Twenty two years ago, I went from city girl to farm wife. I moved three hours away from my family and friends to start a new life with my husband, Jonathan. We were married in a drought year, which meant harvest had started within a few days of our wedding. We decided to come home a day or two early from our honeymoon to help my father-in-law.
Our house had been “decorated” by Jonathan’s friends, so we had a little clean-up to attend to before we could help move corn wagons. My in-laws had surprised one of the guys doing the decorating, and suggested we enter the house carefully. After a little cleaning and unpacking, I learned how to hook up the wagons to the John Deere 4020. Eventually, I learned how to drive the 4020, and how to unload the corn into the bin. It was a lot for me to remember and I made many mistakes. Jonathan and his dad were so patient with me, that I wasn’t afraid to try all the new things.
The patience and caring that I was shown as a new bride in a new atmosphere has had a lasting impact. I try to live by those same principles, and treat others with respect and care. Their example has also fueled a passion for agriculture and its importance in our world.
Jonathan and I have three beautiful teenage daughters. We have both become active in our church and community. I am currently serving as president of our county Farm Bureau, and have served on a few State Farm Bureau committees. I look forward to sharing some of my perspectives with you about the farming industry, and what goes on in our family during the different seasons.
