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The Natural Horseman – Spring Came Early

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By Steve Stevens

Wow, for the most part, the weather has been amazing lately. It was weird having spring-like weather in early March, but we are grateful for it. Other than the five days of straight rain a couple of weeks ago, it has been pretty nice and when you are a horse trainer by trade without an indoor arena, nice weather is always appreciated. We have been trying to get caught up this week.

Amanda has pretty much recovered from her first reconstruction surgery. We were excited about her doing the surgery because it is the final step after beating breast cancer, but the surgery was a little tougher than we thought. She also got a severe blood clot about a week after her surgery, which really set us back. So I was training horses, taking care of the kids and doing my best to take care of my wife.

What we do for a living—working primarily with colts and problem horses can be hard enough when everything is perfect, but when you throw in all of the above it can be quite trying. That is why, when working with the horses when I am tired, stressed, and my mind is on everything else, it is so important for me to focus. I need to make sure I am as connected as I can get with the horses. It is often just that one movement that can be the difference between a broken foot or having a horse jump out from underneath you.

When I am distracted I really try to go back to the basics and work on simpler things. I have been working a really nice Hancock bred red roan colt named Ty. He is really smart, but you have to earn everything with him. He doesn’t give you anything for free and with a horse like this, it is a necessity to really stay ahead of him, meaning seeing things before they happen and helping him through the training process. He has been a great teacher for me going through all this adversity because when I am fully with him mentally we get a lot accomplished and when I am not, he can be a handful.

Steve and Ty. (Photo by Amanda Stevens)

Steve and Ty. (Photo by Amanda Stevens)

Now that Amanda is feeling better, it will be easier to focus on the task at hand which is teaching and building relationships with the horses.

Steve riding Ty. (Photo by Amanda Stevens)

Steve riding Ty. (Photo by Amanda Stevens)

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Being A Woman In The Outdoor Industry

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By Emily Gleason

The outdoor, hunting, and fishing industries have long been perceived traditionally as a male-dominated realm. However, as societal norms shift, the experiences of women in these industries have been increasingly coming to the forefront. Being a woman in the outdoor industry today is a complex blend of passion, perseverance, and community, marked by both challenges and triumphs.

Women who hunt or engage in outdoor activities frequently find themselves confronting preconceived notions about their capabilities and interests. Many of us have experienced skepticism or outright disbelief when we express our enthusiasm for hunting or other outdoor activities.

Despite these stereotypes, women are increasingly challenging and redefining what it means to be involved in these activities. Female hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are not only participating but excelling in such skills. They contribute unique perspectives and insights to the hunting community, showcasing that passion for the outdoors knows no gender.

To read more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

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Winecup

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By Norman Winter

It’s easy for us to take for granted the multiple forbs that are growing throughout our North Texas and Oklahoma grazing lands. They play an important part in the health of our soils and of our livestock, and we should be aware of how they fit in our grazing environment.

Winecup is one of the forbs that many of us can recognize. There are both annual and perennial species, and of significant numbers in our area is Trailing winecup, which is a perennial. 

To learn more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

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Miss North Texas Fair & Rodeo

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By Hannah Claxton | Editor

The North Texas Fair and Rodeo, held annually in Denton, Texas, has a rich history that dates back to 1928. Originally conceived as a small agricultural fair, it was organized to showcase the region’s farming and ranching heritage while promoting local businesses and community engagement.

The fair quickly gained popularity, and by 1958, it incorporated a rodeo, which became a central feature of the event. The rodeo added an exciting element to the fair, drawing competitors and spectators from across the region to witness events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Over the years, the fair grew in size and scope, expanding to include live entertainment, carnival rides, livestock shows, and various exhibitions celebrating North Texas culture.

Today, the North Texas Fair and Rodeo has become one of the largest and most anticipated events in the region, attracting thousands of visitors each August. It remains true to its roots, continuing to celebrate the region’s agricultural and ranching heritage while incorporating modern elements such as concerts, arts and crafts, and food vendors. 

The rodeo, which is now a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association sanctioned event, draws top-tier competitors from across the state- both in the arena and for the accompanying rodeo queen contest. 

To learn more about Miss North Texas Fair & Rodeo, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

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