We love having friends visit us, and enjoyed a day hiking on the rims above Coulee Creek with Marian and Michael. I spent the week after Christmas sick with a cold, sleeping on the couch much of the time, so it felt great to get fresh air and movement again. Seeing the ranch through visitors’ eyes always helps remind me how special this place is and how truly lucky we are to call it home.
Over the past few years – since Buddy died – I’ve experienced several challenges riding horses. I just haven’t found another horse like Buddy. But despite my fears and misgivings, I’ve wanted to get back in the saddle for months now. I’m thrilled to say that on New Years Day, I rode Jack, our gentle half draft percheron. There is so much more to say about this subject, but for now let’s just say it was the perfect way to ring in the new year.
The cows are relaxed and relieved that the super cold weather has passed. When checking the herd yesterday, we found them lounging in the sun and chewing their cud. It’s a relief to have a healthy, contented herd.
Blue skies! At last we have some sunshine after a week or so of clouds. Our house and our well pump need the sun for power… and it really energizes me too.
Coulee Creek Ranch 
What a pretty black horse.
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Heather and Bart
You do live in a beautiful part of nature. I am always taken a back by the immense silence of your land
All my love, Mom
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