Tradition

I love traditions, which is no surprise as I am a Lutheran German farm girl. This Christmas season has held some old traditions, new ones, and even some CHANGE!

This past weekend I got to go home and help my mom in the kitchen. While I have already learned her secret to tasty pies, I had yet to tackle her famous homemade crescent rolls on my own. So armed with a mixing bowl and rolling pin, I set to work. Thankfully mom was there to guide me through growing yeast, kneading the dough, and determining when exactly the rolls should come out of the oven. It was a great chance to learn an old tradition that I'll definitely share with my family in the future.

I also made Oreo balls for my little brother. Having discovered these cookies last year, I soon became an expert in this easy recipe. It is officially the first recipe I have committed to memory, not that it's all that difficult. From the guys' reactions I know this cookie is going to become a holiday tradition of its own.

"The only people who like change are babies, and even they cry about it." I have no idea who said that quote, but I agree. This year for the first time, our Christmas tree is made of plastic instead of pine. We also are having a real Christmas breakfast instead of pop-tarts, and the presents are already wrapped (traditionally this is done on the 23rd or 24th). The only set back with the fake tree is that mom keeps having the need to water it. These are little changes, and I don't mind them, though I like to tease my mom. It got me to thinking about agriculture. This industry is full of traditions. It's one of my favorite parts, but sometimes we need to embrace change. Now I'm not saying to pitch out all the traditions, but take an honest look at your practices. Perhaps it's time to make some adjustments. After all sometimes change is a good thing although feel free to cry about it.

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Freezing your rear end off



Sure, it looks pretty, but it means it's freezing cold out!

 It finally happened; it snowed here in Lincoln, NE over the weekend. I had mixed feelings about it, nothing is prettier than snow, but also nothing is worse than snow boots with a hole in them (and a promise not to buy new shoes until 2012). This morning as I got up early to head to work, though I definitely missed home, and more specifically my father's habit of starting my car and warming it up after he fed cows in the morning. As I froze in my car the few blocks to work, I thought about complaining. Only then did I remember the moments I have been significantly colder.


Growing up my brothers and I had a love/hate relationship with snow days. It was great to be out of school, but that much snow also meant that bunks had to be scooped. This process meant bundling up, and one wasn't appropriately dressed until the only eyes were visible. Then we would trek out to the lots and begin to clear each feeding trough. As I worked, I steadily grew warmer in my winter gear, so I began to peel off my hat, gloves, scarf, coat, until I was down to coveralls and boots. Usually by the time I had shed my clothing we were finishing up our work, and mischief could begin. So at my most vulnerable state one of my brothers would take the opportunity to tackle me into the snow. Now sufficiently wet and cold, I would put back on my layers and proceed to seek my revenge.

Winter in the city is different. Snow days don't happen as often, and there are no bunks to scoop. The ability to take some cold comes in handy for the treks across campus, but there is no work to keep me warm. Farmers and Ranchers don't get snow days. Like postmen, they are out caring for cattle no matter what Mother Nature gives them for weather. So I believe I'll keep my complaints to myself (and grab another layer to keep warm.)

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Getting the tour

My dad loves to give the tour.  The tour is a trip out to the pen of cows during evening feeding.  After helping to dump the buckets into the bunks, dad begins.  The tour varies depending on who is the recipient.  For my 5 year old cousin, he gets the version that explains the difference between a cow and a bull, and the possible up close and personal experience with a former show heifer.  For the past three years, I have been getting the tour.  My version involves standing in the middle of the lot as dad points to each calf and recites the name of the bull and the back story of the cow.  He also describes the plans he has for each calf whether it's the show ring, sale ring, or simply stay-at-home.  It's kinda funny that the man who claims not to remember his high school years can recite the lineage of every calf on the place. 

I love the tour.  It's time spent with my dad, (or Daddy as I like to call him).  It's also time reflecting on the blessings we have been given, and the future that we all hope for.  To many it would seem to just be some cows, boring old cows eating their feed, but to my father, and the rest of my family it's a passion.  One that can only be described as love for the land, the cattle on it, and the God who created it all.  So I'll treasure these tours until I get the chance to give my own.

A picture from one of last year's tours

'till the cows come home,
Ellie

Thank Goodness

I have been teasing a roommate of mind and referring to her as the "Christmas Nazi" as she is adamant that no sign of the holiday be present until after Thanksgiving. Secretly though I agree with her. It seems this holiday created by early Americans to give thanks to God for the blessings in their lives gets lost. It’s squished in there between the silly dress up of Halloween, and the huge event that is Christmas. It makes sense though, not much profit can be made from making a big deal about a holiday focusing on contentment and thankfulness.


The above picture is Nordstrom’s policy on the holidays. We don’t have one of the retail store’s locations here in Lincoln, but I like their sentiment. One holiday at a time. Christmas with its music, lights, snow, and magic is one of my favorite times of year, but Thanksgiving should have its place too.

As a farm kid, Thanksgiving is a chance to go home, celebrate the harvest of our neighbors (the chance for the cows to be out on stalks again), and be thankful for my close knit family. I’m also thankful for the folks that produce the food that sits on the table (though I’m not a fan of sweet potatoes). May God bless you and your family this holiday season.

‘till the cows come home,

Ellie

PS I’m also thankful you read this blog!

I don't hate vegetarians

My friends know all about my passion for beef.  In fact they enjoy teasing me about my many beef related titles. (After NE Angus Queen, and National Beef Ambassador, they claim World Beef Dictator is next).  They also enjoy introducing me to a vegetarian friend, hoping to make us both squirm. Usually its the vegetarian who needs to justify their choice, which I find kind of funny.

I don't hate vegetarians, after all, their diet is their personal decision.  I'm not offended by their choices, but what does upset me is misinformation being spread.  It's vegetarians that don't eat meat because they believe it's better for the environment, or animals on most farms are abused, or even pumped full of drugs and hormones that get me riled up.  If you are a vegetarian who happens to believe those things check out explorebeef.org  to learn about what really happens on farms and ranches.  

Everyone has a right to eat what they want, and not feel guilty.  Get your facts before you make a decision, but I won't judge you, so please don't judge me.  After all there are bigger problems in this world today then whether or not you eat meat. 

An old beef ad captures me sentiments.

'till the cows come home,

Ellie   

"it's a rich man's world"

I got the chance to see my friend Leigh perform in a play called Enron last night. I really enjoyed it translation: (IT WAS AWESOME)! As I was only 12 when the whole scandal happened, I was more concerned with my childhood than the demise of one of America's largest corporations. Last night gave me a chance to learn the story. I also have gotten to thinking about the Occupy Wall Street campaign and what it means to society. I don't have all the answers but I have come to one conclusion. Folks seem to hate folks that make money.


Occupy Wall Street is attempting to correct the wrongs of corporate "big dogs" that continue to make a huge amount of money while individuals go jobless. Don't get me wrong, I hate corruption, but I also hate the idea of equal wealth distribution. Life isn't easy, and sometimes people have struggles from a financial standpoint, but blaming the people who make more money than you isn't the answer. There is nothing wrong with being successful and earning a living (provided you and your conscience can sleep at night). Simply put, I not the 99% or the 1%, I believe that making money is your own personal prerogative. I'm responsible for earning my own living, and refuse to blame others for my own tough times!

Farmers and Ranchers are caring individuals with a passion for growing food, but they are also business people. Meaning they work everyday to earn money. Whenever this is mentioned the term "factory farm" is brought up. Farming is a business, many are incorporated. It's a business just like entertainment, clothing, housing, and anything else. The romantic idea that farmers live off the land is not only non-existent, but impossible. Organic farming will NOT be able to feed the world! Sure it's a great niche, but it's not an ideal for the entire agriculture industry. The majority of modern farms aren't cruel to animals, using dangerous hormones or chemicals, or destroying the environment. They may not be as aesthetically pleasing as in the past, but they do feed the planet.

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Kick the Can (a practical guide)

Last night a large number of my friends gathered at home without me.  I was unable to participate in their festivities that included this childhood game (yes we are all over 18, but that doesn't mean we can't have fun).  [side note: friends do not feel guilty for playing without me (I better not hear any sorry's)].  On to my actual point, this game is fun, laugh your face off kind of fun! I want everybody to be able to play so I'll outline it then go on to share my strategy for victory.

You will need
5 or more friends (any less is just kinda lame)
Can (coffee or other)
Playing space (preferably a house in the middle of the country sorrounded by fields, barns, or other easy-to-hide-in places)

To Play: This game is a hide and seek/ base tag hybrid
1. Select a base and place can in plain sight near base
2. Select someone who is 'it' (usually "nose goes" works well)
3. Non-'it' individuals have a set amount of time to hide in playing space
4. After set amount of time has passed 'it' begins to hunt them
5. Once found/tagged by 'it' individual must sit by base
6. Non-found individuals may run up and kick the can thus setting free all their captured allies on the base.
7. Game continues until 'it' is tired or all individuals are trapped on base.

Special Circumstances
In case of injury: report to house.
Jail Breaks: can be decided upon by entire playing audience (or at least those not in hiding) including 'it' to keep game going and so nobody has to sit on the base for the whole night

Ellie's Super Secret Strategies
*"Nobody puts Baby in a corner"- always have some way to easily escape your hiding space so you have a chance to run once you are spotted.

*"Silence! I keel you"- no matter how hard, it is keep quiet.   Remember that what sounds like whispering to you is loud enough for the entire county to hear (unless your bored and really want to get caught).

*"We're the 3 best friends that anybody could have"- hide with at least 1 other person, unless you are the Yoda of hiding, chances are you will be spotted.  Having 1 or 2 people to distract the 'it', helps you escape (although it is now your moral obligation to kick the can so your friends can be freed).

So embrace your inner child give Kick the Can a try and see how it goes.  I'm by no means an expert, but I do alright for myself.  I played it for the first time at age 17 so you're never too old to start.  It's a great excuse to drag those city friends out to the country and show them your farm, and make them want to come back too! 

'till the cows come home
Ellie

caN U feel it?

We are well into Husker football season here in "the good life" and it shows.  The sea of red takes over Lincoln, NE, and creates the 3rd largest city in the state.  Although I'm sure there are individuals in other states at other colleges that have a passion for their team, the Huskers hold a dear place in my heart (right next to Angus cattle).

My brothers and I are the 3rd generation to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  My grandfather received a degree in what was then called "animal husbandry," and played Cornhusker football.  Otto was a small town kid from Hemingford, Nebraska whose passion for agriculture stemmed from time spent on his Aunts' and Uncles' farm outside of town.  While at the U he met, his wife Delores (where my outrageous middle name comes from).  Once he graduated and began raising cattle, Otto made a unique trade with the Huskers.  He provided a steer every year for the football team's beef, and in exchange received season tickets to watch the team.

My mother followed her father, and older siblings to UNL and there met my dad.  Again Husker football played an important role in their lives.  My parents' first color TV was purchased distinctly so the Huskers could be watched in their glorious red and white. 

The Cornhuskers are as much a part of my heritage as the cattle that graze in the pastures at home.  Standing with my fellow students, I still feel the excitement and passion I felt as a freshman.  Husker football is a big deal in Nebraska, but it's not just about the win-loss record or National Championships (by the way we have 5).  It's about connecting with the people in our lives, both the folks in the stands and the generations before. I'll always be a Nebraska fan, and an agriculture advocate, it's in my blood!

GO BIG RED!

'till the cows come home,
Ellie

At the end of a halter

At the Nebraska State Fair over the holiday weekend, I enjoyed the role of family herds "woman."  I scooped manure, fed hogs, and calmed nerves.  It was just what I needed.  A summer in the city combined with classes in the same city had me in a bit of a rut.  You see, I have been at shows, around shows, or talking about shows for my entire life.  When my mother asked me "was it worth it?" I wasn't sure what she meant.

Mom went on to explain that at 50 she has spent half of her life as a 4-H member or a 4-H mom.  She said that all 3 of us kids at some time had mentioned feeling pressured to show cattle.  I remembered that feeling.  That if I gave up on my show heifer, my parents would be disappointed.  While I always knew my parents would support any decision I made, I knew that showing cattle was different.  It's a integral part of our family culture, but was it worth it?  Was hard work, missed weekends, and busy summers worth the chance to stand at the end of a halter?

In addition to the obvious hard work, sense of accomplishment, and responsibility I learned from my projects.  I learned some more subtle things.  I learned how to think on my feet, when the judge asks a challenging question.  I learned that life is rarely fair, hard work doesn't always automatically mean success.  I learned to pick myself up out of the dirt of the show ring or life, and keep my head held high.  Standing at the end of the halter wasn't about winning or losing.  It was about life, laughter, and a love for cattle passed down for 3 generations.

One thing I know for sure, though my kids may not want to show, I want them to find the passion for something that means more than hard work and responsibility.  A passion that binds them to their friends, their family, and their world.

Jake, Jud, and Me trying on dad's cowboy gear

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Is the pen mightier...

As a college student, the second question people ask you after "where do you go to school?" is always: "What's your major." My answer Agricultural Journalism is always met with a bit of confusion. Folks outside of the Ag sector usually wonder that there is actually a field committed to communicating about how food is grown. My friends have teased me mercilessly about being the girl that talks, writes, and blogs about beef. The fun in it all is that in while teasing me they learn a thing or two about cattle from "the beef girl."

It's August now and I'll be headed into my junior year of study at UNL. The future is looming nearer, and like most other college students, the important decisions that will be made in the next couple of years terrify me. I've been wondering if perhaps I made a mistake. Maybe I'm not supposed to be in agriculture communications. Then a conversation, or just a drive down a country road reminds me why I study what I do. It's to tell the stories of the farms, to tell about the families behind the fields and the pastures. When it comes down to it, that's what I love, using my pen (or laptop) to fight the lies and manipulation of the people that want to eliminate my passion and my heritage.

That's why I picked my major, why I put up with the teasing, and why I write this blog. To share my passion (and a few funny videos)



'till the cows come home,
Ellie

My uniform

I was pulling through McDonald's drive through yesterday. I just had to have some of those salty french fries for a dollar. As the gentleman took my change he commented on my outfit, specifically my choice of legwear, "How can you wear stockings (pantyhose) on a hot day like today?" I responded that the professional environment I worked in required a high calibar of dress, including the dreaded pantyhose. Although they aren't the most comfortable, especially considering the current Nebraska heat, they are required, and I'm ok with that.

It brought to mind all the summers I spent in jeans and boots. They are equally uncomfortable wear in the 90+ heat, but again they were required. Afterall, the safety of my toes and legs was more important than being as cool as possible. My jeans and boots were worn comfy favorites, but still could be stifling especially during the week of the National Jr. Angus Show. This summer I'm enjoying the chance to wear shorts and flip-flops (after work), but still break out the jeans and boots when I'm at home, and there is work to be done.

I pulled away from the McD's and laughed to myself, when work needs done whether in town or on the farm, it's important to have the right uniform.

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

How a funny question became a serious discussion

Alright that title may be a little overzealous, not all will find the following story hilarious, but I'm going to tell it anyway.

I have been working at a credit union as a teller for the summer. I work with a bunch of awesome ladies and since I can't bring my job to the ranch, I bring the cattle to work. I have a picture of a few of my family's Angus cows and calves in the pasture as my desktop background. Mary, the gal who did my training noticed it, and commented, "your cows look so cute with their little earrings." With a smile I answered that ear tags are more like name tags than jewelry. We then went on to discuss what it was like to grow up on a ranch, particularly the the less than popular subject of the processing of 4-H projects at the end of each summer. A few of my fellow tellers were listening so I explained how the process of raising a project then having that project become the food that actually feeds your family is actually a great lesson to learn as a child. Death is a reality of life, and the calves that I showed aren't cruelly killed for no reason, but they serve the purpose of providing an important source of zinc, iron and protein for my family, and that's not sad at all.

I'm not sure she completely understood, but another fellow teller did. She said she had never really thought of it that way, and I was pretty excited. I enjoy the conversations that let me tell a little of my story and educate a few friends about beef and the folks that raise it.

Winter brings a new calf crop and so the cycle of life on a cattle ranch begins again

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

A summer in the city and a sweet goodbye

Well Summer is finally here! My favorite season is in full swing and I'm looking forward to picnics, camping, flip flops, and of course my birthday. This summer will be different. I'll be living in Lincoln, and keeping banking in the family as I work as a part-time teller. I'll be away from the farm, and experiencing a city-style summer.

In April, my parents asked me to make a decision. They wanted me to decide whether or not I would be showing cattle for this last summer of eligibility. After careful consideration, I decided that I would not be in the show ring this summer. The past years have been a blast, and showing cattle has been a huge influence in my life. In addition to the basics of hard work and responsibility, showing calves brought me closer to my brothers and parents, and taught me to value the moments of life in victories and defeat. The best part about showing were the people. Yup, cattle folks know how the have fun, laugh, and get stuff done. It's the friends I only get to see at the shows that I will miss the most.

So I'm mooooving on. I love our cattle, and will be driving home when I just can't handle the urban jungle anymore. Thanks to my parents for introducing me to the show ring, and the beef industry and encouraging me along the way. I may be done showing heifers, but I'm definitely not done with cows!

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Why isn't it summer yet?

Sharing a meal with friends is one of my favorite summer activities!

Summer is my favorite season. It's the time of year that shorts and boots become my staple at home, and my friends and I have time again for shenanigans. Our adventures have included everything from a nerf war, a World's of Fun Trip, and endless games of pitch. More than just social time, I enjoy summer as an opportunity to explore the job world. My summer jobs have included Nursing home dietary aide, bank teller, and most recently a summer ag communications intern at a Nebraska Co-Op. Currently this summer holds no positions yet, but I'm sure the right position is around the corner, although the uncertainty is killing me, God has a plan for this summer just like every other one.

That's the way life is. One second you have it all planned, and the next it all seems to have fallen apart. Then when all hope is lost, you discover something wonderful among the wreckage. It's like that in agriculture. One second the markets are great, the calf crop looks amazing, and the sun in shining. The next it's pouring rain, you have a dead calf, and you have no idea how you're going to pay this month's bills. Everybody hates uncertainty, but it is among the uncertainty that miracles truly happen. Even though I may be down and weary of job hunting, I still am so grateful for the blessings I have in a loving family, good friends, and an amazing life.

Look for a blog soon to come about what my summer job will be, and in the meantime enjoy some sun wherever you are! Happy Summer!

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Where I come from, Rain is a good thing!

Last night's shenanigans in the rain!
Overheard today as I was walking around campus, "If I hear 'April showers bring May flowers' one more time, I'm gonna steal their umbrella and kick it through the goal posts in memorial stadium."

It took a lot of restraint not to laugh at that girl's statement. I like rain, I don't love it, but for the most part I like it. I grew knowing that a complaint about rain would mean that I would hear, It's good for farmers, and good for us! Of course, my real enjoyment from rain, is just playing in it. All it takes is a couple hours in the wetness with friends, and the rainy day blues are gone.

Last night, a couple of my roommates and good friends decided to set aside our studies and go back ten years. Back to a time when getting wet and muddy in the rain was the greatest adventure a day could provide.

Finding the positives when life gives you rain means thinking outside the box. When Mother Nature gives you actual rain, put on some shorts and flip-flops and find your inner child!

Learning passion

Good times, Good Friends, Great Organization!

It's state FFA convention here in the Cornhusker State! The blue jackets have invaded the capitol city and it's great to see. Working as a Career Development Events Student Coordinator means that I get to be back in the action. FFA was one of my favorite organizations in high school, because it taught me the passion I have today for speaking and agriculture!

As a freshman, like most others I learned the FFA creed. "I believe in the future of Ag," became not just a line, but my personal mantra. From there I continued public speaking, and my favorite livestock events, judging and management. My favorite part of FFA was not contests, but rather leadership development events like PEAK (Pursuing Excellence and Knowledge) and COLT (Chapter Officer Leadership Training). Nothing was better than meeting other FFA members and learning the keys to leadership at the same time!

As a Senior, I ran for a state officer position. I didn't get one, but I remember hearing officer speak on their experiences and urging us to pursue our passions. I took those words to heart, and today, I'm combining communications and agriculture in my degree. Pursuing my passion led me throughout my year as a National Beef Ambassador.

This blog post isn't just about Ag. I'm just using my personal examples. Find what you love, no matter what it is, and incorporate it into your everyday life!

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

The most important thing I've learned...

The title is presumptuous. I really have no idea what the most important thing I've ever learned really is, but what I'm gonna blog about ranks pretty high. Drum roll...Laughing at myself. Yup, that simple ability has served me well throughout the years. Laughing with folks is way better than getting angry for them laughing at you!

I learned the skill growing up with 2 brothers and a mom that never let me live things down. While some may think that teasing is bad for a kid, I'm a living example that a bit of ribbing can be a benefit. I learned that I make mistakes and say ridiculous things that warrant laughter. Whether it's a pair of rubber gloves on my feet or cookies that certainly didn't warrant that title (called "wanna-be cookies"). In my early years, I used tears to try and warrant some attention and sympathy, but after earning the name "The faucet" I realized that my petty self-centered-ness was laughable.

It hasn't changed. I'm the brunt of so many jokes among my friends, and I LOVE IT! There is nothing better than laughing with my friends, and relieving the stress of a mistake or problem at the same time. The stories are then re-told and I get the lucky advantage of becoming hero of the folly. Sometimes the teasing or laughter goes too far, and my friends know when I'm really angry (or if you don't here's a hint...If I'm quiet...I'm mad).

An example comes from my recent spring break adventure. 10 of us road-tripped (yes I made that a verb) to Arizona, and then on to a beach in California. This fun sunny opportunity was a chance to do a group favorite: take pictures while jumping in the air. My friend Alex has great skills capturing this feat, so I handed him my camera and up we went! We took a few leaps in the air to convey our joy and friendship, and then it happened. An overenthusiastic jumper went up, and instead of landing on her feet, came to rest in the sand on her rear. Alex snapped the picture below and you can see my friends' reactions to the fall.

This story will be told again, and I will bask in the glory of my embarrassment. Instead remembering my shame, I choose to recall the laughter and fun of the moment. In life, look for the fun and laughter, instead of the pain!

P.S. I'm ready to laugh with those of you teasing me for writing this blog...

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Thank a Farmer Thursday!

What will you be doing on March 31, 2011? Well if you are anywhere near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, you should look for people in shirts that say "Proud to Farm." As a part of a group of colleges across the U.S. UNL is promoting farming and agriculture on both East Campus (Ag Campus) and City Campus.

I will be joining the ranks of students talking about my passion for Ag, and why it's important. My family certainly doesn't farm for the thanks of others, but rather because it's what we love! Too many of my friends and classmates don't have a clue about farming. In one of my advertising classes, my professor was surprised by my description of my family brand. She said it was too simplistic, and didn't show enough style. I told her I didn't have a hand in designing the H and sideways JS that are our brands, and that brands don't have to be creative, they must be readable. Simple everyday conversations like that always make me smile, and are what I'm hoping to see on the 31st. If you're a UNL student who wants to become involved check out the facebook event here.

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Luckiest kid in the world

This video brings back so many great memories. I grew up much like to Boyd kids. I loved counting cattle, feeding bottle calves, and just running around in the pasture. It was fun way to grow up, and I wouldn't trade anything in the world for my farm background.

One memory that taught me a lot is the day mom left us at the pasture. We had been playing in our "African Savannah Tree" at the pasture while my parents vaccinated or moved cows (I really can't remember and didn't really care at age 5). We were having so much fun that when mom whistled, her signal that it was time to go, my brothers and I decided to ignore her. Mom then yelled to us explaining that it really was time to go home, but again we simply continued playing. So mom got in the truck, and we looked up in time to see her pulling away from the pasture. We beat it up the cow path, but were too late. Mom had disappeared down the road, and now (we thought) we were left to spend the night in the grass. My older brother immediately began planning where we would sleep, while I simply bawled. About fifteen minutes later, mom returned (she had simply gone out of sight down the hill), and three relieved kids piled into the back seat. The lesson that day...obey your parents, after all, there the ones with a warm house and supper.

Now I'm sure my brothers will deny this ever happened (as they do with most of my childhood memories), but it will always stick in my mind. The lessons I learned as a cowgirl apply to more than just raising cattle, they have spread into so many other areas of my life. I'm sure the Boyd kids will have similar memories. Feel free to comment and share your own fun story. After all, Farming isn't just about growing food, but about growing families too!

'till the cows come home

Ellie

Sammy Kershaw and Lady Gaga

I love music! Songs just speak to the heart in a way that plain words just can't. It seems that there is a song for every moment and emotion, and getting lost in a refrain is just great. I have quite a library according to iTunes, I could go 2 and 1/2 days listening to music without repeating a song. I have all sorts of artists in my library. In fact, the title of this blog comes from a mix cd I made. My older brother commented that only one of my cd's would contain both "Queen of my Double Wide Trailer" and "Poker Face."

For a long time, I only listened to country music, but around Jr. High I began to gain an appreciation for some pop and rock music. Now my tastes are so varied that I no longer have a favorite genre. My music tastes are as varied as my life experiences.

Just like my music collection can't be stereotyped, I can't be either. I'm a Christian, cowgirl, speech nerd, football fan, and political nut. I don't like to be put in a box. No body likes to be classified by a certain label, but I find myself quick to break out the label maker and begin sticking them on the folks around me. I have "city" friends that I have discovered have farm work experience. I'm surprised when they have thrown hay bales and chopped thistles. Just as farmers and ranchers don't want to be seen as money hungry stubborn hicks, non-farming folks don't want to be seen as ignorant spoiled brats. Stereotypes have no place in conversations. After all, we probably listen to the same music!

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

A little bit of state pride

(Good Ole Nebraska Scenery)

I have always lived in Nebraska, and I certainly believe it's the good life. Nebraskans are friendly folks, innovative, and hardworking folks. We can also be stubborn, jump to conclusions, and will share our opinion whether you asked for it or not. I'm not blogging about the wonderful Huskers today, rather the future is on my mind.

In addition to being a cool place to live, Nebraska is one of the best states for livestock production. We have a water source larger than Lake Erie, and it sustains itself (I'm talking about the Ogallala Aquifer). Nebraska is also home to a large ethanol industry, and produces a lot of corn (there's a reason we are called the CORNhuskers). There are a number of large feedlots, dairies, and other livestock operations in the state. These large operations are typically called "bad" by the media and other misinformed organizations, but the truth is that these business fuel my home's economy. Nebraska will never be a home to any other industry (like automobile or textile). My family and many others like it are not only involved in production, but it side industries, like ag lending.

Not only do larger operations provide jobs and stimulate local economies, but they also are the innovators for the newest technology. It was large beef businesses that first implemented Temple Grandin's livestock management systems. Large agriculture operations aren't bad for America, in fact in tough times, they are just what we need. I'm not shy of talking about big business in agriculture after all, it's what fuels the home of Kool Aid, Runza, and Dorthy Lynch!

'till the cows come home,

Ellie

Censorship, Invasion, and China

It's always bound to happen when my older brother comes home. We get in an inevitable argument. Sometimes it's over things as trivial as who does more work in the family, and other times it's actually an intelligent discussion. Snow that trapped the family at home on Saturday night was the perfect situation to begin an argument.

Jake began by stating that the government should have the power to censor what stories come out of the war zones in Iraq and Afghanistan. After all, he argued, that technically isn't American soil, so individual rights of freedom of speech don't exist over seas. I argued that the problem wasn't the simple presence of journalists in the war zones, but rather the fact that their stories were examples of lazy journalism. Their stories based largely on opinions, wouldn't even earn a passing grade in my reporting class.

From that argument we went on to discuss why an international course is required in college and not one in production agriculture. After all, the only thing standing between the U.S. and a potential take over (beside nuclear weapons) is the amount of food we produce. We only need to call upon the countries that we feed with crops produced in America to fight as our allies, or risk losing their food supply.

Finally, we turned to China. In every class I hear how the amount of debt we owe the Asian country will cause them to take over our country, but Jake used a simple analogy to explain why they never will. If you produce bulls, and only one large rancher purchases the majority of your bulls each year, you aren't going to buy out that rancher and lose your customer.

The point of this whole blog isn't to start some arguments, but rather to urge you to get an opinion. This argument was passionate, and we both had used some facts to back up our side. Too many of my friends simply choose not to care. They are too worried about matters in their lives to look at a bigger picture, and simply take what they are told at face value. Evaluating the news and politics critically is incredibly important, after all, we are the next generation of decision makers, and the events and policies of today will drastically affect our future.

'till the cows come home,
Ellie

The Stock Show

My dad claims that heaven will be a never ending Denver Stock Show, and I'm hoping he's right. Though I've only attended the stock show once (I earned a trip through 4-H livestock judging), it's legendary status among my family and the livestock community makes me feel the excitement this time of year. This huge show is held in Denver Colorado in January and is always freezing cold. The grounds have begun to feel like home, as I have attended 2 National Jr. Angus Shows there, including helping to host the show last summer.

My family's history with the stock show began when my grandfather first rode the train with his calf out to Denver. He would get on with his beef project in Hemingford, NE, and ride with the calf all the way to Denver. In his adult years, my grandfather took my mom and her siblings to the stock show every year with a carload of Angus Steers. My mom was always responsible for using a show stick to set the feet of the group as she was the shortest member of her family. When my grandfather past on, my dad, mom, and uncle continued to attend the stock show for only a couple years. The stories of shennanigans down in the yards, shows up on the hill, and the adventures in between are the source of many dinner converstions. My family isn't unique. Many farmers and ranchers in Nebraska and across the United States have similar stories about their involvement in the Denver Stock Show. The video below explains how the stock show got started.



If you are luck enough to be able to attend the Stock Show this year, have fun! It's a great tradition in the livestock industry!

'till the cows come home,
Ellie