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CALVING
TIME
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| It's calving time once again and I'm sure of your lot for me but ain't it worth a little more than working for bed and beans From the Government grade to the Peavine Trail to the pens down on Oak Creek will be our range and our home for at least the next ten weeks |
| As I walk to the barn I know that I'm not alone The sleet and snow whip wild around crusting, packing on the frozen ground Old Nicks been grained and we saddle up He knows the whole routine I dare not count our years together or how often we've changed the scenes |
| Nick pulls up in his tracks and I'm sure of what's ahead A cow is down on the frozen ground I hope that she's not dead A little head pokes out behind one foot beside it, The others inside Hey old Bossy , your in a mess but just be still and I'll do my best |
| Jacket off, sleeves rolled up the cold cuts to the bone My hands are chapped, my skin is cracked but I know that I'm not alone I push him back in the warmth and straighten out his leg When she strains I pull with her and he slips out on the ground A cough, a sneeze and the little fella starts to breathe |
| Back in the saddle, the snow has stopped the noonday sun gives us warmth We'll grab a bite at the Oak Creek pens rest awhile, and head out again I fire up the branding pot to heat up last nights hash while Nick wanders around the pens grazing on the Bluestem grass |
| The twelve miles back on home we ride by several herds Momma cows quietly browse while guarding playful calves The barn and cabin are in sight We've made another day and by the way dear Lord both Nick and I are thankful for you riding with us today |
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Thomas H. Fitzgerald
2001 |