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Agriculture friends Shine On Shine On Ag women in Ag

Shine On~ Women in Agriculture~Kay Schrock

Shine on~ Women in Ag Kay Schrock

 Shine On~ Women in Agriculture~Kay Schrock

Shine On, Shine On was the subject of a blog post that I did a while back.

Here is the link to my first Shine On, Shine On post!  I have decided that there are a lot of people that help me “Shine” and I am going to feature them on my Shine On, Shine On series.

This year I decided to start a new spin on my Shine On series and add a little more of agricultural spin. I am excited to be bringing you these interviews. My goal is to share these fine ladies stories with you all.  Help me welcome my second Shine On Lady, Kay Schrock.

From historic homesteaders to contemporary cattle ranchers, women have been the cornerstone of America’s agriculture heritage. In fact, the 2012 Census of Agriculture notes that nearly 1 million women are working America’s lands. That is nearly a third of our nation’s farmers.  Women are also scientists, economists, foresters, veterinarians, and conservationists. Women are in the boardrooms and the corner offices of international enterprises, and are the owners and operators of small businesses. Women are property owners and managers. Women are policymakers and standard bearers. Women are involved in every aspect of agriculture.

Shine On~Women In Agriculture featuring: Kay Schrock

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your career path.

I am a stay-at-home mom and wife. I am very careful what I allow in my life that takes me away from my home. As my kids get older, I am setting aside more time to write, photograph ranch life, and work on my blog. My goals are to become a better horsewoman, learn more about cattle health, and be able to help more on the ranch.

Tell us about your role and what does your “typical day” looks like.

I get up early to spend time in Bible reading and prayer. Then I make breakfast for my family, and homeschool our kids. Usually I workout for 30 minutes each day, or go for a run! Winter days are spent mostly at home in the house. In the summer, I spend a lot of time outside; riding with my husband, moving cows, checking mineral and water, etc. I also love gardening and puttering around my yard. We go to a lot of brandings in the summer as well. Usually I take my camera and get a lot of photos!
My husband is a hired hand on this ranch, but I was not hired on, so I don’t have any responsibilities on the ranch. But I do enjoy helping and learning, so I am out there when I can make it work! I do cook for the crew when they are working cattle on this end of the ranch.

Who has been (who is) your biggest influencer mentor? What have (did) you learn from them?

In photography, my biggest mentor is Chris Dickinson. He has shared his knowledge generously with me and many others. He taught me to see life through my lens with my heart. To pick out and capture what makes me go “aaahhh!”
In motherhood, one of my biggest examples has been Sally Clarkson. She shares openly the struggle of being a busy mom, and how to find rest and renewal in the midst of it all.
In ranching, I pretty much just try to be open to learn from anyone better than myself – which is nearly anyone, since I don’t know much at all!

How do you define personal success? How do you get there?

I believe success is being content and happy every day. The only way I know to get there is to live life for God instead of myself, be thankful, think of others more and myself less, and to be generous and kind to everyone. To find beauty and blessing in every day and every small thing.

How do you think women’s role(s) in farming/ranching/agriculture has changed over the last decade?

Well, I see fewer women in traditional mom/wife roles. Many women have to work in town to help support the family. Many more are starting side businesses to supplement the income. I see it becoming more acceptable for ranches to hire on women, and that is a good thing. I also see a lot of women making a fuss about being a female rancher, or wanting to be recognized as a woman who can do everything that men do. Personally, I want to be treated differently than the guys – I don’t want to lose my femininity in my quest for equality.

Learning from our mistakes is an important part of life, but sometimes rough, part of life. Would you mind helping others and share your mistake that you have made but taught you something important?

Once, I bought a pony colt without having the knowledge to train it. I eventually gave it away, and it has since been trained and sold as a kids pony. I thought watching a few dvd’s would give me the skills to train her. She was ‘just a pony’, after all. But I should have taken time to go watch and learn from a real horse trainer. Then worked my way up to where I had the skills, before trying to train a fresh colt. No one was hurt, the pony wasn’t messed up, but it was a waste of my time and money. If I want to do something right, it is worth some time and money on learning the skills.

How would you define “women in agriculture?”

I would say any woman who has a job in agriculture, or her husband works in agriculture. Ranching, farming, advocacy, etc.

What in your opinion, is the most important topic in the agriculture world right now?

Bridging the gap between organic vs. traditional food sources, and the care of animals. GMO’s, organics, pesticide usage, animal care… all things that scared consumers want to know about, but unfortunately they are often misinformed. I would like to see more quality, easy-to-understand websites and initiatives on this subject. Education is a powerful tool. If we can help consumers understand the truth, they will be more willing to buy our products.

What is in your daily toolbox? Planner? Phone? Computer? Special item(s) Why do you carry it with you?

Phone is a necessity! Calculator, calendar, camera, notes, and so much more! You can create a spreadsheet to track calving, pasture usage, or just about anything, then create a shortcut (like an app) so you can access it on your phone.
I try to carry a knife anytime I am outside. If I am horseback, I carry energy bars, chapstick and water, because it is so dry out here, and you never know how long you may be gone.

In closing, do you have any advice, quotes for young women, or anyone for that, starting their career in agriculture?

If you really want to live this life, then be willing to start at the bottom and work your way up. The perfect job will not be handed to you on a silver platter. You have to prove that you can work hard, be dependable, and just be a decent human being. You may have to start out working for free on the weekends to get some experience. Be creative! Find someone you look up to and ask if you can help them. Never burn your bridges. You never know who you may need later, or who may need you. Relationships are extremely important. Be gracious, don’t gossip, be kind, be diligent. Good help is hard to find – be that good help and you can get a job anywhere.

Is there anything you would would like to add?

Never think you know it all! Never stop learning. And be careful what you put online – even private messages can be screen-shot. 🙂

Kay~Thank you for taking time out of your day to answer a few questions. I appreciate all you do. I also appreciate our few chats and your support! 

Here are a few more reasons that you help me Shine On:

🌟You have a good attitude on everything you do. I appreciate your “GO TO IT ATTITUDE.”

🌟I admire your willingness.  

🌟I admire your faith!                                                                                                                                                                                           

🌟You are a great example.

🌟Your a hard worker and it shows. 

🌟I love your western story. I love that you share it. Keep up the good work.

🌟Surround yourself with people who make you hungry for life, touch your heart, and nourish your soul.                                 

 

 
My message to you, dear friend is Shine On!!
Thank you for just being YOU!

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Categories
women in Ag

Shine On~ Women in Agriculture~ Skye Clark

Shine On~ Women in Ag Skye Clark

Shine On~ Women in Agriculture 

Shine On, Shine On was the subject of a blog post that I did a while back.

Here is the link to my first Shine On, Shine On post!  I have decided that there are a lot of people that help me “Shine” and I am going to feature them on my Shine On, Shine On series.

This year I decided to start a new spin on my Shine On series and add a little more of agricultural spin. I am excited to be bringing you these interviews. My goal is to share these fine ladies stories with you all. Please help me welcome my first Shine On Lady, Skye Clark.

From historic homesteaders to contemporary cattle ranchers, women have been the cornerstone of America’s agriculture heritage. In fact, the 2012 Census of Agriculture notes that nearly 1 million women are working America’s lands. That is nearly a third of our nation’s farmers.  Women are also scientists, economists, foresters, veterinarians, and conservationists. Women are in the boardrooms and the corner offices of international enterprises, and are the owners and operators of small businesses. Women are property owners and managers. Women are policymakers and standard bearers. Women are involved in every aspect of agriculture.

Shine On~Women In Agriculture features: Skye Clark

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your career path.
I was born and raised on a small ranch in Smoot, Wyoming.  My folks were also outfitters, so we grew up hunting as well. I also became interested in health and fitness when I was in high school.  I now run cattle of my own along side of my online fitness/fat loss business.  I also am a hobby photographer. 
Tell us about your role and what does your “typical day” looks like.
It really depends on the season of course, but I do everything from feeding, calving, doctoring, fencing, haying, irrigating, starting colts, packing salt and herding cattle on our mountain allotment. 
 Right now (January) I go feed every morning at daylight.  I hand pitch round bales.  Then I come home, work on my client emails nutrition program, etc.  About noon or so I go back out and work with my colts.  I have 5 I’m starting right now.  Then I catch the team, harness them and feed our replacement heifers again and feed straw to the cows that evening. 
 
Spring brings all of that, plus calving all night.  Then when the snow leaves I’m fencing and dragging pastures, branding and getting cattle out on the forest.
 
Summer I am horseback by 5 to 5:30 every morning and ride cattle, pack salt, doctor etc. on the forest.  I am also the association rider, so I take care of the other permitees cattle as well.  Then when I get home in the late afternoon, I go irrigate or cut. rake. bale or haul hay.
 
Fall brings finishing haying up,  gathering cattle off forest, shipping, weaning, pregging, etc.
Who has been (who is) your biggest influencer mentor? What have (did) you learn from them?
Geez.  Anyone and everyone!  I learn a lot from many of the old timers, and love listening to their stories and advise.  My little brothers, Gabe and Matt Clark teach me quite a bit about roping, starting horses and just handing cattle in general.  Mom and dad and just about anyone I’m around.  You can always learn something from someone; even if it’s what NOT to do 😉  There are so many good hands out there, in all areas, and I try to watch and listen to what they say and do and learn something everyday.
How do you define personal success? How do you get there?
To me, success is being completely happy and content in life.  To get there, I thing you need to LOVE the work you do.  Even on the bad days.  You need to live within your means so you don’t become a slave to debt.  When you love what you do, have no debt, you can fully enjoy life.  You don’t have to work at a job you hate to pay off accumulated debt on materialistic things.  So I guess I should add freedom to go, come and do as your please.  I’m so fortunate to have that. 
How do you think women’s role(s) in farming/ranching/agriculture has changed over the last decade?
I haven’t been in everyone’s shoes, but I think women are more involved in the physical side of ranching/ag nowadays.  It’s tough to make enough money to hire help, especially for smaller outfits, so I see more women out haying, riding, etc.  They also help pick up the slack by having a “town job” or another source of income to help keep things afloat.  They are also more independent and involved in conservation, putting on events, attending seminars and meetings, etc.  They keep everything organized and running smoothly.  They have more of a VOICE and INFLUENCE now more than ever in my opinion.
Learning from our mistakes is an important part of life, but sometimes rough, part of life. Would you mind helping others and share your mistake that you have made but taught you something important?  
For me, it’s listening to what others say about you and trying to do things that you don’t want to in order to please others.  I wasted too many years trying to please others only to find out that is the best way to be miserable.  You gotta be you and go after what you want in life! 
How would you define “women in agriculture?”
They keep the show running behind the scenes.  Couldn’t do it without them.
What in your opinion, is the most important topic in the agriculture world right now?
The losses of ground!  From the environmentalists trying to take away grazing and rangelands to the smaller farms and ranches being sold to put houses on.  They aren’t making any more ground.  It’s getting harder and harder to run livestock.  In our area, the wealthy are buying up prime meadows that were once the best hay ground around, kicking out the cattle, digging fishing ponds and putting up NO TRESSPASSING signs.  It’s so sad to watch and I wonder where folks think the food is going to come from in the future?
What is in your daily toolbox? Planner? Phone? Computer? Special item(s) Why do you carry it with you?
My phone.  I run an online fitness business, so having an iPhone allows me to work with clients basically from anywhere in the world without me having to be chained down to the computer.  It allows me to be outside and horseback 90% of every day and still get my ranch work done and keep up with my online business.
In closing, do you have any advice, quotes for young women, or anyone for that, starting their career in agriculture?
Make sure you love the lifestyle and aren’t doing it for money.
It’s a piss poor living but a great way of life!  You won’t get rich in finances, but your quality of life, the lessons and just the enjoyment of what you’re doing is priceless!!  I had a fitness client that was a multi-millionaire.  He had everything from several homes to a jet.  When I was coaching him, he began to ask what else I did.  So I invited him up to feed one day……and he decided ranching was the best thing ever!  He ended up spending more and more time around the place, riding a bit, helping vaccinate, etc.  He told me that he had never been happier in life than when he was out looking through the cattle, driving the team, etc.  Proof money can’t buy happiness.  You have to love what you do.  Love the work ethic and lessons it teaches your kids. 
Is there anything you would would like to add?
Life goes by so fast.  Listen to the old timers.  Enjoy every single day!  Live life to the fullest! 
 

Skye~Thank you for taking time out of your day to answer a few questions. I appreciate all you do.

Here are a few more reasons that you help me Shine On:

🌟You have a good attitude on everything you do. I appreciate your “GO TO IT ATTITUDE.”
🌟If you set your mind to something, it is going to get done.  I admire that. We all need to have that mind set. 
🌟Your a hard worker and it shows. 
🌟I love your western story. I love that you share it. Keep up the good work.
🌟Surround yourself with people who make you hungry for life, touch your heart, and nourish your soul. 

 
My message to you, dear friend is Shine On!!
Thank you for just being YOU!

image1.jpeg
Skye Clark Photo Credit Sheryl Morton
Categories
A Sunday Thought

Have you hit the “Reset Button?”

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~ Have you hit the “Reset Button?”

A Sunday Thought~ Have you hit the “Reset Button?”

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

James 4:8 NJV

We are starting the third week of 2018 and I have been thinking about the new year.

It promises to be amazing. It promises to bring challenges.

I usually don’t make New Year’s resolutions, I set goals.

One of this year’s goal is to hit my own “Reset Button.”

Yes, we can all press this button. It has taken me a while to figure out that you actually can restart. We have one big enemy that says, “Naomi, you aren’t strong enough to change.”

“Things will never get better,” the enemy says, “you aren’t strong enough to change.”

Except I know better. I am STRONG. God has given us everything we need to be able to push the “Reset Button” and turn back on whatever aspects of our lives that we are not so fond of. God actually calls this grace. Grace literally means the opportunity to start over. The chance to fall on our knees and ask God to give us a second chance. To give us strength. To give us courage. To give us guidance. The best part of this is that God’s answer is always yes.

What I mean, is to rethink about what direction I want to go.

Personally. Spiritually. With Business.

I decided the best way to hit these goals was to press the “Reset Button.”

This is how I am going to do it and I want you all to join me.

Study More. No, I don’t mean from just any one book. I am talking about the Bible. My goal is read this book for guidance everyday, a little more.

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom I shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?Psalms 27:1 NJV

Build My Tribe. I already feel like I have a great tribe, but I really want to build more on my tribe. My tribe includes my cowboy, friends and family members. These tribe members provide me with power, inspiration, knowledge, and support. I have learned that having this tribe keep me honest and on track, providing me a sense of accountability. These tribe members of mine are so beneficial because we often take on habits of those that are closest to us. Can I help you build your tribe? I would love to help you and I would love for you to help me.

Manage My Stress Level. I believe that most of my stress level comes from me not being able to say, no. My personality doesn’t help this one out, but I am going to try to find a balance of Yes’ and No’s. I am to do a little more de-stressing. Do you have any good ways that you de-stress? Please share. I know that de-stressing releases feel-good neurochemicals such as dopamine. Reducing stress not only helps us to achieve this “Reset Button”, it will also improve my ability to cope with all of life’s challenges, improve my moods, it will decrease general symptomatology and enhance my overall feeling of well-being.

Show More Love. Smile a little more. Laugh More. Do More for Those Around Me. Be Humble.

Take Time to Explore and Engage. I think that this is all about finding my purpose in life and then pursuing it passionately.

Eat Better. It really isn’t rock science. If we eat good, then we will feel better. Eating better will help me achieve a balanced mood, will decrease stress, it will promote feelings of well-being, and give me a long-lasting energy.

I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 NJV

We are in control of our own abilities to develop intrinsic motivation by the choices that we make. I believe that in order to fully “Reset” I must surround myself with positive, optimistic people, practice mindfulness, be humble, volunteering, show gratitude, and being kind for no reason.

We’ve got this. Let me know if I can help you or pray for you. We’re all a messed up work in progress, my friends.

Start with me now, it only takes a second.

Take a deep breath.

Make a plan.

Push the “Reset Button.”

Happy Monday, dear friends!!

Categories
Blog Post Blogger blogging Christmas

The Country Christmas Connection 2017

This is my second year that  I participate in a fun, Country in the Christmas gift exchange. I love surprises and this exchange was full of them.
The Christmas in the Country Gift exchange was organized by two awesome bloggers, Jenny at Keeping Ag Real and Darlene at Guernsey Dairy Mama, which I had a privilege of meeting at AgChat. These two ladies are my dairy heroes. Be sure to check out their great blogs.

Meet my Secret Santa, was Dawn Carlson!! I was so excited when I opened my box. Dawn had sent some fun bottles of sprinkling drinks.

~WINE~SWEET RED WINE~WHITE WINE~PRAIRIE PUMPKIN WINE~WINTER WARMTH~WINE

Dawn include a awesome letter about all these items.

It truly made my day.

 I appreciated Dawn’s note inside! It was thoughtful and full of wine history; Illinois. I enjoyed reading the history of Illinois. I learned that Illinois is the leading producer of pumkins in the US. Illinois is also know as “The Prairie State.”  In addition to her note, she also sent a couple bottles of wine and her mother’s pumpkin pecan pie. Also included in her note she told be that she lives in DeKalb County and that is where DeKalb Seed Corn was founded. The most exciting part, except for the wine!!, is that DeKalb is known for the invention of “Barbed Wire.” Dawn’s letter was very interested and I am glad that she shared it with me. I look forward in getting to know her a whole lot more.
Thank you Dawn for all your gifts.
Not only did I love getting a “Secret” box, I loved shipping a box of goodies to my “Secret”blogger. My secret blogger was Jenny Holtermann! I had fun, stalking her and getting to read about her and her family on her blog, Almond Girl Jenny!
She lives in California and is an almond farmer! I recommend you all heading over to her Facebook Page. Anyway, if you are interested in seeing what else I sent her, head over to her blog.

Check out all the other posts from the Connection.

As I read posts from ##TCCC17 I thought about this quote,

“God knows who belongs in your life and who doesn’t. Trust and let go. Whoever is meant to be there, will still be there.

I am definitely going to try this out!
Love this Wine Shirt!!
These may or may not be empty.
Categories
2018 Bronc Bash Ranch Bronc Riding ranch bronc riding. Double A Feeds Ranch Rodeo Western States Ranch Rodeo Association WSRRA Ranch Rodeo WSRRA Representative

2018 Bronc Bash Report

2018 Bronc Bash

4th Annual 2018 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riding Bash

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The fourth Ranch Bronc Riding Bash was a success!  Thirty five cowboys/cowgirl came from Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, Idaho,Nebraska, Arizona, Canada, Nevada and South Dakota to ride a ranch bronc in front of 450+ spectators. The cowboys/cowgirl and horses put on a western show for the crowd. This event was sanctioned by the Western States Ranch Rodeo Association and is an 8 Seconds Whiskey +40 point ranch bronc riding!

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2018 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riders

2018 Bronc Bash Contestant List

Chris Laucomer-Scottsbluff, NE
TeJay Lee Fenster
Charlie Hall – Edgemont, SD Charlie Hall
Landon Utter -Wheatland, WY
Ty Fenster– Stuart, NE
Donald Papp – Oakley, ID
Wes Aragon- LaGrange, WY Wesley Aragon
Wesley Rosengreen – Wheatland, WY
Justin Harvey– Wheatland, WY
Ashton Pettigrew – Gillette, WY Ashton Pettigrew
Levi Hartmann– Lisco, NE
Jennaya Frye– Ashby, NE
Matt Dole- Alma, Kansas
TJ Camblin – Cody, WY
Reese Troutman – Benkelman, NE
Ethan Willows-Canada
Patrick Burton – Ord, NE
Brittany Miller – Dillon, MT
Ashton Ferguson– Clearwater, NE
Ryan Brown – Ft.Laramie,WY
Cody McCarthy– Winnett, MT
Caden McCarthy – Winnett, MT
Chase Thrall – Austiin. TX
Lane Stevenson– Laramie, WY
Joel Baer – Belle Fourche, SD
Shad Wilsey – Castle Rock, CO
Ryan McGlynn – AB
Steven Hochstein – Canada
Gatlenn Huddleston- CO
Wacey Marr – AB
Cole Thompson- Hugo, CO
Charles Delyea – Douglas, WY Charles Delyea
Goode Jw – Montrose, CO
A.J. Massen – Columbus, MT A.j. Maassen
Jesse Lee Callahan

 

Thank you to all the fans, sponsors, cowboys, chute help, stock contractors, and everyone in between for supporting this event.

Here are the 2018 results:

2018 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riding Results

Long Go Results:
1st – Cody McCarthy/ TJ Camblin

Won a custom made bronc halter made and donated by Bridle Saddle Shop & Wayne & Jodi Larsen

2nd -Donald Papp

Won a custom made gear bag donated by J Bar D Canvas

3rd – Matt Dole/Wesley Rosengreen
4th -Gatlynn Huddleston
5th -JW Goode/Lane Stevenson/Chase Thrall
6th- Chris Laucomer
7th-Reese Troutman/Caden McCarthy
8th-Levi Hartmann/Patrick Burton/Steven Hochstein/AJ Massen
9th-Ryan McGlynn/Ryan Brown/TeJay Fenster/Ethan Willows
10th- Joel Baer/Charlie Hall/Justin Harvey/Jennaya Frye/Wacey Marr
11th-Landon Utter
12th- Levi Hartmann/Shad Wilsey
13th- Ashton Ferguson

14th-Brittany Miller

Short Go Results:
1st – Cody McCarthy

2nd – Wesley Rosengreen
3rd Split – Chris Laucomer/Chase Thrall/TJ Camblin/Donald Papp

4th – Gattlen Huddleston/Lane Stevenson

5th – Matt Dole

6th – JW Goode

Champion: Cody McCarthy from Winnett, MT

Cody won a Yeti Cooler donated by Yeti and a 8 Seconds Whiskey and jacket by 8 Seconds Whiskey
2nd Place: Wesley Rosengreen from Wheatland, WY

Wesley won a custom made horn cap by  CuretonWesternEngraving & 8 Seconds Whiskey

3rd Place Split:  Chris Laucomer from Scottsbluff, Nebraska/ TJ Camblin from Cody, Wyoming/ Donalad Papp from Oakley, Idaho/ Chase Thrall from Austin, Nevada
These cowboys split a pair of handmade spur straps donated by Cow Camp Saddlery.
A homemade cinch made by Hatch Tack and a saddle blanket & cap donated by Buck This Brand.

4th Place: Gatlenn Huddleston/Lane Stevenson

2018 Bronc Bash

Chaz Mitchell Custom Hat winner: Cody McCarthy

We paid out a total of $6000 in Cash & Prizes!!

Announcer/Announcer Help:
Cody Nusbaum, Ashtyn Shrewsbury, Jenny Klein

Thank you Cody, for keeping the audience informed and for helping me with all the contestant books.
Thank you Ashtyn, for our your help with the keeping records and for everything in between.
Thank you Jenny, for saving me.  You are a great friend and I owe you for all your help.


Flag Carriers: Calli Klein & Rylee Mattrews

Thank you Calli and Rylee for carrying our American flag and all the WSRRA Flags.  You both did a good job.
Thank you Jared & Jenny Klein for helping the girls.

Judges: Jimmy Gebauer and JD Williams
Thank you Jimmy and thank you JD for being our Bash judges.

Arena Help: Lisa Williams & Allison Williams
Thank you Lisa and Allison for being willing to help me. You both are awesome.

Stock Contractors: Bad Medicine Rodeo and H & H Rodeo.
Thank you Stock Contractors for bringing all your great broncs. Your hard work really shows when they crack the gate.  All I can say is thank you for sharing your horses so we could watch a western show.

Behind the Scenes Help: Cody Loomis, Ty McBride, Aaron Vivion,Dusty Hartmann, Jodi Larsen, Jared Klein, Rachel Kelly, Josh Rinker, Clayton Williams, Decker Anderson  and everyone else that was behind the scenes helping.
Without all of your help the show would not go on! Thank you, Thank you!

Pickup Men: Wayne Larsen, Clay Kelly & Sam Rosengreen
Thank you for all you three do for my bronc ridings. Thanks for keeping the arena safe.

Admission Help: Cary Leithead, Shelli Michael
Thank you to all of you.  Really, thank you a lot!

Veterinarian: Dr. Grey from Goshen County Vet Clinic
Thank you for being our Vet.

Photographers: Buffy Kelly and Andrea Rosengreen
Thank you for capturing our event!  I can not wait to see the photos.
And Thank you, Andrea for all the video!!
VIP: Thank you to the Goshen County Fair Board.  Thank you for all your help and for your hospitality. Thank you to Torrington Ambulance Service.

Concessions/Beer Garden: mmmGoodCatering~Torrington, Wyoming
Thank you for supporting our event.

Entertainment: Christopher Thomas and Branded

Thank you for providing music for our show and after show dance.

Auctioneer: Josh Keller
Thank you Josh, for helping us with the Calcutta, with out any notice.  You did a good job and I am thankful that you were there!

National Anthem: Riyatta Frye
Thank you Riyatta for singing. You have a beautiful voice.

Office:Jennifer Blanke

Thank you Jennifer for being my right hand lady.

Thank you to our 2018 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riding Bash Sponsors!

KNEB~Scottsbluff, Nebraska
Double A Feeds, Inc ~Bridgeport, Nebraska
Four Three Land & Cattle~Lusk, Wyoming
Chugwater Chili~ Chugwater, Wyoming
Big A ~ Wheatland, Wyoming
Allens Part Service~Wheatland, Wyoming
First State Bank~Wheatland, Wyoming
Brindle Saddle Shop~Wheatland, Wyoming
Harnish Vet Clinic~Wheatland, Wyoming
Laramie Peak Veterinarian Clinic~Wheatland, Wyoming
Wheatland Country Store~Wheatland, Wyoming

R & B Builders~Wheatland, Wyoming
Happy Hollow Ranch, Dave McGuire~Chugwater, Wyoming

Buck This Brand~ Nevada


A Huge Thank You to all the Bash SPONSORS!  Your help doesn’t go unnoticed. I am very thankful for your support of the bash. 

Advertising Sponsor: KNEB~Scottsbluff, Nebraska Thank you for always supporting the Ranch Bronc Bash and for getting the word out!!

Prize Sponsors:
Chaz Mitchell Custom Hats~Newcastle, Utah
S & K Boutique
Cow Camp Saddlery~Lusk, Wyoming
8 Seconds Whiskey
Cureton Western Engraving
Wayne & Jodi Larsen~ Chugwater, Wyoming
J Bar D Canvas & Leather~Oreana, Idaho
Yeti Coolers
Hatch Tack
Brindle Saddle Shop ~ Wheatland, Wyoming

A huge Thank You to all the prize sponsors. Your help is what makes this event a success. Thanks for all your help. 


Host Hotel:
American Best Value~Torrington, Wyoming

Without the help of our sponsors, the Bash would not of happened.  Thank you SPONSORS! 

2018 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riders

To all you Cowboys:
Thank you for making our 2017 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riding Bash a SUCCESS!
What do you think, should we do it again next year?

Thank you to our WSRRA National Sponsors:

Twisted X Boots, Boot Barn, 8 Seconds Whiskey, Yeti, Big Bend Trailers, Ram Rodeo, Performix, Chaz Mitchell Hatz, ECO Socks, Buck This Brand.

Make sure you check out all our great sponsors. Give them a “Like”. Tell them the bronc bash sent you over.

2018 Class of Bronc Bash Ranch Bronc Riding School

Russell Batista, Patrick Burton, Cole Thompson, Tim Rice, Javier Guerrero, Jacob Dalby and Kyler Memmott

Thank you Class of 2018 for attending our first school.

Thank you to Justin Quint, Jim Gebauer, Chris Laucomer, TeJay Fenster, Jesse Callahan and Wesley Rosengreen for helping me with the school. You all did a awesome job.

2018 Bronc Bash WSRRA Official Judges School

Todd Michael, Brad Hall, Shad Wilsey, Ryan Graham

Thank you Jim Gebauer for instructing these cowboys. You did a great job.

2018 WSRRA Ranch Bronc Judging Class

Make sure that if you are interested in photos from the bronc bash to Like our Double A Feeds WSRRA Ranch Rodeo & WSRRA Ranch Bronc Riding.

 

Categories
Papa

What is Your Legacy?

Circle L Ranch
Leaving a Legacy Like Papa

Leaving Legacy’s like Papa

Circle L Ranch
Leaving a Legacy Like Papa

On Saturday, December 23, Cade dug a hole for Papa’s ashes. As the snow was coming down, our family stood on a hill by the ranch house, beside a statue of a cowboy on a horse; Mama read the following verses:

When a man’s ways please the LORD, he taketh even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16:7 KJV

I will lift up  mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. Psalms 121:1 KJV

After reading the verses, Mama asked us to remember Papa.

As the boys were burying Papa’s ashes, I thought about how he lived his life and how he left his legacy for all of us to live by.

I came up with eight ways that he left this cowboy boot footprint:

Life is best lived in service to others. Papa always wanted the best for everyone. He didn’t do it for himself. He made sure that we were all taken care of before himself. The best way to leave a legacy is to look out for others.

I love that Jesus told us all to love each other. But he never told us to we had to like them. Liking people really has to do with our emotions, right? Loving people has to do with our actions, right? Papa loved people and he doing good things for them. When we do good things for people and love them, we find ourselves actually liking them. Papa showed this over and over.

What can we take to our grave? There are very few things that we can take with us. Our reputation. Our name. When Papa died, he didn’t take any earthy belongings. He took his reputation and his name. I remember Papa as being honest. I remember Papa doing right, no matter what the cost. I find myself dealing with temptations to cut corners but I was left with a great reminder of why never to do that.

Papa was a rancher. Papa was a friend. Papa was a neighbor. Papa was a grandpa. Papa was a father. Papa was a husband. Papa was a cowboy. In Papa’s life, he took risks in order to gain a reward. In ranching, for example, you must risk your capital in order for you to gain a profit in your bank account. The end of it, is that when we gain, we have more to leave for others.

Papa always reaped more than he sowed. Meaning, he gave what he got. What he put into the ground grew out of the ground. Papa loved and received love. Papa gave his time and he gained time. I believe that we must decide what we want out of life and then begin to sow it. It is black and white and I am thankful for Papa’s example of this.

Papa was a hard worker. He gave life his all everyday. Papa was a true example of “hard work never hurt anyone..” He left a grand legacy for all of us to follow.

Papa never gave up when he failed. I can remember stories that he told about the 1980’s and ranching. It was not a good story, I mean, drought, high interest in banks, cattle were worth nothing, these were just a few of the bad things that happened to Papa on the ranch. They had to sell cows in order to stay in the business. But in all that bad, there was good, Papa never gave up. Ya, it was a failure. Everyone has failures. It’s just a fact in ranch and in life. But he succeeded because he did not give up. He keep going and going. He left a legacy that Cody and I am proud to carry on.

Papa never stopped pursuing his legacy. I can remember Papa, he was sick with cancer, the cancer was all over his body and he would never let that ruin his day. He never stopped his legacy. In fact, it is still growing today through us and his grandkids. He never stopped helping, he never stopping learning, he was achieving things until he died. His example left us with a reminder that there is always time to do more and achieve more, to help more and to serve more, to teach more and to learn more. I can hear him say, “Keep going and grow your legacy!” He definitely left us a lasting legacy.

You see, our lives changed when Papa left but he left us all with a job to do. This post is for him and for everyone that was near to him.

He truly left us all with great example to follow.

I am going to leave you with a few things to think about.

We all want to leave our footprints on this world-to know that our life mattered.

What does leaving your legacy mean to you?

I know that I want to leave my footprint, and I want to make contributions to my future generations. I know that I have started leaving my footprint but in 2018 I want to make sure that it is deeper than 2017!

Are you with me?

Happy 2018!!

New Year’s Day is every man’s birthday! -Charles Lamb

Categories
Circle L NCBA Nebraska Nebraska Beef Nebraska Cattlemen Nebraska Sandhills New Year ranch life

2017! Our Year in Review

Happy Holidays from our outfit to yours.

2O17! Our Year in Review!

2017 at the Circle L Ranch

Cody & I Celebrated 19 Years of Marriage

Cade 15 Years old

Kason 13 Years old

Ryder & Reata 7 Years old

Cody and I celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary in the air. I got to be the pilot. It was amazing.

Our Family Favorites:

Restaurant: Ole’s and Taco Johns

Food: Beef and Cheese (And Herseys Chocolate Bars)

Activity: Riding Horses

Color(s): Red, Lime Green, Yellow, Pink

We welcomed these new members to our Ranch:

Goats (The kids wanted to expand some more on their Goat Business)

Adding Kids!!

Kason Kept a Puppy we raised (Blue)

“Blue” Kason’s project, I mean working buddy.

Colts (Cody wanted a couple projects)

Kittens (To keep the mouse population down)

A few Heifers and a couple Bulls!

We added this Longhorn to the herd this year. He is quite the character. We are excited to see his babies.

Cade’s Highlights:

He’s in 9thGrade.

He’s taller than Mom and almost his Dad

Plays Football & Basketball & Track.

He is active in FFA and 4-H.

He is active in FCA.

Has Excellent Grades.

Reserve Champion Breeding Heifer of the 2017 Morrill County Fair.

2017 Morrill County Fair Rate of Gain Champion-Steer

Bought a couple show heifers. (I can not wait for this adventure)

He is on his 2nd year of training his colts.

He broke his nose in football and had to have his tonsils and adenoids out.

His future plans include going to college in Ag, a few classes on mechanics and coming back to the ranch.

#12 Cade Loomis 2017 -2018 Bridgeport Bulldogs Picture Credit to Kevin Myers
Super Proud of these two young men. Pictured with Cole Faessler
#88 Cade in Bridgeport Football High School                    He had a great season.
Cade and his heifer at the 2017 Morrill County Fair. This heifer was Reserve Champion Breeding. She is expecting a baby in March.
Cade and Cody Cade is a great hand.
John Covalt and Cade. Cade bought a steer and a heifer from John. He is our 86(I think) neighbor. This steer was 4-H Champion Rate of Gain. He also received a purple ribbon. Cade had a great year with his red cattle.

Kason’s Highlights:

He’s in 7th Grade. (Hard to believe that he is in middle school.)

Plays Basketball and Football. But his favorite is football.

His future plans include playing Nebraska Husker Football and coming back to the ranch.

He is on his 2nd year starting his own colt.

He is training his own dog, Blue. He is doing a very good job.

Has Excellent Grades.

He also bought a show calf heifer. (I am excited to see what this business adventure will take the boys)

He broke is foot last year in football but we didn’t know it until this year when he started 7th grade football. He was on crutches and in a boot for 8 weeks. He is tough for sure.

Kason and his basketball team. These kids are a great group.
Kason showing his steer at the Morrill County Fair. He kept this steer out of his own herd. He got a purple on him.
Kason at the fair. I would say he has a pretty good thing going with his beef herd. Wouldn’t you?
Kason is a really good hand.

Reata’s Highlights:

She is in 1st Grade and love everyday.

Loves anything Horse.

Loves to Draw and Color.

She is getting tall.

Her future plans include being a rancher and a teacher.

Reata’s favorite place is on the back of a horse!
Helping Cody wrestle calves at branding.
Ryder and Reata showing Goats at the fair.
Ryder and Reata showing bucket calves at the fair. These two happen to be baby jerseys.

 

Ryder’s Highlights:

He is in 1st Grade and really likes it.

Loves anything that has to do with the Marines and guns and knives.

His future plans include joining the Coast Guard and then becoming a Marine. O, and he wants me to add that he will be flying helicopters!

O Ryder!! He keeps us on our toes for sure. Photo Credit: Kevin Myers
Ryder helping us move cows.

Fun Family Facts:

We hosted a whole school, K-12, for the Eclipse. We had over 200 kids and adults on the Circle L.

Just one of the photos of the Eclipse on the Circle L Ranch. It was AMAZING.
A photo of what the Circle L Ranch looked like heading into the the total Eclipse.

We attending a cold, fun Wyoming Cowboy Football game with some great friends. We had a great time.

I attended Young Cattlemen’s Conference. It was a 9 day trip that started in Denver and ended in Washington, DC. It was quite the eye opening experience. We tour McDonalds headquarters, Chicago, and the our capital. You can read more about that here.

This was highlight of the Year for sure. I am beyond humble for the experience of being in the Western Horseman. Thank you for all the support and thank you Jennifer Dension for the opportunity

I was featured in the June Western Horseman magazine!

Circle L colt class. He is a cutie.
Have you ever been to the White House? If you answer is no, you should get it on your list. This trip was amazing and I am thankful that I was one of the Nebraska Young Cattlemen to attend.
Young Nebraska Cattlemen Hank, Adrian Smith-U.S. Representative, Jacob
Young National Cattlemens Hank, Deb Fischer-United States Senator, Jacob
Jeff Fortenberry- U.S. Representative Nebraska
John Bacon-U.S Representative Nebraska
The twins doing twin stuff. Like doing tricks off the back of Bozo.

 

 

We are really just a ranch family that has a lot of love. Just look at this picture. It pretty well sums up what we are. Crazy.Funny.Together.
You didn’t think I could post this post without a few Circle L Ladies in it, did you? These ladies are what make our ranch work.

Cody keeps busy with chores, riding colts and day working.

Cody was Top Hand at a local ranch rodeo.

Raised 20 puppies this year.

Raised over 12 baby goats this year. They are super fun.

Favorite Family Bible Verse:

And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. (Matt 10:27 NJV)

Favorite Family Game:

Horse Racing- Marbles and UNO

 

 

The Circle L blog page went under construction this year. I moved it from blogger to wordpress. I am liking it better and I hope that you are too. My goal for the blog is to be friendly, provide you with stories, recipes, tips and love. Make sure that you sign our guest book.

With that, here is the top 5 blog post of 2017.

Circle L Ranch Blog Top 5 2017 Posts:

  1. 19 Lessons Learned from 19 Years of Marriage to a Cowboy
  2. Beef Fact Friday
  3. I Am Adopted
  4. Cowboy Boots Go to the City
  5. Why I’m Not Scared to Eat Beef That Isn’t “Antibiotic-Free”

We had a pretty good year, we know 2017 would not have been nearly as fun without all of our wonderful friends and family. So thanks for cheering us on, praying for us, lending a hand, and providing us with love and laughter all year long. Sending you lots of joy, peace and love this season and for the next year, 2018! We would love to hear from you!! You are always welcome. 
 ~Cody, Naomi, Cade, Kason, Ryder, Reata 

Categories
A Sunday Thought

Do You Deserve a Christmas Present?

Do You Deserve a Christmas Present?

(Editors note: Please note that this post isn’t judging anyone that gives or receives presents. I am just sharing my thoughts.)

It’s the middle of December, which means that everywhere, every newspaper and every radio station, we are being serenaded with Christmas music. “It’s the must wonderful time of the year.”

Cue the record scratch. Wonderful?

Well, Christmas should be the most wonderful time of the year, but often, instead of celebrating what matters, we all get caught up in our culture’s consumerist Christmas mindset. The stress starts long before December and that stress stays with us all long after you’ve left the mall. Then you wake up in January with a holiday spending hangover. Yuck.

Friends, it doesn’t have to be this way.

We can all take a step back and turn our focus on Him.

I know, it’s tough to go against the grain, but I think we should refocus and shift our perspective of what Christmas really means.

I know, it is going to take courage and faith.

I get that. Everybody asked, “What do you want for Christmas?”

What is your answer?

A computer, a new horse or is it just quiet time with our families?

My goal is to turn the focus on HIM while keeping less spiritual traditions in check.

Do we really deserve a present?

Did we already get the present of Life?

I don’t know about you, but it seems to me that the idea of gift giving can get carried away.

I want to bring it back to the good ol’ day days. Don’t you?

Rather, then all the gifts, I want to remember the gift that God has given to each of us. I want to give all year around.

It really is the only gift that truly keeps on giving and giving, so I here are my four points:

First, God’s gift to us was a complete surprise. It was not expected, and as you examine it more carefully, you realize how great a gift it actually was.

Second, God’s gift came wrapped in rags and was laid in a feeding trough. Think about that. It is a humbling thought. He wasn’t wrapped in a pretty bow or expensive paper. Jesus was born in a stable, in the straw. God’s gift to us, the ultimate gift of eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ, came in the simplest and humblest wrapping.

Third, do we deserve this gift. Think about who you give gifts to: those who you care about and those that have been kind to us. We don’t tend to give gifts to the people that we don’t really like, don’t have a relationship with or who we don’t feel deserve it. Yet God gave us his gift when we all were his enemies. He didn’t give this gift to us because we deserved it. It was just the opposite of that. “But God commedeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Roman 5:8)

Fourth, the gift tell us something about the giver. Think about it, when you want to give someone a gift, we starting thinking about it ahead of time. We think about what they like, what color they like and etc. When God decided to give us the gift of eternal life, he just didn’t throw it at us. Long before there was a town called Bethlehem, a garden called Eden, and a planet called Earth, there was a decision that was made in eternity that God would send forth His only son, born to a women that wasn’t supposed to have kids. “And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” (Revelation 13:8)

So Christmas isn’t about those gifts that we may or may not receive. You see, those gifts are just things that we all know will be gone some day. We cannot take them to our graves. We all know that after this life the human soul will be the only thing that lives on.

Life is about what happens beyond the grave. Life is about knowing the God who made you and me and who gave us the greatest gift you will ever receive.

Take a think, do you deserve a Christmas present?

 

Happy Monday, dear friends!

Categories
A Sunday Thought

Flight or Fight

A Sunday Thought

Flight or Fight

What is your natural response to conflicts and disagreement? Fight or Flight?

My stomach in knots, my throat tightened, and holding back tears… you might think that I was getting sick. Not so. In my mind, it was something worse. It was a confrontation. My body was reacting to the emotional turmoil going on in my head. The conflict had escalated to the point where I wasn’t sleeping at night, I had a headache and to be honest with you, I was grouchy.

What should I do? Fight or Flight?

Those of us who are fighters get really defensive. We go on the offense against the other person and we often cause the disagreements to escalate into a huge fight. Those of us that are flee-ers verbally ignore the issue because we hate conflict, and run off to let our problems fester in our minds and hearts, often leading to much more anger, bitterness, and unforgiveness.

What do you do? Fight or Flight?

There is another way to deal with these types of situations. This is what I am personally working on. It is not our human nature. We have a super power that will help us, through the power and love of God we can change the way we deal with conflict and move toward peace.

Jesus prioritized unity among his people.

Neither pray I for these alone, but them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou has sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17: 20-23

This is Jesus’ prayer for his disciples. He focuses on oneness and asked God that his followers be one three time. He also asked twice that such unity results in the world’s recognition that Jesus was sent by God. You see, when we are one, we recognize that it comes from above and we are drawn to follow him and his example.

But….

You know there is a but here…

We have family and/or friend experiences, however, that don’t look like this picture. Why? Because we either fight or flight. We tend to have permanent anger, unforgiveness and bitter hearts toward one another. Let’s read these verses again:

Neither pray I for these alone, but them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou has sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. John 17: 20-23

Jesus’s prayer points us in the right direction. The way that we react to conflict, I believe, bears witness to our faith.

Are you a fighter? I am sometimes and this is what I am working on when I want to fight:

Pray and think before I speak.

Remove myself from the situation if possible.

Carefully choose my words so that the conversation changes direction.

I try unstand my feelings by digging deeper into the question, “Why am I having these feelings/What is fueling them.” Then explain them in a non-attacking way.

Confront in a loving and honest way.

Are you a flee-er? I am sometimes. I run and hide. This is what I am working on when I want to run, I mean flee:

Speak the truth in love and try to get my feelings and my issues on the table.

Discus the issues, instead of holding them in.

Whether a fighter, flee-er or both, like me, I know that we must ask God for the grace to speak the truth in love, choose forgiveness, and then move toward peace and love with those whom we have conflicts. This may include friends, spouses, and family members.

I would like to seek God more about these conflicts that cause me to flight or fight. I know that I often ignore conflicts or ignore the problems, I put them on the back burner hoping that they will disappear on their own, but they never do. They get bigger and then they boil over. My prayer this week is this:

Dear Lord, I am calling upon you today for your guidance and help. I am in crisis and need a supporting hand to keep me on the right and just path.

My heart is troubled, but I will strive to keep it set on you, as your infinite wisdom will show me the right way to a just and right resolution. Thank you for hearing my prayer and for staying by my side.

Amen!

Happy Monday to you all.

Are you a fighter or a flee-er? Do you have any advice how to deal with conflicts?

 

Categories
Antibiotic Resistance antibiotics Antibiotics Stewardship Beef Beef it's Whats For Dinner

Why I’m Not Scared to Eat Beef That Isn’t “Antibiotic-Free”

Why I’m Not Scared to Eat Beef That Isn’t “Antibiotic-Free”

Antibiotic Free, Antibiotic, Beef, Don't Eat Beef

O my word, why would I, a cattle rancher, use antibiotic and beef in the same sentence, let alone a title to a blog post?

Well, I got your attention right?

Let me tell you this:

THERE ARE NO ANTIBIOTICS IN BEEF!

Let me tell you that again:

THERE ARE NO ANTIBIOTICS IN BEEF!

I know, I know the media and marketers say. And I know that food labeling can be confusing. But didn’t you ever hear the saying, “Don’t believe everything the media and marketers say”?

The media and marketers like to “scare” the crap out of you and tell you things that are not entirely true.

Yep, they do it every day. And to tell you the truth, I am getting tired of the “scare” type of marketing. I would like to tell every business that uses it this: “Don’t you know where liars go?” But that’s for another day story.

Anyway, while I have your attention let’s talk a little about antibiotics in animal production.

Yes, we and by that I mean farmers, ranches, and anyone else who takes care of animals, use antibiotics. You know what else we do? We work with our veterinarian. We keep records on all of our animals. And records for the animals that have been given treatment with antibiotics include which medications we used and how much we gave. Because before an animal treated with an antibiotic is allowed to be harvested for meat, it must go through a withdrawal time.

The withdrawal time, which varies based on the type of antibiotic given and the amount (dose), ensures that the antibiotics are out of the animal’s system before it enters our food supply. (Want to know more about withdrawal times check this out from Beef Magazine.)

Furthermore, it should come as no surprise that there are even more specific government regulations other than withdrawal times that ensure our meat is antibiotic-free when it hits our tables. (Don’t believe me? Here is the link..) I believe that everyone in animal production does a fine job keeping antibiotic residue out of the food chain.

For these reasons, I am not even a little bit scared to eat beef that isn’t “antibiotic-free” because it’s all antibiotic-free. And for the record, I eat and feed my family pork, poultry, fish, sometimes, because I believe in those products as well.

Besides all that, here are 5 more reasons beef has a place on our plates.

  1. Beef is Healthy-Beef provides nutrients like zinc, iron, choline, selenium, phosphorus, niacin, riboflavin, protein and B vitamins, and half of the fat found in beef is monounsaturated, the same heart-healthy fats found in olive oil.
  2. Beef is Super Easy to Cook for my family– Because beef is an easy addition to well balanced meals. Do you need Beef recipe ideas? Check out Circle L Chuckwagon, Beef…It’s What’s For Dinner and FaithFamily and Beef 
  3. Beef is good for our environment. Yep, I have proof. You see, the land on Circle L is not suitable for farming. It is suitable for cattle. The cycle of cattle ranching is really easy, the cows eat the grass. The grass they eat turns to poop. The poop is fertilizer that helps grow more grass. The cows get fat and raise calves and the cycle continues every day.
  4. Beef helps your muscles grow. Mom used to say, “Eat your spinach so your muscles will grow!” My mom is dead, but I really want to tell you that I would rather have Beef on my plate than spinach. In all seriousness, beef is really rich in ammonia acids which increases our muscle mass. As a mom, to four ranch kids, I know that feeding them beef will not only help them get muscle mass, it will also help them to have energy to succeed in their school studies and at sports.
  5. Beef makes my waistline smaller. Yes, you read that right. I have been doing a no carb diet for months now and by that I mean, I am not taking any pills or shakes, just not eating any carbs. I have been eating mostly beef with cheeses and vegetables. I feel the best I have ever felt and my jeans are loose.

There you have it, all beef is safe, wholesome, nutritious, AND antibiotic-free. So next time you have questions, please come to me – a real-live-rancher who honestly knows more about the beef than the media, marketers, and Google.

Categories
Beef

Trick or Beefy Treat

Happy Halloween

Trick or Beefy Treat –
Pass out Beef Jerky This Halloween

Ready for a Halloween Candy AlternNo automatic alt text available.ative?

Halloween is just around the corner, and for many it means that we all head to the local store to buy candy for all the ghost and goblins that will come knocking on our doors Halloween night. But wait, before you head to the store let me tell you about another option that I think all the kids will like.

Beefy Jerky including Beef Jerky Sticks.

Yes, you read that right. Why not pass out beef jerky to all the kids!

Beef jerky is a healthy, hunger-satisfying protein for everyone. The drying process is beneficial in a couple of ways: it requires getting rid of excess fat (as it could go bad without refrigeration) so you’re left with a low-fat product, and the water lost concentrates the protein in the meat to nearly double its amount in the same portion of uncured meat. Beef jerky also has healthy dose of zinc and iron in it. Snackers are turning to jerky as a satisfying alternative to munchies like chips or bars.

Beef jerky comes in many handy options like: sticks, slaps and pieces.

Our families’ choice of Beef Jerky/ Beef Jerky Sticks (Yes, we voted!):

Centennial Cuts Beef Stick- “Sustainably raised Premium Beef. Born, raised and harvested in Colorado – handled with care by Colorado employees from day 1 – all the way to your plate!” (Give all their products a try! They are amazing.) Available at www.centennialcuts.com.

Fat Joe’s Jerky- “Our regular beef jerky is seasoned, marinated, smoked, and dried to perfection before packaging. It has a small amount of Red pepper for heat but not much at all.” (We loved the Original but the Mild was also amazing.) Available at www.fatjoesjerky.com.

Circle L’s Homemade Jerky- Cody does a fine job in making our own jerky. This is what he does: he marinates a beef eye of round roast (to tell you the truth thou, he has used all beef cuts including hamburger). His marinating sauce contains soy sauce, black pepper, and brown sugar, Chugwater Chili spice, and Lowry’s Seasoned Salt. (He sometimes adds red pepper for some heat.) He slices it thin, and lets it dry out in the oven at 160˚ F for 6-8 hours. Homemade jerky technically lasts for about three months (we store it in the refrigerator), but you can freeze it indefinitely until you’re ready to eat it.

In preparation for Halloween night, I am suggesting to you all to try something a little different this year. When your trick-or-treaters arrive, they will be thankful for the healthy, protein filled snack.

Once the night comes to a close, give yourself a pat on the back – you gave your trick-or-treaters a happy (and healthy!) Halloween treat and you are helping the beef community out.

Happy Halloween from the Circle L!

Lastly, if my “Trick or Beefy Treat” post helped you out an any way, make sure you share it by clicking those funny looking social media buttons.

Categories
A Sunday Thought God

“Love Your Naamans”

“Love Your Naamans”

A Sunday Thought “Love Your Naamans”

But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call the name of the LORD is God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.

II Kings 5:11

This past week my thoughts have been on entitlement. Entitlement is an issue. It is rampant in our culture. It is an issue that we read about and see it all the time. Do we really know what entitlement is? Are you confused about it?

Have you ever heard these statements:

“I deserve better.”

“I deserve more.”

“I deserve it all.”

“People should take care of me.”

“I’m entitled to more than I’m getting.”

I know that I have heard these statements, even out of my own mouth. Are they right? I started looking into it. The Bible gives us a good example of a man who suffered from entitlement. You will find his story in II Kings. His name is Naaman.

Naaman, as we read in the Bible, was a commander of a powerful army, a strong soldier, and was well regarded by his superiors and yet, had leprosy. At this time, there was no known cure for this disease.

One of Naaman servants told him where he could go to be healed. So he went to Elisha with his horses and chariots. Elisha told him that if he washed in the Jordan River seven times, he would be cleansed.

Here’s where we read of Naaman’s entitlement:

Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? May I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.

2 Kings 5:12

Entitlement comes with two attitudes:

1. I am exempt from any one responsibility, and

2. I am owed special treatment.

In other words, I don’t have to carry my own burdens, and I should be treated differently.

Naaman presents both of these characteristics in his response. First, in Naaman’s mind, he was owed special treatment or at least a proper acknowledgment. Second, Naaman felt that he should be exempt from responsibility. He didn’t want the responsibility to follow orders by washing in the river.

We all have a Naaman in our lives.

We all know a Naaman, perhaps it’s a co-worker, family member or friend who wants you to wave a hand over their situation and fix their problems. Maybe you have a son or daughter that, despite your best parental efforts, has chosen a path of laziness. They feel they deserve special treatment with no responsibility.

Here’s what we need to remember:

Change happens in the presence of compassion (love). Before you look at that Naaman in your life and pretentiously point out all their failings, remember that we have all been a Naaman. The Bible tells us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”(Romans 3:23).

Here are a couple of things that we can do to help (in my opinion):

1. Be truly “for” them.

Naaman’s servants wanted him to be healed. They wanted to truly help him. I feel that entitled people need alot of our support! Even when they drive you crazy, frustrate you and make you feel helpless, they still require the elements of grace. We have all failed, and we will all need second and third chances.

2. Be black and white about your expectations.

Entitlement often causes people to not listen well to requirements and to others’ needs and expectations. Because those things don’t support their view of themselves as special and above the rules, they tend to dismiss them. So what can we do? We can be black and white with them.

At the end of Naaman story he was healed. He had encouragement, patience and wisdom from all his servants, and he ultimately followed Elisha’s orders.

I believe that entitlement can be helped and I believe that if we aren’t careful, this entitlement mentality will invade our relationship with God. Does God owe us anything? No, I believe that we owe him. In all reality, we owe God and the good news is that he doesn’t give us what we deserve. Instead, in mercy he gives us life! He gives us eternity and freedom and forgiveness and hope and love and truth.

Do you believe it?

I know that God’s paths work for our good and for His glory. I would like a chance to make a difference. Give me compassion for the Naamans in my life.

Happy Monday, dear friends!

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19 Lessons Learned from 19 Years of Marriage to a Cowboy

19 Lessons Learned from 19 years of Marriage to a Cowboy

19 Lessons Learned from 19 Years of Marriage to a Cowboy

19 Lessons Learned from 19 years of Marriage to a Cowboy

Today marks 19 years that Cody and I have been married. Since we were barely 19 years old back then, I have a hard time remembering what life was like without him. In honor of 19 years of marriage to my Cowboy, I have put together a list of 19 lessons learned. Please keep in mind that these are helpful for us, especially when we apply them daily. I have to assure you all that we are not perfect and are always learning and striving to overcome our weaknesses. I do know that all marriages are different and what works for us may not work for yours. 

Okay, so now let’s get started (these are in not any particular order):

1.  Marriage is not a 50/50 type of relationship – This one was something that I had to learn the hard way. You see, this belief caused us to fight a lot until we figured out that we both must set aside selfishness and give everything we have, over and over, to make our relationship successful. We both have to give 100% each.

2. Stay humble – we all are imperfect, right? Yes, we are, and we need to be humble enough to admit it. It is our human nature to be right all the time, but we all know that is not ever going to happen, making humility essential. When Cody and I have a situation we don’t agree on, I have noticed that my attitude can change our disagreement from a fight to just a talk, especially if I can admit that I am wrong, we find the solution a lot faster.

3. Kindness – this character trait should be at the top of our list each and everyday. 

4. Communication – we have learned that communication is so important. Chat with each other. I cannot assume that Cody can read my mind and I know that I can not read Cody’s mind either, especially working cattle! We have learned that if something little is bothering us and we let it fester, then we eventually will have a huge disagreement. Communication whether it is good, bad or ugly, talking is so important in a marriage. 

5. Listening – Communication is a two-way street where you have to listen as well. Understanding where each other is coming from is important, and that can only happen if you stop and listen.

6. Marriage, then the kids – this one is a tough one because our maternal instincts come out, but we have learned that it is so important to put “us” before “them”. We have learned that if we neglect our relationship while raising our kids, we slowly grow apart. I also believe that it is important for our kids to see their parents spending time together. We need to be good examples to our kids and it is okay to close our doors and have some quiet time with each other. In addition to this, children gain a sense of security when they know their parents are happy.

7. “Don’t go to bed mad” – On our wedding day, my grandpa, who was in his 90’s, gave us this advice. He was so right. 

8. It is okay to have differences – differences actually can be a blessing. We are different, Cody is quiet while I am not!! Cody is reserved and I am outgoing. Cody is a planner and I tend to fly by the seat of my pants. You see, while sometimes our differences may cause a little conflict, we try to pull each other out of our comfort zones. Our differences make our life interesting, exciting and cause us to grow. I think that it is a blessing.

9. Don’t try to change each other – Ever tried to change someone? It does not work. The only person that can be me is me. The same is in a marriage. Don’t try to change your spouse. One of the turning points in our marriage is when I figured out that I should support Cody, not change him. 

10. Make time for Date Nights – You don’t have GO OUT on the town, a simple alone time is considered a date to us. We go horseback riding, 4-wheeler riding, we go check water together and sometimes we just put the kids to bed and have a glass of wine together.

11. Don’t talk bad about each other in front of friends and family – talking bad about each other will do more harm than good and to be honest, it really gets you nowhere fast. This also includes calling each other bad names. 

12. Money – it is important to get on the same page about money. Finances break up a lot of marriages. If you both commit your hearts to God and follow His leading by releasing, in your heart, your money to Him, then you will move forward together.  

13. Laugh, Smile, Be Silly – Laughing together can take the edge off many stressful situations. Doesn’t it make a day go by faster when you can laugh, smile and be silly? You bet it does.

14. Compromise – We have learned that we never get anywhere if we are both not willing to bend. We are different, so we must rely on compromise. 

15. Take a look outside the box – There is more to marriage and life than what is going on right now. Cody and I talked about this one last night as we were on our anniversary date. Romance and love looks a lot different after 19 years of marriage than it did when were were newlyweds and we think it is better. 

16. Never let your praying knees get lazy – I know that this is the key factor in keeping our marriage stable. Having God in the center of our marriage helps keep our life agenda on track. 

17. Have a good partnership – marriage is a partnership, it is made up of two different individuals that have different goals. We need to acknowledge that we need room to grow this partnership and this partnership works together as a team. So while Cody is good at breaking horses, I am better at giving them treats!! You see what I mean?

18. Don’t lie – ever. Always the tell the truth. That is all.

19. Forgive and forget – we all do dumb things in our life and in marriage and I get that, but we have found it crucial to be willing to apologize and a be ready to forgive each other. Did I mention that you have to do this over and over and over!!

Bonus – Service is love in action. Cody needs hugs and kissing while I am receive love through gifts. We have learned what the other needs. When we figured these this out, our marriage life got 10 times better!! 

 

There you have it, friends. This list is not exhaustive, and I would sure love to hear what you have learned in your marriages. Feel free to share in the comments section so we can all learn from each other.

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Beef Fact Friday

Beef Fact Friday

Cows.. there’s a lot more to cattle than just a bunch of bessies sitting around chewing their cud. 

They provide milk and meat that our world depends on.

But did you know that domestic cows are actually descendants of wild oxen call aurochs. 

In 2009, scientists mapped out the bovine genome and discovered that cattle have about 22,000 genes; 80% of their genes are shared with humans.  Does that make you say ummm? It did me.

Female beef cattle are called cows.

Male beef cattle are called bulls.

Castrated males are called steers.

Female beef cattle that are young are called heifers.

Cows never sleep standing up. They sleep lying down and about 4 hours a day.

Beef cattle have almost 300 degrees of vision but they can not see right in front of them or behind them.

Beef cattle can not see the color red.

Beef cattle provide us with meat.

Dairy cattle provide us with milk.

Beef cattle can smell up to 5 miles away.

Did you learn anything about beef cattle? Did I miss an interested fact? 

Happy Friday!!

Facts