Meanwhile Back at the Ranch…

A happy “by chance” meeting 5 years ago has led to what I consider a life long friendship with two families at two homestead ranches in Wyoming.  I feel fortunate to call them family and honored that they called me once again to come photograph their yearly branding.

This yearly branding is a glimpse into what is true Americana and the strength of what real community is.  These ranchers are fortunate to have a network of neighbors and friends that come together to help each other with this yearly task.  The sense of friendship is palpable and one that always touches me in ways that make me long for the days of my childhood where I too felt this sense of community (living in a small town in the south).

The day starts early with the gathering of the herd and separating the cows from the calves.

This  aspect of the day excites me because I feel like I’m witnessing a part of the past that is long lost to most people outside of these large ranches out west.  There’s the sunrise, horses, cowboys and the back and forth banter as everyone gathers to start the task at hand.  

The day progresses as the calves are inoculated and branded.  This is an important process for the health and welfare of the calves.  There is a break mid-morning and some of the wives bring out coffee and rolls (which were delicious, and of course homemade) and you can hear discussions between the cowboys.  (I’m in heaven).

The day continues with plenty of great photo opportunities for me.  Sometimes I get so caught up in what’s happening that I forget about my camera.  It is a lot to take in and process, with all the sights, sounds and smells.

When all is done, they break out the drinks and beer and discuss the day.  Of course there is a big meal waiting for everyone at the end of the afternoon.  Everything is made from scratch and is delicious, but more than that for me is sharing a meal and getting to know these families and their friends even better.  I feel totally blessed and honored to be part of this and that they have embraced me as a friend and hopefully part of this awesome family.  

I love you Child and Berry families; Tom, Steve  and friends.  You have made my life richer and I am thankful that 5 years ago I ran into Mark, Don and Tom at a restaurant in Cheyenne.

If you would like to see all the photos I took those two week-ends, be my guest.