This past weekend I took some time to visit friends in Maryland. It seemed so refreshing to get away from the busy-ness of life—planning multiple events, spring cleaning the house, and out to the serene countryside onto my friends’ farm in Montgomery County, Maryland. It seemed serene as I passed lush green pastures, wooden fences, horse farms, fields, and turned down the lane where Angus heifers stood grazing. Everything about my weekend destination seemed so peaceful, but in reality, I was just 22 miles from our Nation’s Capital and in a county that has a population of 1 million people. That’s right—1 million people take up residence in Montgomery County. I had to have Mr. Bob repeat this statistic on Sunday morning as we were visiting about farming, and how he was a third-generation farmer. In my native state of Nebraska, we don’t even have 2 million people in the entire state, and they cram 1 million folks in a COUNTY and still have a place to graze cattle and farm the land.
As you can tell, this population statistic really impressed me, and as I spent the afternoon exploring the farm some more, I realized that although ALL farmers and ranchers face so many challenges—the environment, activists, the markets, just to name a few—the reality of urban sprawl really slapped me in the face. I mean, tasks that my family takes for granted like moving a piece of machinery becomes a major headache on these highly traveled highways or narrow, windy roads in the East. And, land value is such that many landowners are selling land that has been farmed for years for development, leaving farmers without ground to work.
Now even though the friends I spent the weekend with have more neighbors than the entire state of South Dakota, they are still raising food for the folks that live in their county and elsewhere in a safe manner that is good for the environment. They are stewards of the land, and would never do anything to harm the land, because it really is our most precious commodity. They make sure the pastures are not overstocked and overgrazed, and yet the cattle have ample forage and water. They are concerned about predators, especially at calving time, and work to keep their cattle safe. They know if they take care of the land and livestock, they will take care of them.
I was impressed with their spirit; their roots run deep. Take Mr. Pete, a 94-year-old man who had worked on numerous farms in the area since his teen-age years. We visited with him while he recollected the farms he had worked on with pride. He displayed a wall of ribbons he had won showing Percheron horses. Later, we rode through pastures of baby calves to see the results of mating decisions and hear about the next crop of embryo calves as we read the recips’ tags with the matings she was carrying inside her. We went to the antique tractor and steam engine show, where we saw some really neat old tractors, and little tiny engines that were powerful enough to churn ice cream.
It was like a time warp—a little of the old tied in with a little of the new—steam engines and embryo matings from a national champion female. I experienced all of this less than 30 miles from where lawmakers are trying to regulate every move farmers and ranchers make. It all seemed so serene, and yet so much hustle and bustle takes place just down the road. Maybe just one day, those senators and congressmen will take the opportunity to share in this experience—to realize that there are multi-generation farmers and ranchers in Maryland and Nebraska and across the United States that are out there producing food and fiber for their family and yours. . .sometimes it just takes a different perspective. Sometimes you just have to be one in a million to appreciate it.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Live Like You Were Dying
The other day at lunch, my friend Donnie and I were talking finances—pay day is approaching and we were grumbling about the usual—paying bills and savings. He asked if I participated in our 401K, and I replied, sheepishly, “yes, but not at the maximum level.” You see, I explained to him, I’d rather enjoy my money now, while I can and while I’m able, then to leave it behind because only God knows when my time will be up.
Well, then Donnie told me of a local lady who went to the hospital with flu-like symptoms around 9 AM a few weeks back, and by supper time the same day, she’d passed on—no good explanation. And, over the weekend the cattle industry lost a couple just a few years older than me in a head-on collision just a short distance from their home, the way I understand it, and they left behind three children, one seriously injured in the car with them. You just never know.
So no, I’ll probably never max out my 401K, and I hope Donnie’s right—with that attitude I’ll live forever. And, with my drive and desire to be around people, I will probably want to work past my mid-60s, even as a Wal-Mart greeter or at a local boutique or photography shop. But, my point is, take advantage of every opportunity that life hands you! You just never know!
Eat on the good china! Go fishing with your dad next time he asks! Pay $3.5/gallon for gas and go visit an old friend! Spoil your kids, nieces, nephews, yourselves! Go ahead and order dessert! We can’t look back on the past; and we can’t live for the future. We must live for the here and now. Today is a gift; that’s why it's called the present.
Oh, and Dad, get the boat ready. Once Spring “officially” arrives and you and I both have a free weekend, I’m buying some of that high priced gas, and a one-day fishing license if you’ll loan me a pole. We’re goin’ fishin’!
Well, then Donnie told me of a local lady who went to the hospital with flu-like symptoms around 9 AM a few weeks back, and by supper time the same day, she’d passed on—no good explanation. And, over the weekend the cattle industry lost a couple just a few years older than me in a head-on collision just a short distance from their home, the way I understand it, and they left behind three children, one seriously injured in the car with them. You just never know.
So no, I’ll probably never max out my 401K, and I hope Donnie’s right—with that attitude I’ll live forever. And, with my drive and desire to be around people, I will probably want to work past my mid-60s, even as a Wal-Mart greeter or at a local boutique or photography shop. But, my point is, take advantage of every opportunity that life hands you! You just never know!
Eat on the good china! Go fishing with your dad next time he asks! Pay $3.5/gallon for gas and go visit an old friend! Spoil your kids, nieces, nephews, yourselves! Go ahead and order dessert! We can’t look back on the past; and we can’t live for the future. We must live for the here and now. Today is a gift; that’s why it's called the present.
Oh, and Dad, get the boat ready. Once Spring “officially” arrives and you and I both have a free weekend, I’m buying some of that high priced gas, and a one-day fishing license if you’ll loan me a pole. We’re goin’ fishin’!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Hello March!
If March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb or vice-a-versa, then 2011 must have come in like a Texas tornado, because just this weekend I have had time to breath! I actually flipped my kitchen calendar yesterday from January to March--sorry February you were just a blur! And, I also took down my outside Christmas lights. Yes, I actually contemplated leaving them up and being ahead of the game for 2011 Christmas, but I'm not that St. Josephied yet!
So, you might ask, what did I do in January & February? I'd like to tell you I was setting around eating bon bons, drinking sweat tea and watching Oprah. But since I don't like any of those three, that would be hard to believe...so I'll fill you in: 1) Cow Shows and 2) fighting germs!
I actually kicked off my new year trying to get to KS from the Arizona National on New Year's Eve and got to my good friend's house at 9 minutes til Midnight so we could ring in the New Year with Sparkling Grape Juice and go to bed. Sooooo much different from my olden days of New Year's Parties! It was fun to kick off New Years with the Hammer's and Gabrielle loves posing for me, see:
Then, January was literally filled with 10 days of the National Western--one of my favorite events of the year; and a few days of the Fort Worth Stock Show. Angus events were great at both of these events, but in between, I felt like I got hit by a Mack Truck--I had sinus infection, ear infection, lost my voice, had the flu. I even took three sick days, more than I think I've taken in 12 years with the Association!
February=CHAOS! Started off the month at the Cattle Industry Convention in Denver. Attended some meetings, worked the Angus booth, and visited with a lot of great people. Also went to the YCC Alumni reception where I saw about 20 of the folks I toured with the past summer. It was great.
From there I went to Tampa for the Florida State Fair, and then to the Dixie National ROV Show. At these southern shows, I always play tourist: Mini Zebus in Tampa and the National Gert show in Jackson!
Made a couple quick trips to the Iowa and Illinois Beef Expos to visit with members. Participated in a quarterly Board meeting; helped my Dad celebrate his birthday. And, hello, March!
Oh, and in between, I still volunteered a few times to play Monopoly and Yahtzee with my little sis, Kat, and we took in the Nature Center and went bowling...
I'm really glad to be home most of this month--my power planning month--when I'm doing a LOT of event planning for the rest of the year. But, come April, watch out! I'll be ready to dust off those suitcases and travel the world again. I mean, it is who I am!
So, you might ask, what did I do in January & February? I'd like to tell you I was setting around eating bon bons, drinking sweat tea and watching Oprah. But since I don't like any of those three, that would be hard to believe...so I'll fill you in: 1) Cow Shows and 2) fighting germs!
I actually kicked off my new year trying to get to KS from the Arizona National on New Year's Eve and got to my good friend's house at 9 minutes til Midnight so we could ring in the New Year with Sparkling Grape Juice and go to bed. Sooooo much different from my olden days of New Year's Parties! It was fun to kick off New Years with the Hammer's and Gabrielle loves posing for me, see:
Then, January was literally filled with 10 days of the National Western--one of my favorite events of the year; and a few days of the Fort Worth Stock Show. Angus events were great at both of these events, but in between, I felt like I got hit by a Mack Truck--I had sinus infection, ear infection, lost my voice, had the flu. I even took three sick days, more than I think I've taken in 12 years with the Association!
February=CHAOS! Started off the month at the Cattle Industry Convention in Denver. Attended some meetings, worked the Angus booth, and visited with a lot of great people. Also went to the YCC Alumni reception where I saw about 20 of the folks I toured with the past summer. It was great.
From there I went to Tampa for the Florida State Fair, and then to the Dixie National ROV Show. At these southern shows, I always play tourist: Mini Zebus in Tampa and the National Gert show in Jackson!
Made a couple quick trips to the Iowa and Illinois Beef Expos to visit with members. Participated in a quarterly Board meeting; helped my Dad celebrate his birthday. And, hello, March!
Oh, and in between, I still volunteered a few times to play Monopoly and Yahtzee with my little sis, Kat, and we took in the Nature Center and went bowling...
I'm really glad to be home most of this month--my power planning month--when I'm doing a LOT of event planning for the rest of the year. But, come April, watch out! I'll be ready to dust off those suitcases and travel the world again. I mean, it is who I am!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Always Say Thank You
When do you say thank you?
I came home tonight so excited to pack for one of my biggest and most exciting trips of the year—the National Western Stock Show. But now I’m setting on my bed, tears streaming down my face. I just read two Facebook posts that my longtime friend and mentor Price Harrison, from the Angus News, passed away today, and all I can think, is “did I ever tell him thank you?”
Price owned and published the "Angus News" or AN, as we called it back in my PR days from Dowelltown, TN, and I don’t know that he’s ever charged a nickel for a subscription, but for a summer PR intern, it was a great place to get portfolio material, because you see Price publishes everything the PR department sends out. And, my year as an intern I went to the TN preview show, so I got to meet him in person. He was one of the nicest and kindest gentlemen I ever will know. And, I can still see him in his green sport coat setting in the stands at the North American just above the back drop with his wave and a kiss being blown down to me.
But as I think about the 11 years I sent Price Angus news for his “Angus News” I wonder, did I ever thank him for putting up with an up and coming communicator? Have I ever thanked other mentors like Evan Slack who knows my roots and never fails to mention them, when trying to sell me an ad for the National Conference or NWSS Bull Sale? These are veteran communicators who although might not have taught me the 5 W’s and H, but have taught me the people skills needed in this business.
We get so “busy, busy, busy”. And then, our mentors are gone. And we have to eulogize them, and not just reminisce with them. I have had mentors at the Association that taught me to “be kinder than necessary” and others to “always talk to a stranger, because they might be the next bull customer.” Have I thanked these men? I just can’t remember, but I know I am running out of time.
No, I don’t grieve well. Those of who have followed my blog, have probably discovered that. But writing helps, so thanks for bearing with me. I think I’ll sign off now. I have a few thank you notes to write now…
I came home tonight so excited to pack for one of my biggest and most exciting trips of the year—the National Western Stock Show. But now I’m setting on my bed, tears streaming down my face. I just read two Facebook posts that my longtime friend and mentor Price Harrison, from the Angus News, passed away today, and all I can think, is “did I ever tell him thank you?”
Price owned and published the "Angus News" or AN, as we called it back in my PR days from Dowelltown, TN, and I don’t know that he’s ever charged a nickel for a subscription, but for a summer PR intern, it was a great place to get portfolio material, because you see Price publishes everything the PR department sends out. And, my year as an intern I went to the TN preview show, so I got to meet him in person. He was one of the nicest and kindest gentlemen I ever will know. And, I can still see him in his green sport coat setting in the stands at the North American just above the back drop with his wave and a kiss being blown down to me.
But as I think about the 11 years I sent Price Angus news for his “Angus News” I wonder, did I ever thank him for putting up with an up and coming communicator? Have I ever thanked other mentors like Evan Slack who knows my roots and never fails to mention them, when trying to sell me an ad for the National Conference or NWSS Bull Sale? These are veteran communicators who although might not have taught me the 5 W’s and H, but have taught me the people skills needed in this business.
We get so “busy, busy, busy”. And then, our mentors are gone. And we have to eulogize them, and not just reminisce with them. I have had mentors at the Association that taught me to “be kinder than necessary” and others to “always talk to a stranger, because they might be the next bull customer.” Have I thanked these men? I just can’t remember, but I know I am running out of time.
No, I don’t grieve well. Those of who have followed my blog, have probably discovered that. But writing helps, so thanks for bearing with me. I think I’ll sign off now. I have a few thank you notes to write now…
Monday, January 3, 2011
Opportunities: Make Resolutions for the New Year
Resolutions, it seems like everyone makes them in the excitement of the New Year, but six weeks into the year, and do you even know what you have resolved? I typically make some resolutions when my New Year starts on May 28; and those are easier to keep, because I’m not worried about comparing lists with everyone else (yoga, diet, excercise,etc). But since it is a new year, and the start of a new decade, I’ve decided to make a list—more like a “Bucket List” of goals to accomplish this year. And, I’m going to share it with you, my friends and readers so I’m accountable. We’ll revisit it throughout the year to see how I’m doing.
1.Take advantage of the opportunity. Whether it’s visiting a friend, touring a farm, trying something new or picking up the phone and calling an old friend, I am not going to pass by an opportunity.
2.Read daily. This might be a chapter in my Bible or my scripture study; or a book for enjoyment, but I’m going to read. I love to read, and I miss it.
3.Live by a budget. Sometimes I’m too generous and too frivolous. I’m going to start saving more, tithing more regularly and planning my donations better, rather than just giving on the spur on the moment. And I'm going to shop less.
4.Fall in love. I’ve prayed about this, and I know God has a plan for me. Jeremiah 29:11
So, those seem simple. Yes, they are few in numbers, but will still take perseverance, faith and some work. They would be simple if they were my only focus, but I still have a career I love and devote 10 plus hours to per day, volunteering and a household to run.
I’m going to take advantage of a little time to get off the computer and read and get some extra sleep. Until next time, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
1.Take advantage of the opportunity. Whether it’s visiting a friend, touring a farm, trying something new or picking up the phone and calling an old friend, I am not going to pass by an opportunity.
2.Read daily. This might be a chapter in my Bible or my scripture study; or a book for enjoyment, but I’m going to read. I love to read, and I miss it.
3.Live by a budget. Sometimes I’m too generous and too frivolous. I’m going to start saving more, tithing more regularly and planning my donations better, rather than just giving on the spur on the moment. And I'm going to shop less.
4.Fall in love. I’ve prayed about this, and I know God has a plan for me. Jeremiah 29:11
So, those seem simple. Yes, they are few in numbers, but will still take perseverance, faith and some work. They would be simple if they were my only focus, but I still have a career I love and devote 10 plus hours to per day, volunteering and a household to run.
I’m going to take advantage of a little time to get off the computer and read and get some extra sleep. Until next time, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
2010: A Summary of my Year in 100 Words
NWSS Activities Director
First Dixie National
New Little Sister, Kathleen
Jamie, Sonya, Shelia Weekend
MAJAC, first D.C. experience
RENO in April
Turned thirty-something, at the Atlantic National and met new friend
Young Cattlemen’s Conference, met more new friends, expanded interest and knowledge of the greatest industry on earth—BEEF
1st NJAS in different capacity, judged the CAB Cookoff—another great week
Weddings: Jeana & Dustin & Cortney & Tyler
KJLS—Grace “Sweet 16”;
Cooked Thanksgiving dinner
Online Bible study with great girlfriends
One year in house
Discovered meaning of unanswered prayers
21 states
Discovered meaning of true friendship
Very Blessed.
First Dixie National
New Little Sister, Kathleen
Jamie, Sonya, Shelia Weekend
MAJAC, first D.C. experience
RENO in April
Turned thirty-something, at the Atlantic National and met new friend
Young Cattlemen’s Conference, met more new friends, expanded interest and knowledge of the greatest industry on earth—BEEF
1st NJAS in different capacity, judged the CAB Cookoff—another great week
Weddings: Jeana & Dustin & Cortney & Tyler
KJLS—Grace “Sweet 16”;
Cooked Thanksgiving dinner
Online Bible study with great girlfriends
One year in house
Discovered meaning of unanswered prayers
21 states
Discovered meaning of true friendship
Very Blessed.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Wanted: My Christmas Spirit
Eleven days and counting until the biggest day of the year, and I can't seem find my Christmas Spirit anywhere! Oh, I've gone through the motions--purchased and wrapped every gift on my list; mailed the ones that needed mailed; wrote and sent the annual letter; listened to Christmas music in the car, home and office. I even set out my Nativity scene and decided against putting away my decorations at home until AFTER Christmas this year (I usually don't like coming home from the ROV show in Phoenix after New Year's faced with cleaning the decorations before Denver!). I even made it to the church Christmas program where I saw Ella as an Angel sing so many wonderful songs. I just can't seem to find my Christmas Spirit anywhere!
I have a pretty good life. I have a roof over my head, my health, a full belly and a car that runs. I have family and friends. I have no reason to run around like the Grinch. And, I'm not even grumpy. I go through the motions of exchanging gifts. I bought countless gifts for the adopt-a-family at work; I bought a toy for the Angel tree at church. I am thankful for the blessings in my life and that I can give. I just wish I could find my Christmas Spirit.
I have been wearing socks with candy canes and snowmen and wreaths on them. I even wore a jingle bell bracelet last Friday. I'm trying to be festive. I read my friend's KCK Christmas blog, and that helped a little, as I thought of some of my Christmas' long ago. But then I slept, and during that sleep, I lost my Christmas Spirit.
I sincerely hope that somewhere over the (Missouri or Niobrara) river and through the woods (or Halsey Forest) on my way to Grandma's house on this Sunday, as I take a few days of R&R to spend with the grandparents I find my Spirit. I know my Grandma has three things on her agenda when I get there: 1)playing cards, 2) cooking and 3) eating. And, none of those will help me find my Christmas Spirit; I'll just get fatter and sassier.
So, if you have any ideas on how to catch the Christmas Spirit, please let me know. I hope this doesn't happen to you. After all, it is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
I have a pretty good life. I have a roof over my head, my health, a full belly and a car that runs. I have family and friends. I have no reason to run around like the Grinch. And, I'm not even grumpy. I go through the motions of exchanging gifts. I bought countless gifts for the adopt-a-family at work; I bought a toy for the Angel tree at church. I am thankful for the blessings in my life and that I can give. I just wish I could find my Christmas Spirit.
I have been wearing socks with candy canes and snowmen and wreaths on them. I even wore a jingle bell bracelet last Friday. I'm trying to be festive. I read my friend's KCK Christmas blog, and that helped a little, as I thought of some of my Christmas' long ago. But then I slept, and during that sleep, I lost my Christmas Spirit.
I sincerely hope that somewhere over the (Missouri or Niobrara) river and through the woods (or Halsey Forest) on my way to Grandma's house on this Sunday, as I take a few days of R&R to spend with the grandparents I find my Spirit. I know my Grandma has three things on her agenda when I get there: 1)playing cards, 2) cooking and 3) eating. And, none of those will help me find my Christmas Spirit; I'll just get fatter and sassier.
So, if you have any ideas on how to catch the Christmas Spirit, please let me know. I hope this doesn't happen to you. After all, it is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
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