Jerry and I just learned of the death of Jim Hooyboer, who has worked at the Ranch for the past few years. Jim was an esteemed and valued colleague and friend. More important, he was, at all times and in all circumstances, a true friend to each and every one of our Ranchers. They and…
The Dude, Bambi, and Things You Might Not Know About
Travis and Kyle walk the Dude back to the barn The Dude continues to do well. On Monday he was standing up when I came into the barn and voluntarily nursed from the bottle for the first time. Once he figured that out he began to gain strength quickly and Tuesday took a walk with me…
Mildred Sheldon, a Friend Remembered
About 20 years ago I attended a women’s retreat at the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest. We had just bought the land that would become Down Home Ranch. I was understandably nervous about our impending move and all that implied–moving away from our daughters in Austin, selling our home, quitting our jobs, and setting out on an…
Happy Birthday Dude, One Week Old!
Dude is acting like a regular calf! Hurray! Came in the barn this morning and the Dude is standing up. Mornin’, little Dude,” I said. “Mooooo,” said the Dude. He’s up and acting like a calf! Bumping, and following, and happily taking the bottle instead of having to have it forced down him. He’s getting…