Summer’s Heritage

America’s heritage and character was forged on storied ranches and farmhouses that dot the plains and foothills of our magnificent country. Everyday, the ranching and farming families … nature’s caretakers … vest strength and energy caring for creation while in turn harvesting its bountiful rewards.As I thought of memorializing the impact of the family farms and ranches across our country, I imagined a grandfather starting his old reliable tractor early in the morning surrounded by a cohort of animals oblivious to his chores and duties. And what a great adventure for any youngster anxious to explore and leave a mark on granddad’s farm … the tractor, the barn, the animals, trees and pond … could there be a better heritage afforded by summer … could there be a better forge for character … not likely!