I was in northeastern Oklahoma again last week. No corporate jet this time though: we're testing a prototype in coastal Bermuda grass and I needed a service truck for tools and to haul parts. Details about the machine have to stay scant of course, but Stu the mower technician delivered the mower two weeks ago and got rained out and the farmers we're testing it with had very little luck running it without two particular parts Travis Koster and I had forgotten to install, so I was the first person to get it running successfully. I cut 98 acres in three days, which also included lots of experimentation. I was by myself this trip and liked the break from the office grind. I also showed up on Friday much earlier than was expected; I drove back Thursday night after working eight hours.
The farm was wonderful to work with and is very accommodating to Vermeer. Their operation was large enough to keep multiple mowers busy, and they really knocked hay down when they wanted to go, but they went out of their way to make sure I got done what I had gone down there to do. I really respect their knowledge of hay equipment and what it's capable of, but also that they have realistic ideas about how to improve equipment, which isn't as common as you'd think. They are also very loyal Vermeer customers, and I was sure to thank them for it.
The seven-hour drive was a straight shot and couldn't have been easier. The only notable sight from both drives was the 10+ft tall construction barrel man just north of Kansas City. I didn't have time to get a picture of him, but he was so hilariously well-built that I thought it was a prank.
I won't be checking in on all the new mowers as previously thought. They will probably be visited as needed, but this could change. I seem to be the last one to learn anything when it comes to mower group plans.
Sarah and I will be home for the rodeo! My parents' 40th anniversary is this July, so my sisters and I will be home for a few days to celebrate and take in the old Broadwater County summer festivities. Nothing beats Montana in July!
