A Spring Thaw
Well, our weather took a big turn this week, and finally it seems like Spring! The days have been warm and sunny, even up here in the foothills, the snow is melting and running fast to the creek. Down there it is still mostly ice and snow, but water runs everywhere in the sunny warmth. 
At night, it freezes again, there is crunchy hollow ice and mud. As soon as the sun reaches over the peaks, though, it starts the rush of run-off again.
This is invigorating and encouraging for us all. We think about new jobs we have without the burden of cold. It is time for Spring cleaning. We have new chores! But we should always have good work to do. It is a necessary purpose for all people and for us working dogs, too. God establishes the work of our hands and paws.
Hard Work
In the heart of a cowdog, we have a relentless drive and purpose. I knew from a young age about herding cows. In fact, when I came here from the shelter, very young, I was complimented on knowing how to herd. I suppose I learned it early, but it is also born in my soul, to do the job I was made for. And I do it with relentless perfection. I guess that is what you would call a work ethic. And everyone needs that, to accomplish something, to contribute to the good of the world, to have a purpose and find reason in what we trade our time for. 
I have spent whole days trailing the herd, darting off in the brush to bring back a wayward bovine, trotting around the perimeter , keeping one eye on dad for marching orders, seeing for myself what needs done and doing it. Nothing worth having comes easy, and it comes down to the values we hold inside – diligence, intensity, care, dedication and discipline – practicing all that even when no one is watching.
At the end of the day, I rest in the shade, get a drink and a cool-down in the creek,
relish a bowl of good food, and sleep in peace.
It is good to be tired out from a day like that. Happiness depends on it.
Everyone Can Do Something
I don’t understand why kids grow up without the drive and purpose of hard work. Everyone can do something, and everyone needs a job. Even little Sprout helps out, from pitching hay to the cows to helping his dad drive the skidsteer.
He always feeds the cats and I when he is here, and helps his grandma feed the cows.
Easy brings nothing to make the world well or better. Do not depend on someone in Washington to pay your way, because you only will become slave to them.
I’m older now, and don’t chase cows from dawn to dusk much anymore. But it is still my job to watch the perimeter and alert to visitors, critters and assorted rabble-rousers.
It is my job to guard the chickens. Sometimes, it is my job to herd those infernal wild turkeys away from the chickens dinner. I still work – to strengthen character, keep up skills and even learn a few new ones, to earn a good meal and sleep in peace still. 
Live and work honorably, with an honest days work. Have a purpose.
When Did The Doctor See A Heeler?
Now, in honor of Dr Seuss, that great writer from long ago, who is being attacked now by ridiculously mindless extremists, he said this about work: “Be sure when you step , step with care and great tact. And remember that life is a great balancing act”.
Boy, he must have a seen a Heeler dodging a cow kick when he said that! 
K9 Vets
Also, I ask you through the upcoming week, to join me in honoring some great dogs on K9 Veterans Day, March 13. Thank you for your service – now those are working dogs! There are lots of places to learn and support these national heroes; here is one:
US War Dog Association – US War Dog Association | National Headquarters (uswardogs.org)
Enjoy hard work and the rewards it brings. And plan for the joy of added jobs as spring opens up the world!