Monday, February 8, 2010

Wild Cows and Vastness!


I remember the first time I moved cows on a large ranch in Southern New Mexico about 15 years ago. Somehow I got separated from the two cowboys and was off chasing two wild cows - I think they just sent me after the cows to see how I would fare. It was early and I vaguely knew which direction the corrals were in so I went. It didn't take me long to figure out one of the cows was the "ring leader" whatever she did the other followed suit. Of course, the faster I went the faster she went. I remember looking out and being able to see for miles upon miles and not seeing any other human beings, paved roads, cars, civilization. I thought to myself - I bet there are folks that would freak out over this. I told myself be calm, just get the cows to go towards the corral. We must of circled this one mountain two and half times but after a few hours I finally got them to the corral. Of course, lunch had been served and everyone was wondering what had happened to me. I said, "These cows are wild! Whatever that one does the one other one will follow." As everyone was giving me a hard time about only bringing in two cows, two of those cowboys didn't bother to listen to me about the ring leader - what on earth did I know - I'd been chasing them hours! Well one of them threw a rope around the ring leaders horns and she took off like a rocket. He didn't have time dally his rope and she took off away from the pens. Of course, her best friend Bessie was following. I was thinking I worked hard to get those cows here and I hope that was an expensive rope she ran off with! After what seemed like the rest of the afternoon they got her back to the pens.

4 comments:

Susan said...

It really bugs me when guys assume I don't know what I'm talking about. I may not know, but at least find out first.

Anonymous said...

I swear your terrain looks identical to ours! Know what you mean about guys I had some major problems with a couple teenage guys that came to help ship. Being rancher's daughter didn't mean a fig to them! Thing was I was usually right so it was their problem not mine. The boss would usually get onto them about something I had just told them and they blew me off. Was kinda fun for me haha

lisa said...

At least you got back! That had to show them something! Of course, they would never admit it.

Cowgirl in the City said...

Too Funny! I've had that experience too... the problem is when you have a ring leader, a follower, and a bunch quitter who doesn't want to lead or follow. Grr. Cows! :)

Love your blog,