Spring at Sunset Ridge

SPRING 2026

When we say, “Spring has sprung,” it sounds like we are surprised, and it just happened overnight. Obviously, nature has a cadence and balance of its own, but seasons on the farm are met with lots of planning and anticipation. 

Will my new idea pan out? 
Will this be a dry or wet year? 
Should we spend a lot on that irrigation upgrade or make it work with our portable water tank again this year? 
Will we get a late freeze? 
Will the Spring weather be severe? 

…Is the tire on the lawn tractor flat AGAIN?

The Colors Return

The excitement of seeing all the colors emerge after being so cold and dormant reminds me year after year that blooms return and growth happens. It fills me with hope to see returning life through plants and animals while simultaneously letting others go when they don’t return. 

Those that don’t return have a way of keeping you humble by reminding you that you are not in control; You can put a lot of effort into picking the correct plants for your zone, watering, providing nutrients, etc – but they decide if they are going to flourish.

Revolving To-Do List

The farm always has a daily To Do List, but at the same time, you are

• implementing plans that may take months or years of preparation
• saving money/finding financing
• drawing or planning your idea(s)
• obtaining supplies and/or equipment, and then performing/directing the work

And with anticipation … watching what happens. 

Introducing… Farm Time!

This process, externally and internally, is what I call “Farm Time”; it has a rhythm I didn’t expect when I started requiring patience … and let’s face it, that is not my strong suit! 

Farm Time moves differently from calendar time. It requires you to think strategically in advance and plan your approach. Then, it requires you to put in the work and just watch what happens.

2025 was the first year, since we have been on the farm, that we introduced new plantings. 

We planted tree seedlings and broadcast cover crop seed to start building soil health and a healthy forage for future sheep. 

I feel like a kid in a candy store when I peek into a grow tube from last year and see a persimmon, mulberry, and pecan tree seedling return with growth.

Ahh, those fresh lime green leaves.

Spring is an active weather period for Oklahoma. 

It is thrilling to watch storm clouds build and smell the rain in the air before it moves over the farm. The next thing you know, you are in full swing, and it won’t slow down for 3-4 months. 

All the while, you are planning ahead for the next seasons.