My eyes are glued to the scenery that slowly unveils as we approach the ranch where he and his wife Jill live. The closest connection to any country store is an hour away. I cannot help but smile. Even if I still have no idea of what is waiting for me ahead, I already know I am going to really like it. I like the way he speaks. The pace of his words sounds peaceful and quiet. They mimic the appeasing feeling that runs through my body when my eyes catch sight of the yellow rolling hills which surround us as we drive along.
All of a sudden, the long gray winter jacket, the woolen hat and gloves I am wearing feel inappropriate and uncomfortable. I am dying to change into lighter mid-season clothes. I realize that Dan is right when, a few days later, we wake up to 20 F, wind and a light veil of snow covering the plain.
But the light. Oh the light! I am only arrived on their ranch, getting to know them more, that I quickly understand that their vision is not just about selling buffalo meat. Their goal is about making sure that their animals are kept happy in the Great Plains, that they receive the best foods, and that the environment is preserved.
And so during the entire week, she and I cook, style, and photograph food. I love working with her in the kitchen. I love hearing her story. The food is so delicious that I close my eyes with the attempt to slow the moment down. I want to keep the taste of it in my mouth longer.
Jill educates me to buffalo meat. To refill our energy and creative spirit, between photo shoots, Jill takes me to see the horses and chicken. We take walks with the dogs. I particularly enjoy watching Henry- our French hunting dog as Jill enjoys reminding meβrun freely through the fields and between the hills. We observe antelopes and coyotes in the distance. We watch sun sets and moon rises. Every day, I marvel at the sight of the blond grass.
