Friday Flashback - Bonanza



Reserve Champion Straight bred Hereford Steer -- purchased from Jenkins Ranche




11 Days until Bonanza .........

This is what my younger hereford friends told me last night -- they had been busy working on scrapbooks and all kinds of things -- including their heifer that they are taking to the show.   Their excitement is contagious -- it warms my heart and renews my optimism in the Hereford breed when I hear their excitement about their cattle and the upcoming Junior show. 

In 2008 the kids and I attended Bonanza in Medicine Hat -- it was a really special few days for me -- and I believe for the kids too.   This year Bonanza - which is our National Junior Hereford Show will be held in Saskatoon, SK on July 27th - 31st. 

Of course --- after I spoke on the phone with the kids --- and remembered my earlier promise to be there to watch them show --- I made the final decision to fly to Saskatoon on the Friday of the show.   I just couldn't tell them that "Auntie Jenny" would be busy haying that week.   I am really looking forward to it -- and will be sure and keep everyone posted on what in happening at Bonanza 2011 !

Jen

Friday Flashback -- Calgary Stampede



Calgary Stampede 1988


Well --- I thought with the Calgary Stampede kicking off today - it was only fitting that I use a Stampede "flashback".

In 1988 our brand -- which is a "J" was recognized for being 100 years old.    Registered in 1888 we have continued to use the same brand all these years.   Most of our cattle now will carry the brand on the left rib - or the left hip.  When we went to the Stampede in '88  I remember feeling quite honored that we were receiving this recognition.   

Some people may wonder why we still continue to brand our cattle with the "J" -- while there are a number of reasons for this -- I believe a lot of it is that we are proud of the cattle we raise --- and we are not afraid to put our own "stamp" on them.   It is some of the best advertising we can get !

I have lot's of other good memories of attending the cattle show at the Stampede over the years --- and making a trip or two to the Nashville North tent while we were there !

I don't think we will make it up to the Stampede this year --- but I would like to wish those of you competing in the Steer Classic the best of luck ! To those of you who might just be heading up to catch the rodeo -- I too wish you luck fighting the traffic, parking and crowds !!! LOL !

Jen



Friday Flashback - May 27, 2011

Good luck to everyone on their upcoming

 4H Achievement Day !

Provincial 4H Heifer Show - Bashaw - about 1992

Somewhere hidden in the "vault" I have some pics' from our local 4H Achievement Day - but this is the best I could come up with today - I have no idea why I am out there all by myself - I believe it may have been a division class - and I believe we may have even come home with a banner ! Either way - I have great memories from our summer 4H shows -

Monday is the local 4H Achievement Day in Pincher Creek - and yours truly (me) - is going to evaluate the young showmen and women that day.  I am looking forward to it - and hope to see some of you come out and support our local young beef producers !!!!

Jen