Spring has arrived all bright and beautiful, bringing with it new hope and new life. Our mornings are once again greeted by joyful birdsong, while wildflowers are beginning to cheer the late winter breezes. Gone are the lines of chattering geese pushing the freezes before them as they take their long journey north, replaced now with the welcome flutter of sapphire as returning bluebirds spread their daily happiness across the ranch.

Mornings like today are especially memorable, however, because of the arrival of new calves. One of our very special heifers delivered us a new little girl yesterday, and after a restful first day, she brought her daughter Belle out to meet the entire herd this morning. As we sat down in front of her on the soft green grass, Belle stood and toddled over excitedly, sniffed my nose, and asked to be cuddled. After enjoying gentle petting and brushing, she called sweetly to her mother for morning cream, and then laid down for more attention from us. The sweetness, tenderness and trust that she displayed while we sat there and played with her -- a day old calf -- created a truly wonderful memory.

Moments like this empower our homesteading dreams and provide the satisfaction that makes all of our efforts worthwhile. Like the joy of slicing into the first tomato of the year, the aroma of ripe summer melons from our own organic garden, the excitement of finding the first egg from a new flock of chickens, or the unforgettable experience of bringing home the first members of our Dexter herd, the arrival of a precious new calf like Belle is what Homesteading is all about.

Our walk to the barn was uniquely lovely, as we experienced an extremely rare overnight snowfall while temperatures dropped to a frigid nine degrees. The ranch was softly blanketed in four inches of snow that shimmered and swirled in the morning winds, creating deep drifts in the hollows, and draping the trees in resplendent beauty.  Here and there the tops of sleeping grasses poked through the snow, and having been thickly coated with freezing rain the day before, they now sparkled like thousands of diamonds amid the dazzling whiteness that covered the ground.

Our sweet herd of Dexters waited eagerly at our barn for their morning treat, and excitedly devoured the aromatic bale as we dropped flakes into the crib.  Their impatient shuffling quickly ceased, and the silence that followed was broken only by the satisfying sound of Dexters happily munching hay in the frosty morning air.  While cleaning the barn after a cold winter’s night is never easy, the herd stood trustingly while we raked and shoveled under and around them, and then completed the effort by spreading clean hay in the corners for Clover and Hollyberry, our two new heifers, to enjoy.  Clover deftly maneuvered the feasting lineup to seek a moment of attention from us, while Hollyberry, who was less than a week old, sought the safety of the farthest corner to avoid getting caught in any possible commotion.

While we worked to break the ice that coated the surface of their water trough, our cow Treva waited silently at the gate into the barn.  Treva, whose wonderful calf Travis recently went to a new home to become a herd sire, longingly stared into the barn to let us know that she was eager to be milked.  At her prompting, we prepared a treat for her of fresh hay and organic alfalfa pellets, and then opened the gate.  While the usual routine is to put her halter on and calmly lead her in, her response this morning was to enthusiastically dash in with her fuzzy brown ears pointed straight out, her head held high, and her eyes wide with excitement.  We laughed as she rushed to her treat, and then began the brief process of cleaning and drying her udder.  Treva devoured the crunchy nuggets as she shared her creamy goodness with us, and very quickly the treat was gone and her steaming milk was cooling in the bucket.  We managed to put her halter on as she hunted for any final remains of alfalfa hidden under the hay, and then it was time to lead her out through the gate so that we could return home with our treasure.  The morning’s chill was swiftly forgotten, and because of our efforts to brave the extreme cold, tonight we’ll enjoy the most fabulous cup of hot chocolate from a sweet little Dexter cow that we know and hug! This is the essence of Dexter -- a year of smiles all rolled up into a simple treat that warms the heart and feeds the soul.

Though wintry winds may blow, our Dexters bring a warmth to our lives that invigorates our efforts and fills our days with joy and laughter.  The day may be cold, yet we are overwhelmed by the beauty and crunch of the drifted snow as we walk the silent, icy pastures, and of our forest trail all draped in white as it leads to our secluded spring now decorated with icicles and completely frozen for a moment in time.  Frigid days will soon be followed by encouraging blue skies and sunshine, and Clover and Hollyberry will experience the delight of romping through pastures full of lush spring grasses graced with fragrant bouquets of wildflowers.  Though there is much work to be done, and many challenges await, the rewards are great and the satisfaction is immense.  Today, and always, we are so very thankful for the wonders of the world in which we live, for the freedom to enjoy it all, and for the Love that provides such a great blessing.

Stand up little one, for the world awaits. The day is bright and warm, and your mama chose a beautiful spot at the top of the hill to bring you into the world. Sunlight filters through the heavy limbs of the oak that stands above as a sentinel to guard your birth, and casts shadows that play upon your curly coat and your fresh, dark eyes. Your sweet family is all around you, excited to celebrate your birthday, and anxious to meet their new little herd-mate. Your wonderful mama Taffy stands proudly over you, ready to help, and eager to feed you as you begin your great adventure.

Stand up little one, for your mama is calling. Taffy has been cleaning you lovingly, and your midnight-black curls are shiny and new. She’s cleaned your back, and your sides, and your legs, and your soft little neck, and your cute little face, and your adorable little ears, and now she’s starting all over again. You’ve been trying and trying, but your wobbly little legs haven’t quite held you up yet. Although you’re struggling, your mama is eager for you to get up, and she’s confident that you can do it.

Stand up little one, for there’s so much fun to be enjoyed. There will soon be bright spring mornings, and pastures full of green grass, and wildflowers, and freedom to run. You’ll have all the milk that you can drink, and a safe barn where you can dream away your nights on a soft bed of hay. You’ll have adorable little friends to play with, and a loving family to protect and guide you. And even better than all that, you’ll enjoy mornings full of gentleness, brushing and hugs.

Stand up little boy, for you’ve almost made it. One last time to fall over while your mama urges you on. One last time to lift yourself by your back legs, and then carefully unfold your front legs one at a time in a final push to stand. One last effort to steady yourself as you stretch your muscles, plant your tiny front legs out wide, and hold your head up high as you look for the first time into the loving eyes of your sweet mama as she congratulates you and proudly announces your arrival!

Stand up little Dewberry, for the world awaits…
 

Willow Arrives

Monday was a memorable day here at the ranch. Spring arrived with soft warm breezes, the eagerly awaited bright green of fresh new grass in the pastures, cheerful blue skies and a refreshingly warm morning sun. It also delivered a wonderful new Dexter calf. The excitement of a new member of our herd was too much to resist, so we put off our usual morning chores and hurried out to greet our new friend.

Our cow Honey delivered a beautiful, tiny dun heifer, and her name is Willow. Honey was doing just fine, enjoying her morning grazing and being quite accepting of our desire to visit her new baby. In fact, Honey was so hungry that she left Willow for much of the day while she recharged her energy reserves. To our delight, Willow remained lying down as we first approached, and readily accepted our presence and gentle touch. We spent several hours with her that morning, ensuring that she was comfortable with our movements, our voice and our touch. We also visited frequently throughout the day as Honey moved her around the pasture, and Willow demonstrated that Honey’s calm and friendly nature will be part of her personality as well.

Jubert Arrives

The very next morning we were treated with yet another new calf -- this one from our cow Dulci.  We named him Jubert, after an interesting relative.  Dulci is usually protective of her new calves for a while, and after briefly having him on display in the pasture she moved him to a well hidden, forested area that was difficult to find.  After discovering the two of them quietly enjoying their private, shady site, we managed to spend a few moments introducing ourselves to Jubert and softly petting him.  He is an adorable little boy!

In the week following the new arrivals, we've found ourselves drawn to the pasture to spend more time with Honey, Dulci, Willow and Jubert.  The calves are usually lying together in the open pasture with their mothers and father Rootbeer close by.  There will be much playing and romping in the coming days, and we're certain that Willow and Jubert will be best of friends.

Expectancy hangs in the air as the springtime storm approaches. Low gray clouds laden with imminent rain draw close upon the horizon, and a muffled stillness lies low upon waves of primrose coloring the pasture. Thunder rumbles in the distance, our rooster crows, and neighboring roosters answer in return. Light raindrops sprinkle the grasses as a sudden breeze buffets early seedheads, laying them down in ripples and swells announcing the need to seek shelter. The showers come down suddenly in sheets as the thunder rolls, bringing life to the soil, renewal to the pasture, and rebirth to the flowers and dormant trees awaiting their moment to bring forth their grandeur once again.

With its rebirth and renewal, springtime arrives all fresh and new each year, bringing with it the excitement and hope for new possibilities and opportunities. While chilly January days provide ample time for planning and dreaming, and February provides opportunities for preparation, March finally provides a glimpse of the season so gladly anticipated. March is the time for new calves to be born, a new garden to be planted, new flowers to show off their beauty, new leaves to brighten the trees, and warm sunshine and refreshing rains to return and awaken the land from winter’s repose.

Sunrise struggled to peak through the fog as I waded into our front pasture during the cool of the morning to find our little herd.  Hushed by the dewy blanket that lay heavy upon the pastures dotted by the pinks and purples of primrose and verbena, songbirds flitted among the tall grasses that were softly stirred by a wandering breeze.  As I crested a small rise, spread out before me like a master’s painting on a grand canvas lay the scene so eagerly looked forward to for an entire year: Dexters silently grazing amid a sea of fresh bluebonnets.  Later that day after the dews had fled, I eagerly returned to relish the peace of being surrounded by a delicate bed of thousands of blossoms, and the extraordinary delight of sleepy heifers nodding amid the intoxicating scent of enchanting bluebonnets highlighted by the afternoon sun.

As I spent a memorable hour there brushing our herd, I once again contemplated the peace and fulfillment of such a great blessing.  There is no other place that I want to call home, and nowhere could be home without these magnificent creatures trustingly sleeping around me.  So far from the noise and distractions of everyday life, the simple joy of brushing a cow while delighting in wildflowers is unrivaled by the diversions of modern technology.  The pleasures of creation whisper to our soul and fulfill a yearning to reduce life to the essentials of necessity, purity and freedom.  Right there in that pasture, overwhelmed by the artistry of it all, is where life is truly found -- in a divine union of the heart, the mind and the senses.

“Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

We were recently standing in the check-out line at our local tractor ag supply store when a man walked in the front door with a dog on a leash. It was a very high-quality dog…a beautiful golden retriever that was immaculately bathed and groomed, and excellently behaved. As the man walked by our line, we couldn’t help but reach out and pet the silky dog, which relished the attention while remaining well-mannered. We were very complimentary of the dog, and the man smiled proudly in response and announced that it was a Service Dog. I asked “what kind of service”, and the man replied that it was a “Therapy Dog”. That made me secretly smile to myself, as I thought “aren’t all dogs Therapy Dogs?” The man then instructed me to step back into the center of the aisle and stand still. He then gave the dog a quick command that sounded something like “go to”, and the dog immediately stepped up and placed his head and neck against me and waited to be petted. This was extremely endearing, and indeed I eagerly petted the dog and smiled. It worked. I paused in thought, and then looked up at the man and matter-of-factly said “You know, we have a heifer that does the same thing”. He looked at me blankly for a moment, and all he could think to say was “Oh”. We said “goodbye” to the dog, and walked out of the store laughing and smiling broadly as we contemplated the joys of our Therapy Heifers.

If you’ve got a Dexter heifer of your own, go spend some quality time with her today. If you don’t have one yet, what are you waiting for? Sit with her under her favorite tree and brush her gently as you tell her once again how wonderful she is. Feel the stress and cares of the day melt away as she looks at you with those big brown eyes that trust you to provide a lifetime of dependable care. Enjoy the peace as she lays her head in your lap and sighs deeply in contentment, and listen very closely with your heart to hear all that she has to say to you…because it just might change your life.

By the way, Therapy Heifers grow up to be Therapy Cows.

What is it that made you smile today?

This morning dawned bright and beautiful as our herd came up for a visit after their morning grazing.  They all laid down under the canopy of cool, shady oaks beside our house and waited patiently as we attended each one in turn, removing their flies and giving them a satisfying head-to-tail brushing to make them feel special.  Our calves eagerly waited to visit with us and receive their daily bit of halter training and focused love.  It was an enjoyable hour, bringing a special kind of peace, satisfaction and inward renewal that I look forward to every day.

After everyone was satisfied, I turned to working in our garden on the other side of our house.  Cheerful zinnias, vinca, rudbeckia, lilies, cone flowers, dianthus, gomphrena, hibiscus and marigolds created a carpet of color that filled my vision and overwhelmed me with sweet scents and breathtaking beauty.  After a few minutes of tending to their needs, I looked up to see our sweet Dexter cow Treva silently standing a few feet away across the fence and staring intently at me.  Treva is our cutest cow, and today she was in top form, with her head held high, beautiful blue-grey eyes wide and bright, and with a big, hopeful look on her face.  Yes, I could tell exactly what she was saying, and it was clearly “May I please have a treat?”.  She was absolutely adorable, and I simply couldn’t resist!  A few minutes later I emerged from our garage with a handful of organic alfalfa pellets, and her eyes went even wider.  She briefly glanced back at the rest of the herd to make sure that we weren’t being watched, and then looked to me excitedly as I stepped over the fence.  Treva delightedly devoured the nuggets from my cupped hands, and then scoured the ground below for any traces of dropped goodness.  She was pleased to secretly receive her special treat, and it was a fun few minutes for both of us as I gave her a hug and she silently told me “Thank you!”.

So, what is it that made you smile today?  Was it picking a basket full of ripe, red tomatoes from your organic garden?  Was it enjoying lap-time with your favorite chicken while sitting in the doorway of your home-made chicken house?  Was it picking fresh flowers from your garden to grace your dinner table?  Was it quietly walking your pastures in solitude at the end of the day and marveling at the magnificence of the setting sun blazing through a break in the clouds, sending brilliant shafts of light over the tops of the trees into the emerald pasture before you to remind you of the wondrous blessing of it all?  Or was it just reading a simple story about a sweet little brown cow that wanted a treat, and got one…

Calf season is the best time of the year. Warm springtime mornings under the Petting Tree create special memories and endless joyful daydreams of the sweet moments spent interacting with our herd. Understandably, our new calves are the main focus of attention, as it is nearly impossible to resist the magnetic draw of their effervescent exuberance and tiny, adorable faces. This morning, however, in the dappled sunshine under the spreading canopy of that stately, ancient oak, Taffy decided to compete for her share of attention by showing me “her heifer inside”. As I approached our sleepy friends, Taffy stood with bright, eager eyes and sweetly asked to be first. I generously brushed her from head to tail, luxuriating in her dark chocolate coat and shining auburn tail. Occasionally she licked an area to show me where it itched the most, and she also licked the brush or comb at times to tell me which she preferred at each spot. I finished by giving her a tender hug and a word of praise, and as she looked back at me endearingly, she licked my hand and face in a clear and unmistakable gesture of thankfulness.

Taffy isn’t the only one who likes to be treated like a calf, as our bull Stephen enjoys his share of attention as well. Stephen is simply amazing, having a wonderfully sweet and respectful personality that we never imagined could be found in a bull. There have been moments when I’m brushing one of our girls, only to feel a tender nudge in the back and a gentle lick on my shoulder to remind me that Stephen would like his turn. As he lays down and melts under the whisper of the brush, he will often close his eyes and curl around to place his head in my lap and tell me how grateful he is to be part of our herd. He may be a big boy now, but there’s still a tiny calf inside just waiting to come out with a smile and a few moments of kindness.

If you’d like to see just how sweet a Dexter bull can be, we have a video of Stephen (click here) for you to enjoy. Seeing his beauty just might help you find your inner calf!

I stand quietly in the pasture, savoring the magical interlude between sundown and the dusky dark blue skies of evening. The silvery full moon rises slowly over my shoulder, and a whippoorwill calls softly in the distance. Our Dexters, frosted by the moonlight, silently graze at the edge of the tree line where the pasture gently slopes down and disappears under a dark canopy of oaks to a trickling creek behind our house. The falling waters of the creek sing a merry tune that joins with a chorus of crickets and frogs to create a melody to accompany the comfort and safety of another warm summer night at the ranch. The trees are silhouetted in black against the fading skies, and their leaves are gently rustled by a momentary breeze. Darkness falls softly about me as night chases the final pale glimmer of dusk into the west. All is still, a hush lies over the ranch with an eager sense of waiting, and a veil of stars fills the skies above.

Suddenly the twinkling of stars above the trees is joined by a twinkling below. The tiny, enchanting lights flash on and off, drawing sketches in the night, connecting the dots of the stars in the heavens, and evoking memories of youthful joys long past. I watch in childish delight, refreshed by the cool of the evening, renewed by the sweetness of the night air, and in breathless awe of the nightly Dance of the Fireflies as they write their story upon the tapestry of my soul.

Listen closely… Can you hear the call of the whippoorwill as it sings its lullaby at the end of the evening? Can you hear the call of the Dexters as they silently pass through the shadows at the edge of the forest beneath a canopy of glittering stars? Can you hear the call of the fireflies as they dance to a melody that captivates your heart and renews your sense of wonder? Can you hear the call of this magnificent creation as it sings a song of beauty and peace, of freedom and forgiveness, and of a soul washed clean by the amazing blessing of it all? Listen with your heart, embrace the call, and let it change your life forever.

Good night little Dexters…have happy dreams!

Summer days are busy at the ranch. As dawn arrives upon silent pastures heavy with dew and draped with morning fog, our chickens and ducks have bugs to find hidden among the wet grasses, nests to be feathered, and eggs to be laid. Our cows are already up and enjoying their daily routine of early grazing, drinking deeply from their sparkling trough, and enjoying a thorough brushing and a long nap in the shade to pass time during the intense heat of the afternoon. Our vegetable garden is also busy producing an abundance of tomatoes, peppers, melons and other good things to eat, while our flower garden puts on a fabulous daily display of colorful zinnias, marigolds, rudbeckia, hibiscus and other magnificent blooms.

Our herd is also busy raising new calves. On a few very special days we have the pleasure of welcoming a new calf, and this summer our heifer Sunshine delivered Violet, our cow Sabrina delivered Buster, and our other heifer Daisy May most recently delivered Scottie. Their days are busy dashing through open pastures, enjoying fresh milk, and taking long naps while their mothers graze. Our calves from this spring, Willow and Jubert, are also doing well and learning to be members of the herd – including practicing walking on the halter.

Summertime at the ranch is a wonderful time of abundance and blessings from the Lord: new calves, good things to eat, and the beauty of all that the land brings forth for our pleasure and need, made even better with the addition of Violet, Buster, Scottie, Willow and Jubert to our beautiful herd.

Sunrises and sunsets -- a daily reminder of the wonder of new beginnings, and thankfulness for the blessings of another magnificent day. As the sun once again dips low towards the horizon, Treva stands and gazes thoughtfully at the majesty of the sun breaking through the clouds and the resplendent glitter of its brilliance playing upon the ripples of the pond. Treva holds her head high and sniffs at the wind, and her silky tail blows lightly in a warm evening breeze that provides a reminder of the intense heat of the mid-summer day. The cool mud and the clear waters bring relief and refreshment, while the drama in the skies dazzles the senses and intensely focuses the mind on the overwhelming beauty before her. In Treva’s eyes there is no unrest, no discord, and no strife – only sunrises, sunsets and the wonder of all that fills her days in between. Treva’s days are filled with the simple pleasures of green grass, a relaxing nap under her favorite tree, and a deep drink of clear water on a hot, sunny afternoon. Her entertainment is a walk through the dappled sunshine along the shady forest trail, and her excitement is enjoying a handful of organic alfalfa pellets while words of kindness are whispered in her ear.

One of the enduring lessons that life at our ranch has taught is that the simple things provide the greatest pleasure and the most treasured experiences long remembered. Though we fill our lives with duties, information, activities and pastimes, it is the moments when we slow down, clear away the clutter, open our eyes, and look around to see the wonders of all that was created for our good pleasure to remind us of the things that really matter.

When you look into the eyes of your Dexters, what do you see? In Treva’s eyes I see the elemental pleasures of sunrises and sunsets, shady afternoons and starlit nights. I see the miracle of a newborn calf, I feel the freedom of dashing through a freshly mown pasture, and I rest in the security of the unbreakable bond of family. I smell the warm earth in the pastures after the summer afternoon rain, and I marvel at the sparkle of dew upon the profusion of bright blossoms gracing the pasture. I delight in the sticky sweetness of sun ripened melons, the crispness of home grown kale, and the unforgettable fragrance of freshly baled hay. I see the world around me with eyes wide open, I feel the loving caress of cool breezes washing over me at the end of a long hard day, and I relish the essence of life as it has always been, and is yet meant to be. Yes, I see the world through Treva’s eyes…a world of simplicity and majesty and wonder, and I am amazed -- for “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

Come to me…what I want most in the whole world is to spend time with you today.  I want to look into your eyes and see your love.  I want to delight in your tender touch, hear your sweet voice, and melt in the music and mirth of your laughter.  I want to know that you still love me, that you still promise to take the very best care of me forever, and that I will always be safe and secure in your kindness and generosity.

Am I still the best cow in the whole world?  Do I still make the most wonderful calves?  Am I still your best friend?  Do my lovely eyes still sparkle so brightly?  Does my coat still shine so beautifully in the late afternoon sun?  Do I still have the silkiest tail?  Am I still as sweet and lovely as when I first came to live with you?

Come to me and make me the center of your world for a brief while.  Put the world aside for a few moments and see only me waiting patiently and eagerly for your return.  Bring my favorite brush and comb, and enjoy my beauty and the wonder of all that is me once again.  Primp my hair, rub my ears, and pet me gently as you whisper words of admiration and appreciation in my ear.  Bring me sweet hay and fresh water, and a treat if I’m still adorable in your eyes.  Come to me today and love me for the miracle that I am, and have always been, just for you.

It all began with a dream...a dream of life in the country…a life far away from the stress, noise and hectic pace of the city.  It was a dream of green pastures, wide open spaces, trickling creeks, and forest paths leading to private, secret places.  The dream included a rustic old barn, a farmhouse, the serenity of sunsets while resting against a shady old oak, and songbirds singing a summer serenade of sweet simplicity at sundown.  It was a dream of rediscovering life, working for ourselves, growing our own food, and living our days to the fullest.  It was a dream of hard work, dedication and personal achievement.  It was a dream of returning to the old ways of self-sufficiency.

In my dream there was a large garden full of a magnificent variety of all the fresh vegetables we could want.  There would be plump ripe tomatoes, spicy peppers, leafy lettuce and spinach, bushels of cucumbers, and the sweetest melons ever grown.  It was a dream of growing everything organically – knowing where our food came from, and what went into it.  It was a dream of learning to grow things like our grandparents did – with the labor of our hands instead of the danger of chemicals.  It was a dream of working “with” the soil, rather than against it.

In my dream there were chickens running around the yard living happy and free.  The eggs were gladly given in cozy nests inside a beautiful little house befitting the importance of the task.  The chickens would be healthy, sweet and friendly.  Grasshoppers would eagerly spring from the grass in front of our happy feathered friends to provide them a delightful treat to power their production.  Their eggs would be large, heavy and plentiful.  Our chickens would dance at my feet at the prospect of being picked up and cuddled – a joy that we would both experience every day.

And finally, at the center of my dream there was a sweet little milk cow.  She would be fun, loving, adorable, friendly, and oh so wonderful.  I would lead her by her halter and she would gladly follow.  She would have long eyelashes and big brown eyes that would sparkle at the prospect of being petted and brushed – a treat that she would enjoy every day.  She would have lush green grass and sparkling clear water.  She would enjoy the freedom of wide-open pastures every morning, and deep shade under the trees in the afternoon.  One very special day she would give us a precious little calf to lay its head in my lap and drift away into happy dreams of her own while I tenderly petted her and promised her a lifetime of love.  And then on another very special day my sweet little cow would give me a bucket of the best, richest, most amazing milk I’ve ever had in my entire life.  The future would bring the pleasures of milk, cream, butter, cottage cheese, and best of all…ice cream…from our very own cow, and on that day the dream would become a miracle!

Does this dream sound familiar?  Have you felt a stirring in your heart, recalling a deep-down yearning for something more, something better, and something simpler?  In your dream is there a cheerful garden, a lovely flock of chickens, and a very special little milk cow eagerly waiting for your love and praise?  On one fine day our wonderful Dexter cow Honey gave us an amazing little calf named Willow, and now The Dream is complete.  The eggs are tastier, the tomatoes are juicier, the lettuce is crisper, and the milk is simply an extraordinary gift from Heaven.

The cloak of a late autumn evening gently envelops the ranch at the end of a lively day full of sweet Dexters, playful chickens and a bountiful garden. Many tasks have been completed, but daylight has fled before we’ve had time for milking. As the rush of the day fades along with the dwindling twilight, I gather my supplies in preparation for a few final moments with Ginger and Taffy, our wonderful Dexter girls that are currently serving as our milk cows now that their calves have been weaned and have gone on to a loving new home. I take with me a bucket of warm water, several clean wash cloths, and a few generous scoops of organic alfalfa pellets mixed with hay as a treat to keep the girls busy.

As I make my way across the evening pasture, my footsteps are guided by the blush of a waxing crescent moon that hangs brightly overhead and frosts the corral before me with a soft, celestial radiance. Its gates and fences cast deepening shadows, and darkness grows in the corners of its two shelters. Grasses part around me as I wade through tall waves of luminous seed heads glowing in the moonlight, and all is silent except for the sigh of tenuous breezes bringing with them the first hints of cooler days ahead.

As I arrive at the corral, I gaze up at the quilting of stars shining down upon me so brightly, like a fantasy of twinkling lights strung across the vastness of the heavens to cheer away the chill of their fathomless depths. Their gladsome spirit is joined by an ensemble of crickets singing a ballad from hidden places beneath the grasses, and the seasonal fragrance of fallen leaves and evergreen cedars drifts across the pasture from the forest’s edge, evoking memories of raking huge piles of orange, red and yellow leaves from beneath the oaks and elms of my childhood home.

Wrapped in the cool of the evening, I organize my supplies and begin the process with which our Dexters are now so familiar. Taffy and Ginger eagerly wait at the gate behind me, each wanting to be first to receive a treat along with my encouraging praises. I pour half of the alfalfa pellets into the feed stand against the wall, and then work the gates to separate Ginger into the second pen while Taffy rushes in and enthusiastically begins the hunt for alfalfa pellets hidden among the hay. I reach down to wash and dry her udder with my soft cloths, and then after another quick word of encouragement, the milk begins to flow. I work her udder and the milk makes a merry tune as it streams into the bucket. Taffy stands calmly, peacefully munching in the silence and stillness of the evening. Cheerful praises inspire her to give me just a little bit more as she finishes her treat, and then it’s time to lead her out. Ginger, who has been longingly awaiting her turn, excitedly prances in as I open her gate. She trots quickly over to the feed stand, looking to me with soft eyes so sweet that they sparkle despite the darkness. I pour her share of the treat into the feed stand, then give her a tender pat and a few hearty praises, and as I gently work with her, she begins adding to my bucket. Ginger is a delight to milk, and my efforts are rewarded as she stands perfectly and shares her creamy goodness.

Before I leave, I pause to once again look into the heavens, and to marvel at the glory and grace of the vast, limitless beauty that surrounds me. The melody of the milk, the twinkle of the distant stars, the blanket of pale moonlight, the soft breathing of our sweet Dexter girls, the swish of a tail, the singing of the crickets, and the safety and comfort of the pasture combine to ignite my spirit and delight my senses, bringing a divine joy and satisfaction to the end of the day that only the miracles of creation can provide. I open my soul to the tranquility of the moment, thoroughly immersed in the wondrous blessing of it all as the peace flows through me and washes away the cares of the day. Then as Taffy and Ginger disappear into the night, I turn toward the lights of home in thankfulness for the Spirit that guides my footsteps through the darkness, and knowing with supreme gratitude that all is well.
 

Autumn is a time of abundance.  Our fall organic garden produces a bounty of cold weather vegetables, and our pastures produce hay to feed our hungry Dexters throughout the winter. Foggy mornings and cool, crisp breezes remind us of the coming winter and the need to harvest while we can.  Here in Central Texas we don't experience a blaze of fall color from changing leaves, but Autumn provides unique beauty through tall grasses of green and gold, native shrubs heavy with colorful berries, and dusky evening skies brushed with glowing red and orange.

Our herd seems to know that winter is coming too, and spends many hours grazing the fall grasses as quickly as they can.  Their morning effort still demands a nap, however, which also provides the opportunity for a relaxing head-to-tail brushing.  Our calves are growing quickly and are eager for interaction with us, while our cows and bull trustingly close their eyes and bask in the pleasure of the brush.  The afternoon consists of the hunt for fresh winter grasses and a gathering at the barn at the end of the day to enjoy fresh hay.

Autumn provides the opportunity to celebrate for so many reasons, but especially because the harvest reminds us of the many blessing we enjoy and the opportunity to thank the Lord for His sufficient provision: a happy herd, the delight of newborn calves, good food to eat, the opportunity to gather with family and friends, a peaceful place to call home, and the joy of knowing that this is only the beginning.

Where there are Dexters, there is love, peace and tranquility.

As I sat at the edge of our pond at the end of a spectacular fall day I marveled at the grandeur of the beauty before me. As the clouds on the horizon blazed with the fire-edged glory of a late Autumn sunset, our Dexter cow Treva quietly waded in our pond and swished her tail back and forth as she playfully threw arcs of water through the cool evening air like diamonds sparkling in the brilliant final rays of the day. The awesome sublimity of the moment gave me shivers as it washed through me and cleared my mind of all thoughts except for the amazing Grace that provided the great blessing of such a moment.

Dexters are such wonderful cattle, and fill our lives with countless daily moments of reality and thankfulness. We need only to spend a few minutes with them to renew our wonder at the love, peace and tranquility in the hearts of our herd. From the exuberance of a new calf dashing excitedly up and down our pond, to the soothing satisfaction of brushing Treva while she trustingly falls asleep in our lap to the whisper of the brush, Dexters are pure goodness. Where Dexter eyes sparkle, the world does not intrude. Within their eyes are unique and breathtaking blessings that few in this world will experience. Count your blessings, make the most of every moment, and joyfully pass on your blessings to everyone you encounter.

The winds of the season blow softly upon the ranch, bringing with them the whisper of falling leaves on the roof of our aging barn, an emerald flush of early grasses to our sleepy winter pastures, and a promise of hope with the rapid approach of spring. While dark clouds laden with heavy rains loom close upon the horizon, budding elms at the edge of the pasture hint of warmer days ahead while providing a playground for the rainbow hues of migrating buntings. As the ragged clouds scud swiftly across the horizon, flocks of lively robins hop merrily through the pastures in search of the quintessential early morning worm before continuing on their sojourn towards the north. The rains come, the rocks and earth and skies rejoice, and the frigid days of winter are left behind as springtime has arrived at our ranch once again.

The aria of spring tells a tale of new lives just begun on a soft thick bed of grass, as blackberries ripen along the fence line, and the scent of wildflowers drifts upon the breeze. Springtime is the season for renewed life…fresh organic gardens, a happy flock of chickens, a joyful family of ducks, and the much-anticipated arrival of playful Dexter calves. Our little herd of Dexter cattle is the center of all of our homesteading efforts, providing so much pleasure in addition to the highest quality organic beef and milk. Our initial herd of four has grown to seven cows, a bull and two steers, with the promise of six calves this year and all the fun and work they entail. Springtime mornings are spent cleaning and feeding, maintaining our gardens, and taking care of our herd. Each member gets brushed all over with their favorite brush, and then gets their flies removed. Chins are scratched, ears are brushed and rubbed, and switches are fluffed. A hug is the finishing touch that puts them to sleep under the shade of their favorite tree as the sun shines brightly amid sparkling blue skies.

As the cool breezes of spring give way to the intense heat of summer, our Dexters grow fat on an abundance of native grasses and a daily treat of crisp, leafy kale from our organic garden. Calves eagerly await their morning greeting, our flower gardens wave hello in bright shades of yellow and red, juicy sweet melons drop from their vines, and dewy ripe tomatoes shine brightly in the early light to announce their readiness as we eagerly enjoy the organic harvest that fills our table and sustains our efforts to care for our herd. Throughout the lazy days of summer our Dexters graze early and late, seeking deep shade to escape the heat of the day. After receiving their morning visit, our heifers enjoy focused attention and halter training in preparation for their future role as Family Milk Cow – sharing with them special moments of patience and kindness, peace and contentment, and making pleasant memories not soon forgotten.

As summer fades into autumn, the breezes return to hurry fluttering Monarchs and Swallow Tails along on their yearly migration to southern climes. Autumn is the time for fattening up the herd in preparation for winter, and for putting up hay for the cold days ahead. As our Dexters enjoy their fill of lush native bluestem, we cut and bale organic pastures to sustain their health as they ready new calves for the following spring. Autumn is also the season for separating calves from their mothers in preparation for going to their new homes – an effort that never get easier as the years and generations pass by. As autumn wanes, chattering geese fly overhead bidding us farewell for another four months, and our garden produces a final flourish of goodness before the first freezes arrive and carry away their green on the cold winds of winter.

What do the breezes say as you stand in wonder of the world in which we live? Do they call your name, telling stories of patience and kindness, peace and contentment? Go and sit amid the lush grasses with your favorite Dexter, put your arm gently around her, close your eyes, breathe out the tensions of the day, breath in the freedom of her peace and warmth, and put your ear to the breezes and listen with your soul to the song that they sing to your heart. It is a song of the amazing beauty of all creation, of the miracle of life great and small, of the sun peaking over the horizon to welcome another spring day full of joy and hope, of the summer rains falling gently upon the fields, of the forest and trees at the peak of autumn’s glory, of wildflowers emerging in the morning sun to brighten a late winter’s day, and of a place far, far away where a small herd of the sweetest Dexters in the entire world is enjoying being hugged with bright, eager and loving eyes.
 

The Christmas season here at the ranch is a time of Peace that can best be experienced with the heart. There is such beauty to behold in every direction as I walk down the hill in the early morning to provide breakfast to our beautiful Dexter herd. As I shiver in the poignant embrace of the brittle, frozen air, the rising sun is haloed by a thin fog slowly rising in the morning light. Bright red berries decorate the edges of the fields like ornaments hung upon the glossy green boughs of yaupon holly, and sunlight sparkles in the silence like glitter scattered upon the frosted turf that crunches underfoot. While the sleeping pastures are dominated by muted hues of grays and browns, tender winter greens are beginning to peek through the tawny mat of dormant grasses to herald the lushness of springtime yet to come.

The beauty of the moment provides a stirring reminder of the many Joys that our Dexters bring to our daily lives. As I contemplate the wonders of newborn calves, the sparkle in the eyes of a heifer eagerly waiting for a treat at our garden fence, and the thankfulness of our bull as he licks my hand in gratitude for the soothing pleasure of a soft brush upon his neck, my musings are interrupted as Honey dashes past me in excitement, kicking up her heals and breaking into a gallop as she makes her final sprint to the barn. Dulci and Blueberry follow at full speed, while Treva and Willow glide by in a smooth, refined trot that never fails to bring a smile and a laugh. In a twinkling, the entire herd disappears around the corner of the barn to await my arrival.

As I reach the barn, I am amazed at the Love that provides the wonderful blessings of our Dexter herd and their sweet and gentle presence in our lives. Once upon a time we dreamed of having friendly cows of our own, but the reality of the blessing is so much greater than I ever imagined. Now, as I step into the barn and am surrounded by the earthy scents of fresh hay and aging timbers, I again feel the love that draws the herd to this place of warmth, safety and belonging. The herd waits patiently in the stillness of the moment; breath steaming and tails swishing in anticipation. I break open a bale and begin dropping flakes into the crib as everyone settles into their favorite spot and begins to sample the sweet-smelling leaf. Their eagerness speaks of their approval, and my morning efforts are finally rewarded by the special sound that I long to hear: Dexters happily munching hay on a cold winter’s morning.

In a glad season full of so many gifts, the best of all are Peace, Joy and Love. The Savior fills our lives with such incredible blessings, and for all of them we are so very thankful. In this place, surrounded by the wonders of all creation, it is plain to see that the best gifts don’t come in a gift-wrapped package, but in a warm body with a tender heart and sparkling eyes full of peace, joy and love. Close your eyes and open your heart, see the sparkle, know the Peace, feel the Joy, experience the Love, and let the Christmas spirit ring like never before.