Circle B Bar T

We saw it all except a moose

2012-01-11T14:40:00.010-07:00

We spent 2 days in Yellowstone National Park between Christmas and New Years. We saw it all except for a moose. No, we didn't see any bears because they are hibernating. We drove to Cooke City the first day and made it across Lamar Valley before returning to Gardiner on the second day. As we drove across Lamar we saw lots of bison and then we spotted this coyote in the valley. We thought he was looking for dinner and the next photograph proves the point.
The coyote had that alert look. We had seen this for several minutes when we captured this view. The very next photograph captured the action.The coyote is in the air, diving into the snow for dinner. We were too far away to see if the dive was sucessful, but based on the actions after the jump, we guessed it got something. With our spotting scope and a close examination of the body of this coyote, we believe it was a female and it was pregnant. You are probably saying, you had to take coyotes because you didn't see any wolves. Wrong.

This was one of 3 wolves we saw. We learned that the pack that we have published in our blog before were on the other side of the mountain with a large carcass. The first day they were eating and the second day they were resting. If you have viewed our blog recently, you will have seen a bighorn ram courting his girl friend as we ventured to Woodbine on Christmas day. Well, this is not the same couple, but you can tell from the look on their faces that they are mates. It was snowing as we took this picture, near the northeast entrance to Yellowstone.The bighorns come to the lower elevations in the winter. You will normally see some of the bighorn rams as you enter the park. This time we were leaving the park on the second day when this gentleman posed for us. We were impressed, hope you are also.

And speaking of big horns, the next 2 guys would not be pleased that we referred to the growth on their heads as horns, they are antlers. We had seen alot of female elk but the boys were not to be found until we rounded a corner and what should appear. They were resting.

We also saw pronghorns. Two great days in Yellowstone, as it always is.

We bought snow shoes but there's not snow in Fishtail

2012-01-04T12:08:00.010-07:00

What do you do when you purchase snow shoes for your trip to Montana and when you arrive there isn't enough snow to really use them. You can say, Oh shucks, or you look for snow. We found it. Red Lodge has had over 100 inches and the snow pack is over 40 inches. But we wanted to go to Chico Hot Springs and Red Lodge is in the wrong direction if we're going to Chico. Is there any snow in Yellowstone National Park. If there is, maybe we could take our snow shoes with us and use them there. There was snow in Yellowstone. We waited until we got to the Lamar Valley. Marty and Crissy decide to go for a hike. As you can see they were all smiles as they turned for a picture. Susan, Patrick and Clint were on the road near the car. Didn't think they would go very far.
When John realized there was a packed trail, close to where the ladys were hiking, he decided to follow. As you can see, John has joined the girls and we expected them to turn around any time.But they didn't, and all of a sudden, I remembered where they were. Were they going up the hill in the wooded area. We had been there without the snow when it was easier walking. What was up the hill was a wolf den used shortly after the wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995. Wolf number 9 had a litter of pups in the den in the trees. So we watched and then we didn't see them anymore, they were up the hill.

We were waiting for their return, and sure enough, here they came. It is safe where they went as there have been no wolves near the den in years. Now they are on their way back. I'll bet Crissy and John will have a story to tell about the den.The last time Marty and I went there was with a Yellowstone Association guide, it was in the spring and the round trip took over an hour. When they get back, I'll bet they are tired.

They're getting closer.

and now they are back. What an experience and the snow shoes worked. It was after noon, we were at least an hour away from Cooke City and everyone was hungry. You'll have to come back again soon to view the "wild critters" we saw in Yellowstone. Oh yes, we had dinner at Chico last night and will return for another great dinner later in the day.

Circle B Bar T: Christmas in Montana

2012-01-02T12:17:00.000-07:00

Circle B Bar T: Christmas in Montana

Christmas in Montana

2012-01-02T11:38:00.008-07:00

Our daughter, Susan, and the McCarthy family have been visiting Montana in the summer for a long time. One of their dreams has been to spend Christmas with us. This was the year. They arrived on the 22nd. On the 23rd we visited one of our neighbors and selected a tree to appear in our home, once decorated, it would host the Christmas presents. The tree was cut down and decorated. On the 24th we got ready for the big event. The 25th was not only Christmas but was granddaughter Crissys birthday. What a day. After the Christmas presents were opened, we decided to take a drive. We headed toward the Beartooth Mountains and the Woodbine Trailhead. As we neared our destination, we came across a herd of Bighorn sheep.
As you can tell from the picture, it was the season to be with your loved one and perhaps in a loving way. We will have to return in the spring to see. We arrived at Woodbine. The water was mostly frozen and many of the rocks and ledges that are covered with water in the spring and summer, were bare. Crissy ventured out on a large rock, just below the trail. You can see the frozen stream in the background.

We traveled on down the trailhead. Susan, husband John, daughter Crissy, and son Patrick posed for a winter picture in Montana. This photograph will bring back many memories, some of which you will see on a future blog as we travel to Yellowstone National Park. Yes, on this day, it was colder than in Westport, CT. Before they returned we did get warmer weather and most of our snow either melted or was blown away. If you have been to Montana, you get very accustomed to seeing deer in the pastures. One of the other wildlife sightings is of the "golden eagle". That was true on the 25th as well as this one was perched above the Stillwater River looking for a fish for dinner.

What do you do in Yellowstone in the winter? What wildlife can you see there? We will have an update on that part of the Holiday Season, soon. We had a great time over the span of 8 days that Susan and the family were here and look forward to their next visit.

Yes, when we got back to the ranch, we celebrated Crissy's 15th birthday.

Another Great Day in Yellowstone National Park

2011-10-28T15:41:00.008-06:00

As you can see by the first photograph, there was snow in the mountains in Yellowstone. It was also cold. The lower elevations showed just a trace of snow but the upper elevations had plenty of snow. We were hopeful we would spot some bears before we left but they must have been testing their winter habitat or were there til spring.

Before we even entered the park outside of Gardiner we spotted the first male elk. He and one we found in Mammoth Hot Springs appeared to be either enjoying the sun, were tired from perhaps breeding activity, were resting for more vigorous activity, or were just plain lazy. This one was obvious asleep and it was early in the morning.

We traveled east to Cooke City where the town had already prepared for the snow and winter. A number of the shops were closed but there was not enough snow to attract the snow mobilers. We returned thru Mammoth to see this guy had joined the girls in the city. He like the first one was in a very relaxed position. Could it be that these 2 guys lost the battle for breeding rights and are waiting for next year.

Oh yes, the big horn sheep were in the hills between Gardiner and Mammoth Hot Springs. This gentleman was sporting quite a herd of ladies. He could have claimed, "king of the hill", based on his position in the landscape.Did we see any bison? You know you can count on that. I wanted to comment on the bison, but not this one. As we were heading west past the Tower Falls junction we happened upon a herd of bison on the road. What made this spectacular was the fact that we had our 2 great danes on their second trip with us to Yellowstone and they were enthralled with the bison. These 2 young danes were out of control and I didn't dare open the window to the car or step outside. Although it would have been a great photograph to see how the herd had traffic backed up on both sides but safety was our first concern, so you'll just have to imagine the image.Were there any canines? On a previous trip through the park this year we had the opportunity to see 5 of the young wolves that are now resident in the Lamar Valley. We are always hopeful that we'll see them again. However the first sighting of canines was this young coyote that drifted across the road in front of us.and then it happened on our return from Cooke City. In the Lamar Valley there were a number of cars and people with spotting scopes looking to the south. I was hopeful that it might be a bear so I stopped and asked what they were looking at. They said, it was the Lamar wolves on a carcass. I looked through their scopes and could barely see the wolves as they were so far away. Similar to what I have done in the past, I said to my wife, "let's go, we're not going to get close enough to take a good photograph". These people have been here for several hours and the wolves are not near as close as they were earlier in the year.

We had hardly started down the road when guess what walked out on the road in front of us. We followed it until I could get out of the car and start taking pictures. Yes, it was the closest that I had been to a Lamar wolf since I found Casanova, #302, in a very similar situation almost 4 years ago. This is my favorite image of those that I captured.

When I got home and started reviewing the images from our trip, I realized that this wolf had been with the others feasting on the carcass when we passed through that area 2 hours before. It must have gotten it's fill and perhaps was heading back to the hillside to feed the younger wolves.

I hope we don't have to wait another 4 years to get this close to another wolf.

It's been a long dry spell

2011-10-11T12:45:00.009-06:00

On May 25th we showed you photographs of a very wet spring at the Circle B Bar T and until just a week ago, we had no precipitation. However, the Davidson River is still flowing thru our property, I have had to rebuild 3 fences that were destroyed, and the water level in our well is the highest it's been since the well was dug in 1992. Another proof of the benefits of all of the rain in the spring is the fact that after we baled the hay for our horses, 35 tons, there was still 100 tons left which the neighbors took for their cattle. The photograph below shows just a few of the 200 large bales as they were being removed from one of our fields. You may also note the three rail fence in the foreground. This is just 4 sections of over 100 that Clint added to the fence on the ranch.

Well it's October and we finally got rain. Look what it did in the Beartooth Mountains. Yes, they are white again and there was enough that the Beartooth highway has been closed until next spring.

There are other sign's of fall besides the view of the snow in the mountains. Some of our wild life is returning south as a result of the longer days and colder weather. Others have started to return. We didn't see Magpies this summer but they are back.another bird has returned. Not sure if the availability of food was lacking, whether our neighbor has started feeding them again, or they just like it here at this time of the year. This is just one of 15 that are now grazing in the pasture next to the Grove Creek.Speaking of birds, you are probably aware that one of my favorite birds is the "bluebird". Although in the past we were aware of the Moutain Bluebirds arrival, building nests and hatching a new family. This year was even more special than the past as the young bluebirds left their nest, they have spent the summer in the trees around our home. The next photograph has two of them sitting in a tree just off our deck. They could barely fly but they did make it to the tree and most likely back to their nest.and just last week, I found one of them in another tree. They are growing up fast. We are hopeful that they will return here with their parents next year and bless us with their family.

We plan to be in Yellowstone National Park in 3 weeks and hopefully we will have an update on the wildlife there to share with you.

Another bear story from Yellowstone

2011-07-12T20:12:00.008-06:00

Reading the paper or watching the news on TV recently, you have become aware of several bear stories from Yellowstone National Park. One was tragic with a man losing his life to a female grizzly with cubs. Another was a reporter wanting to do a story with one of the Yellowstone staff to inform the public about bears. Although the reporter got an article and pictures, the employee was not anticipating the bear to be so close and ended up swimming across a pond to avoid the bear. For the full story, go to: http://kaaltv.com/article/stories/S2194268.shtml?cat=10226
Yellowstone National Park can be exciting with the wild life and at the same time can be very dangerous at times. The following are pictures and a personal experience I had on my most recent trip to Yellowstone. As we traveled toward Cooke City having just left the Lamar Valley, we noticed a crowd along the road and stopped to see what had their attention. Sure enough, it was a bear, a black bear. Before you start worrying about me and the crowd and our safety, let me assure you that these photographs would not have been possible without a 400mm lens and some significant enlarging of the digital image. Many of the crowd had either spotting scopes or binoculars. So here is the bear, standing beside a large tree, and it appears it was sniffing a flower in the field.
The next photograph was a surprise. Many of us thought it was a wolf but when I enlarged the image I knew it was a coyote. So you ask, was this at the same time you were watching the bear. The answer is yes. Well, where is the bear? If you look at some of the branches and the tree you will see that it was the same place, the same tree, and you'll have to accept the fact that it was the same time.

So I started looking around, Where did the bear go.

At this very moment, there was no coyote and there was no bear. The next photograph tells the rest of the story. Look carefully at the tree. Start at the ground and look up the trunk.

Yes, that is the bear. While we were watching the bear, we saw it run to the tree and climbed to a spot where we could not see it initially. Then the coyote appeared, and it was obvious that the bear did not want to share the space with the coyote and moved to higher grounds. At times the coyote was in the brush and at other times it was under the tree. The bear was content to stay in the tree and ultimately started moving around to a spot where I could get this photograph.

Having been to Yellowstone many times, having watched video's of bears in the wilderness and in Yellowstone, having observed their aggressive behavior, it was difficult for me to believe that the coyote chased the bear up the tree. However, in there we no other predators to be seen and no other reason for the bear to climb the tree.

Add this to your bear stories.

Rain, rain, we've had enough

2011-05-25T11:59:00.009-06:00

If you have been to our place or spoke with Marty and I about our weather, you probably know this. The Grove Creek flows through the southern end of our property. Most of the time it is difficult to see it, yet the name of the road we live on is Grove Creek. You've also heard us say that including the snow fall, our annual precipitation is around 15 inches. Something you probably don't know is that the Davidson Creek enters our property near our mail box and there has never been any sign of water in it. Well . . . . . . that has all changed in 2011. The first picture you will see is the Davidson Creek. It flows from the neighbor that borders us on the north west and from Diane's property on the west.
You probably are asking, where did all this water come from. It is not yet the end of May and we have already had our annual amount of precipitation. In the last 10 days we have had over 7 inches of rain. In fact, a lot of Montana has had a lot of rain and there has been a lot of flooding. The flooding has had it's impact on the gravel roads. You can see in the above picture, the water is crossing the road into our field and has washed a significant amount of gravel off the road and onto our property. Less than a mile down the road, the water has washed out the Grove Creek road. We cannot drive into Absarokee as a result. This sign tells it all.

So you ask, where does the Davidson Creek flow to. It flows through our property across several fields going east. If you have driven down the Grove Creek road toward Fishtail, you probably have never seen water in the field north of the house and barn.

this is looking west toward the road to our home. The next picture is looking east toward the other end of our property. You can tell by the grass that it's growing and as soon as we get a couple sunshiny warm days, it will really grow. The good news is we should have a bumper hay crop. The bad news is I haven't been able to mow the lawn. In addition, the water has washed debris into our fences, the force knocking them over and I will have a lot of repairing to do, eventually.

and now to the other end of the property. The Grove Creek. It is usually hard to see from the house and at it's peak has been 2 to 3 feet wide and maybe a couple feet deep. Not so today. The creek runs from the higher elevations on our neighbors property. We noticed the neighbors horses have been in the pasture just south of ours. They normally have access to the field to our west, but not for the last couple days. I know why now. The Grove Creek is so flooded they cannot get back to their barn and other pasture. Our horses have been on the north side of the Grove Creek and the south side of the Davidson, enjoying the fresh green grass.

Summer will be next and this part of Montana should be green, longer than normal.

Easter Bunny, Lookout

2011-04-19T12:48:00.009-06:00

The first sight was Papa Mountain Bluebird, perched in the a nearby tree, his lady on a nearby branch, and I am sure they were wondering what led them back here for the summer to have their next brood. They were shivering, the bugs that they have been feasting on since their return were hibernating somewhere else. We'll keep our fingers crossed that you have put enough twigs in your bird box that you can tolerate the next few days.

and then as we looked out the back door toward the driveway, all I could think of was how is the Easter Bunny going to make the rounds in Montana. And if this didn't give you concerns, then look at the weather forecast for the rest of the week. Can you image the bunny trying to make the rounds with all of this snow.

After you got past the driveway and looked to the west, it was just more snow.

and then I looked to the pasture where we had just fed the horses. They have not had hay for the last 2 weeks as the pastures have been producing wonderful new grass. Although they had no choice of diet as the new grass was covered with lots of snow. Poor Easter bunny.

These pictures remind you of what the Circle B Bar T looks like in the middle of the winter, not like a spring day in April. This is certainly not the latest spring snow that we have had in Montana but we're ready like most of you for spring to come and stay.

Snowy Days in Yellowstone

2011-03-27T13:11:00.012-06:00

2 days in Yellowstone National Park in the winter is always interesting. the evening before we ventured into the park we had a snow storm in Yellowstone as well as Fishtail. There was from 15 to 25 inches of snow across the region. The road crews had been busy but there was no problem getting to the park and then driving through it. The bison that were moving found it easier on the road than in the meadows. As the sun started to shine through there were some spectacular views on Yellowstone. Entering the Lamar Valley we saw shadows of the landscape and in this photograph the trees. With this much snow, everything was pristine and there had not been time for the wildlife to put tracks in most of the snow. I stopped to take a photograph of one of the peaks which is very ordinary most of the year. But this was different. What you will observe is the crest and only the crest of a mountain that is at least 9000 feet high.

We decided to drive the entire 50 miles across the northern route to Cooke City in hopes of seeing something other than bison. In case you want to see Bison, go to the blog of our January trip. We hoped to see a moose, but all we saw was snow and it Cooke City it was pilled at least 10 feet high or higher. On our return we spotted some elk. This young lady was sneaking some food from under this bush when I snapped the picture. She was one of at least 50 who had found a place near the river that didn't have much snow.

The second day as we entered the park, I said to Marty, I hope we get to see a coyote or fox before the day is over. Of course there were a lot of bison and we also saw some big horn sheep and a couple elk with huge racks. We were in the Lamar Valley, just before the Soda Butte when we saw several cars and people with spotting scopes looking up the mountain to the north. As we slowed down we spotted 5 wolves, the Lamar pack, running toward the road.

We had never seen wolves running so fast and howling so loud. It wasn't until later that we discovered what had happened earlier in the day. As they approached the road they suddenly turned in an eastern direction. I soon had to drive the car toward them as they became out of range of the camera. We also observed that they were having fun. These two were wrestling.

They were having a ball. Running, jumping, chasing each other. The howling was loud and these 2 were sparring.

They soon turned around and I had to move the car again. They returned to the spot at the bottom of the mountain where we first saw them and started back up from where they came. What was going on? Earlier in the day, they had attached and killed an elk. They then had breakfast and took a nap. I can only assume with all that nutrition they were full of vim and vigor and decided to have some fun. Yes, lets run down the mountain and when they saw the crowd with the spotting scopes they turned to the east and when they got tired and the fun was over, they returned to the spot up the mountain.

This was a rare occassion. We have not seen wolves in Yellowstone for a least a couple years. We have never seem them this active. The hour we spent watching them made our trip. We ventured on to Cooke City in hopes of seeing a moose. Not this time.

By the way, we didn't see any grizzlys either. If I was one of them and saw all the snow, I would have crawled back in my den until it got warmer and the snow had melted. We have plans to return in May and June. By then there should be some youngsters running around and the snow will be off the roads so we can see the entire park.

What the ranchers see on the Grove Creek Rd.

2011-03-17T10:35:00.009-06:00

Ranch life in Montana. Driving down the Grove Creek Road is always special. Will it be a cattle drive, horses in pastures, wild life, a pickup truck with a load of hay, or perhaps what I saw on this day. This is an outlyer as far as the sheep go. Most of the males are bigger than this one and most of them do not have horns. This guy was standing by the side of the road along with his girl friend. it's too early for the lambs. These 2 are fortunate that the shearers have not been to their pasture as they still have their wool to keep them warm. A significant number of the pastures you will see the sheep already shorn. These 2 may have too much wool because the shorn ones are surviving the current cold weather and snow. It will not be long before we have lambs. I did hear from one rancher that their ram (male sheep) had escaped his holding pen several months ago and that they are having a very early crop of babies.

When you see one of these, you can figure that the owner has a warm spot in their heart for animals like this. They are too small to do any kind of chores unless the rancher has put them with the sheep to either be a leader or a protector. Llama's are better protectors. Most people passing them say they are cute.

Almost very field you got by these days has lots of these. Calving season started in January. Some of the ranchers are done and others are just starting. If I had been about 30 minutes earlier I would have been able to show you a calf being born. Mother still has the afterbirth and this little guy got enough milk that it had to take a rest. I tried to get a picture of the nursing but mama was very protective and as I circled her hoping to get a picture with the sun on the calf, she would turn to protect her calf from me and my camera.

This young calf came to the fence to check me out. He's probably a week or so old. Old enough that the rancher has identified him with his own tag and he's independent enough that his mama has let him wander off on his own. He was not the 5th born, the number is the same as his mothers so the rancher can tell who belongs to whom.

Yellowstone is next week, come back soon and see if we were lucky enough to get a picture of a grizzly. They are out of hibernation.

We didn't have to go to Yellowstone

2011-03-09T10:34:00.008-07:00

Either on our property on within a mile I have found these creatures in the last 2 weeks. As I leave the ranch I always have my camera sitting next to me on the front seat. I have my favorite routes to take either to Absarokee or Fishtail or returning. This picture was taken on the return trip on the Johnson Place, the Lower Grove Creek Rd. This time I was leaning on the open window pane to get this shot.
A few days later on my way to Fishtail, I spotted this Red Tail hawk in the middle of a pasture. Not sure if it was full and resting or awaiting something to aware in the field. Not as big as some but it posed nicely.

I was looking out the living room window and saw something unusally large along the fence near the shed, just north of the Grove Creek. I grabbed my spotting scope to get a closer look and guess what I saw, a porcupine. I was too far away even with my zoom lens so I jumped in the truck and drove down to the creek, expecting to take the picture from the truck. I didn't want to be picking quills from my body. This is the first picture, I framed it for a post card, liked the finished product, so you get a fancier image.

I was having trouble finding it's face, so I decided to be brave. I got out of the truck, crossed the fence and approached the critter. It didn't seem to act like I was even in the vicinity so I got closer and closer. Got this picture, no quills in my leg and returned to the truck.

Just 2 days later I was near the spot where I photographed the eagle you saw above and spotted another porcupine. I had good pictures already, so I just watched for a few minutes and was on my way home.

Another eagle. Not a day goes by that we don't see an eagle either flying over the property, in a tree, or enjoying a feast on a carcass. This one was content sitting here as I manuvered around to get it's picture.

I guess I am bored with all of the deer I see on a daily basis so today they are only memories. If we had traveled the 160 miles to Yellowstone I would have had some bison and elk, perhaps a coyote or wolf, and I just read in the paper that the grizzlies are out of hibernation. The neighbor spotted coyotes chasing his sheep last week and wolf tracks nearby. We will be going to Chico Hot Springs and Yellowstone in about 10 days. Come back again and see what I find down there.

Local girl, friendly neighbor, Kenya

2011-03-02T11:36:00.014-07:00

2004 was "the year" for a local girl to hit it big. Just before Christmas, there was a picture on the lumber company wall introducing a litter of Great Dane puppies in Absarokee, Montana. Marty told me to put a deposit on the brindle female and soon thereafter Barlo had a playdate.
The lady was asking Barlo if she could become his pal, obviously the answer was yes. What should her name be? Our prior dogs had a name related to our veterinarian. The vet of choice at this time was Dr. Brown. But we couldn't name her "brownie", but his first name was Ken and we had just returned from Africa. How about Kenya?

In the winter months, our dogs can be found with a blanket (size - medium foal) on when they are outside. They grow so fast that there are make shift blankets or vests used. Although this one would more than keep Kenya warm, she didn't appear to pleased with this hand-me-down from Marty.

Being outside, going on walks with Marty and Clint, snooping around the ranch was always

considered a treat. On this day, there had been a carcass near the Grove Creek and since Kenya was the first to spot it, she got first pick of the pile of bones. She was so proud of this she carried it to the house and would not permit anyone to take it from her mouth. A few hours went by before we could take it and put it in the garbage can.

When Marty rested on the couch in the family room, or was watching television, the favorite place for Kenya and Barlo was sharing the couch with Marty. They were obviously content and enjoyed the companionship and the comfort.

Kenya enjoyed having her picture taken. This is one of many, but there were two that were enjoying the walk around the ranch on this January day. They were dressed well and happy that the sun was shining. There are similar pictures that were taken on trips to Yellowstone National Park, Chico Hot Springs, Paws Up, Woodbine, and many other places in Montana.

Shortly after Barlo's passing, Kenya jumped out of the Suburban and injured her front leg. A few days later, it was not getting better so we took her to Dr. Barlau. The fractured front leg was also infected with cancer. Dr. Barlau removed her front leg to avoid further spreading of the infection. It was a matter of days until Kenya was out running in the snow as if nothing had happened. Her sense of balance was great as well as you can see in this picture. 1 leg gone, 2 legs in the air, and 1 leg on the ground.

If you are familar with our dogs, you knew that when Barlo had difficulty laying down and getting up, we purchased a couch for him. Kenya's biggest challenge was getting in the back of the Suburban to go with us. We learned that the older Subaru Legacy was much closer to the ground so it was appropriate that we purchase this 1999 automobile for Kenya. Please note that she got her own license as well. Traveling with Clint and Marty was again a joy plus is was much easier to see out the windows while laying down.

Nothing seemed to be slowing her down. Her best friend, Rhia, would come to visit. She and Kenya would play together as if nothing had happened. This picture, taken by Rhia's owner, Heather Farmstead, shows the joy the 2 girls had when they got together.

In spite of valiant efforts on the part of Dr. Barlau, Dr. Miller, the staff at Colorado State University Veterinary College, Kenya has now joined Barlo. She will be missed by all. There are many fond memories of her held by Clint, Marty, our family and friends. We'll miss you Kenya.

Thanks for being a part of the Circle B Bar T.

Yellowstone, January 2011

2011-01-19T14:31:00.010-07:00

Marty and I needed a break, so off to Chico Hot Springs and 2 days in Yellowstone. Chico was wonderful as usual and Yellowstone was wintery, snowy, and no wolves close enough for a photograph as we drove from the Northwest entrance to Cooke City and back. The yield of photographs that made it to the blog was about 3%. What you are about to see does represent each of the species that we saw.

We saw coyotes from the minute we entered the park until we left. Not an abundance but they were there. If we had experienced more sun and less snow we would most likely have seen more. We followed this one across a large area in the Lamar Valley when it decided to take a rest.

Every where you looked there were bison. If you need a photograph of a bison, let me know, name the pose, and we'll have it on it's way to you. This was our favorite. Unlike many we saw who were exhausted from digging thru the snow for something to eat, this one seemed to know where it was going - it had been digging in the snow evidenced by the snow on it's body.

This fox did find the sun on the top of a large rock and was enjoying the sun and perhaps a rest from having to travel through very deep snow.

This bighorn ram was with several of his buddies near the Soda Butte. He raised his head out of the snow long enough for me to take this photograph, then back to work.

The elk population in Yellowstone is at it's lowest for a number of years. The wolves that were re-introduced have been the major factor in causing this decline in the numbers. When we first saw this gentleman he was eating twigs, not a hearty meal. When we returned he was resting. Not sure if it was because of the chore digesting the twigs or the effort it took to get his belly full. He was one of the few elk we saw. Nice rack.

I've saved this photograph for last. After seeing the impact of the winter on Yellowstone, the last place you would have expected to see ducks swimming in the river was here. I got some pictures while sitting in the car, I didn't seem to be bothering them. We saw at least 15 of them while we were stopped. Then I decided to get out of the car for some close ups. They voted not to stay, however, I did get this one on the move before they were all gone.

We'll probably return in the next 6 to 8 weeks. By that time we may get to see a few of the bears who have had enough hibernation.

Red sky in morning, sailors take warning

2010-12-29T13:24:00.009-07:00

If the old adage has any validity, we, Montanan's are about to get a blast. Five days in a row, starting with December 24th we had red sky's in the morning. We wished you a Merry Christmas with the image we captured on the 25th and the morning sky continued like this through the 28th. The snow is supposed to start later today, the 29th.

So, what are the animals doing? Up to now the weather has been mild for those who live outdoors. They have enough fur and wool to survive many degree's below zero, therefore our recent weather has been enjoyed by all. We did have a visitor on our deck recently. This is not a pet, this is a wild animal. Perhaps it came to the deck to test the alternatives if there was any truth to the "red sky in morning". We didn't put it there, it must have jumped up by itself and stayed there for several hours.

Traveling on the roads around Fishtail was another scene. There has been an abundance of deer carcasses on the side of the road. One can only assume that a visitor over the holidays was zooming down the road to celebrate with friends or family and accidently hit the critter as it was crossing the road. But it was not just one critter, within a 8 mile loop I have spotted at least a half dozen. I got a call on the 27th by one of the gals who helps with chores that she passed 4 bald eagles, feasting on a deer carcass about 2 miles from our place. She was suggesting that I head there with my camera for some photography. When I arrived there was only one remaining and it must have had a belly full as it was perched in a nearby tree and the crows, ravens, and magpis were getting their turn.

I gradually got closer to the eagle, not wanting it to take off, and to capture a few different poses with my camera. I'd take a few photo's, drive closer, take some more photo's until I was almost directly under the tree where it was perched. Can you tell by the look it it's head that there was something on the ground (me) causing a disturbance for the wildlife. I thought I was doing well and wanted to stay around to see if any of the others might return. WRONG, Look what happened next, and guess who was ready with his camera for the action.

and yesterday, as I left Fishtail to return home, I spotted 2 bald eagles in a tree, just as I turned onto the Grove Creek Road. I stopped and took a couple pictures, but the one's I took the day before were much better. I then became curious, was there another carcass along the road and these guys had there belly full already. Within a couple thousand feet, I saw what was happening. It was either a golden or a young bald (they don't get the white until they are 3 or 4 years old) enjoying dinner and sharing it with some crows and magpis. The next picture is of the eagle as I had gotten too close and it flew to a nearby fencepost. The the real truth was lying on the ground. It was not a deer, it was a skunk. This is what an eagle looks like after chowing down on a skunk and I'd guess the 2 bald eagles I saw nearby had decided to wait for a better meal.

There is plenty of hay in the corrals for the cattle, sheep, and horses. If we get the snow with the cold that has been predicted, everyone is ready.

HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEARS
Marty & Clint

Seasons Greetings from the Circle B Bar T

2010-12-10T14:33:00.006-07:00

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year

Marty, Clint and the Circle B Bar T Gang

2010 was Marty's Year

2010 was a special year, when you consider the events that have occurred.

During the last 12 months, there have been at least 6 trips to Yellowstone National Park. On one occassion, Clint took a wrong turn in Mammoth Hot Springs as it was early morning, time for a potty call, and another cup of coffee. When we realized we were not where we wanted to be, we were amazed at the number of people on this side street. The occassion was a mama elk that had just given birth. (go to the June 10th posting for a picture). Clint took his first picture of an osprey and her family in June but didn't get the picture he wanted until 2 trips later.

Marty got to meet the members of the 1960 Ohio State University Livestock Judging Team, their coach, and most of their wives, as they celebrated their 50th anniversary. (go to March 11th to see Clint and his pals 50 years ago).

The grandchildren were very active, including a visti to the Circle B Bar T that started with the first arrival on June 23 and the last departure on July 12th. Jack is now a freshman at Duquesne University in Pittsburg, Petey's hockey team was the conference champions, Crissy not only had a successful season on the softball team but has been drafted by one of the premier girl's softball teams in Connecticut for 2011. Mr. Buckeye, Patrick, was a lineman on the Wreckers football team and was dressed as Brutus for the Halloween Trick or Treats. Curtis and Grace are swimmers with lots of winning ribbons; John is the youngest and celebrated his first birthday in July. Shy Vi is always into something and lost most of her locks this fall.

Another celebration started the first week of May, when the Fremont, Ohio ladies visited Paws Up, a ranch type resort in Western Montana to brag about reaching 60 years of age. We couldn't have packed more into the 5 days we were there. Debby Wenger and Tina Hablitzel were the other 2 celebrants. Husbands, George and Mark, made the trip across the US as well as Clint who escorted Marty from Fishtail.

Marty's birthday, the Big Six O, was September 14 and just 16 days later, she officially retired from her law practice with the law firm of Bricker & Eckler and remains to run the health care consulting company, QMCG, which she formed in 1994.

It wasn't all happiness, as Sammy, the favorite horse for the last 10 years went to horse heaven in June to join her father, Al Dude. The entire family celebrated her passing at the grave site during their visit. (go to July 28th for more about Sammy and the family picture).

In September, Barlo joined Chelsea, Levi, and Hannah. His last 18 months with us featured regular chiropractic sessions with Dr. Sarah and the purchase of a couch which made it much easier for him to lay down to rest. (Barlo's memories were posted on October 26th).

Mourning Barlo's passing, Kenya jumped out of the Suburban to injure her front leg, soon diagnosed as cancer. She is now the happiest 3 legged dog and currently going thru chemo therapy to prolong her life. Jumping into the back of a Chevy Suburban had it's challenges, so Kenya1, the license plate on a 1999 Subaru Legacy, is where Kenya has found it as easy to get into a car as a couch was for Barlo to lay down. The arrival of Emma and Baxter was none too soon to put joy back in Marty's life. They are Great Dane puppies, sister and brother, and have helped us to see the brighter side of life and added a new dimension for Kenya as well. They have almost tripled in size since their arrival just 2 months ago and are at the gate to welcome visitors.(see October 11th for when they were small)

HAVE A GREAT HOLIDAY SEASON, A WONDERFUL 2100, AND COME
VISIT US IN MONTANA

4th Worst Snow in history

2010-11-28T19:53:00.015-07:00

The headlines in this week's Stillwater County News was the snow that started 10 days ago was the 4th Worst Snow Storm in history. For 3 days the weather got progressively colder and the winds got stronger. The net results were traffic accidents for those on the roads, drifting snow on our roads and driveways, and a low temperature of minus 18 degrees. But those of us who live here, we love it. But first, you will have to see this most unbelievable photograph.

As many of you know, Kenya our female Great Dane, lost one of her front legs to cancer in October. She has now had her second round of chemotherapy and her recuperation is amazing. This photograph tells it all. Snow covered ground, extremely cold, slippery underneath, and who looks like they are having a great time running from the puppies. NOW . . . . look carefully, how many feet are on the ground? . . . . how many feet are in the air ?. . . . and the total is three.

and now look at this photograph, wouldn't you like to look out your window and see this view - the Beartooth Mountains - 12,000 feet elevation and they measured snow up there in the feet.

We started taking hay to the pasture the day the snow covered the ground and we are still hauling hay to them twice a day. What is hard to explain is they eat some hay and then drift out in the pasture to get what's been covered by snow and doesn't look like a great meal to us.

and Doc went to a place in the pasture where the snow was quite deep and he decided that he would paw the snow away and then eat what was buried by the snow. Look carefully and you'll see that I captured his front foot removing the snow.

What happened to the turkey's in the trees? They are still here, obviously this guy and at least 14 of his pals did not make the dinner table. They have had to scavage in the snow and are recycling the hay that the horses have deposited. They were so brazen today that they went through the fence and were in a paddock with 2 of our mares, enjoying the treats.

and hunting season ended at sunset today. Needless to say, if you were a hunter and had not filled your limit before the snow started, you had to be dedicated and on a mission to fill your 2010 quota. These deer avoided the last week of the season rush and I would guess they were bragging to each other that they were not sighted. Someone else might say, we didn't see any bucks in the photograph.

How about your dogs? What did they think of the snow? The 2 puppies, Emma and Baxter, were not to fond of the deep snow and the cold weather. They found their way to the barn or had to be thrown out of the house as they were not fond of Montana until it started to warm up, mid-20's and 30's. They are shown here as they were waiting at the barn for someone to open the door so they could go inside.

We had a great Thanksgiving with our neighbors, who had to hike to our place for dinner as the driveways had not been plowed. The temperature yesterday was in the 40's but more snow is arriving as I finish posting this update.

STAY TUNED FOR DECEMBER

Cold Turkey

2010-11-21T18:44:00.011-07:00

How times change. The first weekend of October, 2008 we experienced 42 inches of snow at the Circle B Bar T. The same weekend in October, 2009 we had 24 inches of snow. This year, 2010, the same weekend in October the temperature was 83 degrees. This fall has been especially mild, the leaves on the trees was not hampered by the weather, and they were beautiful. It changed on November 18th. It got cold, the snow started arriving, and the expression of "cold turkey" took a new meaning the morning of November 20th. This is a picture of the trees along the Grove Creek. The dark images at the top of the trees is the flock of turkeys you saw in our last post on this blog. This time, it was too cold to be on the ground, so they flew to the top of these 40 and 50' tall trees. This is "cold turkey".
After taking this photograph, I decided to drive around the Fishtail - Absarokee area and observe was else was happening. As I said already, it had been a great fall, the livestock had not been feed hay as the pastures were still very attractive to both the ranch livestock as well as the deer. On this day, with over 8 inches of snow on the ground, and still falling, I fed our horses hay for the first time this fall.

They weren't the only animals that needed to find something to eat. As I drove the 20 mile circumference, I expected to see lots of deer in the fields. I must have been too cold for them as well. I would normally expect to see at least 200 deer on this trip, but this day there were only a few, and the ones I saw had found something to eat, as this one had.

Most of the ranchers had been out feeding their livestock, prior to me venturing around south Stillwater County. However, this herd had not been blessed with hay and as you can see they were roaming through the pasture looking for something to eat.

But these sheep, covered with snow, if you look carefully, were fillng their stomachs with hay that had been harvested this past summer.

and finally, there were adventuresome animals like these who didn't wait for the rancher to bring them hay, they sought it out on their own. Whether it was the smell of the nearby bales or this bale just happened to be in the right place at the right time, and they went no further. They might say they were luckier that cattle you observed looking for hay, certainly they got their bellies full.

If you made this same trip today, there was hay in every field and every animal in our area was feasting on some good hay as the temperature had tumbled to minus 10 degrees last night. The weather forecast indicates it will not get warmed until Thanksgiving. In the meantime, there is more than enough excellent hay for our livestock to make the transition to winter.

Individuals in Montana, not the way you expect it. . .

2010-11-12T17:01:00.007-07:00

For the last several weeks as we have driven down the Grove Creek Road toward Fishtail, I have noticed a calf in the same pasture as the neighbors sheep. Each time I passed, my curiosity caused me to look for the mother cow, which I never saw. Yesterday, I asked the nieghbors if they knew there was a calf in with the sheep, and if they did, where was it's mother. What I was told, is not what I expected. This was a "bum" calf, it had no mother. In addition to bottle feeding the calf, they decided to put it in with the sheep. They were hoping it would bond with the sheep and ultimately be the protector of the sheep, very similar to the role of a llama. The picture shows the competitors, the llama and the calf.
Come spring we will have to return to the pasture and check out the role of the calf as well as it's relationship with the llama. Sort of strange seeing a calf with no other cattle in a pasture with several hundred head of sheep and a llama.

As I have been working around the barn for the last several weeks, I have noticed a little bunny. Yes, it is quite small and very young. As I watched and observed it's actions, I believe it has found a home under the hay that we are storing for the horses. Recently, it has started to pose for me, I couldn't wait any longer, ran to the house and got my camera and zoom lens, not knowing how close it would allow me to get. This is hunting season, but this critter is too small for the hunter, but it is staying close to the barn to hide from something. and what would you expect to see in another one of the pastures as you drive toward Absarokee. You are probably guessing, sheep or cattle, wildlife could be deer, or perhaps some horses. Wrong. There is a pasture that has been full of sheep, every year for the last 19 years. There are no sheep in it today. This is one of 3 small burrows that is in control of the acreage. No signs of sheep. This guy and his buddies are about the size of the calf and definitely smaller than the llama.

As we all know, Thanksgiving is just 2 weeks away. I'm sure that you are already thinking about where you'll be enjoying the feast and what you'll be eating. Just as we are about to prepare for the big occassion, guess what reappears on the Circle B Bar T ranch? Answer, the turkeys. The flock is not as large in numbers as last year. I counted 15 in total, but they look very healthy. For those of you who like dark meat, no white meat, not even the breast, you should come to Stillwater County and take one of these beauties home for Thanksgiving. If you prefer white meat, ie: the breast, then continue your plan to purchase or grow locally.

An update from Marty & Clint

2010-11-09T13:36:00.013-07:00

The winner of the Halloween costume award goes to Patrick McCarthy, our grandson who lives in Westport, CT. Patrick had just finished his football season in Westport and wanted to treat the neighbors with a Big Ten look. Go Bucks

When the family was here this summer, cousin Kate from Georgia fell in love with Johnny, one of our horses. When it came time to return to the southland, Kate had convinced Marty and as well as Kate's parents, that Johnny would look good at their stables. Kate and her father, Marque returned the weekend of November 5th for Kate to spend a few more days with Johnny. Looks like a great match up.

Just before Kate and her dad arrived, we observed the horses starring at the road. Was it Kate and her dad arriving to see Johnny? No, it was too early for them. Could it have been some type of critter? No, most of the critters are hiding as the Montana hunting season is now in full force. But it wasn't hunters either.

It was a neighbor taking their sheep down the Grove Creek Rd, moving them from one pasture to another. Do you suppose our horses were jealous that they were not participating in the drive?

Remember the photograph of the owl that I took last winter while I was cutting wood for the fireplace. Well, it's time to get more wood and I was at the same place cutting logs for the winter ahead. Just as I did, January 5th to be specific, I looked over my shoulder as I was heading for the house with some wood, and guess who I saw. Of course I didn't have my camera, so quickly to the house, grabbed my camera and returned to the Grove Creek. It was still there, but after I compared these phot0's with the ones I took in January, I believe it was a different owl. I looks smaller and not was colorful as the prior owl. Go to the January 5, 2010 posting for a comparison.

Has winter settled in Montana yet? Well, the first weekend in October in 2008 we had 42 inches of snow, the same weekend in 2009 we have 24 inches of snow, and this same weekend in 2010 it was 83 degrees, obviously, no snow. If you go to the October 9, 2009 posting you will see pictures from these 2 weekends. So what was it like last weekend when Kate and Marque were here. The sun was shining and the temperatures were in the mid-70's on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It all changed yesterday. The weatherman predicted 12-18 inches of snow in the mountains, there would be no accumulation at our elevation as the ground was still warm. This picture confirms that the weatherman at least knew what he was forecasting. Our altitude of 4500 feet missed the snow, just one ridge away, the white stuff was accumulating and the mountains really got hit.

As most of you know by now, Emma and Baxter, 2 great dane puppies arrived about a month ago. By now they have settled in, take a morning walk to get the paper with Marty, Kenya, and I, are underfoot most of the time and can last 4 - 5 hours between bowel movements. They are gaining weight at the rate of almost a pound a day. Here they are. We got them winter blankets 3 weeks ago and they have almost outgrown them. Stay tuned for more adventures of Emma and Baxter.

We'll miss you Barlo

2010-10-26T12:13:00.012-06:00

What's in a name? When our 4th Great Dane was named over 8 years ago, it was in honor of our local veterinarian, Dr. Sarah Barlau. In retrospect, it was a bonding of the 2 and for sure extended Barlo's life at least 1 1/2 or maybe even 2 years.
Physically, Barlo had a very large head and the weight on his neck and spine caused him a number of physical problems over the years. Early on, Sarah developed a brace that he wore to take pressure off his spine and back. In later years, the condition of his back was one of the worst ever reviewed by Colorado State University veterinarians.

Dr. Barlau to the rescue again. This time it was chiropractic in nature and after each session, Barlo was like a new dog. In addition, Dr. Sarah had selected medications to reduce the pain as well.

During his lifetime, there were events that people will remember as Barlo. If you were a lady guest and you sat in our living room, Barlo would find his way to your lap. His fanny in your lap and his front legs on the floor. If Marty would lie down on the couch, who do you think her partner was . . . . . .

of course it was the lap dog, Barlo. Another memorable event was the photograph taken of Barlo and Kenya on the couch and Marty's lap. How about when he was a pup and he went to the dishwasher for more food.

He loved to walk in the pastures and on several occasions he found what he considered a treasure. A bone from a deer carcass was in his mouth for several days.

The remains of this carcass he dragged from the Grove Creek and was not about to relinquish it to anyone.

Then there was the day he discovered a porcupine under a bush near the creek. This was his prize and in spite of the pain, he didn't give up until the porcupine was dead and he had acquired enough quills in his head and neck that it took 1 1/2 hours at the vet clinic removing the quills.

He wrestled with Clint in the yard until Marty made them quit because she feared someone would not think Barlo was just having fun. He protected the front gate and most people arriving would not proceed to the house until the "big boy" was under the control of Marty or Clint. He napped on the deck with his favorite cat, Ruthie, and posed for photographs with the guests.

Can you image the stories that are now being shared with Chelsea, Levi, and Hannah?

He will be missed. Friends, relatives, Kara - his friend at the United Bank of Absarokee, the UPS driver, neighbors, and of course his name sake, Dr. Sarah.

The latest arrivals at the Circle B Bar T

2010-10-11T20:05:00.007-06:00

It was just 8 weeks ago that a Great Dane gave birth to a beautiful liter of brindle puppies in the state of Washington. Marty and Clint located their owner, Dawn Houston, and purchased not one but two of the new puppies. A young man named Baxter and a pretty female named Emma. After flying from Washington and then by auto from Billings, Baxter and Emma soon discovered the front lawn at the Circle B Bar T. They have already brought joy into Marty and Clint's life healing their broken hearts. They two will grow quickly as they are already over 20 pounds each. Unless you will be visiting soon, they may be full size by the time you come to visit.

The first morning on the ranch they were invited to the barn to help with morning chores. The horses walking down the aisle were more initimidated by the puppies than the puppies were of the horses, almost 50 times their size. The temperature was cool and the puppies soon discovered the tack room and the bed that Ruthie the cat typically occupies. The caption of this photo is, "there is no room for Ruthie"

Kenya has missed her pal for the last 6 years, Mr. Barlo. But it didn't take long for Baxter to invite himself to the space most often occupied by Barlo. Within a very short time, Baxter was snuggled up close to Kenya, filling the void left by Mr. B. As you may or may not know, Kenya had to have one of her front legs removed after a diagnosis of cancer and is recovering from the operation of less than a week ago. She has welcomed Baxter and Emma and has accepted them as part of the family. There will be more about Barlo and Kenya in postings to follow.

The Big Six O

2010-09-16T12:57:00.013-06:00

Once in a lifetime, if we are fortunate, we reach the magnificent age of 60. The year 2010 was the 60th anniversary of the birth of Martha Post Baxter. The anticipation of the celebrations started as the we entered the year and may have been culminated on her birthday on September 14.

Marty and her two childhood friends, Debby Wenger and Tina Hablitzel, from a very early age back in Fremont, Ohio have had a great friendship and have spent many days together in the past 60 years. 2010 was no different, this time it was 5 days at a Montana Resort, Paws Up, where the 3 husbands were included in the festivities. This was in May and at that time, only Debby had celebrated her 60th. In addition to sharing the time and the stories of the past, there was river rafting, horse back riding, trail ride on 4 wheelers, visiting a ghost town, geo caching, and dining, 3 meals a day with some fantastic food and great wines, plus sharing gifts and memories. Marty, Debby, and Tina will never forget this special occasion and their 60th birthday celebration - shown here with their flashy glasses at diner one night.
Montana continued to be a focal point of celebration with the Teegardin clan arriving in June and the final departure was in July. At one time there were as many as 19 people sitting around the dinner table. One such gathering there was a "gluten free" chocolate cake served to the birthday girl. These were special moments for Marty as she got to share the horses and Montana with the next generation as well as a special 36 hours in Yellowstone National Park. A final tribute was give to the first foal at the Circle B Bar T by the assembled family which was another sad but great memory of Sammy the Bam Bam.

As September neared, so did the best wishes that arrived as cards and letters in the mail, e-mails from many, Facebook was inundated with communications, and there were phone calls from others. If you ever had any doubts as to the number of people who consider Marty as a friend, a colleague, or someone you want to congratulate on achieving this milestone, you should have monitored the activity in the various media mentioned. In addition there were suggestions in the notes as to what Clint's role should be: sing Happy Birthday to Marty, light a candle for her, blow out the candle, spend a lot of money on gifts, take her out to dinner, and much more.

Gifts arrived in the form of flowers, bottles of wine, a painting she had been admiring for several years and many more, too numerous to mention.

and then the Grand Finale, it was the evening of Marty's birthday, the sun had set and all of a sudden the sky became alive as if people from all over South Central Montana were lighting candles and blowing them out. You could see them from miles away and as each candle was extinguished, there was a loud boom. Marty said, "I'll bet Marse, my mother, who passed away on her 60th, is sending best wishes from heaven and wants to be sure I have a Grand Finale for this special day. And then, the biggest candle must have been lit just outside our yard in the outdoor riding arena. I'm sure you could have seen the light for miles away and then a boom that rocked our house. The morning of the 15th, I took this photograph of the candle, the power of it had split the fence post and knocked down the rails. Marse, we got the message, wish you were here.

The force of lighting of the candle as you can see, split the post. Marty has suggested we not repair the fence so that she will remember this special year and celebration each day as she rides one of the horses in the arena.

HAPPY 60th BIRTHDAY, MARTY

Look what we saw . . . . . . .

2010-09-09T13:05:00.008-06:00

As we finish the summer season, we have spotted some interesting sites on the Circle B Bar T. Over the past few years we have had a huge penetration of grasshoppers as the summer temperatures arrive and the enviroment for the grasshopper optimizes. The next question is how do you get rid of grasshoppers. The best answer we have come up with is let mother nature take its course. The best way is for the cooler weather of the fall to arrive, perhaps even earlier than planned. That gets rid of them. Another way is shown in the next photograph. These healthy birds are feasting on grasshoppers. At the moment they are resting before their next penetration of our pastures.
At this time of the year, we have already harvested the hay and in fact after filling our barn with hay for the winter our neighbors were able to bale as much hay as we did for their own use. There is ample hay still in the pasture for the horses and the neighbors brought some of their sheep to graze on the pasture across the Grove Creek. In recent years, coyotes have visited their sheep in our pasture for a good lamb dinner. This year, they delivered a protector as you can see in this photograph. Mr. Larry the LLama is in charge of the sheep. He is their leader and their protector.

While it may be a long time before the signs of winter arrive at your home, we looked at the Beartooth Mountains the first day of September and guess what we saw. It was still warm at the 4500 feet elevation of the Circle B Bar T Ranch, but it was cool enough for the precipitation to take a different form in the mountains. In fact, there was enough of the white stuff that the Beartooth Pass, the road from Red Lodge to Cooke City was closed until the road crews could remove the snow.

Finally, the same view that we had, looking west from our home to see the birds, came later in the day. Marty came running into the house and announced a beautiful sunset. Not only was it beautiful but we were quite pleased to shout, "Red sky at nite, sailor's delight". This meant that we would enjoy another day in Montana, plenty of sunshine, a great view of the mountains, and fall would have to wait. What Marty didn't see was the deer who were passing across the ridge in full view of the sunset. What a great photograph.

Hope your sights have been as rewarding as ours.

See you in Montana

Who invited you?

2010-08-17T12:51:00.007-06:00

It usually happens about once a year, it is usually in the summer, and a critter that is not common to our part of Montana, appears on the scene. Yesterday, I got a call from a neighbor who had spotted the bear in one of our pastures as they drove by our ranch. I quickly grabbed my camera and got a couple pictures before it headed north across the road and up the hill.

Where it had been and where it was going is anybody's guess. A bear normally has a range of 10 square miles and the rate at which it was running across the pasture, it was in a hurry to get somewhere else.

It did not appear as if it had been on our property very long, as the horses who shared the pasture where I saw the bear were not aware of it's appearance and the horses in the adjoining pastures were calm and under control as well.

Yellowstone Expedition Guide, a great purchase

2010-08-08T13:17:00.015-06:00

When you think of Yellowstone National Park, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? If it's not the first thing, it's most likely the second thing, it's Old Faithful.
and if someone asked you what was the next most identifiable part of the park, and you didn't answer, bison, bears, wolves, and elk, it probably would be the Grand Canyon and the Canyon Falls.

Having owned property just 35 miles from the park for almost 20 years, Marty and I have been frequent visitors, we've done most of the things that can be done and have seen most of the places and things to be seen. However, things have changed since our July 8th visit. Marty purchased the Yellowstone Expedition Guide at the Yellowstone Association store in Gardiner. Since then, and 2 visits later things have changed. The guide is almost 300 pages long and includes a CD featuring 14 narratives about Yellowstone. The guide has been our companion for the last 2 trips, this is what it looks like, and if you are coming to Yellowstone, stop by one of the Yellowstone Association stores and get a copy, it will be well worth it.

Here are a couple examples of how it has changed our touring of the park. Typically we would enter either at Cooke City or Gardiner, we never missed the Lamar Valley and depending upon the amount of time we have to tour, we would see most or all of the park. But this is how things have changed. We had just left the Canyon area when Marty said to look for LeHardy's Rapids. The "most exciting rapids" in the park where native cutthroat trout leap over the rapids on their way to spawning. We have passed the rapids at least 50 times, never stopping, but this day we did. The trout had already made the trip to their spawning grounds, but look what we saw at the rapids. That's right, pelicans. They were fishing the rapids and after a tough trip through them, they would rest on this island.

As we started down the road to "artists point" for the classic view you have already seen, Marty said we should stop at Uncle Tom's Trail. So what is that I asked? It is a trail that originated in 1898 along the falls. Today it is known as the 328 steps down to the base of the falls and it feels like 2,ooo steps up to where you parked your car. We did the trip, had to make several stops on the way back to rest. The scene was beautiful and exciting. This was a photograph taken close to the bottom of the falls.
Old Faithful was next. We've been there many times as well, and as usual I was trying to get there as soon as I could to be sure we would see the next eruption of Old Faithful. Not so fast Clint, slow down and turn into the Firehole Lake Drive. What's there? I don't think it's a short cut to the geyser. No, but there are a couple of well know geyers there. The Great Fountain Geyser was first and the White Dome Geyser was next. Total drive was 5 miles, a another part of the scenic park we had missed for 19 years.

The day we purchased the guide, we had been in Lamar Valley, and observed an osprey sitting on a nest. With my tripod and camera, I intermittently hiked and took pictures until I though I was about to disturb the female on her nest. When I got home, I tried to make something out of the photos, you knew they were ospreys, the old man was in the background and out of focus, and I could not see any young osprey in the nests. Two weeks later, we returned and I was determined to get a better picture. We started across the field and within 5 steps from the car, mama osprey left the nest. 10 days later, we're back on the scene. This time I got the pictures I had been hoping for. I didn't know until I got home and put the images on the computer that there were 2 youngsters and they looked large enough to soon leave the nest with mom.

I'm sure you will hear more about what we've learned and new experiences as we plan to visit the park again in about a month.

Goodbye Sammy, We all loved you

2010-07-28T17:01:00.010-06:00

On June 19, 2010 our first born, Alakhazam, aka Sammy Da Bam Bam, left the Circle B Bar T, to live a life free of pain and join her wonderful Circle B Bar T sire, Alsaan, aka, Al dude. This is Sammy with her sire and dam Khalli when Sammy was quite young.
At the age of 2 Sammy had become a Jr. Champion at her first show only to suffer a life-altering injury shortly thereafter. Thanks to the heroic and dedicated efforts of our veterinarians, she lived a full life with a somewhat compromised back leg until the inevitable laminitis, ulcers, and colic crept up on her. The next picture was Sammy in the pasture before her first show.

In her years at the Circle B Bar T, she became the grandchildren's favorite. She taught most of them to ride, she was the first horse love of many and gave our grandaughter Crissy her first gallop, she saved Crissy when the bridle broke and held on to the bit so Crissy could continue the ride that day. She is pictured below with Crissy and Marty at the Region 6 Championship in Gillette where they performed in the "lead line class".

She taught us all so much about living life to its fullest and never complaining about the challenges she faced. Whether is was showing off as she posed for this picture with Marty in the saddle and the Beartooth Mountains in the background,

Or her favorite smile after sipping on someone's soda, or trying to get your attention as shown in the pose that most remember by . . . . .

8 days after she passed away, one of her best friends, BBT Majestic Sapphire, was confirmed in foal to "Kordalis". We choose to believe that Sammy galloped to the gates of heaven, turned in her weary body, and flew her sould back to the Circle B Bar T to Sapphire. We now anxiously await, "Sam I Am", Rest in Peace, Sammy.

A special ceremony was held in honor of Sammy when the entire family, both young and old assembled at her grave to say a last goodbye.

Look what we found just walking around

2010-07-17T14:21:00.011-06:00

A hike in the Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park. We were on our way to visit a wolf den that was dug close to 10 years ago by one of the first females after the re-introduction of the wolves to have pups. To the east we saw bison or if you prefer buffalo, we tripped across several huge antlers from elk, we have seen bears roaming in the area, of course there have been wolves and coyotes. But this day as we were leaving the empty den, someone spotted a bird in a tree. Is that a bluebird? I think it is. As I tried to get a photograph, I was on the wrong side of the tree, the sun was creating a shadow. If I walk around when the sun is providing the ideal light on the subject, will the subject still be there. In the wild, most birds are not used to a photographer roaming around the tree looking for the perfect place to take a photo. Today, I was lucky and this is what I got. So now it's back to the bus and on to our next stop. You will not guess what I found along the way. In the 2 million acres of Yellowstone, you expect to see wildlife, mountains, and beautiful terrain. How about a flower, proudly sticking it's beautiful bloom out of the field, and instead of tripping over it or accidently stepping on it, I took a photograph.

Have you been to Woodbine, along the Stillwater River? If you did, the first thing you saw was the Stillwater River, in the spring as the water flowed from the melting snow in the Beartooth Mountains, in late summer early fall, the beauty of the mountains and a stream still providing water that could end up some day in the Gulf of Mexico. Maybe you were planning on catching a trout, perhaps just a hike, or maybe you hoped to see some wildlife; maybe a moose, or a bear, or a bighorn sheep. Not on this trip, and camera was focused on something you may have seen but would not have said that's why you took the hike. How about this beautiful flower?

and only a few steps away was another one. These are just a few of the pretty plants that appear during the year, and at times there could be an entire landscape with them rather than a random plant here and there.

What would you expect to find in our barn, certainly an Arabian horse, maybe a new saddle, how about a blue ribbon or a trophy, Ruthie the cat or her sister Martha might be home, Barlo or Kenya our 2 great dane dogs, or do you have a new foal. None of these. I have been observing a bird nest being built in one of the eaves in the area where we store the hay, the nest was finished, the female bird was sitting on the next, then it appeared that there might be young ones. Then one day, I see beaks appearing at the top of the nest. I waited, and I waited, then I brought my camera to the barn and took this picture.

Most people what not want these you barn swallows in their barn, but I let nature take it's course. I'll tear down the nest after they leave and hope their family will find a tree or someone else's barn to build a nest next time. I stayed around hoping "mom" would return with some food. I didn't have to wait long, and this is what appeared.

Every one who has seen this photograph was asked, who got the food. If you guessed the second from the left, you are right. In fact "mom" had her head completely inside that ones mouth as she deposited the food.

Just walking around you can see some interesting sites.

The birth of a new season

2010-06-10T19:18:00.012-06:00

Our most current trip to Yellowstone National Park started on June 7th. We arrived via the Beartooth Highway and were overcome by the amount of snow that still existed at the top of the mountains. We traveled thru the Lamar Valley and arrived at our destination, Chico Hot Springs for dinner and a dip in the hot springs. We returned to Yellowstone on the 8th and had just passed through the northwest entrance, on our way to Mammoth Hot Springs, when we noticed a single car parked along the side of the road looking into the rocky slope. The image that you see, is what they were watching.
A herd of Big Horn sheep and their 2010 crop of babies were strolling along the rocky ledges. The young ones were having fun, jumping ahead while the mothers tried to lead them along the cliffs. I soon discovered 3 of them had found a nice big rock as a platform. I immediately took this photograph as it was only seconds later that they had jumped off the ledge and were running around the slopes. They are very sure footed to maintain their position on the side of the rocky mountains.
On to Mammoth. We were out of coffee and we needed to take a pit stop before we ventured south toward Lake Yellowstone. I missed the turn and as I attempted to correct my error I noticed a lot of people with cameras on the street ahead. Not wanting to miss anything exciting, I drove on to find that a female elk had just given birth to a fawn. Immediately, I parked the car grabbed my camera and starting taking pictures. We observed most of the things that happen during the birthing process and I took close to 75 photographs recording the various events. The next three were our favorites. This is the young calf, moments after it's birth, attempting to get up as it's mother licked it to give it strength and encouragement. I labeled this, "I love you Mom"
Soon after there was another new arrival at the scene, of course there were more people as the word spread of the fawn's arrival, but this arrival was not a twin, it was a magpie. They do have a symbiotic relationship with elk and we soon observed the real reason for it's being there was to help get rid of the afterbirth. Hopefully, this would prevent wolves and bears from getting the scent and perhaps attacking mom and the new fawn. I'm not sure if the mother was inviting the magpie, introducing it to the fawn, or hoping with would leave.
The next order of business was for the calf to get enough strength to stand up and get some nourishment. The calf was quite awkward and it took some time for it to maintain it's balance long enough that it could get near mother's milk and have it's first meal. This is usually the first critical step in the life of the newborn, and this youngster passed the test as seen in this picture.
Before the day was over, we saw something new on something old. Each year the bull elk lose their antlers in the late winter, early spring and soon the growth of the new antlers begins. This guy is very proud of his new growth and is looking forward to sparring with his fellow bull elk to then earn the right to sire some calves for the 2011 season.
It was a great trip, Yellowstone abounds with other new life and another year of tourists.

6 Days ago . . . . .

2010-05-06T08:39:00.006-06:00

In the last 6 days we have had winds that approached 50 mph, day and nite. Marty and I have spent the nights in the bedroom in the basement to avoid the loud winds and get a good nite sleep. Yesterday, the weatherman said the winds would slow down and that an artic cold front would be arriving soon. By 9:00 PM there was enough of this stuff covering the pastures that we took hay into the paddocks for the horses to eat. This is what we saw as we looked out toward the Beartooth Mountains. Yes, this is the southern view, it's still snowing with another 2 to 4 inches due today.

With the cold wet snow and a temperature of 25 degrees, the animals would prefer the 50 mph wind. This picture is an example of what our trees look like. The birds are all huddled above the ground and I'm sure they're hoping for some warmer temperatures today. The expected high is 38. The horses are in the barn until 10:00 AM, the dogs are in the house with us, and Ruthie and Martha, the cats, are in the tack room.

and you asked, how much snow did you get. I took the yardstick into the yard and you can see for yourself (14 inches so far) This is with an expected additional 2 to 4 inches today. The ground is not frozen, so there as been some melting, when I shoveled off the walk it was sloshy underneath but it will not get warm enough to show much of a melt until Saturday. The slow melt means moisture in the ground and all we need after that is some warm weather. None is predicted for the next week.

April what brings May flowers?

2010-04-30T12:16:00.007-06:00

I started to the barn this morning to spread the manure. This is not the correct answer to the question, because I have to spread the manure in pastures far enough from the house that there is not an after effect. It was not raining, it was too cold for the flower seeds to hatch, it was too cloudy to get any germination, yet I still had to spread the manure and it was April 30th. This is what I saw . . . . .

and yes, I had to hook up the tractor to the spreader and drive thru 30 MPH winds with a wind chill of 10 above, because there was more manure to be cleaned out of the barns. So you say, that wasn't much snow. How about going to the other side of the barn, the south side toward the mountains and take a look at the Beartooth. As you can see, the visibility was less than a mile. The only good news is, we needed the moisture and there has been a lack of snow in the mountains, which means the rivers and streams will be lower than usual, but good for fishing.
See you in May.

Controlling the robins during mating season

2010-04-23T13:54:00.006-06:00

In an earlier post, I made comment about the robins pecking on our windows. I wasn't sure the motivation, so I studied the problem. It goes like this. In the spring, prior to the female robin laying her eggs, the male is in a very protective mood. He may see his image, ie: a reflection in a window glass and thinks it is a competitor infringing on his territory. Being protective, he attacks the image expecting the competitor to leave. This goes on until there is not reflection or the female has settled in her nest and has laid so eggs. This becomes very distracting when you are inside the house and they start attacking at sunrise, and throughout the day, or until there is no reflection. This is what Clint did to end this foolishness.

If you can see my reflection in our bedroom window as I'm taking this picture, you can be assured that the robin saw his as well. The difference is, there is a photograph of a crow that has been printed and pasted to the window. The robin said,"this is not a friendly picture" as he saw his own image in the window. The robin left and went to another window. We now have crow prints on all windows which he thought was his territory. No more pecking on the windows.

Proof of the eating is in the pudding, they say. Well, in years past there have been several robin nests around the house which I was not allowed to destroy until the young robins had fled the nest. There are no new nests. Thank you Mr. Crow.

The rest of the story

2010-04-21T20:31:00.011-06:00

There must of have been a number of you who decided that the contest to determine where the picture of ducks was taken was a sham or figured it was on the Circle B Bar T Ranch and didn't participate. There were a number of you who did and the winner was Scot Billings. Scot and his wife Peg were the people who we purchased Barlo from and they traveled all the way from Michigan to deliver him to us just 8 years ago. Scot said, "it must have somewhere between the Circle B Bar T Ranch and Fishtail", and he was correct. The reason that I didn't tell you the complete story was I knew it would be a give away if knew what was happening the day I took those pictures.

I left the house with my camera by my side in the pick up truck. Shortly after I left, on the Grove Creek Road on the way to Fishtail, I spotted the mallards, stopped the truck and took the first pictures, not far from there were the Western Meadowlarks. Had I told you I was on my way to Fishtail or shown you the next picture, it would not have been a difficult decision determining where I took the duck pictures. Yes, it is spring in Montana, and almost every pasture has calves in it. These were not totally dependent upon their mothers and were assembled in the sun near the hay.

There are pigeons everywhere and I have not been fortunate enough to get close enough to get a good picture. That day as you know by now was a good day for Clint the photographer and guess what was waiting on a fence post along the road. I have to say, it was a great picture.

One of the signs of spring is the arrival of the cranes. It is usually late March or early April that they arrive. They come in pairs as the "sand hill cranes" mate for life and before fall they have hatched at least 1 if not 2 or 3 young ones. They leave when the young ones can fly and we wait for spring for their return. I had seen them and heard them for at least a couple of weeks, but it wasn't until I got closer on my trip to Fishtail that these 2 posed for me. I was also fortunate to have my 400mm zoom lens.

and what else do we see in the pastures in the spring? Baby lambs. Number 55 was only a few days old. You could tell that by it's size and shape. Another give away as to it's age is the fact that it still has it's tail. The tails are removed, the rancher calls is docking, to prevent the lamb making a mess in it's wool when it goes to the bathroom. This one is a cutey as they all are.

I had to get out of the truck to get the picture of the lamb. As I was walking by some trees along the road, a very small bird started jumping from limb to limb. It was not the least bit intimidated by my presence and allowed me to take a series of pictures, this one being my favorite. At this point in time all I knew about it was that it was small, black and white, and let me take it's picture.

When I got home, I had to get my Audubon Rocky Mountain field guide for birds to determine what it was. After several debates with Marty, we determined it was a Black-capped Chickadee.

Needless to say, it was one of the most fun and fulfilling 5 miles drives I've had in a long time. Hope you enjoyed it as well. I also saw deer and rock chuck and smelled a skunk. As you can tell I'm having fun with my new camera, more to come.

Where did I take these pictures?

2010-04-12T20:22:00.010-06:00

If you can determine within 250 miles of where I took these pictures, you could win a photograph. One of these or any photo that Clint has taken. All you have to do is send an e-mail to me at circlebbart@nemont.net and tell me where I took these pictures. We will recognize the winner and let them choose a photograph for the best answer. As you examine these 5 pictures you need to look at not only the subject but the surrounding area before you make an entry. The water, the landscape, and the potential area's. This is the first picture. It is a mallard duck, prim and proper. If you think a close up will help in your decision process, double click on the image for a close-up view.

As I had completed taking a series of photographs, this being my favorite, I was fortunate to capture this guy as he tried to evade my camera. However, I was ready and I got him as he tried to escape. Yes, I was lucky, but this picture is as much a function of my new camera as it is the photographer. Luck enters the equation as well. Where do you suppose I was standing when I took this.

Do you have an idea where I took these pictures? Perhaps a picture of his girl friend and her surroundings will give you a hint. Does the color of the water give you a clue. It's too early for her to be on a nest or have ducklings, it's more like mating season.

Okay, the next picture is a Meadowlark. It was taken the same day as I took the photographs of the mallards. It is quite obvious that this bird was sitting on a barbed wire fence, of which we have none on our property. Here's perhaps another hint, the Western Meadowlark is the state bird of 6 different states in the west. Could I have been in Oregon, maybe Kansas, or do you think maybe Nebraska, you say that is too far away, perhaps North Dakota, or Wyoming. The sixth state is Montana, but where you would find mallard ducks with the surroundings that you have seen in these pictures in Montana.

Well, I did have a lucky day wherever I was. Just as I had finished taking the pictures, the bird took off and I got it in the air.

Now, study the 5 pictures carefully and send an e-mail with you best guess.

It wasn't spring in Yellowstone

2010-04-01T19:48:00.011-06:00

We headed for Chico Hot Springs and Yellowstone National Park on March 30th. Had a heavy snow in Chico the evening of the 30th, a lot of snow was still on the ground when we got to the park on the 31st. After bragging about spring was on it's way a few days ago, I should have realized that April Fools day was coming up soon and that winter wasn't over yet. Well, as we entered the park, we saw this big elk, it looked funny. Yes, it was missing it's antlers, this was probably one of the guys that we had seen on our last trip, but he sure looked different. Notice where the antlers are normally affixed to the skull. The antlers will start growing at the rate of 1 1/2 inches per day, and it will not be long before this guy looks like an impressive male again.
Before we left, guess what we saw. Not one but two guys still sporting their finest. I'm sure it will not be long before these are gone as well, but for now, he's got bragging rights.

If you have been reading about the wolves in Lamar Valley, you will not be surprised that Rick McIntyre and and wolf watchers were within a couple miles of Mammoth Hot Springs, not in the valley that once sported 37 wolves. Competition destroyed part of the numbers and now the mange was about to eliminate them completely. I'm sure, as fertile a hunting ground as Lamar has been, it will not be long before some new blood enters to establish a name for themselves. But in the meanwhile, guess who has taken over. As we drove thru Lamar, we saw no wolves but we did see several coyotes and then we saw a fox.

Yes, in their favorite spot on top of a rise near the Soda Butte was a group of Big Horn sheep. They are still in the lower parts of the park until spring returns the lush pastures to the higher elevations. If you look back on the blog, you will see a picture of only the horns of a Big Horn. This time I got the whole thing.

The best was saved for last. The male elk are losing their pride and joy. The females are waiting for spring and the birth of their calves. This one happened to find a new friend who it appeared was ahead of the rest, getting the winter house cleaning done early. The magpie had comfortably rested on the neck and head of this female elk and while I was taking this photograph I noticed the magpie had found something in the fur of the elk that it was enjoying. Those bugs probably wished they had left earlier, as the magpie was having a feast.

Instead of going back to Yellowstone on April Fool's day, we headed home early, as winter was for sure taking over. Snow, windy, and cold. Not a good day for prospecting or enjoying the park.

We did see a bear who was out of hibernation and plenty of bison.

Sure signs of spring in Montana

2010-03-24T15:56:00.011-06:00

As you drive down the roads of rural Montana at this time of the year, it's a sure thing that you will start seeing young calves in the pastures with their mothers. We will probably still be seeing day old calves at least until May, but the pastures are getting full and the calves are a sure sign.

Several days ago, I started hearing a pounding noise on our bay windows, at first I thought it was one of the dogs scratching or gnawing on something. Then I followed the noise to one of our large picture windows to discover a robin flying into the window. He could have been telling me they had returned for the spring and summer but experience tells me he saw a reflective image in the window and was either attacking it or trying to get in the house. Here he is in a resting position before his next attack.
The other site driving down the roads are herds of deer. You will see in this photograph that the girls have accumulated around the "man of the hills". You should also note that there is only one of these guys with the antlers. For now this is his harem, and you better not mess with his women.
There are calves, birds returning from their winter habitat, the female deers have selected a mate to share with their lady friends and there are many other critters starting to show up. If they have been around, they have found a warm comfortable place to stay, not to far from food, but now that it's getting warm and the snow is about gone, they are venturing out. This one was walking down the middle of the Grove Creek Road as I headed home the other day. I gave him a wide berth and waited for him to realize that I needed to get past him before I proceeded home.

As the days are getting longer and daylight savings time means it's darker later, we know that there will be at least another snow and that summer is next.

Sharing

2010-03-19T13:46:00.008-06:00

Sharing is an important part of our life and life's experiences. When its cold and snowy in Montana there is not a lot of vegetation for the animals to eat. The rancher takes hay to his livestock but ignores the wildlife. This pony is sharing and the 2 deer I am sure appreciate the opportunity. Everybodys happy.

It started when grandson John saw my ostrich cowboy boots, if he could have figured out how to take them off my feet and put them on his, I would have lost a pair of boots. Later, I was holding him and you can tell he was not only intrigued by my hat but he also wanted to be a cowboy. I decided to share just like the pony and the deer.

Grandpa did share, what a happy boy. The fit could have been better but the expression on John's face tells it all. For those of you who follow our blog, you may remember about 6 weeks ago John had his tongue out as a result of unhappiness. I didn't want to see the tongue, and look what I got. He's coming to Montana this summer. I'll have to find him a pony to ride and perhaps we can find a baby deer in the pasture.

Kenya had a great day, look what she found

2010-03-15T19:59:00.013-06:00

We spotted Kenya running down the lane toward the house after our morning walk. She seemed in a happy mood and was moving at quite a rapid pace. We noticed something strange, take a look closely and see if you see what we saw. I agree, you probably can't see what's unique, in fact, I had to look several times after Marty told me what she had seen. The real question will be not what it is or where she got it but how it became hooked on her dog blanket under her neck.

If you still haven't figured it out, it is a bone from most likely a deer carcass, most likely a front leg and from the joint there are 2 bones that have created a hook that is lapped over the top of the dog blanket under her neck. Whether she was rolling on the carcass or the bone, it was most likely the way it got bound on the blanket.

This may be the best angle to see the bone. Barlo was either not interested or had been told by Kenya to stay away from her bone. Ultimately, when Marty took off the blanket the bone was deposited in the trash barrell. But that was just the morning scenario. We took them for an afternoon walk towards the mountains, turned around at the gate at the Johnson place and as we started back towards the house, guess what. Kenya had found another prize.

It was obvious what she had found this time. It was the remains of the head, neck, and some of the pelt of a deer. Whether the morning find was related to this part, we will never know. The close up will give you a better perspective of this prize.

Kenya was ultimately asked to drop her prize. With much chagrin, she relented, Marty grabbed her collar and I tossed her token into a field with a good fence so that she could not return to the scene of the capture. Whether it's old age or a predator, these carcasses are not rare and a dog on the loose is always attracted to the parts that remain.

The Ohio State University Judging Teams

2010-03-11T18:43:00.005-07:00

March 5, 2012 was a very special occassion for the 1959, 1984, 1999, and 2009 Livestock and Meat Judging Teams from The Ohio State University. It was the 50th Anniversary for the '59 teams of which I was a member. For most of us, it was one of the few times we had been together since being on the team and graduating from the University. Six of the seven members of our team were present as well as our coach, Dr. Tom Merritt. After a wonderful dinner, each of the teams was introduced by their coach and then each member of the team had the opportunity to make comments relative to their experience on the team, their relationship with members of the team, and a quick overview of their career. The members of the '59 Livestock Judging Team in this picture are (from left to right): Coach Dr. Tom Merritt, Carlos Wolfe, Clint Teegardin, George Wallace, Dr. Doug Hulme, Charles Hara, Bob Sutherly, and Bob Howser.

During the course of the evening as the various members of the teams were introduced you learned that the vast majority were or had been associated with agriculture. A significant number related their experience on the judging teams and how those disciplines played a role in advancing their careers. The most evident change over the past 50 years was the percentage of women on the teams had grown and in some cases in the most recent years, there were more females on the teams than men.

Dr. Merritt proudly reminded us and those in attendance that our team had placed 2nd out of 50 teams at the International Livestock Show which was held in Chicago at that time. That was the final of eight contests of which we participated in the fall of 1959 having traveled as far east as Springfield, Massachusetts, as far west as Kansas City.

We had all attended Dr. Merritt's judging course in the spring of 1959. During the summer we traveled to a number of large beef cattle, swine, and sheep breeders to practice our skills that we learned in class and participated in the contests in the fall. Each contest had 12 classes of livestock. We had to rank the animals in each class and then in the afternoon, we had to appear in front of the expert for each of 8 classes and tell them why we ranked the animals as we did on our score cards. These presentations were made extemporaneously without the aid of notes.

It was a proud moment for each of us in attendance as well as our wives and family who also attended.

John Robert Houser, I'm sorry

2010-03-03T13:41:00.008-07:00

I traveled to Columbus, Ohio the weekend of February 19th for my grandson's baptism. I just received a picture from his mother and my daughter, Jennifer that she said reflects his feelings about all of the pictures I took and that he hasn't seen or heard mention of from the blog. John, Grandpa Clint is sorry and I will try to get you in a good mood before I arrive in Columbus again this weekend.
I did go to the church and I did take a picture during the ceremony when your mother, dad, Uncle Jeff, and Aunt Elizabeth were with you. This was when you were in a good mood. I will not share the pictures I took when you were pouting.
We did have a good time, if was fun being with you, and I'm sure you will approve of this picture that I took soon after you had eaten and you were in a great mood. I am putting this on the blog in black and white as that is your mothers favorite colors of recent family pictures. Hope you enjoy it. As I looked at your picture, you remind me of your Grandfather Houser.
We look forward to your trip to Montana in June. We will have several horses awaiting your arrival and if you're interested you may want to join your mother for a ride. You can start choosing which one is your favorite.

Could it be Star who is standing alone, posing for you?

Or it could be Tex, the white mare, or Star's brother Doc or his sister Sapphire.

And as the song goes, we'll see you in Montana, with that sparkle in your eyes.

Go to the July 29th post on the blog to see John soon after he was born.

Another winner in the family

2010-02-16T17:02:00.010-07:00

We travel back to Boulder, Colorado to celebrate the winners of the Mile High Meltdown. Yes, in Colorado at this time of the year, it's hockey. Peter Teegardin has been playing hockey for a number of years, and this time his team was undefeated in the Championship Series.

Grandpa is delinquent as he wanted to get to Boulder during the season to take some new pictures of Petey on the ice. The picture of the team, taken shortly after their final win is shown here.
Peter is the third person from the left on the front row. His team colors are still orange, white, and black, which is what they were were I took these pictures.

Congratulations Peter.

If you want to see a larger picture of Petey's team, DOUBLE CLICK on the photograph.

A few more pictures from Yellowstone

2010-02-14T11:43:00.007-07:00

As we drove toward Gardiner, next to the Yellowstone River, we stopped to take a picture of an eagle sitting in a tree. Before we continued to the park, I spotted this view of the Yellowstone River. Although it was cold, the water is flowing at a brisk enough rate, it is not completely frozen.
and the eagle, he's next. As we passed this location each day, I continued to look for the eagle, but he didn't return.
and speaking of birds, we saw several crows assembled in an area. Looked like they were eating something. When I got home and could magnify the picture, it was eating. Not too appetizing but an interesting picture.
and then there were the antelope or pronghorns as they are also called. We normally see them on the interstate on the way to and from Livingston. Occassionally they are near northwest entrance to the park. This day they were waiting for us.
By the time we next return, the bears may be coming out of hibernation and we should see some of the next generation of several of the species.

Another day in the Lamar Valley

2010-02-12T11:25:00.008-07:00

There is never a lack of bison in the Lamar Valley, it's just deciding if you have enough pictures of them or if there is a unique image that you haven't captured. We were near Soda Butte and Marty was walking our 2 great dane dogs when I spotted this guy across the valley on the ridge foraging in the snow. I took several shots and was pleased with the results when I got home. This is good enough that it can now be found in art gallery's.
Not far down the road were more bison, this time they were close to the road so I decided to get a close up of one of the guys.
This time of the year, the Big Horn sheep come out of the mountains primarily to find food. I typically find them in the area around Mammoth Hot Springs and Gardiner, but on this day we were 30 miles east and here was a big brute on the side of the hill attempting to feed himself.
The wolves were only in range of spotting scopes. In addition, Rich McIntyre, one of the wolf specialists in Yellowstone had put up signs asking tourists not to stop in an area where the wolves cross the road. This is typically done to not inhibit the movement of the wolves from their feeding area to their dens in the hills to the north of Lamar. But there were some smaller 4 legged canines in the area. This one I tracked for several miles. . . . . .
and finally, I found another coyote, this time I went for a close up.
One more round of photographs from this trip will appear soon.

Cervius Canadensis

2010-02-09T14:19:00.010-07:00

Most of your are wondering what is the significance of these 2 words. It represents the species of moose, elk, and deer. When Marty and I visited Yellowstone National Park las week we saw lots of elk, some deer, and no moose. As we entered the park at Mammoth Hot Springs, Marty suggested we travel to the top of the "hot springs" to see if there might be some elk. After traveling as far as we could, (the road south was closed for the winter), we turned the car around and look what we saw.
These ladies were very content, sitting on the top of the hill, but there was one that looked quite attractive, as if she were posing for me. I did not wait, focused my camera and took several pictures, this is the one I saved.
We then headed east toward Cooke City to see if the boys were around their normal hang out which is usually about 5 to 7 miles from Mammoth Hot Springs. No one was there, in fact we didn't see anything of interest or near enough to the road until we were almost ready to turn around. It was a Big Horn sheep, you'll see him on the next post. We started our return and we did see a bull elk, but he wasn't posing and we went on to Chico for a great dinner.

The next day, we headed toward the "hot spot" again for the boys, and we found them. Not 1, not 2, not 3, but 4. Three of them were lined up as if they knew we were coming to take their photograph.

The 4th one was near by, still grazing on what was available. He was also doing all kinds of antics, face in the snow, scratching his head with his hind hoof, butting the ground with his rack, and then he stood still for this photograph.

He eventually must have either got tired or was full and decided to rest. I focused on his antlers as I felt he had just a beautiful rack. Looked like a trophy to me. I am not good enough at comparing pictures and antlers but I am suspicious that this may have been the bull elk that I photographed over 2 years ago.

Day one was the girls, day two was the boys, and after we left the park, Marty wanted to drive to Jardine, mostly a ghost town about 5 miles outside of Gardiner high in the mountains. We were almost back to town, when on the top of the horizon we saw this deer. It posed until I could get this photograph.
Come back again soon as we will see more wildlife from our trip to Yellowstone.

Super Saturday for Barlo

2010-02-06T13:08:00.010-07:00

Marty and I left for our daily walk through the pastures with Kenya and Barlo today. We decided to head toward the Grove Creek and see if the "wise ole owl" was in it's home in the old tree trunk. Unfortunately it was not there, but the dogs did cross the creek with us and were soon off on a venture of their own. I had noticed a few days ago that there was a carcass in the nearby field and Kenya was off to check out the bones and Barlo found the hide close by. We called, asking them to join us as we returned to the house. It was a difficult task to get them to come, and as they arrived we noticed that Barlo had claimed the hide as his own. It was too cold to have my camera with me, but this is what we saw coming through the bushes down by the creek.
This is all that we saw for the 1/2 mile trip back to the house. Usually, Barlo is lagging behind with Kenya in the lead. Not today, Barlo was proud of his trophy and was in a hurry to get to the house. Marty and I suspected that he probably had a place near the house or barn where he wanted to hide his hide. For a dog that has been crippled for the last year, he was moving at a very rapid pace and showed no signs of his debilitation. When we all got in the yard, Barlo got to examine his prize.
As you can see, it was quite large, in fact the hide and the bone pile looked like the deer was at least as large as Barlo. This was his and it wasn't until later that we realized how special it was to him. However, dogs have a language of their own, and you can tell by this next picture that Kenya was curious but knew this was not hers to share.
Now it was time for Barlo to determine if there were any morsels still attached to the hide. Sure enough there were and he was having a very enjoyable time until Marty observed his actions. Her direction was to take the hide away from him. I mentioned that it wasn't fair, especially after all of the work it took for him to get it to the house.
Marty approached Barlo to take his prize to the barn, so that later in the day, he could re-visit his trophy and at least she would have some indication by then if the snacks he was enjoying would have created a disturbance in his stomach. As she approached him, she discovered from the loud growl that it was off limits to her as well. Ultimately, Marty prevailed and the hide was taken to the barn while Barlo entered the house for a nap.

WHAT A HAPPY DOG HE IS TODAY

A football player in the family

2010-02-05T11:25:00.008-07:00

Based on his size, we have an up and coming lineman. Number 56 of the Wreckers has started his career in Westport, CT. Patrick McCarthy is his name, and playing football is his fame. We have added a couple of his pictures which tells the entire story. The first part, he enjoys the sport and looks forward to practice and playing in the fall.
and when he isn't playing, he's watching. 2010 started with a great time and total excitement at the McCarthy home, when his favorite, Ohio State Buckeye's won the Rose Bowl game. Soon thereafter he and his father went to New York City to watch the NFL Today. After the show, he was invited on stage with his father for a picture with football celebrities and the show host. 11 year old Patrick is the person on the left in the picture, check out the size of this young man. Also, note his shirt. Jim Tressell, coach of the Ohio State football team would be proud . Patrick was not only bragging, but he also would like to be a Buckeye someday. His father, John, is the person on the right on the back row.

GO PATRICK, GO BUCKS

Kayak Jack will be going to college this fall

2010-01-28T17:08:00.005-07:00

This is our grandson, Jack Teegardin, a resident of Boulder, Colorado. Several years ago, after spending many years and hours on the ice in a hockey rink, he migrated to another water sport as illustrated in the picture. As you can see from these pictures, he loves the sport and has become a very accomplished "kayaker".

In the past month, we received an e-mail from him that he had been accepted at Montana State University in Bozeman and more recently his father, Jeff, advised me that he has been offered a fairly substantial scholarship as well. As the decision time for selecting a school draws near, he will be joined by his mother and father on a trip to Montana to visit Bozeman and determine if he is a fit with the "Bobcats".

As Marty and I have told our friends that there is a possibility of Jack being a student in our great state, each and everyone has started talking about the rivers where Jack could kayak, ski slopes where he could speed down the slopes, and have told us at length what a wonderful school MSU in Bozeman is. If you knew Jack, you know that Montana State is not his only option

We all know that this is the first big step in your future. The pressure to make the right decision may be overwhelming at times, but we can all assure Jack that there will be much more difficult decisions in his future. We have all been in his shoes, we have all survived, and the dedication that he has shown to those that he loves and the things that are important to him will prove that this next big decision is the correct one.

Vern, the ranch manager

2010-01-18T13:15:00.008-07:00

People have asked over the years, who manages the Circle B Bar T ranch. For those of you who don't know, it's a quiet kind of creature that is normally in the "great room" when we have company. He looks like a Montana rancher with his plaid shirt, his alligator boots, a bandana around his neck, a nice vest, and of course his cowboy hat. If you look carefully, you'll find his only vice is his corn cob pipe which most often is in the left pocket of his vest. He found out that his eye sight is deteriorating about 2 year later than Clint's and usually wears Clint's used trifocals.

He came from Texas about the time that Marty and Clint moved to Montana. Good friends of theirs, Dick Kane and Gretchen McBeath located him and arranged for his trip to Montana. There are a couple of poses of Vern that were taken recently. The first one was on Barlo's new couch. Vern insisted that he check it out and in fact spent a night sleeping with Barlo. Vern gave Marty and Clint a thumbs up and the couch stayed.
Marty helped Vern write a note to his mother, shortly after his arrival. The response which was received from Texas is filed in our archives. We got it out to share with you.

Dear Vern;
Since your brothers seldom write, you can image how thrilled I was to hear from you. I always knew you could do anything you put your mind to. Just remember, always be honest and hard working and don't let your job go to your head.
Your family sounds like my kind of people. I would love to get to the Big Sky country some day to meet them in person.
I'm putting together a family album for you but it will take awhile. Your Uncle Larry and I have been busy volunteering at the Therapuctic Assisted Riding Center. It is very exciting for me to work around horses again (Uncle Larry spends his time cleaning tack)
Well son, as your Dad used to say, "Keep Sweet", write when you can.
Much love, MOM

You now know why Vern is such a special character at the Circle B Bar T. He is shown in the next picture getting prepared for the day ahead of him. He has Clint post updates on the digital picture so that he can view what is happening and doesn't have to leave the warmth of the house, at least in the winter. His favorite prop for his left arm, is a pillow that Marty had made with a picture of Clint riding his goat when he was a youngster at the Brookfield Farm in Ashville , Ohio. The picture on the screen is a look at the south pasture next to the Grove Creek. Based on this image, Vern has told Marty and Clint to be sure the horses get an extra bale of hay today and they should have access to the indoor arena tonight.
Be sure and say Hi to Vern on your next visit to the Circle B Bar T. He asked that I remind Dick and Gretchen that it has been several years since they visited and when they were last in Fishtail, they promised to return with one of their lady friends. Vern does get along with Barlo and Kenya but has looked forward to that special visit from Dick and Gretchen and their friend who they promised Vern would be alot of fun.

Sunday morning at the Circle B Bar T

2010-01-17T12:15:00.012-07:00

The sun was shining, the wind wasn't blowing 25 mph, the temperature was in the 30's, the horses and dogs have had their breakfast, let's go to the barn and put the horses in the pasture and take them some hay. Whoa, what is that?
I know you can see it, but can you smell it. A skunk has crawled under the barn door and is hiding under the hay. The smell is terrible. Don't let the dogs near there, I'll get the hay and Marty you let the horses out. You can see the snow is mostly gone, the ground is either still frozen in places or muddy in others, so I'll take the hay out in the pasture where there isn't any mud.
Almost every morning we take the dogs for a walk and get our exercise, so lets head down toward the Grove Creek. Marty and Kenya posed as we headed south.
We walked this way today for a couple of reasons. The horses were on the north side of the property and I wanted to see if the owl was in it's nest. The picture that I posted on the blog several days ago, ended up framed and donated to the Beartooth Stockgrowers for their auction which is held during their annual meeting and dinner dance, which Marty and I attended last nite. I wanted to tell the owl that it had become famous as it's picture was shown to the crowd and then sold for $170. I was hoping it would be waiting to hear the news. As we headed toward the Grove Creek, we looked back and guess what, the horses had decided that the pasture east of the barn had enough grass that they didn't need to graze on the hay that I had just delivered.

and on the way to the owl tree, I observed a wagon wheel, half buried in the ground. I have probably tripped over it a number of times, but this morning I stopped to capture the image. We have owned the Circle B Bar T for almost 20 years, the wagon wheel has been here for at least that long. It's near the creek, not in the field where we bale the hay, so it has survived Clint's clean up activities.
Is the owl in the tree? Yes, there it is, you can tell it's armer if you compare this picture with the ones I have taken earlier. It's not all hunkered down trying to stay warm or is it just listening to me as I tell it that it has become famous. If you look closely, you'll also notice that the eyes are slightly open.

We headed back to the house, got the Billings Gazette, and had breakfast.

Have a great day.

Do you ride in the winter in Montana?

2010-01-13T11:23:00.008-07:00

A friend, Charley Suarez, who lives in Florida asked me a couple days ago what the weather was like and the next question was, "do you really ride the horses at this time of the year?". As I started to answer his question, I looked out the window to see . . . . .
The temperature was in the 30's, the sun was behind a cloud, there was snow on the ground, and this was 4 of the 5 horses and riders that had accumulated in our outdoor arena. Does this happen often? At least several days a week. What if it's snowing, colder, or the wind is blowing?
They can be found in our indoor arena. Do they just ride? At times they jump the horses, indoors for sure and outdoors when there is no snow and the footing is good. How are they dressed?
Several layers of clothes. The horses have grown their winter coats and as long as they don't work them too hard, the horses do not perspire and are quite comfortable. This picture of Melissa Ranstrom on Gracie certainly tells the story.
How long do they ride? The day I took these pictures it wasn't long as the combination of the snow, cold, and lack of sun did not agree with either the horses or the riders. So, did they call it a day? No, they headed out to the pastures for a ride in the fields and along the Grove Creek.
By the time they were finished, the sun was out. Another great day in Montana.

"Cold Turkey, captured in real time

2010-01-07T12:02:00.009-07:00

As we awoke and went to the windows facing the south I observed something that is reserved for extremely cold weather. The temperature was minus 16 degrees. When I saw this image, I said, now that is what I call "cold turkey".
I knew I needed to get a closer image if you were to believe the creatures in the trees were really turkeys. It was too cold to walk toward them, so I approached them in the pick up truck and took a series of pictures. I was sure that if I got too close they would take flight and I would miss this opportunity. I was wrong. I got close enough to take the next 2 pictures which should convince you that it was cold and they had no intentions of leaving their perch, especially with the sun shining on them.
This flock of turkey's have been in a number of postings on our blog. Just yesterday they were in the foreground of the picture of the Grove Creek, on December 19th they had ventured away from the creek and were found near our house, and if you go back as far as November 19th, you will see this guy on a much warmer day.
This is really, "cold turkey". I had to search the context of "cold turkey" to see if there was any correlation to my pictures. There were 2 phrases that I found which I believe are applicable.

"to immediatley and completely give up"

"an extreme means of quitting something that we find hazardous to our health"

For a turkey to fly into a tree, 15 to 20 feet above the ground, they were giving up the cold ground and at 16 degrees below zero it was hazardous to their health. I also learned the term was used by humans in the context of giving up an addiction. I can relate to that as well as in June of 1980 after many prior attempts, I quit smoking, "cold turkey" and have not indulged since then.

On the other hand, I can assure you that the expression of "cold turkeys" will be used again at the Circle B Bar T Ranch the next time the temperature plummets to below zero.

Have a good day.

It was minus 3 degrees last nite

2010-01-06T15:14:00.007-07:00

Thought some of you would want an update on the weather. It did get cold,I didn't capture all of the images, but here are a couple plus some other items of interest. As you will see we did get some snow, not as much as the weatherman predicted, but at least 5 inches. The horses came to breakfast this morning with snow on their backs, the winter coats are so thick, the heat from their body never got to the snow to melt it.

I went to the Grove Creek to see if the owl was still in it's nest. Look hard, but it isn't there.

By the time I had walked to the Grove Creek and taken this picture, my camera was so cold, it would not function any more. I missed pictures of 2 golden eagles in the nearby trees, but I also found a pile of feathers at the base of one of the trees. They were turkey feathers, therefore, we are missing a turkey and some animal had their Thanksgiving - Christmas dinner in January.

I warmed up my camera and drove to Fishtail. On the way, I captured this picture to give you a feel of a post snow, cold sun shiny day in Montana. In the center of the picture is our place, approximately 2.5 miles from where I took the picture. The mountain range in the background is the Crazy Mountains, at least 60 miles north and west of here. They are just past Big Timber.
This mother deer and her 2 fawns were roaming in a wooded pasture as I approached Fishtail. Even thought the ground was covered with snow, they looked quite healthy and most likely had been snacking on the neighbors cattle hay.

Winter is returning to the Circle B Bar T

2010-01-05T16:17:00.012-07:00

In case you haven't read the weather report, we're due for another round of winter weather. In preparation, Clint filled the space next to the fireplace with plenty of wood. After the horses have been cared for, Marty and Clint snuggle up in front of the fireplace, read a book, get the latest from our friends on Facebook, Twitter, or your favorite spot. As you can see we're ready.
This will last for at least 5 days and maybe a week. But Clint is prepared, in anticipation of the cold and snow, he has just finished stockpiling another week to 10 days supply under the deck, next to the back door to the downstair's fireplace. We have options, upstairs or downstairs.
And you ask, where did all of this wood come from. It's only January and we have already burned thru at least 2 cords of wood, but fear not, there is a lot more where this came from. Yes, over the shoulder's of the turkeys there is an abundance of wood along the Grove Creek. Clint has been harvesting the older vegetation that voluntarily grows along the creek as well as an occasional tree that gets destroyed by the wind and weather. He hasn't made a dent in the opportunity.
This is a close up of where Clint spends his days in the winter, as he did today, cutting the wood that you saw above in the back of the Gator and stacked along the wall under the deck. Clint spent close to 2 hours with the chainsaw, axe and wedge. This limb is obviously dead and will ultimately be on the ground where it is easier for cutting.
and now to test your eyesight. As Clint was leaving the Grove Creek with his second load of wood, after almost 2 hours of working and sawing (a lot of noise as well) he glanced around at the area only to see on the opposite side of this limb something that had been observing his actions. As soon as he got to the house, he grabbed his camera and returned to take this picture.
In case your eyesight has failed you, the owl that had been observing Clint's activities is nicely camoufloged in its nest.

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T20:04:00.008-07:00

This will be a Happy New Year, for all of us, the horses, cats, Kenya & Barlo, and Marty and Clint. We hope the new year bodes as well for you.

Marty and I finished the decade at Paws Up, a Montana resort. Kenya, Barlo and the 2 of us traveled some 300 plus miles to this beautiful ranch for a few days. Although it was cold, the climate could not have been better. Marty is winding down her law career at Bricker & Eckler, Clint is enjoying rural living and his new found hobby of photography, Ruthie & Martha (our barn cats) have just celebrated 10 years with us, Kenya is at the crest of her life, living big every day, and Barlo, in spite of his arthritic spin is a very happy dog, thanks to some special meds, his by-monthly chiro from his name sake, Dr. Sarah Barlow. 14 Arabian horses have a great life as well. When it gets too cold to stay outside all nite, they get to go into the arena for shelter. Their activities have slowed down during the winter months, but we think they are looking forward to being ridden and jumped as spring arrives.

An now for the latest episode of the dogs, captured by Clint on his new camera.

It started in this place, at the Paws Up resort, in Greenough, Montana.
This was our home for the last few days in 2009. Upon arrival, we started a fire in the fireplace and settled in for some relaxation and fun with Kenya and Barlo. Soon, Kenya had settled into a very comfortable postion next to the fireplace, very relaxed and very happy as you can see.
Just as Clint was settling down on the couch with his favorite libation, Barlo sat down beside him. Marty said, "Clint, before you get too comfortable, lets try something new". With that she took one of the dog bed covers that travel with us and draped in on the couch and offered it to Barlo. It was happiness at first site. He didn't have to crouch down to get on his dog bed which at times is painful. He sat on the couch and then laid down. For the next few days, that was Barlo's and he was there except when he ate, drank, or went for a walk.

By the end of the visit, Marty had already located several places in Billings that had special sales on couchs. By the time we returned to Fishtail, arrangements were already made to travel the next day to Billings and visit these furniture establishments. Of course, Clint went with her and they drove the ranch pick up in case they found something suitable. Need I say more.

This picture is the end result of our trip to Billings and the happiness on Barlo's face tells the story of why he is looking forward to the New Year.
This is Barlo's counch, it came back from Billings with Marty and Clint, it is located in the great room with a clear view for Barlo of the Beartooth Mountains, only steps away from the garage where he eats his meals, and exactly the correct height for him to scoot onto the cushions without any pressure on his back.

Have a Happy and Prosperous New Year. All of us at the Circle B Bar T know it is only hours away.

For the east coast whinners . . . . .

2009-12-19T10:36:00.014-07:00

Headlines: Stillwater County Montana News - "first 14 days of December were the second coldest on record with an average temperature of 7.9 degrees.

First week of October 2008 and 2009 - 42 inches of snow in 2008, 2 feet of snow 2009, go to the October 9, 2009 posting on our blog to see the pictures, proof positive of the snowfall.

How did the cold weather and snowfall effect Marty, Clint and our neighbors?

the livestock was fed every day
hauled hay to the fields, spred the manure
the chores were done every day
put the vehicles in 4 wheel drive and away we went

Others didn't fare as well, the ground was covered with snow, it was difficult to find food.
The wild turkeys who have been scavaging the fields had to turn to alternative sources of food. They continually got closer to the house and barn. I took these pictures this week, and you can see from the second picture, they were re-cycling the oats and hay that the horses had consumed.

The deers who typically are foraging on what's left in the pastures were having a difficult time as well. The picture of the buck shows him in deep snow trying to eat what's above. The old dry grass was once described to me by a local rancher as the equivalent to card board. Then there was a very smart deer shown here, next to one of the neighbor's cattle hay, stacked and ready to be taken to the field. The hay was not protected by fence and this doe not only had been feasting on the hay but showed her enjoyment by licking her chops.

The rabbits are smarter than you think. This one was just next to our horse hay, obviously it was eating the better stuff as well. The jack rabbit was cuddled in the field when the dogs spotted it and was outrunning them when I captured this image.

Diane Signoracci, our neighbor, called to ask if we had purchased some cattle as she saw a bull in our driveway. The answer was no, but it took several calls to other neighbors to find out who it belonged to. They asked if I would put the bull in the small pasture next to the house until they could get it returned to their herd. You could guess that perhaps the cows had eaten all of the hay and the bull got out of his pasture and was looking for more food. In the meantime, Kenya, our female dog, enjoyed chasing the bull in the pasture.

This is Kenya, she was not only watching the turkeys but she was looking to see if the bull had been removed from the pasture. She has obviously been fed well and it was more fun chasing the wildlife than cuddling up in the warm house.
Hopefully, the winter storm that is settling on the east coast doesn't have a devastating effect on our friends who live there. Just put a fire in the fireplace, and enjoy the day, and sing the song, "We were dreaming of a white Christmas" and now we have one.

Marty and Clint have already gone thru at least 2 cords of wood since it got cold. The Christmas music is playing, the animals have been fed, and they have a fire in their fireplace.

Merry Christmas

A day to remember, a wonderful experience

2009-12-07T07:06:00.016-07:00

While visiting the Jeff Teegardin's at Thanksgiving, Marty noticed in one of their magazines a nearby wild animal sanctuary. The decsion was to drive there on Friday and the the wild animals. I have been to Africa, zoo's, and wild animal parks, but nothing affected my emotions as much as this place. In addition to having over 200 large wild animals, we learned that they had all been held in captivity - most illegally - and could not be returned to the wild.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is 30 years old and has been rescuing captive large carnivores. This doesn't seem much of a mission until you learn the facts of the current inhabitants. One of the most significant facts that I learned, which puts their mission into perspective, is that in the State of Texas there are more Tigers living in captivity than there are in the wild throughout the world. Where can these animals go if they are no longer welcome at their "home" or are being neglected and/or abused. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of the few places available. They way they operate and take care of these creatures brings tears to your eyes.

So, did you take some pictures, Clint? Yes, I had my new Canon camera, and as I have told several people who have seen these pictures, it wasn't the photographer, it was the camera.
Each of the animals in the pictures, as well as at the sanctuary, has a story behind it. As you learn how they have been treated, where they came from, why they were orphaned, and how they were blended into the Sanctuary, you become very emotional.

and there were lions

and what do you think of these cuddly creatures

There were also bears which were mostly in hibernation and the healthiest wolves I've ever seen. Having visited Yellowstone National Park for the last 10 years, I've seen lots of wolves, but these wolves just eat, play, and sleep, they don't have to scavage for their dinner. They were behind some very heavy fence and I did't get a picture of them.

Curtis and Peter got into the action as they got their picture taken there as well. They didn't get to share in the wonderful meals that the wild animals partake in daily, but they had enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner the day before.

If this has stimulated some interest, you can learn more by visiting the web site, www.wildlife-sanctuary.com or e-mail them at information@wildlife-sanctuary.org. Clint and Marty have made a donation to their cause.

Thanksgiving Dinner, not on our table

2009-11-19T12:51:00.008-07:00

There are the traditional Thanksgiving dinners and there are those dinners that the hunters in the family have influenced. Marty and I will be celebrating Thanksgiving in Boulder, Colorado with Jeff and his family and at this moment I am not aware of their plans nor do I plan to impose my tastes on them. However, as I toured the ranch over the last couple of days, I was able to capture live and on camera what may end up on someone's table. At least at this time these 3 creatures are not headed for a feast.

The first bird you typically do not find in Montana. They have been brought into the state to provide their importers with something new to hunt. As a result, many have escaped and are now starting their own breeding programs and are showing up in many new places. This rooster made it onto our property, was in a field with 6 horses, and was photographed next to the fence that surrounds our home.
As the hunting season comes to a close there will be many of these critters heading toward the dinner table. As I walked across our pastures, I spotted at least 25 or more of these guys. They must be aware of the season, because as they saw me sauntering along with my camera, they fled the property. But I fooled this one and a couple of her buddies. I got behind a hill, not sure where they had traveled to and as I arrived at the crest, one was taking a nap and two were leisurely grazing. When they saw me, they were very surprised and quickly headed across the nearby fence and field. I was very fortunate to capture her in mid air.
and finally another new face in the neighborhood. It was only a couple of years ago that I observed a few of these birds. Then there were more and now they are all over the place. Obviously they have matured and believe the Grove Creek is their home. I found this guy with at least 15 more at the southern end of our property. Today, he is not headed toward a Thanksgiving dinner table. If you knew his lifestyle, you would hope he didn't turn up at your festivites. They are wild, they fly to avoid other creatures and people, they rest in tree tops . . . . all of which means, they do not have those big plumb breasts that you are used to seeing and there is little if any white meat, as a result of their physical activities. On the other hand, he is a beautiful specimen.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving

Hunting season with a camera

2009-11-08T10:45:00.008-07:00

We left our ranch and traveled 40 miles to capture with a camera what others might being trying to capture with a gun or bow and arrow. Somehow the deer know when it's hunting season and they also know where it's off limits for the hunters. During our trip I counted at least 184 deer and never left the road. This picture was taken soon after we started the trip, 6 miles from our place.
We had not traveled too much further when we spotted this fellow. Based on the size of his rack, it is obvious that he has avoided the hunters with guns over the years. He was in a field not far from the road and I said, he should be hiding as we had been passed by a number of hunters as we made the loop. Then I noticed in was on a ranch that did not allow hunters. Don't go across the fence buddy or you could be in trouble.
We were near Beehive when we saw this guy. As I was finished taking his picture, I noticed across the road, a father and son had arrived on a four wheeler, and the son had taken his gun and was aiming at something. I looked around and saw these turkeys, perhaps he was in charge of getting the Thanksgiving dinner. He did shoot a couple times, his aim was not good as the entire flock of turkeys survived and the hunter and his son moved on.

and if you were a bird hunter, not far down the road was this flock of birds that decided not to stay around once I got out of the car to photograph them.

In addition to the wildlife and the hunters, we observed several hunters at a rifle range honing in their aim. What was surprising was there were at least 50 deer within a mile of where the rifle range was located. I didn't stay around to see if they would be aiming at larger targets. The drive was beautiful, a clear day, sunshine and the view of the mountains was great.
The final picture was this young deer who was resting in the sun in a neighbors yard. The only shots that could be fired at it was with a camera.
If you want to see a larger image of these pictures, just double click on them.

Another interesting trip to Yellowstone National Park

2009-10-18T10:37:00.008-06:00

As we normally do, when we arrived in Mammoth Hot Springs on October 14th, we went west toward Lamar Valley. As we entered the Lamar Valley, we were first surprized to see no snow, after leaving the other side of the mountains with still a lot left from the 2 feet we had accumulated in the past week. The temperature was warmer also. The next scene was not unusual for Lamar.
An accumulation of cars, people, and spotting scopes centered around Rick McIntyre, the wolf researcher who you know is there because of the yellow jeep. In addition the were cars and scopes scattered along the road, a real crowd. We parked the car and approached the crowd to find out what was the attraction. We anticipated wolves, but we also got a surprize.
In the middle of the Lamar River was a female elk, and as you can see in the picture, 5 of 9 wolves were resting and watching. Earlier in the day, the wolves had chased the elk, were in the water with her, but ultimately got tired and headed for the shore. Elk wins round one. We took this picture and drove on to Cooke City and returned to see what was happening. Nothing had changed. The elk had now been in the river for 6 hours, and we were sure the water was very cold. When it appeared nothing was going to happen soon and not wanting to observe a massacre, we drove on. We decided to return the next day to find the results of the stand-off.

Another surprize, as we approached the location of the spotting scopes and crowd from the 14th, there was only 2 cards, no Rick McIntyre. Two men from Boise, Idaho were there and soon a lady from Virginia arrived. They related that as darkness approached on the 14th, the wolves gave up and slowly but surely wandered away. As they left, the elf escaped and left the scene. Elk 2 Wolves 0. Marty and I drove on to the Soda Butte, we saw no more wolves, and turned around for the 40 mile drive to Mammoth Hot Springs.

As we were driving thru Lamar, Marty spotted, not one but several coyotes hunting for dinner. I wasn't quick enough to get them in the air as they jumped on the their prey, but I did capture this one after it had swallowd a mouthful of something.
Two great days in Yellowstone and 2 nites at Chico Hot Springs. We had left Mammoth and were headed to Gardiner for our trip home. As we turned a corner going down the steep incline what appeared in the front of the car but . . . . . . .
yes, it had been 2 above zero the week before, you would have thought it was time for hibernation, but it must have been out looking for one of it's final meals before the long winter nap. It stayed in the road until an approaching car caused it to climb the mountain to our right when I captured this picture just before it left.
This was at least our 100th trip to Yellowstone, and just as wonderful now as it was on our first trip. If you haven't seen the PBS special on our national parks, be sure to do so.

The first snow has been a doozy

2009-10-09T12:18:00.009-06:00

Last year, 2008, in October it started to snow and when it stopped we had 42 inches of snow.
and just a year later, it started to snow again. This time we only got 24 inches to start with, but the snow was wet and the trees sagged and broke the electrical power lines throughout our area. We were without power for 24 hours but survived as the fire in the fireplace kept the house around 68 degrees.
The animals were not ready for snow and the cold as it had been 80 degrees just 6 days before. You can see from this Western Meadowlark who was perched on the fence that this sudden change in the weather was not appreciated.
and 4 days later, the snow started again. The snow has returned to a depth of 2 feet, Clint has not still not been able to spread the manure because the snow is wet and the fields are soggy and a cold front is approaching from the north, tonites low is predicted to be around 2 degrees. The horses will get to come in out of the bitter cold and Clint and Marty will be in front of the fireplace with the dogs.

Next week the temperature will return to the 40's and 50's and we plan to visit Yellowstone.

A cowboy out house

2009-09-30T10:18:00.005-06:00

We were driving down the road in Ovando, Montana when I spotted something that looked like a large boot. On the third glance, I decided it may be something more than a wooden boot, so we stopped the car, I grabbed my camera, and this is both sides of the boot. My suspicions were correct.

A Great Day in Bozeman

2009-09-22T19:32:00.009-06:00

The day ended when Johanna Kern rode Doc, BBT Majestic Dancer, to the highest dressage score ever for a Circle B Bar T Arabian. Included in the this record score is Toby and all of the shows Marty and Johanna showed him. And, Doc is only 5 years old and this is only his second year.

Of course, Marty rode Doc as well. It was a great ride for Marty and the judge remarked to Marty after her ride. "This was an excellent ride, you should be proud of your improvement and you'll like your score".

and then before all of this happened, Grover, BBT Thee Crusader, had eveyone's attention as he participated in a timed jumping course with Johanna and Wendy and then 2 dressage classes. At the end of this posting, you will receive the address on You Tube to see Grover on his trek around the cross rail course. His rider for all of these events was Wendy Bleacher.

Wendy and Grover's accomplishments were extra special since Wendy just started riding English last year after multiple back surgeries. She is now wearing those funny pants she said she would never be seen in and has been jumping Grover for only 6 weeks. Grover has also had a sore back which has required chiropractic therapy, is ornery after 3 years as a breeding stallion, and required a lot of patience and insight into making him happy. Jumping was the answer.

Go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lP_xtdNcSyQ and watch Wendy and Grover do their thing. You may want replay after the first time thru, there are no interruptions the second time.

Garnet, A Ghost Town Today

2009-09-21T09:45:00.009-06:00

Montana has had a lot of underground resources over the years. Some have been depleted and others are no longer of value. There was once copper in Butte and Anaconda, there is still chrome in the mountains in Stillwater County, and gold has had it's days in a number of locations.

While we were visiting at Paws Up, we traveled just 12 miles through the back country to the former town of Garnet.
Gold was the resource of interest which was depleted around the turn of the century(1900). As you can see from these pictures, the city is depleted now as well. After spending time here, you do wish that you could have been here during it's peak.

Some of the details about Garnet where found on this as we entered the city. If you are interested in more information, go to http://www.garnetghosttown.net/ DOUBLE CLICK IF YOU WANT TO READ THE DETAILS

Clint's birthday present

2009-09-12T14:15:00.013-06:00

Marty and I were at Paws Up, a resort in Western Montana last weekend with Ruth and Lowell Quenemoen. We had a great time but also had an unexpected highlight on our trip. Clint had noticed that Paws Up promoted something called "geocashing". It had something to do with using a GPS and finding things.

One afternoon, Clint took his birthday present, a Garmin, turned it on and realized that one of the "caches" was very close to Camp Fortunate, the home where they were staying. The cache was no more than 100 yards from the back door when he located it with his Garmin. From then on, as we drove around the Paws Up ranch, the Garmin was turned on, looking for coordinates and comparing them to locations of other caches (Clint was trying to avoid hiking long distances) that were near the roads. Eventually, 4 different caches had been located when they realized that the prize cache was called the "mother lode".

Clint drove until he thought they were near, then parked the car. After close to an hour they found the cache, only to learn the "mother lode" was in 4 sites, not 1. Off they went to the second site, found it, the third site, they found it, but by then they had been climbing hills and trails for 2 hours and were exhausted. They realized they were close to the house, so they arrived tired and without the "mother lode"

Early the next morning they drove to within what they thought was a mile from the 4th and final cache of the "mother lode". You can see from the pictures that it was not an easy hike, you would have expected smile, but Clint was tired.

The reward was a lot of exercise, the tokens that were retrived from the cache boxes were traded for a T-shirt and Clint is hooked on "geocaching".He claims he is the oldest geocacher to find the "mother lode" at Paws Up. He has now signed onto an internet web site and has discovered numerous caches near our home in Stillwater County.
You knew you had found the cache when you saw the box, the trails were well marked and at times you had to look hard to find the caches.

The views from the areas where the caches were found were spectacular.
but the climb, the rocks, and the terrain for the "mother lode" was tiring, look at Clint & Marty

Woodbine after the snow has melted

2009-08-29T10:40:00.006-06:00

One of our favorite hikes is on the trail along the Stillwater starting at the Woodbine trailhead. We visited there yesterday with an old friend of Marty's, Tempril Zunka, a friend and former student when Marty was teaching dental hygiene at the University of Richmond, many years ago. The water has receeded, but the view is still spectacular. If you go to the July 23rd posting on the blog you will see Marque, Dana, and Sam in a close proximity to where I took these pictures yesterday.

A new picture over the mantle

2009-08-21T08:24:00.004-06:00

Julie Jeppsen, the artist that painted the picture of Al and Clint recently completed another painting for us. This one has images of Toby, Maggi, and Tex featured in a pasture with the Beartooth Mountains in the background. In addition, Rick Stiles, Clint's mentor in the photography business, completed the product with a beautiful frame.

Check out the eagles

2009-08-20T07:17:00.008-06:00

I photographed these 2 eagles 1 1/2 years ago. Recently, as I was trying to improve my photoshop skills, I discovered a way to refine their appearance. Let me know if you see a difference. If I sent you a print of either of these eagles and you would like to have it replaced, let me know.

You may have to double click on the picture to truly see the difference.

When I printed these as 8 x 10 images and held them side by side you could definitely see a significant improvement

An exciting time in Bozeman

2009-08-18T20:38:00.006-06:00

We arrived Friday afternoon to prepare for a Dressage and Combined Training Show and it got exciting before it started. Rain, hail, and snow in the mountains.
Grover was there, he was in 4 classes and won another Blue Ribbon, this time with Wendy Bleacher riding, her son John Ross rode in 2 other classes and of course Grover got to jump again.
We had some diversion from the weather and the 7 classes that we participated in. A roar in the sky produced 4 helicopters on the way from Yellowstone National Park with the President of the United States and his entourage returning to the airport in Belgrade. He arrived on Friday and spoke about the "health care reform", went fishing, and then to the park, before returning.
Doc and Marty had a great day as well. He was on his best behavior and performed at his best.
It was a great show. Doc and Grover continued to perform at higher levels and more complex routines. That was a real feat, but to win Blue Ribbons was even better. We all left pleased and tired with plans to return in early October for one last try this year.

Something about deer

2009-08-09T15:49:00.006-06:00

If you have visited us in Fishtail, you have become a part of the game of counting deer along the Grove Creek Road. The record for only one side of the 4.7 miles from Fishtail to our ranch is over 100. The late spring brings the new fawns and we now have a "Cabela's spotting scope" to get up close and personal with the mother and her babies as they track in and out of the trees and brush along the Grove Creek. A couple weeks ago I decided to see if I could get some pictures of a fawn.

A doe with twins was heading east along the Grove Creek, the doe jumped the fence to the adjoining property and the twins were not as experienced in leaving our property and for a while they were trapped. I use my zoom lens so that I keep the intimidation to a minimum. After they realized I was not going to get any closer to them, they relaxed and posed for some pictures, these are two of them.

As I was preparing to publish this blog, I learned that there are more deer in the State of Ohio which has 1/3 the land mass and 10 times more people than Montana. Yet as I have vistied Ohio and driven in the country, I seldom if ever see deer, yet there are supposedly 200,000 more in Ohio.

If you have any insight on where I can get data about the deer population in the United States, please let me know.

Update on our weather,

2009-08-04T14:52:00.008-06:00

Look at the 2 pictures, the one on the left was taken in September 2008 and the one on the right was taken today, August 4, 2009, both sun shiny days. You say, it looks like a cloudy day or perhaps hazy, but it has been this way for a couple days so I asked the weatherman. He stated, "this is smoke from the fires in the Pacific Northwest and Canada". It is hard to image that the smoke has traveled close to a 1000 miles. You would think it's on the other side of the mountain. Although it has been hot and dry for the last view weeks, we are hopeful we don't have a return of the fires of several years ago.

. . . . . so do you have the air conditioner on during this warm spell. We don't have an air conditioner that runs off electricity. Our log home has great insulation and even when it is extremely hot outside, it stays comfortable inside. At night when the sun starts to fade, we open the windows and welcome the cool air from outside. Normally by morning the temperature in the house is between 65 and 70 and normally does not get warmer than 75 to 78, even on the hottest days. This is a picture of our indoor, outdoor thermometer reflecting the temperature at the end of a very hot day.

The youngest to venture west

2009-07-29T17:54:00.006-06:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON PICTURE FOR A BETTER VIEW OF JOHN

Look carefully at the back of the covered wagon and you will see our newest grandson, John, hitch hiking a ride through Yellowstone National Park. He made it all the way to the confluence of the Lamar Valley and the Roosevelt Ranch. His great grandfather Frank would have been very impressed that he chose a wagon pulled by a team of Belgium draft horses. Great Grandpa Frank would have said, I can't wait until someday he's up front driving not just 2 but 6 Belgiums, just like his Great Grandfather.

John Robert Houser

2009-07-28T14:09:00.004-06:00

This picture says it all. John Robert Houser was born on July 17th, 2009. He is pictured here with his mother, Jennifer, father, Bob, sisters Grace and Violet. Welcome to the family, you are number eight, the boys are in the majority, Jack, Peter, Patrick, Curtis and John and the girls are the best looking, Crissy, Grace, and Violet.

What were Crissy and Kate doing?

2009-07-25T13:18:00.010-06:00

You saw Patrick fishing and Sam at Woodbine. Their sisters, Crissy and Kate were in Montana having a good time as well. After spending the 4th of July in Yellowstone National Park, they greeted Sammi with their holiday attire, on the 5th they attended the Absarokee Days BBQ Cookout and helped in one of the booths, Crissy, after a long hike, is seen in the doorway of an old cabin on the Johnson Place, and of course a sleep out in the barn with Nana Marty and the horses. Kate could be found in one of the arena's almost every day, this day it was on Sapphire.

Woodbine, our favorite place

2009-07-23T19:04:00.010-06:00

One of the most scenic places in our area is Woodbine, where as the snow melts the water spills out of the Beartooth Mountains and forms the Stillwater River. In the spring the water is fast and furious, the fish are hiding in the rocks from the rapid water flow, the temperature of the water is cold and you want to stay away from the flow. (Come back in August if you want to fish). Picture s of the gorge are beautiful, we then added Marque Teegardin and his son, Sam, from Alpharetta, Georgia posing on a boulder near the rapids. Suddenly, Marque was behind the rock they were sitting on, grasping to get out of the flow and the cold water. Marque did escape and was later seen with his wife Dana and Sam in a more friendly setting.

What makes a happy rancher?

2009-07-21T21:40:00.008-06:00

An abundance of moisture. It started several months ago, mositure, more mositure, and at the correct intervals. What does this mean to a rancher? The best pastures and hay crops in years. What evidence do we have? The Montana Bureau of Mines has monitored our well for the past 7 years. Our well has averaged 56 feet from the surface of the ground to the top of the water for the entire period of time. 3 months ago it was 45 feet, an increase of 11 feet of water in our well. The spring tank in one of our pastures has been full for the last 5 months with no signs of weakness, the Davidson Creek (you never heard of this one) has flowed thru our property for over 4 months. The result of this is more hay and pasture than Marty and I have ever experienced. This grass is shoulder high, you cannot see our Great Danes when we take them for a walk in the pastures. The picture of the round bales is just some of the 60 that our neighbors have baled for themselves in our fields. This is equivalent to our total hay crop in 2008. The other picture is our hay crew that had just finished putting over 1200 bales of hay into our shed . . . . and we still have 5 fields that need to be harvested.

Where do we get the crew? Our neighbor, Theo Yanzick, cut and baled the hay. The 3 young men pictured here are members of the Absarokee High School football team who are getting in shaped for the upcoming season. Josh Royce and Cameron Rice on the right side of the picture had just finished picking up and putting 900 bales into our shed in the last 24 hours. Jordan Rice and cousin Baily Osterberg helped on the final 300 bales.

Happy Days in Montana, a great harvest.

Jump Grover jump

2009-07-19T10:09:00.007-06:00

It started 7 years ago, he was know as "stud muffin", then a young stallion who eventually sired 8 foals, he started training as a cutting horse but the testosterone was controlling his every move, he was gelded and in the last 18 months he has been returning to the role of an athlete. He started jumping during the winter plus started to learn the rules of dressage. On July 18th he competed for the first time in dressage and started jumping in public. He won his first blue ribbon with Wendy Bleacher in the saddle and Johanna Kern took him over the jumps. His buddy, Doc, also was shown by Marty at the show in Bozeman.