What do we do most at the ranch? We move ‘em… To green pastures, back home to the ranch, and back to green pastures.
Late May is when we prepare for our annual breeding project, bringing in the cows to get them ready and checking their calves.
Gathering cattle always comes with a few hiccups. In this case, the herd split and our trusted border collie, Stone, decided to hang out with the other bunch, meaning we are “two men” short. I can’t replace Stone, of course, but I can help to get the job done with Jeff and his Dad as fast as two four wheelers and a side-by-side can.
The usual drill – back up and wait. Go forward and wait. Turn around to make sure something little didn’t get away. Don’t get stuck in the swamp. Suck it up and get ‘er done…
This video is a tribute to Jeff, the toughest rancher aside from his Dad I ever met and in honor of my mom who has never had the opportunity to see what I do when I am gathering cattle with Jeff on four-wheelers.
So, here are 16 minutes in the life of our Highview Angus Ranch family! Jeff Parker and his Dad, Russell, our ranch manager, and me. 16 minutes out of two days of hard work getting ready for our annual Highview Angus Ranch breeding project especially when you consider Jeff was extremely sick last summer because of diabetes’ complications. He couldn’t walk except with crutches and was in extreme pain because of severe neuropathy in both of his lower legs.
Though my formal education was in nursing long ago, emotions run high when family is involved, overriding all logic due to the deep love we share. It was far from easy—sleepless nights for both of us, tears, and occasional yelling. Yet, through it all, our unwavering love for each other endures forever.
A massive shoutout to Jeff’s best friends, near and far, especially Smitty, who spent countless hours on the phone with him, urging him to persevere through this daunting challenge that often felt insurmountable. With their support and our family’s encouragement, Jeff pushed his limits daily to the max.
Within less than one year, Jeff recovered like I have never seen a man recover before!
We are back in business!!!
To my loving Mom:
You brought a daughter into this world, one God knew from the start would never fit the mold. From the beginning, He destined me for life in the saddle and on a ranch. I’m endlessly grateful for letting me grow up untamed and free no matter how hard it was on you. Decades later, I still feel as vibrant as in my thirties! Life here is unmatched despite its challenges, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.