By Larry Reinhold

The girls are at the age that newborn calves deserve names. 2027 or 2065 may identify those new babies, but really they deserve a more personal name. So far I have been able to remember the names since we only have two new calves, but I am afraid that Alzheimer's, old timers or part timers will set in before long and I will rely on what is written on the ear tag.

Our first calf is a fine bull which they named Alpha. He has won the hearts of all who have seen him and his frisky playing and jumping catches attention from all. Rachel and Molly are of the opinion that he needs a playmate to romp with. This is where King will come in. King was born on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Now you know how he got his name. Rachel and Molly were there when King was born. In fact they are the ones that discovered King’s mom, who is 065, having a little trouble calving. As it turned out, the one leg was turned back enough that it was preventing a proper delivery. With a little straightening of that leg into the birth canal, King slipped into the reality of the world easily.

Now all were happy. King was alive and well and it appeared that Alpha would soon have a partner to frolic with. That evening it became apparent that this would not happen quite as quickly as planned, however. King’s right front leg was “kinked” so he was not able to straighten it out. Now, every rancher has seen some weak ankles or crooked knees for various reasons and it is of concern, but no reason to despair. With care and attention, these are generally minor problems. However, if they are ignored the calf may not live. It is so very important that the new baby receive nourishment. If the calf cannot nurse, he will not receive the colostrum which is in the first milk given by the cow. This is necessary within the first 12 hours and in a sense, the sooner the better. King was not able to stand so that he could reach his mom very well. We remedied that by milking 065 and giving it to King via stomach tube. Then we began the process of stretching that leg. The tendons and or ligaments were taken just a little beyond what they wanted to give. Then last night we helped him stand by his mother and were able to get him to suck while we supported him. This morning I went down and wrapped his leg in an ACE bandage. At first he was irritated that I stretched his leg, but I took his mind off of that and again assisted him in standing as he nursed. He loved his breakfast and it took his mind off his leg. About that time Dad came in. He remarked how gentle this heifer (the new Momma) was as she just stood there in the pen and let me help King. When it was obvious that the cow was dry. I backed off and watched King wobble. He shook his leg, annoyed by the wrap and the inability to let the leg go back to the natural but inappropriate position. He stood there with his right leg slanted under him and his left leg supported his front end weight. Then Dad and I watched as he made a little hop and came down with his right hoof resting flat on the ground. He nudged at his Momma and then slipped to his old state but again with a little effort he brought his front end up and stood straight again. Dad and I chuckled as we were tickled to see the healing and straightening take place. King stood there looking around as if to say to the world, “Look at me.”

It appears that Alpha will have a buddy before long and that Rachel and Molly will be pleased as they watch these little friends enjoy life.

I was reminded when I supported King as he nursed, of the verses in Hebrews 12. It states that we are to lift up the hands that hang down and the feeble knees. We are to make straight paths for the feet lest the lame be turned away. Just as King needed a little extra “umph” and support, many around us need encouraging. Hebrews 12 is a great chapter. We are challenged to faith and exhortation as we run the race. This race is not one to “beat the other guy” and exhibit our superiority but rather a lifelong endeavor to aim at the finish line and assist others along the way. Perhaps we know people that need a little assistance as King. Some may be a little weak kneed at facing what life has thrown at them. Others may be in dire straights needing a hand, directions or just a little dose of faith expressed by you on their behalf. We have a duty to the weak.

Finally, please pray for Grandpa Tige Reinhold. He had back surgery in November and has experienced excruciating pain at times since. And also pray for Grandma Vicky as she twisted a knee about the same time. We pray God’s comfort and healing. TGBTG