GIVE THANKS, ALWAYS!

It just doesn't seem possible that the Thanksgiving dishes are washed and put away, our first hard frost has come and gone and the cows are ready to come up to the barn to seek refuge from the steady north wind.

Winter on the Plains can be barren, sterile and severe.

The Red River Valley Museum hosted a reception for their "Only Vernon", exhibit. It was a wonderful reception and a chance for the public to share in and enjoy work by some local Vernon artists.

Gourds n' leather...by Susie

Handmade saddle by Larry

Handmade Boots by Dew- local bootmaker and former Waggoner Ranch cowboy

Bits, Belts and Spurs by Greg-Vernon's County Judge

Western Pillows/Wire Wrapped Bracelets by Luanne

Western Buckles by Dee

Framed Artwork by Beth - Veterinarian

Bits, Jewelry and Belts by Tony - Postmaster

Intarsia (the art of inlaid wood) by Phil
Native America by his wife, Mary Ann

Turquoise, Fur & Western Decor by Su

We were all invited out to one of the artist's beautiful adobe hacienda-style home for a post reception. It was a glorious day to celebrate all that we are thankful for - good friends, good food, laughter, sunshine and God's blessings each day.

Wyman had another booksigning at the gorgeous Truscott Lodge in Truscott, Texas. It was a magnificent venue!

It was a pitch-black night. On the way home, you couldn't help but notice the moon. It was GLORIOUS! (even though this photo is horrendous, it reminds me of the beauty that the night holds.)

On a different note, our school invited some local Cherokee to display Native American items and exhibit their dance skills. The kids loved it!

Our cotton stripping began yesterday - a month earlier than normal. Hopefully it will be a good crop, as cotton prices are up.

Although our lives are dotted with challenges and trials, the very things that He uses to draw us closer to God and our faith in Him, always remember to keep your heart and focus on His love, goodness, grace and mercy. Give thanks in all situations and know that God loves you and cares about what you're going through.

UNDER ONE FENCE...WHAT AN EVENING!

Last Friday night was an evening that I will not soon forget. The Red River Valley Museum, hosted a book signing with the infamous Texas State Photographer, Wyman Meinzer, showcasing his most recent and stunningly brilliant project... Under One Fence, The Waggoner Ranch Legacy. In addition to signing for the local multitudes, he and his wife Sylinda, generously gave of their precious time, to present a magnificent slideshow of handpicked shots from the project. He narrated, in vastly colorful details, the particulars of each depiction. It was absolutely fascinating and I didn't want it to end.

You can absorb his brilliance and adventurous life by going to his blogsite: http://wymanmeinzer.wordpress.com/

He and his wife live in the old Benjamin jailhouse. I have seen it on television and only dream one day to see it in person. His wife, Sylinda, is a talented, beautiful woman. She owns a classy, fabulous shop in Benjamin, called Santa Fe On The Brazos, providing an eclectic mix of American Western clothing, jewelry and accessories. Its venue is a long-standing gas station that once served as a restaurant and Lord knows whatelse. Inspiring and daring pieces by well known designers as Double D, Tasha Polizzi, Old Gringo, Western Vintage Revival and many more...filling every nook and cranny of the three-room structure. It's an adventure in itself! If you don't know the "community" of Benjamin, it's as if you've stepped back in time, a wide spot in the West Texas road that leads you in and out of this unpretentious and magical place. You can take a gander at Sylinda's shop by visiting her website: www.santafeonthebrazos.com



I donated several items from my home to serve as part of the western decor for the event.

People were lined up to get their copy of this amazing book!
Wyman graciously honored my request to have a photograph taken. As I handed my Walmart-bred, pocket-sized Cool Pix L-20 Nikon to my friend behind me in line, I was perfectly embarrassed by it, as a photo was snapped standing with this legendary professional Texas State Photographer...I just wanted a picture with him, and was willing to withstand the "common-ness" of myself. What a cool guy!!!!

The entire evening was spectacular, complete with fabulous wine and mouth watering hors d'oeuvres!

Backing up a day - Thursday - as we were sitting down to some homemade burgers, the phone rang. Douglas, our neighbor, frantically screamed through the phone, telling us that his house was on fire. We instantly dropped what we were doing, grabbed our keys and lit out for his home that was about a mile away. Prior to the Vernon Fire Department's arrival, our only arsenal of defense from the roaring blaze, were 2 water hoses and a fire extinguisher. Thanking God that noone was hurt, we did what we could to extinguish the flames, but it was to no avail. Smoke and flames had engulfed the attic space. From the outside of the modest brick home, you would never know what had taken place, but one step inside and the shocking results of an electrical fire hit you in your gut.

The fire department arrived and did an amazing job. The department's chaplin held a prayer with the 40 some-odd neighbors from this rural community. As people started to discipate, the fireman remained on site through the night, watching and protecting the home from continued destruction.

Ed is back! Originally named Hoolihan, I had sold him to my friend, Luanne, but recently bought this sweet, 12 year old, dun back. He's a gorgeous, muscley quarterhorse with the manners of a gentleman and a heart of gold. We've enjoyed many days of riding and exploring pastures, after school. It brought back memories of when I was in high school and the feeling I would get when I looked forward to getting home after school to ride, Chips, my unruly, horrendously mannered appaloosa. Same feeling but totally different appreciation!

After a glorious 3-hour ride.

As the sun sets on our west pasture. Bermuda, almost tall enough to reach the stirups, in some places.

The ending of another blessed day on the farm.

After I fed and watered Ed and Biscuit, I headed to the chicken house to gather eggs. My summer pullets are finally laying, and boy are the eggs pretty! Smooth, big, brown and tasty! I even have one hen sittin' on a clutch. Not so sure when she started sittin', but it usually takes about 20 days until they hatch. I hope the weather isn't too cold by then.


With all of the drenching rains this Fall, the cotton is high, full and ready to strip. We usually strip in mid December, but this year will probably be an early year.

The wildflowers sure are pretty!

Crazy sock, clothes and hair day around Halloween, at school! (Nancy, me and Stephani)

I found this great "unknown" quote:

peace. it does not mean to be in a place

where there is no noise, trouble

or hardwork. it means to be in

the midst of those things and still

be calm in your heart.