Olney Senior Cub Center Chats

Tumbling Tumbleweeds! T’is the season for gusting winds and blowing dust, or as we call it in west Texas, “sandstorm.” Now those were pretty vicious occurrences in my old stomping grounds of far West Texas. The wall of red could be seen as one of those sandstorms approached and then all would be dark as it hit, and for days the sun couldn’t be seen. Sometimes it was difficult to see across the street. Breathing normally was a bit difficult and playing outside was not happening! Rain is often sporatic in the Spring so everything dries up and the dry dirt joins the wind as it cuts through the landscape and pollutes the air.

On my trek to Denver City to sell my house there, I kinda blew into town in a sandstorm. What a greeting! With irrigated crops and the resulting groundcover, the “blows” aren’t as severe as they were when I was a kid, although the fire danger remains high. Young County and Yoakum County have the same problem when the wind is gusty and the grass is dry. We need rain! Pray for rain!

Another menace is the whirlwind. I can remember getting caught up in some when I was a kid. Those turning and twisting rascals hurled sand, rocks, and twigs with great force to sting our legs and arms and half blind us. They are to be avoided if at all possible!

Our farmers and ranchers face many difficulties during severe dry weather. Cattle need water, so when stock tanks dry up, water has to be hauled to them. It is a big deal, especially if the herd is large. Water is essential for seeds to sprout, so dry land farmers get a little anxious when no rain clouds appear. The water wells provide irrigation, but they are also expensive to run. If you know a farmer/rancher, or if you fall into that category, show kindness and support for them and for one another.

Speaking of farmers, Edward Furr does not share my admiration for the Sandhill Cranes. Not that he hates them, he doesn’t want them on his land. Seems a flock of such birds ate all of his newly planted seeds once and he is holding a grudge about that. Holding a grudge is better than holding a rifle, I guess.

Since I’’ve been out of town for over a week, I don’t know what went on at the Center. Pretty sure eatin’ and playing 42/84 happened. And, just maybe, the Butlers played some 84 with “the regulars.”

Have a joyous week and don’t forget to count your blessings.