Page 7 of Herds and Hooves

“First, I have a few horseshoes I need to get ready for clients this week, but then I think I’ll use these rods to make a meat turner. Those should be quick, then I’ll see if I can’t get a start on a knife of some sort.” I gathered the materials I’d need for the shoes. They were pre-made but needed some shaping, and since this was a regular job, I knew exactly what was needed. I took out the templates I had for each one and put the first shoe in the forge to heat it enough to be pliable.

“Were you at Asa’s this week?”

“Yeah, he’s got his nephew there visiting.” I poked at the horseshoe and moved it around. Not that it made any difference but because it made me feel like I was speeding up the process.

“I didn’t know he had a nephew. Rumor has it he’s looking to sell,” Hank said and took a seat on the stool I’d set out for him months ago.

I wasn’t sure how much I wanted to say, not like I knew much, but I had a feeling there was more to his nephew’s visit than even he realized. “I heard that too, but Asa loves that farm, and I don’t think he’s ready to sell.”

“Maybe his nephew can help him run it,” Hank said before I burst out laughing. “What’s so funny?”

“Asa threw him right into it. As soon as he got there Asa had him milking and helping with anything he could think of to keep him busy.” I hadn’t meant to laugh but seeing Bart under that poor cow trying to figure it out had been hilarious. “He’s never worked on a farm before.”

“Oh no. I bet he saw things he now wishes he could forget,” Hank said and crossed his arms as he relaxed.

“And smells, don’t forget the smells.”

“Oh boy, that guy got a lot of experience the first day.”

“Yeah, he did. But he didn’t run. He looked determined to stay.” That was the part that got me. Bart was obviously out of his element, but he never once looked like he was ready to get in his car and leave. If anything, he was more determined by every new experience to get through it and see what he’d learn from it.

“Sounds like a good man.”

“I think so too, but I guess I’ll find out the next time I see Asa. Now, did you want to try to shape one of these shoes?” Hank had never tried to do any of the metalworking, but it was more and more obvious he really wanted to.

“Are you sure?”

“I wouldn’t have asked if I wasn’t.” I handed him an apron and stood back.

Seven

Bart

“Hey, Dad, how’s it going?” I asked. After talking with Asa, it was clear he needed more from me than a few days. I wasn’t convinced this was the life for me, but I was willing to give it a try at least for the week.

“Good, we miss you here.”

“It’s only been a day,” I said but it was nice knowing I was missed.

“Yeah but today was crazy. You know how it is, as soon as the temperature goes up a little people start to panic over their AC.”

“They really do. I know I’d only planned to stay here for the weekend, but I’d like to stay for the week if you guys can handle it.”

“Is everything okay with Uncle Asa? He called earlier to see if we minded you staying longer.” The worry was heavy in his words. But even if Asa was getting up there, he was strong as a horse.

“He’s fine. I didn’t realize he was hoping I could take over the farm for him. I mean I guess I did know, but it’s different actually seeing it.”

“It is quite an operation. Even a small dairy is busy,” Dad said and I heard him sit down. “You know you can tell him no.”

“I know. But there’s just something that makes me want to give it a chance and really get a feel for it.” I couldn’t explain it but walking onto that farm was both terrifying and pulled at a part of me I never knew was there.

He was silent for a moment as he considered my words, and I could picture him thinking a moment before he spoke. “It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also something that’s in your bones. You take as long as you need. We’ll get by without you. Promise me you’ll consider everything before you make any decision about the dairy.”

“I will. It’s just all so different than anything I’ve ever done.”

“Did you milk a cow yet?” I could hear the smile in his voice, and it put me at ease knowing he wasn’t upset by my call.

“Yes. Florence allowed me to try. Apparently, she’s a little—”