Lisa and Cameron Hodgins own and operate Hodgins Farm near Lenore, Manitoba, and direct market some of their beef, pork, chickens and honey. The cattle operation consists of a commercial cow-calf herd of approximately 125 largely Angus-influenced cows, as well as maintaining approximately 250 grazing yearlings as stockers.

As little kids growing up on the farm, we are always taught to stay busy. My dad used to tell us that if it was light outside, we should be outside doing something. Then, as we became adults working on the farm, we were told to have a plan. “Don’t get so caught up in the farm that you forget to focus on the farm,” they would say.

Sustainability is a buzzword we often hear, but what about the sustainability of the family farm? What does it take for a farm to sustain itself generation after generation? Why does it seem so hard?

As I recognize myself and my hubby – and how we are wired – it’ll help me to understand him and others as we consider renovating a house.

When I was in grade five, my class buried a time capsule in the “backyard” of the school grounds. I don’t know if it was ever dug up by anyone, but wouldn’t that be grand if it was?

Greg and Lynn Gardner purchased the ranch in 1990. Today, along with their daughter Brittany and her husband, Wacey Cathey, they manage a cow-calf business on approximately 28,500 acres, which includes their deeded land along with neighboring private, state and tribal leases.

Never underestimate the power of establishing clear expectations and accountability. It may take a little extra time in the beginning, but it will save you a lot of time and heartache in the long run.

Her dad shook her shoulder lightly. She slowly opened her eyes; the transition to the bright overhead light he’d flipped on was jarring. Then, she remembered with a quick rise of her pulse, it was Christmas. Had she slept in? Where were Clara and Ethan?