Title: Embracing Tradition: The Haymaking Process in Montana

 

Author: Laura Dusek , Photo Art by Laura Landscape Photography

Some of you may have heard me say that every picture has a story to tell. As my Husband & I were driving across the planes of Montana we stopped to stretch our legs. I couldn't help but grab my camera and take a few shots. The adage "Big Sky Country"  is no exaggeration. I loved the landscape of Farm Country and this was no exception. All the vibrant colors of Blue, Gold, Green, and Red were just too beautiful to pass up. 

Montana, known as "Big Sky Country," boasts vast stretches of picturesque landscapes, where the rhythms of nature dictate life's pace. Among the cherished traditions of this rugged terrain is the haymaking process, a timeless ritual that echoes through the valleys and meadows each summer.

As the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies thaw and wildflowers bloom, farmers across Montana gear up for the haymaking season. This crucial time marks not only a period of hard work but also a celebration of resilience and community spirit.

The process begins with the careful selection of fields, where lush grasses sway in the gentle breeze. Armed with scythes or modern machinery, farmers set out to cut the grass at just the right moment, ensuring optimal nutrition for their livestock during the winter months.

In Montana's vast expanse, the weather can be as unpredictable as it is breathtaking. Bright sunshine one moment gives way to rolling thunderstorms the next. Therefore, timing is everything. Farmers must seize the opportune moments to cut, rake, and bale the hay before the skies unleash their fury.

Once the grass is cut and left to dry in the sun-kissed fields, the real work begins. With the precision of artisans, farmers rake and turn the hay, coaxing it to release excess moisture and achieve the perfect balance of texture and color.

But the process doesn't end there. In Montana's land of extremes, protection is paramount. To safeguard their precious harvest against the whims of weather, farmers wrap each bale in plastic or stack it snugly in barns, ensuring that it remains pristine and nutritious until needed.

Yet, amidst the toil and sweat, there's a sense of camaraderie that pervades the haymaking season in Montana. Neighbors lend a helping hand, sharing equipment, knowledge, and laughter. It's a time-honored tradition that binds communities together and fosters a deep appreciation for the land and its bounty.

As the sun sets over the vast Montana horizon, casting hues of orange and gold across the land, the haymaking process carries on. It's a labor of love, a tribute to the resilience of those who call this rugged landscape home, and a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, some traditions are worth preserving.

Until Next Time.... Watch for future blog posts from the Oregon Coast. 

 

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To finance this trip like this, I am seeking contributions to cover various expenses such as fuel, food, and park fees. Additionally, I will be sleeping in my converted suburban to save money on accommodation costs, opting to stay at campsites rather than hotels. This will not only allow me to immerse myself fully in the natural surroundings but also keep expenses to a minimum. With your help and support with a Membership - I can get out  - and Do what I LOVE... Photography Beautiful Landscapes. 

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As a landscape photographer, my mission extends beyond merely taking photographs. It's about fostering a deep connection between viewers and the natural world, igniting a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environments and the world we call HOME. For me, each image tells a story, I am inviting you to immerse yourself in the serene tranquility of remote mountains, the rhythmic dance of cascading waterfalls, or the vibrant hues of a sunset painting the sky.

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We are Officially a YouTube Page!

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On the Road with LAURA

I took the plunge, or rather got a ton more motivated!  About two years ago I posted two slideshow videos of some of my work and then after that, I just forgot about it. If you don't do something often enough and make it a habit, it gets lost and that is exactly what happened. 

So on the First day of Spring I took off the procrastination hat and got out my GoPro to practice - went out into the yard, thankful that the ground was not soaked, and basked in the sunlight, oh my gosh I missed it. The sun I mean.  I spent the better part of, oh 5 minutes videotaping the fresh blooms of Crocus flowers as they have sprouted through my underbrush.  

You can find the link https://www.youtube.com/@photoartbylauraphotography here or go to the section on the right of this blog where it says - How to Find Me.  

I have been doing a ton of research on how to make it better. Intro and Exit video. My message and just how to generally get the word out about my photography.  

My plan is still fluid at the moment, but I do plan on using my GoPro to keep a journal of what I do when I am out and about, showing my camping set-up and all the ups and downs that go with that portion of the adventure.  Posting videos on my actual work and documenting my thought process.  

When I say, that I got a ton more motivated - it is to say I want to document my passion and show people what I do and why it drives me.  I know I am no spring chicken and my body moves a ton more slowly than someone of a younger energy level than myself. I was actually watching a video that Thomas Heaton recently did on getting out there and it inspired me.  Here is his link https://youtu.be/yIKy_A3eGkA?si=gmetfzCVPwN_teRV.

I can really relate to his dream... 

I am in my Legacy years and yet my brain and heart says, "Yes I can"... get out of your own darn way and get to it.  Quit getting lost in detours.  So that is what I have done, I have a course, a direction, and I am staying focused (no pun intended) and my goal will be to follow my dream and get out there and so my JOB.  If this just turns out to simply allow me to find my happy place and bask in the beauty of this wonder we call home and not make a cent, well I need to be okay with that.  But yes, I do want to make a living at what I love to do.  It takes money to get out there and let's be honest, Gasoline is expensive.  

I want to inspire others, especially women.  I want to inspire my Grandchildren and Great-grandchildren.  Yep, you read correctly, I am a Great Grandmother.  I want to inspire them and leave a Legacy for them to be proud of.  "My Grandmother is Laura Dusek - Photo Art by Laura Photography.  The Landscape photographer, have you heard of her?" 

There are Not many women Landscape Photographers out there, but I have a desire, to be someone who is known.  If you would like to help me with that - do me a favor and Subscribe to my Videos and this Blog.  Check out my artwork on my business webpage. It would mean the World to me if you would support my Dream.  Thank you.

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Itinerary is Being Planned! Yippee! Oregon Coast Bound

 Oregon Coast Bound in just a few short weeks!  Can you hear the Waves Calling?!

Can you hear the waves calling? Our upcoming photography expedition along the Oregon coast promises to be filled with stunning vistas, hidden gems, and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned as we capture the magic of the sea and share it with you all! #OregonCoast #PhotographyExpedition #photoartbylaura #landscapephotography"

Waterfalls and Lighthouses, majestic cliffs, salt air. Will you read along with me and follow me on my adventure.  I would love to have you tag along.  

You will see firsthand from my photography perspective; from behind the scenes through video and still shots. You will be the first to know what might be up for sale before anyone else.  

Would love to have you follow and subscribe to my blog.... 

I am getting sooo Excited for this two or three-week trip. This is going to be about waiting for the shot and taking my time to get it right.  

I have a habit of not taking my time to get the shot and this trip is about working to change that - Landscape photography is about patients and I need to work on doing better. This trip is also about learning to vlog my experience so I am going to push myself to, videolog my experience and learn a GOPRO that I bought a while back. This is about getting better at what I do best and what brings me joy. This trip is about focusing and recharging my batteries. 

The perks are, that you get to experience the entire trip with me without experiencing the bugs. (smile) You will also get to see some beautiful and stunning scenery and purchase some really beautiful landscape photography art from my store for your home or office space.