OTR = On the Ranch

I'm not on the road anymore with my new job, but this weekend I may have found another source of OTR inspiration.

My parents surprised me with a phone call the day before my birthday to say they were buying a ranch. My dream come true! Perhaps, I could now be what I've always longed to be...a real Texas cowgirl!

This weekend was my first trip out. Here are the highlights.

My first view of the ranch. Dad on a John Deere.

The cows didn't like us much. Mr. Black did his manly duty of letting the women and children run off first. 

Dad quickly pointed out the Poison Ivy. Leaves of three, let them be.

After sittin' on the porch swing for a bit, we explored. Favorite pond here.

Found some wild grapes.

Wild blackberries were everywhere.

This is the toothache tree. Chew on the leaves and your tongue gets numb. 

This is how you tell it's a toothache tree. 

Cousin Jodie made a wildflower bouquet.

And climbed some trees.

Found some Asian pears.

And this tree I've already forgotten the name of. My dad knows his trees!

Explored the shed and found Leota's bowling ball. Worked great as a doorstop. Hope she's not missing it. 

Discovery and beauty here are endless.

Lucy was finally happy to have some roamin' room. 

And the meadow! Love.

Dad's favorite pine due to the candelabra effect.

Enjoying the breeze on the front porch. Did NOT want to leave. Heaven on Earth.