How many of you know that this fourth month of the year was named after the Greek goddess Aphrodite, or that April is also known as the month of the Pink Moon, the time the Earth is opening to seeds and new growth. It is also the month when we commemorate the tricksters among us on April 1st. The weather in April can also be tricky as well, going from warm thaws to sudden freezes overnight. What I like most about this month is that our days finally stretch out and we aren’t doing chores in the dark and feeling as soon as we get back inside that it’s time to retire for the evening.

Yes, we do lose that hour of sleep, but at my house this time of year, during calving season, we lose more then just an hour of sleep checking on cows on any given night, depending on whose turn it is that evening. I find that one hour just falls in with the rest that is gone forever. I like having a full day stretch out before me; it’s great to be able to accomplish so much more. My family, on the other hand, has to readjust to dinners very seldom landing on the table before 9:00 p.m.; late suppers just come with the territory. Even the late hours don’t deter the number of folks that surround our table just about every evening, we’re fortunate that most evenings find us with a number of friends on hand to enjoy our meals with, discuss the world events and most importantly, share the laughter.

It was at one of these recent late night suppers that the question came up about what was on everyone’s “bucket list.” You know, that list of things that you want to do before you “kick the bucket.” Immediately two or three things came to mind, but I came to realize that there is really not that much that I’ve missed out on in this life. I’m fortunate to be able to work every day with my family towards our goals. I get to spend a good deal of my life outside taking what nature hands us; the good and the bad. Also, the people that are in my business are my friends as well. Just how much better does it get?

Sure, I do have a couple of those things that have always fascinated me, that if I could ever just once experience them, it would be pretty amazing. I’m awestruck by the fighter jets that you see in the air shows that do the mind-boggling routines in the air. I’ll pull off to the side of the road and sit forever watching them practice. To have the opportunity to just fly in one would be pretty high on my “bucket list.” And one more thing that I still have time to master is hang gliding; I’ve just got to find the time to try it.

On the subject of finding time, stop for a few moments and peruse the articles in this month’s issue. I think that you’ll find yourself slowing to a stop to read. Kim Holt brings us an excellent piece on the making of the ideal feedlot steer, showcasing the tremendous Charolais cross that excels in the feedlot environment. Most ranchers have experienced retained placentas in cows at one time or another; we’ve provided a first-rate article about the reason for retained placentas. Once again we present to you a very informative piece in our continuing series by Wes Ishmael, “Them Against Us.” As in every month we supply a little humor to lighten up your day with “Hooter” and the Bull Board. If that is not enough of a spring tonic to make for a great day in April be sure to make up one of your own libations and sit a spell with this exceptional issue.

I’ve got day light on my side and my trail into May is filled with possibilities….

Happy Trails.