It's the time of year that is super busy at the farm. Fall must be getting close. Mike says it is cooler in the mornings, I just take his word for it -- I see no need to exit the house at 6 AM. As we prepare for winter, wheat must be planted, and this is always a huge undertaking. The guys try to put the wheat in the ground at the most opportune time. When and if we get moisture, the wheat is put in at exactly the right depth to take full advantage of that blessing. Sometimes that means working 24 hours a day to get it done. Let me say, usually that means working 24 hours a day to get it done. Not me. I am far from a stellar farm wife. The extent of my farm and ranch duties is kept to a minimum by management. It's best that way.
This whole week has been one breakdown after another for the guys, and the wheat planting that was supposed to have started last week has yet to actually set a seed in the ground. In an effort to boost morale and possibly keep the guys working, I took lunch to the field today. (Between the occasional meal delivery and bookkeeping duties, I wouldn't say I am an integral part of the operation.) Guess I haven't been out there in a while... the road was newly paved! No potholes, cracks or washboard areas.
The bluestem grass is green and, with the moisture we've received, is thriving.
The front of this picture is a dry land field ready for wheat to be planted. Non-irrigated crops are always a crap shoot around here.
This looks to be an irrigated field, and it also appears to be ready for planting. Like I said, the ground is ready, the weather is prime -- the guys just keep having delays. Such a bum deal.
No matter how much does or does not get done, it is not for a lack of trying. Here, Mike shows how he multi-tasks. I didn't even ask what was going on... I suspect he could get in some sort of trouble if the authorities caught him with this set up.
Here is Clare, head of ranch security, high on the perch of the sprayer, just getting some fresh air during a break. Every day is a good day for her. I give her credit for keeping morale high whenever she is present. Everyone loves her.
