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A few weeks ago we shipped our yearlings and a few breeding heifers from Oklahoma to Colorado, and over the next week got them out to our various pasture leases in Pagosa Springs, Bayfield, and Arboles. As you can tell from this picture, the animals arrived in the early evening in the dark, making the unloading a bit more challenging. While it was a long evening before we got to bed, it was exciting to get all the animals here, and settled.

Allan and Kyler, our 11 year old grandson, spent nearly two weeks in Oklahoma just prior to shipping the animals. They sorted, preg checked, and moved the animals to our various leases in Wheeler, Texas, and Reydon, Oklahoma. Despite a lot of hard work they really enjoyed their time together, and even got to do a little fishing. Our grandson is an absolutely amazing cowboy, and mature beyond his years. Allan says he does the work of a grown man, and better than most. We hope that one day he will want to take over for his grandpa.

This year the Farmer's Market moved to a new location on the east side of town. It kicked off on June 21st, a bit earlier than in years past. We had a fantastic start with twice as many booths as before, wonderful entertainment, great facilities, and lots of very happy customers. We could not be happier. Sales were excellent, hopefully an indicator of a great season. If you are in the area, be sure to come out to the East Side Market, Saturdays from 9 to 1. 

If you have spent much time on our website you will probably recognize this picture of Lilo, our treasured Border Collie and our best cattle dog. Last month Allan took her along to help load a cow into his stock trailer. They had the cow penned when Lilo got her nose through the fence and bit the cow's nose. The cow pulled back and Lilo couldn't let go. It broke Lilo's nose, a fairly serious injury. After emergency surgery she is home and recovering quite well. The vet cautioned that she would probably not be very interested in aggressively working the cattle anymore, but Allan said she is already trying to round them up and does not show any signs of fear. It is no wonder a good dog is a cowboy's best friend.

Uncharacteristically I am not even showing you a picture of my garden this year. With my mom's passing we planted very late, and have had a rough time keeping it watered. Things are on track now but I have very little to report. Hopefully next month I can share pictures of nurtured plants ready to begin the process of bearing fruit. If you have planted a garden we would love to see pictures that we can share. 

July is a perfect month for grilling and this month we want to make your BBQ extraordinary. In the July Fireworks Special you will receive 4 pounds each of New Yorks, Ribeyes, Top Sirloin Steaks and Ground Beef for just $199, a savings of 20% off the regular price.  

Happy 4th of July! In small town America the 4th is an event like no other, and Pagosa Springs is no exception. There is the parade that draws so many onlookers from nearby towns, the carnival, the Red Ryder Rodeo, the craft show, the town picnic in the high school sports field, and of course the amazing fireworks display at dusk. A long day of fun and another night to fall into bed, tired but happy. Hope your 4th brings you fond memories, great food, and a chance to relax and enjoy the good life. God bless you!

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Email: grassrootsorders@centurylink.net

Phone: 970-582-0166

Website: www.grassrootsmeats.com

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