My First Rodeo!

Headed to the Custer Ranch Rodeo with Cinch Buckle Ranch Manager, Ron Goddard, and the Grasslands, LLC rodeo team, made up of Jake Goddard, Ty Hotchkiss, Jessie Hotchkiss (Ty's sister), and Jackson Wald. Rodeo events include team branding, team penning, wild cow milking, team doctoring, a pony express race, and stock saddle bronc riding. I can't wait!

Head & Heel: Calf Branding, Cowboy Style

Just got back from a "head and heel" branding at the Cinch Buckle Ranch (one of Grasslands, LLC 3 ranches), near Broadus, Montana. Truly honored to have witnessed and been a part of such a rare cultural event. The skill and precision with which these cowboys were roping calves (while gracefully maneuvering their horses) rivals, in my opinion, the feats of our world's greatest Olympians.

My First Branding

Participated in my first branding today! While difficult to emotionally digest the actual practice of branding, you were right, Craig Rogers (of Border Springs Farm)...this experience really did show me "what neighbors and family are all about" (i.e. within the cultural context of the Northern Great Plains). It seems that this practice pretty much represents the highest form of community connection and collaboration that this region has to offer. Needless to say, I had a fantastic time helping our neighbors, the Winklers!!