. It's about wiener roasting season and Henry will be getting the fire ring ready. The cross country team is expected over on Friday and the church youth group will be here on Sunday night.

Hope to see ya soon but in the meantime, keep the emails coming so I can keep up with you.

Jane