Looks like we’ve already been ushered into 2013, ready or not. There have been several checks written by this humble scribe, & it still takes a bit of concentration to pen ‘13 at the end of the day’s date. Actually, we’ve had some extremely good things come to our fair Valley of the Pecan. Every one we’ve talked with had a very nice rain last week. Some of the rainfall measurements I recall are as follows: most folks I heard from around Richland ran from 2-2.5”, with Algerita about the same. the ol’ Duncan Place by the Algerita Cemetery showed an even 2 inches, while T.Noel reported around 2.5. Lady Z’s gauge on the Onliwon fence showed 2.75, while the measure over at Daddy’s was at 2.30 and it was leaning over a bit. Chale Maldonado said he got an even 4 inches out off Stingy Lane, while Emmett Lee reported an average of a little over 3” off Johnny Brown Lane.Neleva Golding told me she got 3.1” out on Simpson Creek, while M.McDowell reported 3 & 1/4 out the Bend Rd. at Holland Hill. The 2 gauges I check at the Colony averaged 3.27” between the DPH & the ol’ Towerton Place of ours on the River. Ms. Sue at the Cherokee Grocery said that most folks around Town got anywhere from 2.5-3”, but Roddy Maddox got around 3.5 out the Valley Springs Rd. Seems like Shaw said they had an even two inches on the Valentine up past Buzzard Creek. I heard no complaints from anyone, except they were all ready for the next rain. We have had a good bit of cold weather the past few weeks, as evidenced by all the feed wagons being hauled around the County roads lately. The Texas Winter-grass is starting to show a little green out in the pastures and the small grain patches have new life. I know that the Pecan orchards got a well deserved drink.

Speaking of Pecans, I came across an interesting article in my hand-me-down issue of the Pecan South Journal for Jan. that also adorned the front cover of that periodical. The sub-title on the cover read “Pecans not the only natives on banks of San Saba River. Candy down at the County Agent’s office added that it was also a good article. Knowing most of the Pecan Bottoms & orchards around our area, I didn’t recognize this one. Small wonder, as it featured K&K Pecans just a bit down river from Menardville. the Kniffins own & operate the budded orchard & Native timber there & also had the distinction of exhibiting the Grand Champion Native at the Texas State Pecan Show in 2011. San Saba producers covet that lofty prize. Anyhow, it was an interesting article. Some of you might recall that Billy Kniffen was the County Agent in San Saba back before Roy Walston, so I’d say that he learned something during his time in San Saba. There was also an informative article by the “Native Timber” author, Eric T. Stafne, Miss. State, Extension Specialist, titled “the diverse world of Hickory”. My own experience with Hickory is somewhat limited, but I know a lot more now than I did previously. Anyhow, look those up if you have a chance or the interest.

We haven’t had a chance to visit in quite some time as I’ve not quite gotten back in the groove with Lady Z’s new computer.Try to stay warm & the Mayor and yrs. truly are hoping to get wet soon anywhere out around——Harkeyville!!!!!!!