Warning: Passion May Be Contagious

I've got it....The beef flu! No this isn't a mis-named virus that has nothing to do with cattle, I actually have the beef flu. I got it again in San Antonio. Just being among that many great producers and hearing excellent speakers gets me excited. It's more than excitement though, we are sharing a passion.

No, I did not enjoy waking up early throughout the week, but I did enjoy the chance to meet advocates like Troy Hadrick and his wife Stacy. Their passion stems from the love they have for their family and farm. It's moving to hear from them, and it lights a fire in my heart. This is a passion that runs like a river throughout the hearts of the cattlemen at convention, the same water binds us all.

Thankfully, there is no known cure for the beef flu, and I hope they never find one. I will always be infected, and will continue to do my best to pass the illness on to others. From the bottom of my heart, I hope you catch it too.

'Till the cows come home

Ellie

Fighting fire with fire!

It comes from everywhere. The claims about factory farming harming the environment, torturing animals, and creating deadly food. Heck, its even in my AGRICULTURE 103 class. Presenting the facts never seems to get us anywhere, because organizations rely on passion and emotion...So here it is.

I am a beef rancher. I have a small herd of Angus cows. Why? Because its a part of who I am. Because each time I work that herd, I get a sense of satisfaction of having worked hard. Because I wouldn't trade anything in the world, for that time with my family. Any family can have a fun vacation together, but a real one can work together, and have fun at the same time. Because that herd of cows connects me to a man I have never met, but admire, my grandfather. Its not about money or winning shows, its a way of life, I will NEVER it give up. If that's not passion I don't know what is?

I guess it just comes back to the age old phrase "you can't knock it till you've tried it" Don't blame a group of folks you don't understand. Instead, be open to conversations, ask questions, I will never be afraid to answer!