Free ride or Do ewe care

Favorite photograph, week of February 28, 2009

As I was driving down the Grove Creek Road, specifically looking for new born calves, I couldn't help but stop and take this photograph. After some research, I have determined this is a European Starling on the back of the ewe. I image the purpose of the "free ride" is multiple. It's warmer on the back of the ewe than anywhere else, the bird gets an elevated view without spending any energy, and the primary reason is to pick bugs, grubs, or parasites out of the fleece. The baby calves and lambs will be coming soon.

Clint and Al

The picture you see on my blog is my horse, Al. Al became a part of my life in 1999, just 2 weeks after we moved into our new home in Fishtail. Al was a breeding stallion, had never been ridden, was 6 years old, and my wife explained his personality as one that wanted attention, not a mare in heat. Artist Julie Jeppsen was commissioned to paint this picture of Al and I shortly after he passed away. There will be updates of Al Dude, as he was known by my grandchildren, as we share our experiences together on this site. Hope you enjoy Al Dude and the stories as much as I did having him part of my life.