return...

Had early morning business in Alpine - hence the overnighter at the Antelope Lodge.  Got my fill of PizzaHut, TV, and looooong shower but didn't sleep well at all...I'm too used to my own little bed.  One trick to keep in mind about that motel is that after an especially cold night - sometimes the hot water won't work in the shower.  After many stays there, I learned that all you have to do is open all the faucets and wait about 15 minutes and the hot will start to flow. 

Morning events went very well,  picked up a few items, visited with Suzy and Carla ( Benita's biggest Alpine fans) then sped south for a "just before closing" lunch at the GrubShack.  Main item of need was more C purlin to finish up the south side prep for the gutters.  Not only does Johnson Feed supply my Benita snacks, they also keep a nice inventory of structural steel on hand.    49,70,18,0,C

Home again...

Woke up and left before Dan and family were awake. Loaded up the truck and trailer by 9AM and hit the road home a half hour later. Got back to the homestead at 6PM. The load travelled well and there were no problems. Got everything off the truck and trailer quickly.

While at Dan's I couldn't help but be a little jealous of his success in the photo world but there seems to be so much chaos and anxiety that goes with it. Reminded me of my glory days in Brooklyn - I just hope that my new life works out to be as good as it feels. My blood pressure finally resumed FieldLab levels after being home 2 hours. Benita was waiting by my driveway when I pulled in. No sign of her boyfriend Oscar. She followed me in and I put out some range feed and water for her right by the house. I sat and watched her have supper then she came over to me staying about 10 ft. away and I drank a beer and we stared at each other for about a half hour. Then I walked down my driveway to lure here away as I was getting ready to grill some chicken. She followed me to the grass and stayed there to graze so I could get on with my cooking. I reckon I will see he again in the morning. It's good to be home.