02/05/13

Winter is here.? We have survived the first bout of frigid cold temperatures and glad we don?t live in Alamosa or Gunnison.? We finally got some snow, it will definitely improve ski conditions and my wife is excited about doing some snowshoeing.

Winter is a great time for curling up with a great book.? Two books you might be interested in exploring or reading are The Guide to Colorado Birds and Bayou Salado, The story of South Park.?

The Guide to Colorado Birds by Mary Taylor Gray and photography by Herbert Clarke is a good source for identifying birds you will find in Colorado and at your birdfeeders.? The descriptions and photographs are excellent.? The book is divided into categories such as birds of prey, humming birds, woodpeckers, finches, etc, it is easy to read and use.? If you are a bird enthusiast, you will enjoy this book.

Bayou Salado by Virginia McConnell Simmons is one of the first books I read when I moved here.? It is a rich history of South Park with interesting anecdotes and wonderful photographs.? The book details the history of Indians in the area, mining and railroads.? There is an interesting chapter on the Salt Works Ranch not far from Antero Junction.? There is an excellent bibliography in the back which will allow you to read further if you desire.? So whether you are a history buff, a long time resident or a newcomer to the area, Bayou Salado is a book worth reading.

Dick Chambers

From Ladigotom:

A New Button

There is a new button on the home page, where you can look at the temperature and wind gust for the Ranch.? Just click on Weather toward the bottom of the list.

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