Yikes ... November Ends Already!

This was about the fastest month ever! Just didn't do anything here about 'Life - One Day at a Time', so, I'll just have to post the happenings from Wunderground again to give the story about what happened this month!

November 2009 (Slide show)


Monday, November 30, 2009
No big changes in the weather today. It was a mix of clouds and stars with the growing moon overnight. Clouds drifted in early this morning for a little pre-sunrise color. The rest of the day was mild for the last day of November, a little windy, mostly cloudy, and giving some signs of a change that might mean some snow and colder temperatures.

Late Day Clouds Move in Over the West Hills


Sunday, November 29, 2009
Cloudy overnight but some breaks in the clouds took place for a couple of hours during the morning. Clouds reformed before noon and the cloud cover continued for the rest of the day.

View Across Corrals


Saturday, November 28, 2009
Clear overnight but clouds developed just before sunrise. Those clouds hung around all day and resulted in the temperature rising just slightly above freezing.

Horses Munching at the Morning Feeding


Friday, November 27, 2009
Clouds with light rain early this morning. The day is forecast to have scattered showers, snow at higher elevations, (already visible on the hills to the west and south) with mild temperatures and fog at the lower valley locations.

Morning View East to Light Fog in the Valley


Thursday, November 26, 2009
Partly cloudy to mostly cloudy conditions existed for most of the day. There was a fog bank that hung on in the valley through the early afternoon. Late today, stars were appearing through breaks in the clouds; however, rain or snow is forecast for tomorrow.

Lingering Fog at Midday


Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Cloudy conditions overnight kept the temperature steady at around 30 degrees. The clouds broke up around sunrise to give sunshine, although, with a somewhat hazy fog lingering in the valley and above the tree lines to the east and south. The mild temperatures have almost eliminated the light snow cover that arrived a couple of days ago.

Sun with Hazy Sky to the Southeast this Morning


Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Mostly cloudy with some light snow overnight. Early in the day, during the morning walk, the horses, as usual, were out standing in their field. The day followed the overnight lead, it just wasn't quite as dark.

Horses out Standing in Their Field


Monday, November 23, 2009
Variably cloudy conditions throughout most of the day. The winter look has returned to NW Montana here at the ranch.

Morning Trail Walk in the Snow


Sunday, November 22, 2009
It's back! After beating around the bush for a couple of days (and, the false start with the snow early in October) the snow is falling today. It was mostly cloudy overnight with just a quick glance at some sun colors before sunrise time, but, no actual visible sunrise, and by mid-morning the snow was falling freely. Looks like this could be a nice covering for the start of the holiday season.

Morning Clouds over the Old Barn


Saturday, November 21, 2009
Windy conditions that appeared late yesterday continued overnight. Since mostly cloudy conditions arrived with the wind, the overnight temperatures rose after the low was reached before midnight, yesterday. Today was a mix of sun and clouds. The temperature fluctuated accordingly with the passing sun and cloud variety. (Oh, and except for some windy conditions overnight, there was no storm).

Horses Out in the Afternoon Sun


Friday, November 20, 2009
Well, the forecast was for a "mild" day before the storm. Instead, it was mostly cloudy during the day, not that mild, and only cleared late in the day to allow the temperature to fall quickly this evening. The clearing was followed by a cloudy, windy, warming event to end the day.

Box Elder with the Last Leaves


Thursday, November 19, 2009
It was mostly cloudy from beginning to end today. Just a light touch of sunlight glanced of the hills to the northwest early today. Due to the limited (almost no) sun input, temperatures did not rise much today.

Limited Morning Sunlight


Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Somewhat of a reversal of the conditions experienced yesterday, with today beginning with clouds breaking up around sunrise and the day becoming mostly clear by late in the day. This gave a good mix of sun and clouds during the middle part of the day.

Mix of Clouds with the Mid-morning Sun


Tuesday, November 17, 2009
It started out just partly cloudy and calm today, but became mostly cloudy by mid-morning. The wind increased a bit, too, but the temperature stayed relatively mild. The clouds continued through the afternoon and into the evening.

View Southeast from the Deck ... as the Clouds Arrive


Monday, November 16, 2009
Mostly sunny day after just enough clouds overnight to keep it from turning into a deep freeze. Today was one of those extra special November days when you could almost be tricked into thinking that winter is still far away. It was a nice way to continue to plow through November. But, after a couple of years or so on the planet, I know that isn't true. It could be here any day, again.

The Plow in November


Sunday, November 15, 2009
It did stay mostly cloudy today and rather cool, but not any snow fell around here. These days have not been melting much ice. I took a 3" thick round out of one of the rain barrels Friday, and the broken pieces I threw around for Taffy are still lying 'round-about the yard, waiting for a warm-up! It was a nice day for splitting (done by Patti) and stacking firewood, and for doing some insulating work in the barn. Just 'kinda' cool outside!

Extra Firewood Stack


Saturday, November 14, 2009
Cloudy sky again started the day here in NW Montana. Snow is in the forecast and knocking at the mountains to the west. Just variably cloudy conditions with temperatures holding constant through most of the day.

Afternoon Image Sweep Northeast to Southeast


Friday, November 13, 2009
The clear conditions of late day yesterday disappeared as a layer of clouds moved in overnight. This kept the temperature from falling and actually resulted in the coldest values happening just around midnight. The day was another mix of clouds, some light snow flurries, and limited sun. Again, quite 'normal' for this time of the year.

Morning View to the East


Thursday, November 12, 2009
It was mostly clear overnight and as usual for this time of the year, the temperature dropped below freezing and things were a little frosty. The day continued to be mostly sunny, but there wasn't much of a warm up. This time of the year, the normal daily temperature is just a bit above freezing. So, it was mostly a normal day in NW Montana.

Sunrise through Cool Morning Air


Wednesday, November 11, 2009 (Veteran's Day -- Repeat of 2008 entry


To all who have served and to all who are now serving in military service to our nation: Thank you for your service for the United States of America.

Freedom Team Salute

During an unpopular time, two of my brothers, and I, all served in the military service for the United States of America. It was a time of unrest in the country. There was an ongoing, unpopular war. There was no Pearl Harbor and there was no 9-11, to stir the nation patriotically and make the option of military service one of desire and honor. In spite of that, three of us from one family found ourselves in military service. Lee, the youngest, volunteered, and signed up into the United States Air Force in January 1968. Robert (Bob) received a draft notice in 1968 while working for Sperry Rand in Phoenix, Arizona. I received a draft notice as my first piece of mail after returning from my honeymoon. My service in the United States Army began on September 28, 1970.




Robert's Service Summary:

o United States Army : December 1968 - December 1971
o Fort Campbell, Kentucky : Basic Training
o Fort Gordon, Georgia : Advanced Individual Training (AIT) 35n20(auto Stab) and 102f5 CH-54 Flying crane
o Fort Gordon Instructor 06/1969-03/1970 Flying Crane
o Phu Loi RVN 04/1970-04/1971 Cobra flight line tech then shop NCOIC 334AWC
o Stuttgart Germany 05/1971-12/1971 flight line tech then line chief 129th Trans Co.
o Final rank Specialist 5 (E-5)

Daniel's Service Summary:

o United States Army : September 1970 - March 1972
o Fort Knox, Kentucky : Basic Training
o Fort Bliss, Texas : Advanced Individual Training (AIT) Nike Hercules Guided Missile Crewmember
o 03/1971 - 03/1972
o Vicenza, Italy transferred from Guided Missile Unit to Military Pay Specialist
o Tirrenia, Italy Military Pay Specialist
o Final rank Specialist 5 (E-5)



Lee's Service Summary:

o United States Air Force : January 1968 - October 1975
o Lowry Air Force Base, Denver Colorado
o Overseas service with two tours of duty in Thailand

Wednesday, November 11, 2009
It was mostly cloudy early in the day but that became mostly sunny in the mid-day and afternoon. Clouds returned for the evening and slowed the usual evening cool down just a bit.

Ranch Flag and Morning View of the Ranch


Tuesday, November 10, 2009
A mostly cloudy sky met the sunrise today. Like many of the days this time of the year, this day continued with a variable mix of clouds and some sunshine.

Late Afternoon Clouds and Sun


Monday, November 9, 2009
Sun at the ranch today while there was some early fog in the valley. The day continued to be sunny until late afternoon when clouds rolled into the area. Some overcast continued until after sunset. The clouds disappeared at that time and the evening and overnight cool down got underway.

Fog in Valley -- Zoom toward Northeast Mountains


Sunday, November 8, 2009
The weather, it continues. Partly cloudy conditions overnight morphed briefly and became mostly sunny for part of the morning. High overcast soon took over and defined the rest of the day. Periods of very light showers and pellets drifted through for the afternoon. Evening conditions swung around to become mostly clear and like the darkness, the temperatures are falling.

Morning Sun Reflections on the Pond


Saturday, November 7, 2009
A mix of clouds and sun this morning. It appears from the recorded temperature graph that the clouds drifted in around 2:00 AM, since the earlier falling temperature steadied at that time. Some frosty conditions this morning and a repeating pattern of clouds and sun throughout the day. As the fall transitions continue, the Box Elder has pretty much dropped the leaves for this year, even though there was not much of a color change due to the early October super cold days.

Box Elder Tree ... Dropping Leaves with Little or no Color



Friday, November 6, 2009
As can be said of many places, surely can be said of the ranch weather today: "If you don't like the weather, just wait a couple of minutes, and it will change!". Clear conditions of late yesterday became clouds and some rain early today. This cycle continued throughout the day (well, not much clearing, actually, just fast moving clouds with glimpses of blue sky). The evening saw the late day sun highlight clouds over the east mountains. But, later in the evening, wind and rain returned. Still later, at the final animal check, the stars were out and the moon was shining. So, even in the darkness, the cycle continues.

Sun Highlights Evening Clouds


Thursday, November 5, 2009
This was another day that began with mostly clear conditions overnight and just some sunrise enhancing clouds around this morning. The day was slightly overcast due to high clouds. These clouds dissolved as did the light of the day again bringing mostly clear evening conditions. However, the barometric pressure is falling and the really neat forecast icons on some of the instruments are showing precipitation may be on the way.

Still Some Fall Color, but from Pre-sunrise Clouds Today


Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Mostly clear conditions again overnight led to frosty coatings on everything this morning. A mostly sunny day followed with temperatures quite 'seasonable'.

Frosty Pastures Early Today


Tuesday, November 3, 2009
There must have been some overnight clouds passing through the area, since the ground was covered with snow pellets this morning. Mostly clear conditions soon dissolved those pellets (except on the frozen pond) and a slightly warmer day took over.

Snow Pellets on Frozen Pond


Monday, November 2, 2009
Clear equals cool, for the overnight temperature. Frosty around the edges this morning as a result. The day became mostly overcast around mid-morning and kept any major warming from taking place. A return to mostly clear conditions late in the day will allow frosty conditions again overnight.

Clouds in Panorama Northeast to Southeast


Sunday, November 1, 2009
Some rain fell overnight. Most of the day was variably cloudy and pleasant. Late in the day, the sky cleared allowing the temperatures to cool nicely!

View across the Pastures Early Today

Veteran's Day -- Repeat of 2008 -- But it is worth it.

To all who have served and to all who are now serving in military service to our nation: Thank you for your service for the United States of America.


During an unpopular time, two of my brothers, and I, all served in the military service for the United States of America. It was a time of unrest in the country. There was an ongoing, unpopular war. There was no Pearl Harbor and there was no 9-11, to stir the nation patriotically and make the option of military service one of desire and honor. In spite of that, three of us from one family found ourselves in military service. Lee, the youngest, volunteered, and signed up into the United States Air Force in January 1968. Robert (Bob) received a draft notice in 1968 while working for Sperry Rand in Phoenix, Arizona. I received a draft notice as my first piece of mail after returning from my honeymoon. My service in the United States Army began on September 28, 1970.





Robert's Service Summary:

o United States Army : December 1968 - December 1971
o Fort Campbell, Kentucky : Basic Training
o Fort Gordon, Georgia : Advanced Individual Training (AIT) 35n20(auto Stab) and 102f5 CH-54 Flying crane
o Fort Gordon Instructor 06/1969-03/1970 Flying Crane
o Phu Loi RVN 04/1970-04/1971 Cobra flight line tech then shop NCOIC 334AWC
o Stuttgart Germany 05/1971-12/1971 flight line tech then line chief 129th Trans Co.
o Final rank Specialist 5 (E-5)


Daniel's Service Summary:

o United States Army : September 1970 - March 1972
o Fort Knox, Kentucky : Basic Training
o Fort Bliss, Texas : Advanced Individual Training (AIT) Nike Hercules Guided Missile Crewmember
o 03/1971 - 03/1972
o Vicenza, Italy transferred from Guided Missile Unit to Military Pay Specialist
o Tirrenia, Italy Military Pay Specialist
o Final rank Specialist 5 (E-5)



Lee's Service Summary:

o United States Air Force : January 1968 - October 1975
o Lowry Air Force Base, Denver Colorado
o Overseas service with two tours of duty in Thailand

October in one Burst!

Just so quickly the month comes to an end. With a combination of early winter and a less colorful fall than might usually happen, the days suddenly will get shorter starting with tomorrow (Daylight savings time ends). For the most part, the necessary tasks for winter have been done. Bring it on!

October 2009 - Slide Show Images


Saturday, October 31, 2009
After having snow to start out the day yesterday, today started with mild temperatures under mostly cloudy conditions. The sun and rain played find a hole in the clouds for most of the day with it sometimes raining while the sun was shining. It was a mild day with the temperatures hovering between 50 and 60 during most of the afternoon. (oops, I should have taken a picture of one of the black cats for today ... maybe at the last animal check tonight).

Clouds Leaving over Southeast Hills


Friday, October 30, 2009
The wasn't that much (about 2") but it made for a nice environment for the morning walk around the ranch today. During the day the temperature rose enough to melt away the snow again and by late in the day the ground was again snow free.

Snow on the Fence Rails this Morning


Thursday, October 29, 2009
It was partly cloudy overnight and that allowed the temperature to go below freezing somewhat again. Also, it provided just a bit of sunshine for the sunrise. The day became overcast with some light snowflakes from time to time. More wood was gathered for a later splitting project. The ranch dogs were out for a bit this evening and came back in snow covered. It looks like the early winter preview is back!

Firewood Ready for Splitting


Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Today was mostly cloudy with just some traces of snow flurries in the air. The temperature was below normals for this date, but did not seem that bad as I did some ranch chores and ignited a couple of more burn piles to clear up the dead branches gathered over the summer.

Late Day Controlled Burn


Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Clouds stayed around overnight along with some light rain. The day continued to hold those clouds in place and added a few snow flurries that mixed in from time to time. Snow could be seen on the hills to the west and flurries continued at the higher elevations throughout most of the day.

Mostly Gray Day with Showers and Snow Flurries over the Hills


Monday, October 26, 2009
Mostly cloudy today with light rain to start the morning. The day continued to be cloudy with rain on and off throughout the day. As a result of rainfall over the last couple of days, and the fact that the growing season has ended, the creek reservoir began to fill yesterday, and today the creek channel and downstream pond also began to fill.

Creek beginning to Fill


Sunday, October 25, 2009
Clear and cool overnight with ice on the water buckets that weren't heated again this morning. Sunny conditions were the rule of the day with nice temperatures giving a good chance to get some more ranch tasks done before winter conditions return.

Looking up the Tamarack Trees


Saturday, October 24, 2009
An additional rainfall event overnight made things a little damp around the ranch this morning. Looks like a total of nearly a half-inch for a 24 hour period...I know, that's not much for most places, but, when things have been dry, that seems like a lot! It was a windy mix of clouds and sun for most the the day today. Looks like it will calm down tonight for a clear cool-down.

View from the Deck around Noon


Friday, October 23, 2009
Mostly cloudy with some rain off and on today.

Evening Clouds and Light Showers


Thursday, October 22, 2009
It was another day with a mix of sun and clouds. Not much new precipitation, though, just the variable cloud mix throughout the day.

Panoramic View this Evening


Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The starry sky that was present during the last animal check probably disappeared during the early AM (as indicated by rising temperatures around 1:00-2:00 AM). Morning fog hung around until mid-day and was followed by a mostly cloudy sky. Late afternoon showers developed and continued with a light rain for the evening.

Morning Fog Hides Neighboring Farm


Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Mostly clear sky until early this morning allowed the temperature to go below freezing. By sunrise, the clouds gathered and came together a couple of times today for morning, afternoon, and evening showers. In between, it was the typical mix of clouds with some sun rays.

Evening View with Passing Showers to Southeast


Monday, October 19, 2009
The sun made some appearances today, first breaking through the morning clouds from time to time and later as a circle through high clouds. This was not a clear day with a high overcast for much of the day. Ranch tasks today included a visit from the farrier with hoof trims for most and shoes for one horse. As part of the transition to winter, the horses were moved to a new pasture today.

Horses Grazing in a New Pasture Today


Sunday, October 18, 2009
Today was back to normal or above normal temperatures again, thankfully! There are still a few tasks to do around the ranch before the real winter returns. The day began with departing clouds and continued as many days do, with a mixture of clouds and sun. The late day sky became mostly clear and the temperature may fall below freezing again overnight.

The Box Elder Tree Still Trying for Fall Colors


Saturday, October 17, 2009
Valley fog in the morning with clouds around the sunrise. The day continued with a mixture of clouds and sun. The evening was nice for a cookout and feeding of grazing deer using some of the apples saved from the trees just before last weeks big freeze. Just before midnight, strong winds blew through along with some showers.

Evening Cookout Fire


Friday, October 16, 2009
After a mostly clear night, there were some long low clouds in the east sky early this morning. These clouds were joined during the morning by some additional clouds giving a mostly cloudy day.

Morning Sky Between the Trees


Thursday, October 15, 2009
Yesterday's snow was pretty much gone again by this morning. The overnight temperature remained warm enough to allow most of the snow to disappear once again. Today was mostly cloudy and some light showers fell later in the afternoon. The evening became partly cloudy and a touch of sun near sunset time gave just a hint of the fall colors.

Evening View East and South around Sunset


Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Well, just when I was back to reporting a trace of snow, a new light dusting occurred. (Just under an inch, though, so no big storm!). I don't think it will happen (because the temperature is likely to stay above freezing again for a long enough time to melt everything), otherwise, this could have been the start of the continuous snow cover for the season. In any case, not much fall color from leaf changes will take place since they are frozen and turned immediately brown or fell, instead of changing color first. The tamarack trees are beginning to change. So, as long as there is no big ice storm event, their colors should show soon.

Fog and Light Snow during the Morning Walk
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Some mixed light clouds overnight kept the temperature from falling as low as it had for the last four days. Mostly sunny conditions with some high clouds later in the afternoon allowed the temperature to finally climb above freezing. The snow cover diminished somewhat as a result, but a trace still hangs on in shaded locations.

Morning Sunrise


Monday, October 12, 2009
Well, the very cold conditions continued with a below zero morning at the ranch. Clear, not much wind, frosty, and cold with a couple of more days in store before returning to "normal" temperatures. Also, regardless of the record cold temperature, a couple of new critters joined the ranch animal family today.

A Couple of new Additions to the Ranch: Panther and Shaggy
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Sunday, October 11, 2009
Mostly clear meant mostly cold again overnight. And it was! My station recorded just something like 0.x again today ... So, at least it wasn't below zero! The day continued to stay mostly sunny and kind of pleasant (if it was, like, JANUARY!) getting to almost close to above freezing. Another night of clear sky is forecast with the temperature crossing into the single digits at just before 9 PM!

Another Day when the Drinking Buckets Stayed Frozen


Saturday, October 10, 2009
There were clear conditions overnight and the morning sun helped to focus on the frosty, frozen, snow covered conditions that have arrived here in NW Montana. A little bit of melting took place ... but, this is not like a June snowstorm, and it appears winter has given a heads-up, if not SHOUTING OUT: "HERE I AM ... ARE YOU READY? ... I'M BACK!!!". I love it!

Morning Sun over the Snow Covered Yard


Friday, October 9, 2009
The snow that began last evening continued to fall for a bit of the night. Morning measurements showed 4" to 5" as the average depth, with up to 8" in drifts on the deck. Let the winter season begin!

Morning Panorama from the Deck


Thursday, October 8, 2009
After a fairly nice day: Mostly sunny beginning; Variable cloudiness during the morning and early afternoon, with increasing clouds in the evening; it all turned to a blowing snow blizzard beginning just as the last daylight left the area! This will be a day with a snow amount reported for total on the ground (I'm not sure yet, how much, animal check will be happening pretty soon now, and I'll do a measurement at that time). Even for a former Minnesotan, this strikes me as a little early! Along with the snow event that is happening right now, colder conditions are forecast to follow with single digits expected! Yikes! Fall in NW Montana can be brutal! UPDATE: After the animal check: about 2" of snow covering the ground and it continues to fall nicely!

Last Animal Check in the Late Evening Snow


Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Falling temperatures with the maximum happening at midnight. Along with the temperature, some light rain and even some snow fell. This is early fall weather, in NW Montana! (Actually, later in the day, the weather was quite nice with bright sunshine and a pleasant temperature.

Late Afternoon Sun after the Earlier Day Snow Event


Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Ice on the buckets and water tanks this morning as the temperature bottomed out at around 20 degrees. The day was sunny and fairly nice with middle 50's. Fall is here, but winter is in the forecast with snow and even colder temperatures predicted in a couple of days.

Dunder Watches the Horses in Outer Pasture


Monday, October 5, 2009
Mostly sunny through the day after a mostly clear night. Some cloud sun mix again during the afternoon, but much less wind than has been the case for the previous two days.

Box Elder in the Afternoon Sunlight


Sunday, October 4, 2009
The clouds and sun played a full day of hide-and-seek today. Continuing windy conditions kept things blowing around for most of the day. Late in the day, the wind began to slow and the moon rose through some remaining clouds.

Afternoon Sun and Cloud Mix


Saturday, October 3, 2009
The sun began the day poking through some clouds along the horizon and rising over fog in the valley. By mid-morning it was mostly sunny and the temperature slowing rising through the low 40's. Snow was visible on the top edges of the east mountains.

Early Day Fog in the Valley


Friday, October 2, 2009
The day began under mostly cloudy conditions. Even though I had earlier thought the day would not provide any precipitation, it did after-all. Late in the afternoon light showers moved through the area. By the time it was all over just under 1/10th of an inch was recorded.

Box Elder Fall Color Begins


Thursday, October 1, 2009
A new month begins with frost on the ground and lingering clouds in the sky. The rainfall from yesterday was frozen in the gauge at the 0.08" level. Mostly sunny conditions during the morning soon melted away the frost and the ice in the measuring tube.

Morning Clouds for the Sun to Poke Through

A Pen Replaces the Finger Tips

Well, I really haven't been adding to my "Life" summary very much again this month. The only reason I have logged in today is to say that sometimes I like to just write and print using a pen or pencil and wonder if pressing these keys will every give such a nice feeling.

September in One Big Blog Entry

Okay, so the month of September flew by without so much as an update to "Life"! Such as it is sometimes during busy (and even, not so busy) times. I did not get back into running training mode, so, there was no marathon training log to maintain. As a result, all I have to offer is the pasting of the Wunderground blog along with this short introductory paragraph.

September Slide Show


Wednesday, September 30, 2009: Mostly cloudy today. Some rain finally showed up during the late afternoon. Just enough to settle the dust a bit, but not very far into the dust layer. With the clouds, cool temperatures were the order for the day with the high just making it into the middle 50's. Clouds and cool conditions are forecast for the next few days.

Clouds to the East After the Early Evening Shower


Tuesday, September 29, 2009: Almost running out of days in September that can provide some precipitation to close the gap in the monthly total. I have only recorded about 0.03" for the entire month. That is about 1.5" below the month normal by this date. As a result, all is dry and dusty.

Color in the evening sky just after sunset


Monday, September 28, 2009: This may be the last in the string of dry, mild, mostly sunny days. Today was a mix of high clouds with some of the smoke from forest fires adding to the color of the morning sky. Temperatures rose into the mid 70's with the high clouds staying throughout the day.

Clouds at Sunrise View from the West Hill


Sunday, September 27, 2009: A cool start for today. After the strong wind that blew most of yesterday, today was relatively quiet, sunny, continued dry, and not quite as warm.

It's all about Starting the Day ... Over and Over


Saturday, September 26, 2009: Windy, warm, and continued sunny and dry. Even as the days get shorter and the track of the sun moves day by day toward the south, here in NW Montana summer continues. The forecast keeps moving the cooler and possible rain producing days one day further out with each new day. The coming week should see a change (maybe?) with cooler temperatures and possibly some rain ahead.

Box Elder Tree Holds out in Dusty, Sunny, Windy Day


Friday, September 25, 2009: Sunny, warm and dry. Record maximum temperatures in some reporting locations for today. Mostly smoky, dry, and dusty around the ranch.

Sunrise from the West Hill (start of the dog walk)


Thursday, September 24, 2009: Clear and near record high temperatures. This made it a good day to take a day trip from the ranch to Glacier National Park and Hungry Horse Dam.

Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park


Hungry Horse Dam in NW Montana


Wednesday, September 23, 2009: Clear, dry, and mild conditions again today at the ranch. There is just a touch of color in the trees, and the grass and woods ground cover is beginning to make the transition as the first full day of fall gives shorter daylight.

Just a Touch of Color in the Box Elder Tree


Tuesday, September 22, 2009: The switchover day for summer to fall began with sunny and near summer-like temperatures (just a little cooler early morning low than a mid-summer day would have). The dry trend continues with a lot of dust in the air any time the horses walk or trot through the dry lots. As an extra bonus, Patti's mom joins us today, during a walk with the dogs.

Taffy, Patti, her mom, and Titan at the Family Time Rest Bench


Sun Rays Showing some Dust as Dunder Paces in his Corral


Monday, September 21, 2009: Totally clear conditions overnight resulted in low temperatures in the upper 20's. The pastures were frosty during the morning walk with the dogs. Clear conditions continued throughout the day, with dry and dusty paddocks for the horses.

Frosty Grass in Morning View toward the Sunrise


Sunday, September 20, 2009: Some clouds around both early and late today but, again, very little precipitation. The day was partly cloudy early in the morning and became mostly sunny and that continued through the middle of the day. Late in the afternoon a very light shower (trace amounts only) went through the area. By the time of the last animal check it was again mostly clear and making way for some frosty conditions likely for tomorrow.

Alfalfa Bales Delivered this Morning


Saturday, September 19, 2009: Sunny beginning but with increasing clouds throughout the day. No precipitation today and just some windy conditions to go with the clouds.

Evening Clouds over the Box Elder and East Treeline


Friday, September 18, 2009: Clear and cool this morning. The sun and clear sky conditions for the entire day gave warm temperatures and a perfect day for a grill out at the fire-ring.

Dogs at the Evening Cookout


Thursday, September 17, 2009: A quick thunder shower with just a trace of rain swooped through just at sunrise. It resulted in just water-drop marks in the dust, and actually created more dust than it settled. Heavier rainfall could be seen in the distance, and, in fact, there was evidence of a good shower having taken place when I went to town for some morning appointments. At the ranch, as I mentioned, the rainfall was very light. After the early morning clouds scooted away to the east, the rest of the day was mostly sunny, dry, and warm.

Sunrise after the Light Morning Rain


Wednesday, September 16, 2009: Clear and dry again. Not much of a change in weather from day to day, but, you know, in the background, the days are changing.

Morning View across the Pastures


Tuesday, September 15, 2009: Sunny and dry again. Today, I raked the grass areas that were cut yesterday. Since conditions continue to be quite dry, I decided to also switch tractor implements and pull the baler through the windrows to make bales one last time for the season.

Loading the Last Bale of 2009!


Monday, September 14, 2009: Today again kept up the dry trend that September has brought. Since this is the last week of summer, I decided it was time to climb the north hill and take some pictures of the ranch in mostly summer conditions. Later, I decided to use the continuing string of dry days to cut the creek grass and some of the longer grass along it. This is the second cutting for some of the area, but the creek grass was long, but still green. Some high clouds drifted through later in the day but no precipitation accompanied the cloud cover.

View from the North Hill


Sunday, September 13, 2009: A perfectly clear, sunny, and dry day today. Some chore activities were done early in the day (putting up 4-tons of hay, splitting and stacking wood). The horses enjoyed cleaning up the area where the hay (alfalfa/grass mix) was dropped before we moved it to the hay barn.

Horses Graze Hay Leftovers


Saturday, September 12, 2009: The long string of sunny, dry and warm days continued today at the ranch.

Sunrise from the West Hill


Friday, September 11, 2009: Another sun filled and rainless day at the ranch.

9-11, Remembered


Thursday, September 10, 2009: A day of sun and nice late summer weather in NW Montana. Dry conditions continue.

Morning Sunlight and the Old Barn


Wednesday, September 9, 2009: Another cool start to the day, but sunny conditions began to warm things up during the morning. Some high clouds, but a great day in NW Montana.

Sunrise and Clouds began the Day


Tuesday, September 8, 2009: An early sign of the winter to follow with a light frost this morning. A clear overnight sky allowed temperatures to drop into the low 30's. The day was mostly sunny with temperatures rebounding nicely supported by a mix of clouds and sun throughout day and evening.

Tracks in the Morning Frost


Monday, September 7, 2009: Mostly cloudy again this morning. Much like yesterday with periods of clouds and sun for most of the day. Even though the clouds looked like they could contain some precipitation, it all stayed up there, in those clouds. The automatic gauges have not clicked off any amount for the entire month. There was some that accumulated in the plastic gauge, but not much there either.

Clouds over the Ranch this Morning


Sunday, September 6, 2009: Mostly cloudy to start the day followed by periods of sun and clouds. The late afternoon became mostly sunny. The clearing sky should put us on the list for quite a cool down tonight.

Streams of Clouds in the Late Afternoon Sky


Saturday, September 5, 2009: The forecast stated mostly cloudy. The sky did have some early morning clouds, but they were mostly gone for a period during the early morning. At about 10:30 AM the clouds rolled in again. They just gave a trace of rain (drops, actually) and it was a sun and cloud mix until early evening when mostly cloudy conditions returned. The real excitement of the day took place during the final animal check. At that time, two of the dogs (Taffy and Titan) decided to find a skunk. It was not the best way to end a day!

Colored Sky before the Sun Rise


Friday, September 4, 2009: There were some clouds around the edges this morning and into the middle of the day. There was less wind than yesterday and the temperatures continued to be cool in the morning and warm without being hot during the afternoon. We could use some precipitation though to settle the dust around the area.

Clear Blue Sky during the Early Afternoon ... and the Box Elder, once again


Thursday, September 3, 2009: Today was a breezy day with a mix of clouds. The dry conditions of the last couple of weeks resulted in a lot of dust blowing in the wind. Warm afternoon temperatures gave way to another cool down soon after sunset.

Sunrise between the Yard Pines


Wednesday, September 2, 2009: Another in a string of days that remain sunny, dry and warm. The lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer, continue.

View across the Pastures


Tuesday, September 1, 2009: A clear start to another month.

Sunrise

August Summary around NW Montana

This is almost a duplication of the post I do in Day by Day in NW Montana. Sometimes, I modify the posting slightly when I insert it here with just some extra odds and ends. This month, the most noteworthy event was the fact that the high rainfall during the early part of the month resulted in the reservoir filling and the creek running for a number of days. The flow lasted about four or five days. Then, the creek flow was just what was draining from the reservoir. No additional inflow took place through the end of the month. One drawback of the reservoir still having water in it is that the apples dropping of the tree near the reservoir are difficult to fetch. As August ends, all is well at the ranch here in NW Montana.

August 2009: A Mix of Scenes (Slide Show)




Monday, August 31, 2009: The week is beginning and the month is ending on a continuing warm, dry, and mostly sunny streak. There were some clouds along the east edges late in the day, but they were well over the mountains and not a factor for us here at the ranch.

Evening Clouds to the East ... after a Sunny Day


Sunday, August 30, 2009: It was a sunny, warm, dry day in NW Montana. I guess the cloudiness of yesterday was the rain event forecast for today and it just happened a day early and didn't have any rain in it, either.

The Box Elder in the Evening Sunlight


Saturday, August 29, 2009: The sun made an appearance just before a cloud bank slid over the area today. The cloud and filtered sun conditions continued for most of the day.

Morning Sky through Amber Filter


Neighboring Farm in Merged Images through Amber Filter


Friday, August 28, 2009: None of that partly cloudy sky today. Totally clear from beginning to end giving a sunny, warm, and dry day at the ranch.

Barn Complex in the Morning Light


Thursday, August 27, 2009: Sunny with some variable cloudiness moving through the sky. Still the day was warm, with scattered clouds, and dry. These are the three key weather phrases that defined another day at the ranch.

Repeating Morning View of Horses near the Box Elder Tree


Wednesday, August 26, 2009: Some clouds around the east horizon early today. The sky contained scattered high clouds throughout the morning. Even as the summer days continue to be dry and warm, it is time to get ready for the coming winter. This afternoon, splitting of wood was done as part of that winter preparation.

View Across Pasture to Ranch Buildings


Splitting Wood and Filling the Trailer


Tuesday, August 25, 2009: The string of dry and clear days continues in NW Montana. Not overly warm, so it was basically a nice pleasant day (with a cool start, too).

The Box Elder Tree Casts a Large Morning Shadow


Monday, August 24, 2009: Bright morning sunshine and cool overnight temperatures.

Morning View of the Box Elder Tree, and Horses


Sunday, August 23, 2009: Mostly sunny, cool overnight and slowly rising temperatures begin the day in NW Montana.

Evening View of the Box Elder Tree


Saturday, August 22, 2009: Clear sky conditions through last night and into today. The forecast had been for near record temperatures and although warm, no records were broken.

Morning Sunrise


Friday, August 21, 2009: A rouge 'near-clear-air' thunderstorm dropped a trace of rain just after 8:00 A.M. The day was sunny and warm, except for that short event. The grass cut for hay yesterday was raked one more time for drying, and later, the baling of pasture four was done.

Baling Hay in Pasture Four


Thursday, August 20, 2009: A clear sky repeated for today. It was a good morning for the daily walk with the dogs. Later, the swathed windrows were raked and made ready for baling of the hay that will take place tomorrow.

Morning Walk with the Dogs


Windrow Rake Poised above Pasture Four


Wednesday, August 19, 2009: Clear and warm around NW Montana today. This allowed the remaining uncut pasture to dry enough (after last week's rain) so that yet another round of swathing, raking, and baling could begin.

The Morning Sun over the Trees


Another Round of Swathing, Raking, and Baling begins: Swathing Pasture 4


Tuesday, August 18, 2009: A sunny start to the day. Less humidity in the air meant little if any overnight fog in the low areas. A mild day resulted with conditions drying out enough that the creek, which had refilled last Saturday as a result of the rainy week last week, stopped flowing again today.

Morning View East and South



Monday, August 17, 2009: Mostly cloudy, cool, and some fog in the valley to start the day. There were good sized breaks in the clouds during the morning resulting in mostly sunny conditions. From around noon until mid-afternoon, the cloud mix thickened again with mostly cloudy conditions. The assorted mix continued with some breaks which allowed the late afternoon to be partly sunny, with the temperatures able to rise into the low 70's.

Orpheus Rests while Corrie Drinks and Winnie Watches


Sunday, August 16, 2009: Today was one of those days with a mixture of sun and clouds again. Partly cloudy sky around sunrise turned into showers around noon-time. The afternoon continued with the showers disappearing and some sun breaking through from time to time. There were some impressive clouds in the late evening sky that gave just a few drops of rain here at the ranch, but likely had more rain dropping as they headed over the hills to the east. The creek reservoir filled overnight and the creek was flowing this morning.

Big Sky Cloud Mix Today (Slide Show)


Saturday, August 15, 2009: Today began with the sun shining and partly cloudy sky conditions. A quick change took place shortly after 8:00 AM when clouds returned to cover the entire sky. The clouds stayed around most of the day and produced some thunder and rain during the evening. A mixture of parting clouds and late day sunlight ended the day.

Evening Showers Over East Hills


Some Late Day Sunshine Lightened up the Paddocks


Friday, August 14, 2009: The day began with a repeat of clouds in the sky and fog in the hills. A mid-morning through noon rainfall dampened the area and kept temperatures cool. The day continued with passing showers from time to time. A thunderstorm passed through during the early evening. This rain activity kept temperatures struggling to stay above 50 degrees. I heard a forecast for snow in the higher elevations over the next day or two. Can this be the middle of August?

Fog and Clouds over the Neighboring Farm


Fog and Clouds over the East and Southeast Hills (much like yesterday...just more rain!)


August Singularity


Thursday, August 13, 2009: Some light rain overnight lingered into the mid-morning. Mostly cloudy conditions gave just passing opportunities for sunlight today. There was some clearing of the sky during the mid afternoon. While attending a riding clinic, it was quite breezy this afternoon in the valley. Additional showers returned late in the day with rain beginning as darkness arrived. Today is one of the days of August Singularity.

Lingering Clouds and Fog in Mid-Day View Southeast


Riding Clinic in the Valley this Afternoon


Some Blue Sky later in the Afternoon


Wednesday, August 12, 2009: A mostly cloudy day around the ranch today. Showers drifted through a couple of times during the day, first during the morning, and next, with more intensity during the early afternoon. As a result of the showers, the temperature was only able to top out in the high 60's. Just a light ray or two of sunlight late in the day provided a weak rainbow in some parting evening showers over the southeast treeline.

Morning Clouds to the East and Northeast


Weak Evening Rainbow to the Southeast



Tuesday, August 11, 2009: It was a sunny and mild day around the ranch today. The evening was again just right for a little softball playoff watching. Since the season is winding down, it was time to scout the upcoming opponents for the championship game we play next Monday evening.

Sunny Morning at the Ranch


Evening Softball Scouting Action at the Ball-yard



Monday, August 10, 2009: The sun made an appearance with a gathering of clouds today. Most of the day continued this mix of sun and clouds with a pleasant temperature result. It was just a perfect evening for another softball game.

Morning Sun Appears through the Clouds


Warm-up before the Softball Game


Sunday, August 9, 2009: It was a mixed day of sun and clouds today. The sunny periods provided an opportunity for a trail ride and viewing some wildlife around the ranch. Clouds filled the east sky late in the evening.

Trail Ride during the Mid Day Sunshine


Deer along the Riding Trail


Evening Clouds to the East


Saturday, August 8, 2009: The sun fought for an appearance through some clouds this morning. Eventually, the day became partly cloudy and allowed for a nice photo shoot for Wanita R. and a new bride.

Morning Sun through the Clouds


Wanita R. and Bride at Photo Shoot


Friday, August 7, 2009: A mix of clouds and sun around NW Montana today. Late day sunshine provided evening shadows across the pastures.

Sun and Shadows across the Pastures


Thursday, August 6, 2009: After some morning clouds, plenty of sunshine appeared to allow still more of the ranch flowers to bloom!

Ranch Flower: Canadian Thistle (I hope it showed a passport to get here!)


Wednesday, August 5, 2009: A touch of clouds and trees began and ended the day today. In between, the sun provided a nice day for the horses and people at the ranch. A quick evening shower left some clouds that seemed to reach down to the trees in the late evening sky.

Morning Sun with a Touch of Clouds


Evening Clouds Try to Touch the Trees


Tuesday, August 4, 2009: It was a sunny and warm day around the area today. The evening provided continuing softball action as the 'senior men of summer' continue game playoffs as the season winds down. So, today saw the horses gather around their water cooler as the men gathered around the beer cooler after the game!

Horses around the Water Cooler


Men around the Beer Cooler (Pretty soon after this, anyway!)


Monday, August 3, 2009: A warm sunny day at the ranch was started with a great sunrise through some morning clouds. And, although spring is thought to be the time of flowers, some still linger here in NW Montana.

Sunrise through the Morning Clouds


Some of the Last Flowers of Summer (Mullein Flowering)


Sunday, August 2, 2009: A clear pleasant day around the valley. It made for a great day to take a Sunday bike ride into Kalispell on the "Rails-to-Trails" route.

Morning Sun and Shadows from the Box Elder Tree


Riding the Rails-to-Trails Route into Kalispell


Saturday, August 1, 2009: A sunny start to the August month in NW Montana.

Silo and old Farm along the Bike Trail to Kalispell

Cutest Dogs in My Life

Just adding this here to take it out of the WUG Blog. It didn't really fit into the Day by Day in NW Montana idea, anyway. I don't expect to get thousands of votes here, either (I think I'm the only one that looks at this blog) ... no matter, it helps me to log some things that I would forget otherwise.

So, here, cut from the pages of the Weather Underground Blog is my entry for the cutest dog contest. You can also search the gallery and vote for my Ginger, too. It will be easy to pick here out, she is the cutest one in the group!

Taffy's Baby Picture (October 18. 2004) --|-- Taffy, trying for the Puppy Pose (August 25, 2009)
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Since the 'Cutest Dog Competition' link is sometimes broken, I decided just to put some images of Taffy here. If you would have voted for her (except for the web-site problems, needing to register your e-mail, and all that other stuff) just leave a comment here instead if you would like. Thanks!