Man, what a difference a year makes! I feel like Thanksgiving has snuck up on us this year! This year I have so many things to be thankful for.. My health, My family, My Job, My church, etc.. and Really... I'm thankful that my kids are in school 5 days! I'm so thankful for the teachers who teach them, (because I'm NOT a great teacher, other than my kids knowing some great country, pop, soul, and Motown songs!)
2020 taught us a lot of things, some negative, and some positive, but I think a big takeaway for the general public was learning more about where their food comes from, and Taking time to appreciate all of our farmers, producers, and leaders in the Ag Industry. I think one of the biggest lessons learned is just how much we NEED Agriculture and Agricultural producers. So this Thanksgiving, I give thanks to all the Awesome producers out there and hope that as we go through another year we continue to bring you important agriculture news that helps you get through your day. Thank you, Farmers!
(Pic of me and my first Simmental Heifer, Heffie)
Giving Thanks for America’s Farmers
By Aaron Putze
They don’t seek attention or verses that rhyme;
Nor features or spotlights, none of any kind.
For farmers it’s not a headline to rise each new day;
Often before sunrise as they get on their way.
They say it’s part of the job to get soaked by rain;
To plow through snow and work through pain.
To move augers and wagons and make quick repairs;
To volunteer their time at local churches, schools and fairs.
They don’t mind working alone, some prefer it that way;
But don’t be mistaken for they have plenty to say.
About markets and weather, soil types and fields;
The status of regulations and a neighbor’s yields.
They don’t admit perfection because things can go wrong;
Accidents will happen but they make the will strong.
To put in a good day’s work before there is rest;
Continually improving and doing one’s best,
Like innovative ways that protect the water, soil and air;
Being a good neighbor and raising livestock with care.
Of providing more food using less energy, water and land;
And offering choices to meet customer demand.
For these things and more we recognize this Thanksgiving;
America’s farmers and what they bring to living.
Like thousands of food items, many easy to prepare;
Fuel to power vehicles and clothing to wear.
Then there are life-saving medicines, tires and blue jeans;
The sheets on our beds and soaps to keep us clean.
In fact, about everything we need to live, work and play;
Is derived from the work that farmers will do today.
With that in mind, we pause, take stock and remember;
What farmers bring to life as we gather to give thanks this November.
(pic of My 8-year-old, Crosslee with her best donkey Kris at the farm.)
