"You should blog about that"

The quotes are there for a reason. I was joking at a Tuesday night softball game that I can't slide in the dirt, only cow poop! One of my friends jokingly responded with that quote, so I have decided to do just that! It was refreshing to hear him say that, because sometimes I think that no one ever reads these. I get disappointed, and don't believe I have any impact, it's at that point and time that a friendly reminder from a friend lifts my spirits again.

Sometimes it's like that on the farm, I get bogged down by the work we have to do, and for just a brief moment, wish I lived in town. I could sleep in and the only animal I would ever have to feed is my dog. As soon as I begin wishing that, I take a step out the back door, and take in the rolling fields of Eastern Nebraska. I remember how blessed I am to have the wide open space around me, and the chance to care for God's creatures. I am also reminded of all the great people I wouldn't know if I didn't have these calves and the chores that come with them. After a bit of contemplation, I realize again what a great life I have. So thanks for reading, and thanks even more for eating the beef that keeps my family on our farm!

'till the cows come home

Ellie

PS I made this video for Earth Day...Check out the neat photos!

Get Informed, No Bull

It's springtime, finals are happening, and at home, the bulls are getting antsy to strut their stuff. This is the time of year they show off their stuff for the ladies (heifers). It's always a fun thing to watch, as they prance around checkin out the girls. It also reminded me of something that we humans do.

How many times have you completely made something up, and somehow gotten away with it? I can think of quite a few essay questions that included a lot of "bull." I used big words, complicated ideas, and a few broad statements to impress the teacher with my answer. In conversations with friends the best thing is to call someone out on their "bull." It's fun watching their face as you lay down cold hard facts to blow their words out of the water. It happens all the time in everyday life, but it should never happen when talking about your passion.

Sure, consumers might ask a question you can't answer, or one you don't want to, but that's no excuse to begin "bull"-ing them. If your even one answer isn't completely honest or straightforward, you will lose any individual's trust. That is something that can't be earned back easily. Know what you do, why you do it, and if you're embarrassed about something, then maybe it shouldn't be a part of your practice. That my friends is no "Bull"

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

"I feel a very unusual sensation - if it is not indigestion, I think it must be gratitude." ~Benjamin Disraeli

I am a busy girl. With finals around the corner, study abroad trips, Beef Ambassador events, and a summer internship, I don't get much resting time. I enjoy always having something to do, and staying busy keeps me energized. I know, though, that I can't do it alone. There is no way I could balance everything without help from others.

I attended 2 banquets this week where I got to interact with donors of scholarships I have received. College, and all the things that go with it, costs money. I have been fortunate enough to not have to work this semester, and because of scholarships donated by generous folks, my first year is completely paid. Thanks to the generous people I have met, and those I haven't been introduced to, I am able to be attending a college I love with a major I am passionate about.

It's more than just money. People in my life have taught me and encouraged me to strive for excellence. Beginning with my parent's loving care, I was able to feel confident enough to step out and try things like public speaking and showing cattle. In school I had a variety of teachers who challenged me to reach my potential, and not settle for just getting by. Whether it was a Calculus class I thought I didn't need, a Spanish video we took some extra time to do, or a simple chat in the English room, these adults inspired and taught me to go the extra mile.

Today, there are still supporters and mentors helping me. A professional in my field, and inspiring cattle woman has helped me pursue my dream. An understanding advisor was willing to meet with me even after I was late to the meeting, and helped me create a Beef Ambassador friendly schedule. A professor for just a semester still remembers my name, and greets me on campus. On campus and in the real world, folks like these help me continue.

And finally, my friends. What they do may not seem like much, but it is a vital part of me. They keep my schedule (you know who you are), make me laugh even when I don't want to, challenge me to think outside the box (and to use correct grammar), and are simply there when I need them. They come to the airport with "welcome home" signs after a long trip, eat lunch with me when I need to talk, and ride along on all my adventures.

To each of these people I say thank you. You have changed the life of this farm girl, and are still influencing her today. I thank God for bringing each of you into my life, and pray you will continue to be a part of it! Thanks!

'till the cows come home

Ellie

Not cool HSUS, 4-H is important to me!

my first bucket calf project

Recently HSUS held a campaign at the National 4-H Conference, where they handed out pamphlets and hosted a workshop (read about it here). This frustrates me; 4-H is one of the organizations that encouraged me in the beef industry. This hits too close to home.

As a young girl I was afraid to show big calves, so I began my 4-H showing bucket calves. I was completely responsible for that calf, and I learned about keeping records, and even gained interview experience through the contest. In later years as I began showing Angus Breeding Heifers, I learned even more about the beef industry. It was through 4-H that I first received Beef Quality Assurance training. Caring for livestock is an integral part of any 4-H project. Through 4-H I have met some of my closest friends, and learned to take pride in my hard work regardless of the placing I receive.

HSUS, 4-H is the wrong venue for your propaganda. Too many knowledgeable members and alumni know the truth about your ultimate goal. After all, 4-H is about learning and discovering, and I hope the organization takes their own advice and does some research for themselves. Humanewatch is a great place to start!

'till the cows come home

Ellie