What had been a “should” when it comes to social media for the agriculture community has become a “must.” Millions of customers are ready and willing to engage with farmers. When we don’t take that opportunity, animal rights activists and others are there to fill the void.

The pace of life always quickens after the dog days of August, perhaps nowhere more so than in Washington, D.C., as Congress returns to town after its month-long recess. This September is shaping up as the beginning of an eventful period on Capitol Hill in which movement is expected on issues in which National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and its members are heavily engaged.

This past summer our staff was so impressed with the many photos and messages sent to our office. You took your magazines with you in your camper to the woods or in your boat on the lake. The main message you sent was: Sometimes you must get away to catch up.

I have had four granddaughters born in the last year. When you have 11 children, it isn’t strange to see the babies come in multiples. It is amazing to see each one. They are all sweet and unique. Each has her own personality and certainly her own temperament, and I am sure each has her own mission while in this life.

My grandpa, George Elbert, was an extraordinary man who ruled his spirit and tongue like few people I’ve ever known. His life was not an easy one, but it certainly was a blessed one.

One yacht owner flew in a tiger so his guests could take selfies with it. Another got bored and ordered a group of dwarfs to waterski around his boat for a laugh.

Dairy farmers usually don’t have trouble caring for their animals, but sometimes they have trouble taking care of themselves. From working in the industry, and now being a dairy farmer myself, I have seen and experienced this firsthand.

With the fall season just around the corner, I reflect back on memories from the summer. Your first thought might be that I took a vacation. Nope. Growing up, our family never went on vacations.

As a dairy farmer, I have had some experience interviewing potential employees – mostly high school students. Some of these teens have an ag background while others do not, but what many of them seem to have in common is the inability to make a good first impression.

The start of the school year is a mixed bag of emotions for a farming mama and her brood. No one wants to see homework start again, but it’s a relief to get back to a routine, and to maybe even have a chance at warm coffee.