Flowers, Fabulous Food and Fireworks
Guests at Flowers in the Flint Hills enjoyed a beautiful Saturday in Chase County Kansas when Clover Cliff Ranch Bed and Breakfast partnered with Josh and Gwen Hoy of the Flying W Ranch to entertain and share the beauty of this season. The atmosphere was casual but there were any number of choices to make, including the choice to do nothing but absorb fresh air and make friends.
The newest members of our staff - a beautiful team of black Percheron horses with a six-week-old foal running alongside - carried anyone who wanted a wagon ride out into the rolling hills and open spaces. In addition to stories along the way from long-time resident ranchers, Brian Obermeyer, Dr. Tom Eddy and Iralee Bernard provided information about local ecology and the tall grass prairie. Lots of folks rode independently on their choice of saddled Flying W horses.
Photography and painting experts offered opportunities for those who wanted to capture the moment with a professional camera, a phone camera or a paintbrush. We heard rave reviews from those who were picking up a paintbrush for the first time.
The day continued when Jim Hoy shared stories, folklore and local tales. Jim's Ph.D. and academic credentials enhance knowledge that comes from his native roots in the area and a heartfelt love of the Flint Hills. Brian Obermeyer, who is a member of the staff at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, also shared an overview of ecological and geological facts that make this area unique.
Josh Hoy, chef extraordinaire, served a delicious farm-to-table supper that included brisket, Caprese salad, his famous cornbread and homemade ice cream. There was an unlimited supply of iced tea, mango lemonade and ice water.
As the sun sank lower in the sky, Orin Friesen and the Prairie Rose Rangers sang and entertained with their distinctive combination of music and humor. A beautiful display of fireworks, orchestrated by Doc and Tracey Graham, completed the day - showering streams of colorful shapes in the night sky, sending guests on their way with new experiences and memories.
