So, this is a cattle ranch

Today was the first day I worked on a cattle ranch. No, I did not get to ride a horse. That made me sad. I very much want to learn to ride so I can feel more comfortable wearing my four year old Stetson.

I am going to start with a list of things I learned. After that, if I am still awake, I may elaborate.

First thing I learned was, working on a cattle ranch is physically demanding and tiring. I am knackered. Not only have I not done much in the way of ‘demanding’ the last few years, I have also been a complete punk with exercising. That is to say, I just don’t do it. Add to that that this part of Wyoming has not gotten any closer to sea level and today was a workout.

These are the take-aways so far.

1. A heifer is only a heifer until she has a had her first calf. After that, she is a cow.
2. Calves, even just a day old, can be really stubborn.
3. Adult cows can be really stubborn.
4. Most everything about a calf, cow,, heifer or bull smells bad.
5. If it does not smell bad, it fucking stinks.
6. When securing a gate the chain goes around a solid, sturdy pole first.
7. There are a LOT of gates and poles on a cattle ranch.
8. Hay will stick to certain materials, like the ones all my clothes were made of today.
9. There is a reason they call this mud season.
10. Just because it is mud season does not mean everything stuck on you is mud.

I did not get to assist in any actual calving. I did have to use a dead calf to coax the cow into following me. It was sad but part of the business.

Cows sometimes have twins. Some cows are confused by having twins and will only accept one, take care of one. Also a sad situation.

I was under the impression when I was asked to come help today that is was a one off thing. I was wrong! I will be working the ranch as many days as possible (previous commitments and such) until the end of May. I am thoroughly excited about it, even if #4 & #5.

I have a lot of things on my to-do list since coming to Wyoming. I’ve not accomplished very many. It is unusual and I have lived most of my life with the motto, experience your curiosities! At least I got a little ‘cowboy’ going on. Still need to get on a horse, catch a trout and bring in a deer and an elk. Going to have to give up on finding a mentor and just go out and do that shit.

I believe the next six weeks will be eventful, educational and I hope entertaining. I will share more as it happens.

Yippe-Ki-Yay