LMA Quarter Horse Ranch

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T16:07:00.000-08:00

Love from the LMA------Mikey.

LMA-Feburary-2012

2012-02-05T16:25:00.000-08:00

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Just another day.

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I call this

From the ouside looking in.

As always---love from the LMA---Mikey.

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Why Grandpa?

2012-01-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

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Here's Easter!
Just another day on the LMA!

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Poor old boy, barely getting by!
Sorry Easter, you'll just have to tough it out.

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So oneday I was talking to Grandpa.
Grandpa I don't understand something.
What's that Mike?
Grandpa evrybody in my family plays golf; bowls; are good mechanics; know everything I don't know.
Why is it that I love the horses when no one else seems to?
Grandpa- "Well Mike that is probably my fault".
Hows that Grandpa?
Well Mike, back in the day I used to be a pickup man. After the days work we would circle the cars with our lights on as it got dark.
the boys would gamble their days earnings on various sports. Bullwhip compititions; boxing, spitting; BS ing; telling various and assorted lies. You understand don't you?
Sort of Grandpa, but where does that answer the question about me, and why am I the horseman?
Well Mike, you probably got that from me.
You see back at that time they had wild horses, when we circled the trucks the boys had to ride the horses to a stand still. Many times the horses would stop bucking then take off running.
In those days the pickup man's job was to help the buckeroo bring the horse back.
You were not expected to bring the buckeroo back, if he was still mounted, good for him.
Yes Grandpa, now I understand! Thanks.

No Photos Tonight

2012-01-30T15:49:00.000-08:00

A conversation came to me today.

. A conversation from years ago from my brother, Russ.
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He told me that he wished we were born from a higher social form.
. I said nothing.

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In my heart; I was raging!
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How could a Brother of mine not know how noble the people who got us here are?

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Poor; in money? yes. Poor in intellect? No. Poor in devotion? No. Poor in family values? No. Poor in survive ability? No!

.I would say to the generations to come: You have been given the best chance on earth to go for your own! Take it.

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Dust Bowlers!

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Back in the day! My father was born in a barn while Grandpa George was filling an obligation to harvest a Kansas farmers wheat.
Any family members who remember our history are welcome to respond, but, as it has been related to me, here it is.

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Grandpa George finished the harvest then loaded up the family to make the move too Idaho. He had a wagon and a mule.
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The Mule got tired and stopped; George said " that's once mule", then cracked him on the ass, he started moving again. Later the mule stopped again, George said we need to get to the railroad station to make our move to Idaho! He cracked the mule on the ass, "That's twice Mule" and they were moving on.

. As at has been related to me; here again; please correct me if I'm wrong.

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The mule stopped again before the family got to the railroad station. George shot the mule.

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Grandma says "why did you shoot our mule? "
George says "that's Once"

Tough Times; Tough People; Tough Love; Tough answers. They did what it took!

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I'm sorry you felt that way Russ; you were wrong!----m.

As Always-----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

End of Jan. 2012

2012-01-27T17:17:00.000-08:00

Last Night

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This Morning

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As always-------Love from the LMA-------Mikey.

PS---Happy Birthday Larry A.----m. I Know, just didn't post in time.
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Dead of Winter LMA Style

2012-01-23T18:08:00.000-08:00

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Three Trees
Thank you for your strenth.
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Remember those tomatoes.
They're not doing s well now.

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Rain is pouring, old man snoring.

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JackieJo LOVES to roll in the mud.
There must be something very theraputic about a good mud bath.
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What Easter?
Yeah, I taught her that when you first brought her down here.
Ya know Mikey, I'm getting real tired of teaching you the ropes about horses.
That's OK Easter, just remember, your feed bill is going through the roof.
K.

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Bye the way Mikey, feed or not, you need to clean this mess up!
K Easter.

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And trim the grape vines too!
K Easter.

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Ya know there is a saying.
God works in mysterios ways.
I was really out of options for getting out to Two Hawks Ranch to get feed, we were OUT!
I had no answers, I was feeding the horses all my potatos, really.
Then one of the locals came by, this is Don.
Why he came by is not important, he did, then he came by this morning to help.

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$155 per scoop. +$15 per scoop per month GEEZ!

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Well no matter what, Don just happened to show up at the right time.
Thanks for the help Don.
We needed you!

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It's raining It's pouring
The old man is snoring
The horses have stopped roaring.
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Dinner is a good thing.

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As always -----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

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LMA Tonight

2012-01-19T18:36:00.000-08:00

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Tonight after a day of setbacks, so much worry; fear that I might not be enough to hold things together.
Then comes another sunset.
Solace and comort as I look, three trees.
Three trees have stood against the desert.
Three trees are stronger than I am.
Three trees do not complain. Three trees stand strong.
So I go to sleep dreaming of the strength of one tree.
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One tree will be enough to guide my Foot Prints in the Sand.
One tree will save me from my fear.
One tree will guide my destiny.
Others may need Three Trees.
I Don't.

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AS Always -----Love from the LMA------Mikey.

Tennis anyone?

2012-01-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

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JackieJo's ready!

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Easter; not so much!

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AS Always----Love from the LMA----Mikey.

Bright and Cold!

2012-01-17T12:05:00.000-08:00

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JP has a nice warm coat on, good thing.

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She really has become a lot more friendly. Not long ago she was wild as a deer.

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JackieJo has a great disposition, she's hard to photograph because I can't make her stay far enough away.

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Here she comes now, better take the shot!

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My Tractor, I love my tractor, Now if I could find that girl.

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Sure seems strange looking at these 48ft. split axel trailers. Land based barges.

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EASTER.
talk about warm and wholly.

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Anyone want to go fishing?
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The Great Pumpkin!

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Hope I don't loose my regular job, this may have to be my backup plan.
Could I back that up?---yes.

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The main thing about this morning is the sun is bright; the sky is clear; and it's COLD!
I was just so exited that my Blackberry phone has a new battery in it.
Really miss having the time to take photos, as you see getting the horses in a position can take a lot of time.
The still shots are easier, just not as unique, you can always rely on them to pose properly.
.

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AS always-------Love from the LMA------------Mikey.

Here comes the Light

2012-01-16T19:11:00.001-08:00

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So every morning as I wake up here on the LMA, I ask myself ; what will I be required to do today?
What new requirements to keep the dream alive?

.. .
My dream is not for myself.
My dream is for the family first.
Always has been.

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So I look to the sunrise; then to the sunset; then to my heart and soul; Lord what could I do better?
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Keep walking My Son you have a long way to go.

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Thank You.

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AS Always-----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

LMA Professor

2012-01-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

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I spend a lot of time alone. This leads to reading about the world I have mostly left behind.

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Nothing like keeping up with problems that face us all. No sense in sticking my head in the sand any longer. I did that most of my life.

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It just occurred to me that I am grooming my beard as I surf the world I bye and large have left behind. Hmm curios.

.

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Hey! I never in my life grew a beard!
Did I forget to shave?
I'll tell you the story about when I was in Alaska , I was 19, I started to grow a beard, the whiskers on my chin were coming in white, I decided never to grow a beard. Now, white whiskers don't seem so bad, I earned them so I don't care.

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As always-----------------Love from the LMA------------Mikey.

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January Moon Morning

2012-01-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

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One of the times I wish for better equipment.

This was a nice surprise when I went out to feed.
Looks quite large in person.
Not often I chance on a morning where I sleep in till sunup and get to see the Full Moon.

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As always------Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

Morning Coffee

2012-01-09T08:29:00.000-08:00

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Starting off the new year right.

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A new year is started every day, the best reason to get up early. I love to watch the sun rise with something to eat and a hot pot of coffee to work on. Every morning I check the temperature on the way out to feed. 22F this morning, very invigorating.

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Cold and clear, so glad it's dry, I can slip my moccasins on when it's dry, they're fleece lined, warm.
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Feeding is all done so I will just kick back for a while until it's warmer.

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As always------------Love from the LMA--------Mikey.

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Sam & Diablo

2011-12-18T17:16:00.000-08:00

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I am sitting here reminiscing all the photos that have come my way this year. Not just photos of coarse, life in general, events or problems that I am aware of, to relatives currently on some fabulous adventure.
My preference decided on the photo that moved me most in this year.

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I chose this photo of Samantha Wood & and her Grand Mothers' horse Diablo taken at the Homedale Idaho Fair and Rodeo this year.
Samantha (Sam) as I've always known her did some competitions there this year.
The reason I have this photo is that I requested it after Stacy Woods posted all the photos on Facebook, from the weekend.
The Homedale Rodeo is definitely up there in my book anyway so seeing multiple generations continuing a great tradition sure warms my heart.
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The angle of the photo gives a unique view of symmetry, lines I have never seen before, a look that portrays a correct balance. The spontaneous look; the beautiful smile of a young woman who was sitting in deep concentration just before someone who loves her calls her name; then takes this photo.
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To me this photo was taken; looked at; yet never seen; even by the people who love this young lady the most.

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I give this my personal come to the LMA photo of the year.

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As always -----Love from the LMA-------Mikey.

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MERRY CHRISTMAS

A mile in mine

2011-12-13T14:41:00.001-08:00

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A few years ago I had a Jazzy car.
1988 Chevrolet IROC Convertible.
Leaving the store one day I noticed someone had sliced my top, and keyed my paint.
Never again as long as I live in the city will I own a nice car.
Rather than buy a new top I repaired it with a Speedy Stitcher Sewing Awl.
Drove it for another year, then sold it.

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A couple years after that, waiting to mount a new set of tires on my Dodge dually, walking around waiting found a shoe store selling MinneTonka mocassins. OH YEAH.
Next to Marias hand made sockies, best thing I could do for my feet.

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Hey Mikey; you can fix your car; but not your Moccasins?
Searching high and low, success the Speedy Stitcher Sewing Awl.
My Feet couldn't be happier.

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As always----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

Lighter Side of Winter

2011-12-13T11:37:00.000-08:00

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As I've stated recently LMA Photo shoot opos. are enduring technical difficulties.
Luckily my phone lasted long enough to try.

. .
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Winter out in the desert is harder for the two legged horses rears (ahem), no dought.
The urge to photo Jackie Jo and Easter was strong in this one, hehehehe.

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As you can see they were in their mid morning nap modes.
A hard night of fending off the elements tends to wear a poor horse out.
Breakfast; water; temperature rising; break in the clouds.

.That darn Easter was full out horizontal, I really wanted to take that photo, even in full mid morning nap mode, any sound will travel alerting the horses. They are forever alert, even when napping' they know what their surroundings are. Another interesting trait is that all the horses take turns with their naps. A rare thing indeed to have all of them down at the same time. Every horse takes their turn also, since JJ & Easter were down, the filly JP was on watch, standing. Never too young for responsibility. Nice to know that even a young horse has enough sense to do her part. Being able to be alert is something a two legged horses rear (ahem) should have learned much earlier in life.

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As always---------------Love from the LMA-------------Mikey.

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He's Home

2011-12-10T18:29:00.000-08:00

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Well Dude I know you have been confused, life just isn't what you thought.
But here you are, now what?

Good Looking Young rascal ain't he?
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As life goes on talent has to prove itself, now is the time for him.
I bought him when he was 1 year old. Loved him for 3 years.
The time has come for him to prove himself worthy.
I have no dowts.
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As always----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

LMA Sunrise November Edition

2011-11-28T06:48:00.000-08:00

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This is an impulse posting. The color moments only last about 7 or 8 minutes.

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My phone has been giving me fits lately, didn't know for sure if it would last long enough to snap few shots.

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The temperature is plunging to the mid 20's as the Sun is coming up.

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Guess I'll have one more cup of coffee before I go Feed.

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As always-----------Love from the LMA--------Mikey.
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Greener Pastures for Dude

2011-11-27T08:39:00.000-08:00

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Good Bye Dude.

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Not much more to say, sure will miss him, but ya know you have to let them go. Such is the horse business.

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As always-------Love from the LMA------------Mikey.

Morning in Sandy Valley

2011-11-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

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Fog is something we very rarely see out here. I had my days changed to cover for a guy at work, I'm running an hour late. This is so rare the opportunity to take a few snap shots overwhelmed me. I know; I know not while driving, but I was late for work.

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The fog is coming from the old sea bed south of the valley, the funny part is it's 25 F. outside right now, (no really) the sea bed is dry, but the water table out there is only a couple of feet deep. The Mojave river runs under ground all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. The water temp is usually 50 F. hence Fog.

Actually the state line is on the other side of Clark Mountain in the background.

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Good thing I'm running late, an hour ago that sun would have been hitting me full on driving over Columbia pass.

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Just a brilliant morning I would have missed if my schedule hadn't changed.

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As always-----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.
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Woke Up In The Morning

2011-11-21T14:16:00.000-08:00

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Woke up in the morning boy it sure feels cold.
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Woke up in the morning boy I sure feel old.
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Woke up in the morning boy coffee sure sounds good.
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Woke up in the morning boy a fire would be apropos.
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Woke up in the morning boy that is some wet wood.
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Woke up in the morning got nowhere to go.
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Woke up in the morning that coffee sure tastes good.
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Mikey.

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Woke up this morning to a mid November storm, man it came out of nowhere. It was still dark when I rolled out this morning, had no Idea how the weather had changed over night. This time of year I turn down my heat to save money while I sleep, thanks to some very warm bed coverings I have accumulated over the years. AS I walked out at sun up to feed it was a suprise to see how wet the ground was. Little bit after noon the sky started to open up.
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Think I will skip the fire, just stay inside and have a cold one.
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As always----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

Coming of Winter

2011-11-14T17:52:00.001-08:00

Yes as the days get shorter I remember all the years. Once Halloween is over; my birthday; Thanksgiving; come Christmas; and New Year. Time marches on.

Not the passing of my Mother; not the grief of all our for bearers can stop the march of time. Every year I am here is counted as a success, never in my wildest dreams did I think so many blessings would out weigh the problems only imagined in my mind.

In spite of my ignorance my life has been a success because I see "ONE SET OF FOOT PRINTS IN THE SAND", thank you LORD.

Winter is a time for Holidays; being with the ones you love and protect; do the best you can; time marches on; now is the time for this; come Spring we all know another Winter will be coming.

When in the responsible protection of our parents life is a picture of perfection, we have people we must adhere too. Reasoning on our part usually not allowed. I love you; do it my way! "OK"! Time marches on.

Looking back through the winters of my life, I must say that I look forward to the "March of Time" with trepidation and great expectation. Mostly I'm afraid to miss all the wonderful things coming out of the families young people. I know Mother was afraid I might fall young, to my shame I was not more reassuring to her. Mom's Mums will come back in the Spring. Time marches on.

The state of the world is moving at a pace never comprehended by anyone who had an influence on me. Never in our wildest imagination would Mikey know what an internet was! Yet there go the Footprints.

Footprints to the fire and a cold one-----------------Mikey.

As always-----Love from the LMA-----------m.

Happy Halloween DUDE!

2011-10-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

.Happy Halloween Dude, Did someone give you a hair cut?
AS always------Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

Halloween Morning

2011-10-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

.Luckily all that racket going on early this morning turned out not to be Zombies!
As the light came up I noticed the movement out in front.
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Sorry about the photo quality, my BlackBerry phone does the best it can.

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A close look will be needed, the Coyote is leaving from the middle here.

Halloween it may be, I'm just happy that strange noise, turned out to be something more natural. Actually the Coyotes have been doing fairly well around here, which is OK with me, the gophers need some control, the chickens are locked up pretty well. One of my neighbors lost a favorite (old) Peacock, may have been his time.

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Once again I apologize for the quality of the shots. Just didn't think anything more noteworthy will happen today. Should something interesting come up, post to follow. Happy Holidays!

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As Always-----------------Love from the LMA------------Mikey

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Just a swinging--October Evening

2011-10-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

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Life on the LMA

Sometimes I just enjoy the moment.

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As always --------Love from the LMA--------Mikey.

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Last of the "Devils Anvill" 2011

2011-10-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

Just stepped out to feed and water.
Didn't even think about putting a jacket on.
I did notice after morning chores when getting in the car to go to work;
there was ice on my windshield.
whoa dude!

I think when I go out to feed in the morning, I'll need more than a shirt on.
The "Devils Anvil" certainly is gone for this year.
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A quick look at Mt. Charleston, reveals it snowed last night.
I tried to get a photo, but.
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Where does the time go?
It marches on.
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I most certainly love the march of time. Living life from day to day is all we have. A wise man once said " Every moment is a gift, open your present"
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Every day when I go to do my chores is now a present.
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When I go out I just look up, then I think of my present, then I think of you.
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Time for a cold one----A fire-------and thoughts of you.
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As always------Love from the LMA-----mikey.
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PS I Love and Miss you Mom, not to forget others too---m.
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JACKIE JOS MILAGROS #5380415

2011-09-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

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Thanks for all the great suggestions, I used several of them,this name does have a lot of support from the AQHA because of her bloodlines.
.

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. I still call her JP, kind of a habit now, and she is responding to my voice when I call her.

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As always -------Love from the LMA-----mikey.

OOOPPPS

2011-09-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

I Don't know what happened to the Shrew Photos. I'll try again later-----m.

Taming of the Shrew

2011-09-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

The Shrew, look familiar BOYS?
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Well maybe being a good provider might make her a little more amicable.

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Hand feeding, who'd thunk?

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Well, if ya have to put up with a Shrew, be sure she's good looking!

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Hey! She's not pulling back! Maybe we're getting somewhere!

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Just so you know Mikey, I still don't trust you!

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Just another day- on the LMA.

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Time for a cold one.

As always-------------Love from the LMA----------mikey.

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PS.-----------Love You All-----m.

PSS< sorry about this mess, I went back to my old Interface---m.

Labor Day Sunday---LMA

2011-09-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

I don't have much of a storey for you today. I really wish I did, I'm so tired. Life has been pretty good to me, yet I only respond to questions. No one has asked me a question lately.

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Well nearly no one.
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. Take Dude for instance, hey mikey, where are the mares? Over there; too bad bro!

Easter; just another day; come on mikey bring the food; Love ya man, I still won't give you my BEER!

Plenty warm here, no need for a fire, although the season is coming quickly!

.As usual---------------Love from theLMA-----------Mikey.

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Just to Make My Sis Happy

2011-08-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

.Okay folks we don't have a name for her yet. I'll post when they come back next week.

Sorry for the double exposure, I'm just not too handy with this stuff.

am I the Only one who sees a goose, don't answer that!

Enjoy, and as always-----Love from the LMA------------Mikey.

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Ely, Nv.

2011-08-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

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I had intended to go to Ely hoping this would be Icemans first win. Admittedly not worth a $2 across coming from 600 ft. sea level in Oregon to 6100 ft. in Ely. Jerry's trainer Don Young came up short on help so yours truly got drafted. Don and Jerry were pretty much overloaded when the action started, and roll up your sleeves Mikey was soon in the same situation. Taking action photos of the racing and the horses went right out the window. I did however get some R&R Saturday night, so excited I couldn't sleep. The local folks were team roping under the lights, ah the good old days.

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I'm sure the ladies in our family can relate to this mommy and young one.

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.Amazing how pretty I am after a $ tip.

.Back to cooling these horses off.

As always----Love from the LMA----------Mikey

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What! No Milk?

2011-08-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

Mikey I'm Not Happy about this!

I Know, Ididn't like it much myself.

Seems like just Yesterday!

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As always -----Love from the LMA--------Mikey.

LMA Fairytale

2011-08-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

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Here's my little princess.
Kings Bit of Dash.

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Shes got a great personality, and is not used to being alone. Where is my wicked step sister, why am I here all alone?

That's because you are not big yet KD, and you haven't been too school yet. SOOO your beautiful step mother and wicked step sister go away and leave you here all alone. That's why Mikey's here, I keep everything in order while they are gone, but I miss you and them.

. Here they come now, maybe some day we will go together and the Good Fairy from the North will come and take photos of all of us
having fun at the same time, sound good KD?

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Irene I am so glad you decided not to be camera shy, how was your ride?

Don't bother answering a picture says it all.

Or maybe two pictures.

Forget it Dude, I know what your fairytale would end like.

More fun from the LMA.

As always---------time for a cold one and Love from the LMA--------------Mikey.

JP needs a name

2011-08-08T12:01:00.002-07:00

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Come on give me a name.

Who am I going to be?

Just don't call me late for dinner!

Wait Mom! I'm talking to Mikey.

So Mikey, have you heard anything YET?

Come on Mom, what's your hurry?

All in good fun. I do have about a week before I mail my request to the AQHA.

As always -----------Love from the LMA---------------mikey.

.And a cold one.------------m.

Nominate a name

2011-08-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

.I am going to submit six names for Jackie Jo's filly to the AQHA.

Dawn coined Jo's Pride.

.I call her JP for now.

Submit any names to comments.

Tune in later for photos.

. as always-----------love from the LMA---------------mikey.

Sandy Independance Day

2011-07-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

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I don't know what year Uncle Darrell's tractor is, but it still works!

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I didn't have much going on at the LMA, so I went to the local parade. Hope it feels the same for you that it feels for me.
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Enjoy.

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.We have a very diverse community here. Free Thinking People from all walks of life.

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Leave Me Alone.--------LMA Mikey!

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Now for a cold one------------a fire----------------LYB.

Ps---------Miss you MOM--------------m.

June--LMA

2011-06-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

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.MOM I'm SCARED.
I think this Rooster is mad at me!

MOM does this look like 1423 empty beer cans?
Wonder what the price of aluminium is?

Hey! This gives me a good idea for that ROOSTER!

Looks like Virginia could help.

And These Are All MINE!
Life is good.
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Hey MUMS!
Just getting started.

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Anybody remember Brandywine tomatoes?
"DAD"
Can't wait!
.

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JP is going through some changes too.

Notice she is getting darker.
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.Remember her color now.
I'll post more after my trip North.
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I have one more shift to pull, so I'll sign off for now. Perhaps when I come back I'll be able to spend time with the stories. My creative juices restored, it has been a long couple of years, thank GOD I made it.

Now for a cold one; a biscuit; a beer; no fire---90"-------------love Mikey.

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AS always Love from the LMA----------------------m.
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Good Bye TOBY

2011-06-04T17:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Mike, somebody is taking Toby!

Don't Worry Dude!

Hey Mike! Somebody is taking Toby! Don't worry Easter, it's OK!

MOM- what's going on?

MOM I think something is going on!
Don't worry JP, I've seen worse.

HI! You Dad's Lawyer?

Good Bye TOBY, the boys will miss you! HEHEHE!

Just another day on the LMA.
Good bye Lawyer.

You know after all this excitement I need a cold one, it is getting warm down here.

As always------Love from the LMA------Mikey.

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For My Sisters

2011-05-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

....

Just so you know.

.No matter how hard times get.

.The LMA still loves you.

As Always-------------LOVE from the LMA------------Mikey.

.Fire---Cold One----------m.

May?!!

2011-05-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

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.Here comes the sun.

One good thing about having to go too work.

.
Wish I could hang around to finish the show.

But, off to work I go----------Mikey.

.
As always-----------Love from the LMA------------m.
.

MAY--?

2011-05-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

.The wind is blowing 40mph. temp 60.

Rain showers; thunder boomies;dust blowing all over the place.

.

.
Day dragging on, can't get any work done.

.
Then this.

.
I need a cold one.---------------love from the LMA--------------------Mikey.

As always ------------Love from the LMA-----------------m.

.

LMA May 2011

2011-05-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

.

.
Just checking out Jackie Jo, she seems to be keeping her weight up.

.
Shiney too!

.
I haven't registered a name yet so I call her JP.

.
JP has a nice confirmation, gaining weight too.

.
That's just the baby bucket.

Jackie Jo is very protective, really difficult to get JP out in the open for a shot.

.
.
As always ---------Love from the LMA---------------Mikey.

.

Oldie but Goodie..

2011-04-29T16:45:00.000-07:00

.

Hey Virginia, you out here? Yea come on in.

What ya doing?

Making steering wheel covers. Want one?
They're handmade.

You betcha!

What in the world! I have never seen one of these before.

Is that the date of manufacture?

No, I think it was made in 1869, I think.

Talk about Energy Efficient!

Anybody that likes machinery has got to appriciate quality like this.

.Thanks Virginia.

Just having fun out here on the LMA.

Now a fire and a cold one--------Mikey.

As always---------------Love from the LMA------------------m.

.

Easter weekend

2011-04-26T06:32:00.002-07:00

There she is, hey Virginia looks like you have a flat tire.

.
.

The sand was packed in the pipe she uses for a cheater bar, (leverage to jack handle, and lug nuts).
.

The heat and sand has a way of keeping us wheel poor out here.

.
.

What a Gal! This comes under---Get her done!

Time to go hunt for Easter Eggs.

.

.Yea Baby.

As always-----Love from the LMA-----------------m.

LMA Studs

2011-04-12T08:29:00.002-07:00

Hi Toby

.

.DUDE

.

Just walking around today, lucky moments.

.As always----Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

LMA

2011-04-12T08:29:00.001-07:00

LMA mid April

2011-04-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

.The weather has been changing hourly. One day I need short sleeves, next day a Parka. Luckily my days off are pretty nice. These afternoon shots were available during watering and feeding.

Haven't submitted names for her too the AQHA yet.

Dawn proposed Jo's Pride. How about JP for now?
.

Sure wish her ears were forward, otherwise show ready.

.
.

JP's starting to eat solid food, gets plenty of milk too.
.

Easter's never missed a meal.

.
.

Have Ya boy?

.
.

Darn chicken! Don't do that on the porch!

.
.

Poor things think it's time, then the weather changes again. Sure look forward to these every year.

.
.

Dude. I wasn't forgetting you, I always feed you after Easter, you know that.

Now his ears are forward. Nice pose.

Oh Yea! Better get too the Post Office.

.
.

Look's a lot warmer out here than it really is.

.

.OK---have errands to take care of.

When I get back I'll be ready for the fire, thinking about what to do next, like a cold one.

As always---Love from the LMA-----Mikey.

Day One

2011-03-25T17:13:00.000-07:00

I know some of you are aware of the anticipation.

yea waiting for spring.

Enjoy, Spring is here!

.

Sorry I don't have a lot to say. Seems when I am most exited I say the dumbest things.

.Shut Up Mikey----start a fire----enjoy a cold one---------------enjoy Spring!

PS-------as always---Love from the LMA----You Too MOM>
.

Snow Day!

2011-02-20T07:00:00.001-08:00

Yep-TGIF! It's 4 o'clock in the morning.

I owe I owe so off too work I go.

Better feed the horses.

Turn on the yard light, looks like it's starting to rain a little, hmmm.

Oh yea, start the coffee;dig out the rain coat; then feed.

.Hey! that's not rain!

.To make a short story short, I was calling in by 5 o'clock. 1&1/2 inch's by sun up.

No fire today----coffee's good------Mikey.

As always----------Love from the LMA-----m.

SPING MUST BE COMING!

2011-02-14T17:52:00.000-08:00

Hey Weenie where are you?

I see someone else is taking care of the HENS!

This guy sure did wait for his time, hmmmm.
Do you think somebody came in the night, hmmmm?

Dude! you are not on the hot seat boy, there weren't any hoof prints around the COOP!

OK just wanted to show a few curiosities around here. Perhaps Spring has started to work on me. The case of the rooster could mean she(the Hawk) is feeding her young, I don't think it was the Hawk; too cold; too soon. Certainly Plenty of Dogs in the neighborhood though. Then I do hear Coyotes every night. I do know the Chickens left have started laying plenty of eggs. Fear of death; wanting to reproduce; unknown events of tomorrow; your guess is as good as mine!

.
Another point I would like to make is this is Valentines Day. I certainly have been noticing some very nice females I come in contact with. I certainly hope this doesn't get me kicked out of the "HE MAN WOMEN'S HATER CLUB"! I can just see MOM laughing her A$$ off!

One Good Thing about Spring--------------Start an evening fire since I have two days off!

As always-----Love from the LMA-----------Mikey.

Diversity

2011-02-02T17:41:00.000-08:00

SEAN----Smart Young Man---Believe Me ---I did not put that on his mouth! (11yrs.)

.Just another day at the Ranch!

Over the Hill Gang

Pat's Ride

Pat's main gig, smoozing the girls, You Go Boy.

Here they are--OTHG!!
.
YES Everybody is Leave Me Alone. We Strive for Diversity here!

.

What a good time! So happy to be back!

I really need a cold one & a FIRE!

.as always-------Love from the LMA-----m.

.PS----Love You MOM.

Long Winter

2011-02-01T08:33:00.000-08:00

.
Yes and getting longer.

At least getting this laptop over a terrible winter VIRUS, is the start of winter being over.

Still, for a couple of weeks, morning feeds run in the low 20's. Sure will be nice when I start complaining the "DEVIL"S ANVIL".

Thanks for checking in on the LMA. Not posting was a big disappointment for me. Writers block seems to be like a virus hangover now, I'm sure there are some photos and stories coming soon. Patrick came out last week with his Harley and friends. Jackie Jo had a nasty infection on her Jaw, been working on that, doing better now. JJ"s due date April 3rd.

Brother Steve and I are working on renewing my ceiling texture. We had a good visit on Monday.

Well that's it for now-------------------as always Love from the LMA--------m.

My New Favorite Photo

2010-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

.....

Thanks Sis.

.

Best Christmas Present EVER!

Back to the fire-------------mikey

.PS-------from the LMA----Merry Christmas------m.

Upgrades

2010-12-08T05:35:00.000-08:00

.Just seems kind of fancy for a cowboy.

.
Got it at Murphy prices too.

Back to the fire----mikey.

PS---------Merry Christmas from the LMA--------m.

B - B - B

2010-12-07T12:40:00.000-08:00

HI!

.. Well life on the LMA certainly has it's moments.

Boats; Biscuits; & Bacon!

Thanks to Hardball Farms in Nampa for growing my hog again this year. They really try hard to do it @ Murphy prices too! Hams and bacon thick cut and smoked of course.

.
.

Just had to try my hand at Biscuits again, been a while. Honey+ Real Butter is my choice.

BOAT!!!!!!

.
.

Hey J.J. forget about the Boat! Run away -Run away!

.

.Atta girl.

So there you have it, another day on the LMA, Back to the fire ---------------mikey.

PS------------as always----MERRY CHRISTMAS-------------m.

Doing dishes.

2010-12-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

.Yep, 12/01/10

.All of you knowing me so well realize what a humble person I really am.

Just getting off the phone, having people tell me there is a blizzard in Idaho tonight, you know I would never post a picture like this don't you?

So there I was doing dishes; getting the up date from GOD's Country; saying to myself "Wow". I remember what that is like. Maybe I should take a photo of the view from my sink to show the folks up north. This is what I mean when I say "Don't come to the LMA @ Noon in June"!

OK-maybe I'm not as humble as I claim, I would post this photo, I did!

.Come on down anytime you're cold, it's all good.

As Always----Love from the LMA---------mikey.

PS. Yes the fire is going---------------m.

Rooster

2010-11-15T12:02:00.000-08:00

This can be one obnoctious Rooster, I don't blame him though. He really does a good job taking care of the hens. The problem is a neighbor's rooster. I guess he likes to brag about the job he does too.

I am wondering about naming him "Weenie" or Dewayne hehe!

Rooster isn't as big as his predecessor, give him time though, he'll grow. He isn't as honery as the last rooster, that one picked a fight with me.

. Ever see a chicken with feathers down to it's feet? New one for me!

I tell you when I spend time outside the fun never stops. Toby started a game with the chickens where he chases them out of his territory. Now all the horses saw how much fun it was so they chase the chickens too. I know; I need to travel more; really this is just fine with me. Luckily I am well traveled, peace and quite don't bother me at all. Rooster, did you hear that part?

Just a little light reading from the LMA.

.Back to the fire now---------------------Mikey

PS----as always Love from the LMA---------------m.

My B-Day

2010-11-07T12:34:00.000-08:00

56 yrs. Who'd a thunk?

.OOOPPS.

This is a thirty year plus traveling partner of mine. Chuck Walsh.

We both happened to be off this morning so we decided to go to Horse Thief Springs to pan.
Not much "Luck" outside off a beautiful day with good company.
This is the Old Hideout!

.
WE know what this is.
IMG00018-20101107-0930.jpg .Just some of the scenery I love. That's a row off Mint that smells so good way up here.
IMG00019-20101107-0931.jpg.

I'm just fooling around today. No real good stories to tell. Just wanted to post something.

More coming soon------------Mikey

As always from the LMA love------------m.

Two Lives

2010-10-10T12:10:00.001-07:00

.

Isn't it funny how we all make plans for our lives, work like the dickens trying to achieve our goals, then one day wake up to say "How did this happen?".
Here I am; Cowboy at heart; sitting in my office; wondering how a technopeasant like myself; ever wound up here!
Actually the photo is my first attempt to see if I could download video from my phone camera to the blog. It actually plays in my E-Mail. Trying to play back on my phone came with a warning of a large file,check your plan for charges before opening. OMG! that scared me, this will be expensive I betcha.
I'll just take my time with this one.

Yeah what a good try, I believe embedding is possible, just more to learn in the new era of the LMA.

.Now back to the fun stuff.

.Do you enjoy Rainbows by the fire place? I do.

They just kept coming, one after the other.

Really is rare to be here during the best days. Take what I can though, being inside pays the bills, being outside makes it worth the aggravation.

Just a few moments from a technopeasant here by the fire------Mikey

PS------Love from the LMA-----m.

Monday Morning

2010-10-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

Wow is this nice or what?

Soft evenings, nice colors.

Just a swinging.
.I moved the swing around so I didn't have to turn my head so much.

.Always making things just a little bit better.

.Monday morning Mikey has a plan.

Guess what that is!

I do need to make room in the freezer.

You know plinking last week sure as fun.

Now that the weather is cooling I find myself really hungry.

Sure do love a decent carbon footprint.

Especially early in the morning.

Is anybody else hungry?

Cinnamon

Cayenne

Black Pepper

Fresh Garlic (mashed)

Plenty of Smoke

They say you are what you eat.

I sure feel like a pig right now.

Back to the fire now, after dinner cocktail------Mikey.

PS----as always Love from the LMA-------------m.

Plinking-II

2010-09-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

.

.Forgot to mention brother Pat making a surprise visit. That made the day all that much better. His acquaintance with Santino and Ted is long and storied too. We all had a good time, went back to the LMA where quick dinner of smoked pork shoulder roast; apple sauce with cinnamon; tators & onions before their busy schedules called. I keep hoping for more time visiting, it always seems rushed, probably why I didn't take more photos, that and cooking.

.
Oh Well--------------Back to the Fire---------Mikey.

PS-----------LYB----------------m.

Plinking

2010-09-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

.

.Out of the shooting perimeter.

.
Santino recently graduated from the Police Academy, now showing Dad "Ted" from the big city, what cowboys have learned since childhood. Watching what the instructors taught Santino was very nice to see in action.
.

.
As you can see practice is going on quite often out here, notice our mannequins are fairly well used.
.

.
Of coarse the main lesson @100 degrees is don't forget to bring a hat!

.

Just another day on the LMA----------------Mikey
.

PS---------------Love-------------m.

Sorry about that!

2010-09-26T16:48:00.000-07:00

I realize the last post ended abruptly, but there I was on the phone with Jerry, we were discussing the son in laws birthday party. What food; what drink; what fun. Jerry knows I spend most of my time isolated out here making it a joke for him to call me to let me know what I'm missing in "Gods Country", you bet cha. This insight of a daily conversation is the back ground for the interruption. While I was posting he called me to razz me, wishing I was there; oh what fun; oh what food; oh what drink. Suddenly he says he's not feeling well, my heart; my heart. Jerry call the girls; call the girls; Jerry are you there? Are you there? Silence was deafening; no answer from other contacts; no communications from anyone. 750 miles away, I'm helpless, only thing to do, pray. Not much sleep tonight worrying has a price.

Next morning I woke up late, have to feed, make some coffee, smoke one. Call Jerry; are you OK? "Sure why do you ask?"-------WHATTTTTTTTTTT?----------Oh Yeah I was in a lot of pain for a little while, but I'm OK now.

The moral of this story should be (We really never know what affect we have on other people!) I'm sure of this because of the affect you all have on me.

Back to Fire Season now all is well again------------Mikey.

PS----------------------You Know-------------m.

As Autumn Arrives

2010-09-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

No wonder Dude was so out of it. Certainly when the seasons change we all feel the need to take a few moments to enjoy the relief of the last season passing. This at least guarantees being happy four times a year. I celebrate the start of "Fire Season", the signature preoccupation of the "LMA" post "DEVIL'S ANVIL" season. Of coarse "MONSOON SEASON" is a short lived thrill. I guess what we really need is more seasons, therefor more times of the year to be happy. We all have common times, Birthdays; Holidays; and so forth. Best Times are those happening naturally, coming without aversion, without thought they are upon us, only noticed as a passing season while time marches forward. The pace of life demands it's recognition from us, so it gets our attention anyway it can, noting what effect it has on the horses always brings it to my attention,"Naturally".

I'm in an unusual state of mind in that I follow The Girls Dorm. Seeing how all the family is coming along gives me such pleasure and sense of contentment. Living here I like to share the thoughts of a single life with a family that is going to rule the world, or could if it wanted to. I am so proud to claim since it's inception The Girls Dorm has produced nothing other than Exceptional Women, "AS IT SHOULD BE". Thank You MOM.

Now Paul Harvey what is the rest of the news?

Oh I don't know. The weather is nice, Mikey will be headed North for the annual winter meat journey. Hope to catchup with as many of you as I can. Of coarse I intent to post so many pictures of the trip. As a side note I won't spend all my time at the Spruce Tree Ranch as Jerry will be racing in Portland. ExBro Marlin has invited me to camp out in Nampa. So looking forward to that.

Not much sense in having a fire place; smoker; and "Never Enough Wood" when there is no meat. Roasted Ears of Corn; Garlic cloves with Butter and Wine wrapped in foil then put in the coals. Idaho Baked Potatoes. -Sweet White onions all sound mighty good with or without meat. I prefer with.

Something just happened so I have to post later. Sorry to stop abruptly.

As always-------LOVE-------m.

Start of Fire Season

2010-09-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

.

.
A new fire is born.

Burns cozely for a few hours then--

Looks a lot like----I need to go to bed!

.

Good Night!

PS-----------Love------m.
.

Hair of the dog!

2010-09-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well Easter what's going on over there?

.
Dude looks like he's about done for!

.
Wonder if that water barrel went sour, Hmmm.

Nope. Fresh as can be.

.
I think he just wanted to give me a heart attack.

Lucky me, I seem to have survived it.

I believe I'll get a cold one now-----Mikey

PS-----LYB---------------m.

A Wonderful Thing

2010-09-11T20:07:00.000-07:00

.My sister recently invited me to post on A Gathering of Murphys blog, I remembered thinking back to the day when she first told me "they were blogging now", what is that? No response. That would be The Girls Dorm.

.My life had taken me out of the 19Th century by the nap of the neck, and the seat of the pants, then threw me into the 21st century. What is blogging? Remember the first time you heard "There are no dumb questions"? I did not believe it for many years. The question was not dumb, it was ignorant. Big difference, something I have struggled with all my life.

.How about---"IGNORANCE is BLISS"---ever hear that one?

Grandpa knew the only shot I had in Life was the work ethic I had. Because of Ignorance all I had was the Spirit and Blood to go out in life. He knew He did not raise losers, and made sure we ALL had something to succeed. No One Said It Would Be Easy! Thank You. As I look back through the generations my Heart is full of Love for blessings from a life of hard work, and good family.

A wonderful thing has happened. The awakening of our "Family Values" we are all that's left of the hard work of "Others" proud I am to be here to share in the future they Dreamed about.

A WONDERFUL THING.

From the LMA with Love ----------Mikey

Hey Chet!

2010-08-31T02:01:00.000-07:00

.
.I must confess, I don't have the model year. .I know there must be some memories behind this one.

Call that a motor?

Continental Stile?

Just so the girls don't think I just write for them.

Isn't it amazing what a day will bring.

Nice huh?

Just cruising.

Yes, there are times when I think of other things than horses. Looking at some old machine always gets me thinking of the "Long and Winding Road" .

Where has the CLASS gone?

.Grand Pah knew how to build a machine.

.I'm not one who believes in living in the past, but they really did a good job working with what they had. Awesome!

.Time to go to the fire, Dream, and have a cold one.-----Mikey.

.PS---as always-----love----m.

"Just a Swinging"

2010-08-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

.I Know Easter. This machine is haunted.

.It took me so long to load these photos I forgot what Just a Swinging story was all about. This means you will have to put captions on the photos yourself! By product of "Some timers Disease" Please forgive me. I mean Loaded!

Just a Swinging.

Love ya-----mikey.

Not a CW Song, Just the "Facts Mamm", just a swinging after the Monsoons. One sure way to know you have his attention: both ears are forward!
Oh MY.

Long way from "Fire Season", see ya soon----mikey.

PS---YOU KNOW-----m.

Monsoon cont.

2010-08-27T17:46:00.000-07:00

.Dude at Sunset.
These guys have so much fun when it rains.
The long hot days of Summer are no problem so long as they stay powdered up. When it rains they enjoy getting the mud to stick, roll like pigs in it. Nature provides benefits to animals people find hard to understand. I know these guys are happy.

Easter is the best, my brother Pat helped me build a loafing shed for him several years ago. Easter thinks it's an out house. Most times he just rolls in the elements waiting for his next meal. Love ya boy.

.
Dude's not used to his reflection, probably wondering who that is.

Sure wish I had the day off to be here, just to take the photos, I have seen the fun in the past.

There must have been a couple real "Gully Washers" today. The soil here absorbs the water like a sponge, standing water never last long in the valley. The steep hard rock slopes in mountains around are a different story. Flash flooding concerns need attention when ever the rains occur. One time looking west, a storm was pouring water on the mountain at the same time sun shining on the slopes reminded me of tinsel covering a Christmas tree, beautiful. Reflections are a good thing, so many variables.

HELLO JACKIEJO

Looks like you have been having fun! Tell me girls don't like to get dirty. Back "In The Day" her world would be different, my competition career needed talent like this. Now just enjoy the comfort owning nice horses always will bring, and they're not pets.

Toby-- needs to go to school soon. Yes boy time is moving along for you too. Cooling weather brings the worst out in young stallions, we all remember teenage behavior. Not impressed with "Horse Sense" at that age. Not from horses either.

My luck, just have to take what I can. Nice days in Summer are rare here. The temperature fell twenty degrees in one day; breezes mild; humidity up; gust in front of rain clouds; so nice.

Pastel colors warm the soul easing anxieties that need not exist anyway. Enjoy the time we have to "Smell the Roses", that's the "Horse Sense"of living that makes sense now.

.Not likely to be a fire tonight--------mikey

PS------as always Love-----m.

Beware--08/16/09

2010-08-22T13:21:00.000-07:00

.

A conversation with someone I Love prompted me to hand write the following script. Since I had no net access, write your thoughts down in the "Dead Tree Style", save it for sometime later. Recently I found a writing that seemed to be something to be shared.

.
Title----Beware.

.Beware.

.I recall spending so much of my early years searching for my destiny. Sitting here remembering the early years, how really lucky I was to be so naive.

.
Naivety seems to cost you in the long run, yet affords the freedom of imagination. Taking things at face value before being disappointed by reality when it rears it's Heartbreaking Head. Reading between the lines, something seemed disingenuous of the need to start this way.

.
Later in life this becomes a conditioned reflex brought on by reality. The powers of self preservation must now rein in the personality of Freedom and Imagination, for the Security from Heartache and Ingenuity.

.
Lost innocence from searching the world around us, playing event after event at face value seems to be a generational downfall to the honest, yet naive.

.
Providence only, explains surviving it. The hidden agenda behind the smiling face becomes all too clear, all too often.

.BEWARE.---------mikey.

.ps----love----m.

OK girls- this ones for you!

2010-08-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

.

Just to let you know, we still have a sense of humor on the LMA.

A little known fact....

The first testicular guard, the "Cup", was used in Hockey in 1874 and the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.
Ladies....Quit Laughing.

Love Ya------m.

Mid August---Yep

2010-08-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

.
.
.I don't care Toby.
.Oh well, this whiskey taste awful good. Just kidding kids! I don't feed Toby whiskey. He sure could fool me now, looks like he needs a nap.
.Here is something that came to me via E-mail, enjoy it's so August.
.

.The fewer words, the more poignant. Nice poem.

.Yes time marches forward, the rhythm of life has no end as long as we are here. Thankfully I am blessed, for reasons I can't justify, I'm just thankful that I'm still here. The quality of life I enjoy is something to share with the young people in our family to give them hope for our mutual path. My fondest desire is following generations have their own history to pass on. I know full well that everyone of them will be tested in this life. Having met them, my concerns are minimal, I am related to their mothers, and Grandmothers. Thankfully they had a good start in life. Personally it never occurred to me that life would be easy, because I was never told that it would be. Thank You MOM. Is this the part where the TRUTH hurts?

. Because of the frankness of people I love I have enjoyed a very good life out here in the west. Sorrows and regrets- I have a few- not many, hopefully we pass this on. My belief is that we speak frankly to our young people, and they will be able to move forward just as we did. No more generation gaps, because we are all people, and family.

.Some of the people who influenced me the most in my life were quite a bit older than I. They probably never saw the fruits of their wisdom and advice to me. The multi million mile reflections I have in this period in my life are usually a thank you to these people.

.As you all can see now, I am not very poignant, so it is time to go do some work; have a cold one; and talk to you later. Visit when you can---LYB---LMA.

.PS------LOVE-----m.

OK! Does this Qualify?

2010-08-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

Well I don't know, if you don't like the weather wait ten minutes.

I Know it's early!

2010-08-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

Easter feeling Good.

.Geez Dude, don't give me such a hard time. I just didn't feel like working all day. Save the attitude, You know how much I love the Monsoon season, besides I only took off two hours early.

I know; I know; you call that a Monsoon? On the Anvil---YES!

.

.Here they come! This tells me Summer is in full swing.

.Do you remember as a child going to Grandma Adamson's in the summer, and going through the garden; Apricot tree; and Grape vines? I do.

Every time I see something growing on the vine, I become a child free grazer again.

.Call that a Monsoon?-----Out here---YES!

Really Cool. .
Dude, nice to see you changed your attitude. Does this mean you want to eat now?

.
.
I'll take that as a yes.

.Oh no! Did I forget who comes first around here Easter?

.Are you watching me? Is I'm sorry going to work? Fooled ya big boy, I put you at the top!

Yes; here on the LMA life takes on a less serious tone; no one needs to get all "Up About It", "It's Early Yet"! Thinking about childhood memories in Idaho is one of my favorite pass times now, reflections are coming easier especially when my dear friends have long conversations about people we have known and lost track of. My most frequent conversations are with the Sprucetree QH Ranch in Homedale. My dear friend Jerry and I have many paths that crossed over the years, very interesting, lucky we never travelled together.

.There are some Interesting books---that don't need to be written.

.There are reasons for one set of footprints in the sand.

.It is for you who know to understand.

This machine has decided that I am going on to long. So in the spirit of the LMA, I thank you and good day.

PS---walk as always in the spirit of love------------m.

Dust Bowl Legacy

2010-08-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

.

.Sorry, no photos.

.Recently my sister informed me of a family Reunion,her and Aunt Eileen have planned for the Murphy's. My mind went back to my earliest memories of the family I was born into. It seems to me that for some reason I have been forced into quite a few Multi Million Mile reflections lately. OK, here I would like to remember my Grand Father as I remember him. (Grandma would take more space than the Internet has.)

.What was the last conversation I had with Grandpa?--- What do you want Mike?---- Nothing Grandpa, I just wanted to know what you think, a conversation with you. answer---Mike, I don't think anything anymore, I don't have anything to think with.

.I thought he was just dismissing me, until I found out they had buried him a couple of months ago.

.
Yes we all have memories, that one is not my favorite. My favorite's are about how he brought his family out of the "Dust Bowl" to Idaho and made a future for his family. No excuses, no snivelling, and "God Help You" if you piss Grandma off. Fidelity to the family has aways run deep in our family. Rising out of survival, and self determination, do it or starve. I believe that Ideology made the family what it is. We had no other choice, no one owes you anything. Just use your brain and get by.

.
Should anyone look at the children coming to our reunion I hope they remember the people who brought us here first. These children we have been Blessed with will absolutely make their forebear's proud!

.Some are far enough along now they have their own problems. Life will test us all. These are decent people that my parents can be proud of, sorry I woke up one day and realized " i am not worthy", really.

.My fondest memories include stories of Grandpa's garden. That was serious business there. The fastest way to his S-list was to step on one of his vines. This is here for a reason, respect the garden, you might need it someday. This is not a hobby.

.Oh I am looking so forward to A FAMILY reunion.

.God were those tomatoes good!

.Just my take on things.

Going to the fire place now----no fire yet---but OK!----m.

.
PS-------As always----walk in Love----m.

Can you believe it's August already

2010-08-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

.

This is just a little post for the sake of posting.

.
As things roll along here at the LMA all the hard work has been worth while I guess. The grapes are coming along; horses rolling in the powder to protect themselves from the elements.

.
I sure miss the fire. Did I mention it is hot here? Can't believe all the years I worked as a carpenter in Arizona. Amazing what you are able to do when you were young, today, no way.
.
Looking out the window reminds me, when people ask, why did you move from Las Vegas to Sandy Valley? It's not what I do see, It's what I don't see!

.
No one can run away, I know this. As long as Easter is happy, I'm happy. August makes me happy because I know the Anvil is going to start cooling soon.

.
Hibernation season is here. This is why I don't have much to report. Posting just to let you know I just want to say Hi.

.
Maybe when the sun goes down I'll take some pictures and start a fire---------mikey

.PS-----------LYB-------------m .

Whew-- that was a hot one

2010-07-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Just out at the well getting ready to water every one, I believe they need it.

.I like to run the tanks over to soften their hooves, and it gives an extra place for the birds and bunnies to drink.
Clouds coming in, goodie.

Clouds going past, oh no!

Should start cooling now.

I believe I'll go find a cold one and sit outside now----mikey

.PS----LYB----m

No, It was Not Easy!

2010-07-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

.
Take it easy Bloodfang, it's just Mikey.

.
It's not every day I get to socialize with the neighbor Ladies!

Sooooo Nice, nobody said it was going to be easy.

. Oh well, this is nice, Sun going down; temp dropping; beautiful scenery
pleasant company (BLOODFANG); and the neighbor Ladies.

.YUP! nobody said "It Would Be Easy", so true-so true.

.LY from The LMA------mike

Nobody said it would be easy.

2010-07-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

.

.Here is one person that may call me boy.

.Dear Uncle Marion Murphy. The few previous post were from a few years ago during a visit to his place. I must admit he inspired me in several areas of my life.
.
The proof is in the pudding. He may say what he wants to me, as long as he will speak to me.

.
The LMA was inspired, quite a bit from Marion, even though he may not have realized it at the time, everybody who "hears" him is the better for it.

.
Nobody said "It Would Be Easy" needs to be said a great deal more. Be that as it may be "Go For It".

.
Love Y'all---mikey

Toby Van Cat

2010-07-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

Boy somebody is screwing up

2010-07-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

What starts with F & ends in uck----Firetruck!!!

Nothing if not humble.

Just a pole shed.

HillBilly Golf

2010-07-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

Or How not to ruin a nice walk in the country!

Marion's Place

2010-07-20T16:18:00.001-07:00

Wish I was Off the Devil's Anvil

Anvil-2

2010-07-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

.oppps

.

Devil's Anvil

2010-07-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

This is good, and look beer too!

Good to see the the fireplace is OK!

.Hey mike I think boys are stupid. Could you go throw some rocks at them? Love JackieJo.

Hey mike, what did she say?

You Don't want to Know boys, trust me.

.The Devil's Anvil! No wonder JJ's in an off mood.

Think I'm kidding? This is in the shade! (Morning on the LMA!).

.Ths is in the shade, I never knew why everyone came out here at "NOON IN JUNE", let alone July.
.Just so ya know, I had a very hard time posting this. The temperature seems to play havock with the signal out here. I had a very nice story in mind, but, oh well. I will tell ya later.

.One day money, the next day mud.

.Life in the Devil's Anvil,-----------mikey

LYB>

I just had to steal these pictures

2010-07-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

.

Ya know, I just had to. Hi Ladies! Love Ya.

I responded to your blogs. But this just warms my heart because the GIRLS DORM is alive and well!!!!

.

So nice to see so much of the family together.
Ladies- I salute you.

Not drunk yet--working on it---love mikey

Living in the Past

2010-07-13T15:04:00.000-07:00

.

My Mom, said to me one day " Mike, no more "Lost Causes", thank you.

The conversation enveloped many things to be sure. Primarily we must leave our past behind us. Things happen that we don't understand but they happen for the best. For sure don't forget the past, but learn from it. thank you.

And by the way Mike, believe in your worth. thank you.

I will try to leave lost causes behind me, but if I don't go forward, how do I know if it's a "Lost Cause"?

.
Recently, I have had the fortune of being contacted from a distant past. Mikey is doing some multi million mile reflections. Gratefully I now Know someone has deemed me not a "Lost Cause". thank you.
.
I have been lost most of my life,thank God I bought the LMA. After so many miles, and so many "LOST CAUSES" I am home. thank you.

.
Were someone new to read the archives, someone may have the understanding that Mikey never forgot where he came from. I am the fella that left the country, but my past never left me. I don't live in it, I don't forget where I came from. That helps me everyday of my life. thank you.

.
Don't forget your past, and be very careful how you judge it. Remember you are not as smart as you used to be. thank you.

.
Thank You-----mikey
..

Monsoon Coming

2010-07-11T11:24:00.000-07:00

.

.As I left work looking forward to my three days off (4 x 10 is great),@105" I noticed that it was sprinkling just a little. Sure is nice having the Acura restored again, 33MPG, love it. Can't wait for it to break in properly. Looks like a good time to turn on the wipers,hmmmm, that can't be good. Long time since the Acura & I have seen rain. A person just thinks he has repaired everything. That's fine,I will have to take wood cutter Brian into Jean for gas tomorrow, get some new wipers then, RIGHT.

.Ya know, for some reason I am in the mood for a "Bloody Mary", family members know.

What's this? Recession what stinking Recession? Just look @ what you can buy on unemployment!
.

.Unemployment, not for me!

I just want my Bloody Mary.

Open for 98yrs. Oh well, the Bloody Mary, was "OK", family members know.

Just when you thought life was too hard, stop and remember what good times you have had, then everything gets a little better.

Come on Monsoon, can't wait for more good times!

There won't be fire tonight, there will be a cold one enjoyed though, thinking of you always----mikey.

PS-------Love------m

The Forgotten War

2010-07-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

.
.Here is a little piece of our Freedom. Uncle DeWayne used to show me these with the utmost pride. He brought these home from his tour in Korea.
. Of course I would have to get him in a talkative mood first. These fellas don't WEAR THEIR HEARTS ON THEIR SLEEVES.

So Sorry I didn't post this on the FOURTH. I cannot begin to tell you how proud I was to receive them. I am not worthy.

It comes as a shock, I went out for a cold one, woke up 35 years later, and asked what happened?

.Sure wish he could come out to the fire and have a cold one with me now--------Mikey

.PS----------Love Has No Experation Date-------m.

Here is a little piece of our Freedom.

I'll be watching you!

2010-07-04T18:24:00.000-07:00

Mikey's back!

2010-07-04T17:19:00.000-07:00

.Can you believe it, a real American BBQ?

One can always dream. .
Don't point that at me, I'm busy.
Perish the thought Jackie. And by the way JJ, don't eat the flowers!

You too Easter.

Are you the only good boy around here? Thought so.

Yes I have been busy round here, this place doesn't stop just because I am doing other things. No excuses, so much to do and I'm a lazy #@$%&*!.
Well, anyway I seem to have overcome the photo thing for now. Hope to pick up the posting pace from here on out. The work I do along with just getting by takes a toll, but I'm back with no excuses.

Perhaps a cold one and a fire on this FOURTH will make all the difference in the world! Be thinking of you all there-------Mikey.

PS---------YOU KNOW!!!!-------------------m

Fwd: IMG00021-20100704-1220.jpg

2010-07-04T14:29:00.001-07:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------From: <7024963467@vzwpix.com>Date: Sun, Jul 4, 2010 at 1:27 PM Subject: IMG00021-20100704-1220.jpgTo: Lmaqhranchgmailcom <lmaqhranch@gmail.com>

Happy 4TH

2010-07-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

.

Happy 4TH of July, writing in white is invisible ink, so blue will have to do. The back ground is white.

God Bless the USA. As usual everybody else hates us. Jealousy is such an ugly emotion.

.

The Fourth is a favorite holiday of mine, the world I have lived in calls it,"Cowboy Christmas". This is the weekend of more Rodeos than any other.

.

Cowboy Christmas always means more prize money available to win!

.

What could be more Free Enterprise than putting both your money and your ass on the line than that?

.

The Spirit of America lives with the "Cowboys", and believe me the title is not gender specific.

for some reason photos are not loading, stay tuned I'll be back.

mikey

OK --How are the horses doing?

2010-06-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

.I think I loaded these photos backwards.

You know the more I am around Dude the more guilty I feel about about Easter. Easter will just have to learn to understand, he is everything to me. That being said, Dude may well be a big part of my future, so I have a lot of interest in his well being. Get over it Easter, you are still my #1.

What happened to my photos of Easter?Darn!

I call this Dude @ Sunset!

I call this---Dude saying---where's
dinner mikey?

I call this---JackieJo---no words needed! she is a heart throb in mikey's world. Dad would always say I liked those cow ponies. He was right. I would not care if she was a mutt, which she is not, I would vote for her.

Yes life goes on here at the LMA, these babies still eat hay! JJ will have a foal next year, out of a reserve world champion(Elvis), Dudes daddy. We should always keep an eye on the future, who knows we may need it.

.You know what?-----mikey needs a fire and a cold one. see ya.

.PS----I love each and every one of you! m.

Mom's Mums

2010-06-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

.

.
First let's check on the grapes, yep, really starting to go now.

Here they are, Mom sure Loved these, named them for her a couple of years ago.

Hope she's looking down now.

I don't have to see them to carry her with me, regardless, every time I see them, things change for the better.

Keep the fire burning-------mikey

PS----we will always Love You MOM------m.

New Machine Shop

2010-04-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

.

Finally got er done, I don't mind telling you this was really bugging me for the last few weeks. End result is it's vertical and, (believe it or not level), just had to line it up with the house, complete. Still having problems getting enough pictures to present the whole show, but I'm sure everyone understands how mush of a problem it is to move 14,000 lbs. As happy as I was about this, it was not the highlight of the weekend.

. This was, Sunday Glenn and Marie dropped by for a visit. Oh the fish stories were flying that day. How's that for a cute photo?

.We had some time. Food and drink, conversation, great. The ranch really felt like home.

. And you know Marie just had to size me up for some footie's, bless her.

. Does Glenn look like he's telling me I'm full of it? I hope so, we are family.

. Since my phone is so weak we took the opportunity for a photo op with Dude. Glenn nailed a couple nice ones which he will E-mail me, can't wait to share more of the day with you.

Great to see them, we all wish for more good times together, never enough!

Nice evening, sure is comfortable here by the fire------------------Snooze -------------------------------Mikey

PS---------------------Love you MOM--------------------m.

Gangs All Here!

2010-03-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

These photos are not in order, but then, when is anything in order around here?

. Zoe's here, hi sweaty.

..Just wishing Mother was here already, Hi Mom.

.Here's brother Patrick, one day before his birthday, Happy Birthday bro!

.Jodie and Wade, I don't know the doggies name.

.These are from last week, this week is perfect for a B-Day BBQ.

.See!

. Yes just another day on the LMA. Forgot to mention Merle and Marion showed up too. Everybody but Dad and I went for a ride. Actually I had the horse shoer come out before Merle got here, we did Easter and Toby (trims), just as we finished Marion came back alone while the gang made their way to a local way to a local watering hole. Shortly after Merle made it. The three of us had a nice conversation waiting for the gang to get back.

.That off road stuff must make you really hungry, We had 5lbs' Tri-tip,3 lbs' onion burgers;potato chips; Ritz crackers Provolone & American cheeses; pickles; taters and onions, yep the old smoker was going full tilt!

Fire place and re ride stories, and a cold one--------------in my glory Mikey

.PS ----------Love you MOM---------------m

Never Enough

2010-03-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

And getting less all the time. Time; Time; Time. Never enough wood; hay; fuel;Love; Compassion; Fellowship; Barbecue; Beans; Coffee; Milk; Bread; never enough.

--------Never enough---------

.Never hear enough from outside.

Just a few minutes by the fire is enough to make me think about all of you. Be well!

Keep the fire going for you----------------Mikey

.PS----------------- Love you MOM------------m

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