This winter, like every winter, we feed cows. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Rain or shine. Not one cow gives us a tip or says thank you. But that husband of mine never complains and is always happy to feed his cattle.

Sundays are my day to drive the tractor so Chase can kick hay off the feed wagon.

For those of you that don’t know me, I’m somewhat of a fair weathered cowgirl. I don’t like to be cold and I’m usually quite content in the heated tractor. But this Sunday I thought, what they heck… It was cold out but the sun was shining – why don’t I kick the hay off and let Chase drive the tractor. I usually only do this once a year, but today is as good as any, right??

I jumped on the feed wagon and we were off to the North field.

Four big bales were pushed off and our cow friends were happy!

As we made our way back to the barn to get another load. My husband turns around and is waving his hands and motioning me to look forward and to hang on to the trailer.  I can see him throw the tractor in high gear. I jerk forward, look ahead and I see a skunk.

Next thing I know I’m being sprayed by a skunk.

Needless to say, I haven’t kicked hay off since.

Next time you sit down and enjoy a steak or a juicy hamburger… take a moment to thank a rancher.