Julie A Barker

I began writing  Hitchin' Post as most of Texas was coming out of a horrible drought.  While surrounded by ranches, and married to a rancher myself, I was well aware of the hardships that this way of life was enduring.  Needless to say when the rain started coming we would literally watch the radar with great anticipation, crossing our ears-oh, I mean fingers!- that the clouds wouldn't decide to part and pass right over Quanah without a drop to wet our sad, thirsty ground.  It was a worrisome time.  Growing up I have such fond memories of living on the farm watching my dad, grandfathers and uncles work.  It was a time that was so precious to my sister and I, but one that was cut short due to my dad taking another job resulting in a move into town.  I didn't want this at the time, though now I understand why.  Farming and ranching are tough, and there is much uncertainty to say the least.  However, even with the ups and downs, these are lifestyles that I don't want to s