The F Word

So I may have wrote this last year, but in light of all the media attention and scrutiny so called "factory farms" are getting and since today at the Food Dialogues they are discussing "Farm Size: Does It Matter?", I felt the need to post this again.

Big is celebrated in many ways because it often equates to success. But for some reason in today's world, big farming often gets a bad rap. I ponder this everyday, and especially when I get the opportunity to share with someone what my family does for a living.

Farming and the Nunnenkamp family goes together like peanut butter and jelly. I was never fortunate enough to know my great grandparents but they starting farming the American soil when they immigrated over to the U.S. My grandpa Fred is the oldest of 11 children and I am pretty positive he was born knowing how to farm. Except for a few years where he was overseas serving our great country in World War II, he has spent his life tilling the soil and turning seeds into success. Now 96 years later (he will be 96 in a few weeks, so Happy Early Birthday Grandpa!), he is still doing what he was born to do, FARM. Except now, he has his sons and grandsons by his side, and some days even his great grandson. We are a FAMILY FARM and darn proud of it.

So back to the "big is bad" idea. Big does not mean that a farm is not a family business. Our farm did not start big, it has grown over time.  The size of farm my grandpa had 50 years ago was not big enough to be run by my dad and uncle when they decided to join the operation. And the size of farm my grandpa, dad, and uncle had was not big enough to be run by 3 additional members, my cousin and two brothers as well. And I assume that a few years down the road when the next generation wants to join the farm, expansion will occur again.

In order for farmers to work together and farm as a family, operations have to evolve and grow.  Just because we are bigger than most does not mean that we do things different than any other farmer. We still have the same practices and take care of the environment.  We are stewards to the land and work hard to grow crops the best that we can. It literally breaks my heart when I hear someone say that big farms are, I cant believe I am about to say this F word, "Factory Farms". Yes, we have 450 head of cattle but we raise and care for them the same way as if we had 50 cows.  Yes we have 8,000 acres of crops, but we grow and care for them with the same passion as if we only had 1,000 acres. Just because one farm is bigger than the other doesn't mean one is bad and one is good. We need all kinds and types of farms to create diversity and feed our ever growing world. So it is not fair to label big farms as bad or "factory farms".

Smile boys!...or just open your mouth and stare awkwardly, either works.

Being a farmer is NOT an easy job.  There are no weekends off or paid holiday vacations.  The farm doesn't close at 5pm or open at 8am.  It is 24/7.  I was once told that farming is not a job, it is a lifestyle. And that is a fact. My family lives and breaths farming, and agriculture in general. And the best part is that we all breath it together.  Working alongside your family is one of the greatest blessings a person can have.  I am sure there are days when my dad thinks my brothers are idiots or that everybody else thinks that dad is being bossy, but at the end of the day I am sure I can speak for them when I say that they wouldn't change it for anything.

So I guess to sum it all up, in the Nunnenkamp family, there are some F- words we like, some F-words that get dropped when they shouldn't on the farm, and some F-words that definitely don't describe us. But at our farm, F stands for FAMILY.

...that's what she said

Blizzards suck, but odds are that we will probably be alright.

Blizzards suck, and here's why.

Last week, winter storm Atlas struck parts of Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming.  An intense blizzard blew though the area dumping rain followed be several inches, and in places several feet, of heavy wet snow followed by severe winds. There are some reports that places in South Dakota received up to 58 inches of snow and almost hurricane-force winds. All those things combined and you are left with the result of one of the craziest winter storms most have ever heard off.

Amid all of the difficulties this much snow brings, shutting down I-90 and paralyzing towns, many ranchers took a direct blow from the storm. Estimates are that upwards of 95,000 cattle, horses, and livestock perished in the storm. That means many ranchers lost all of this year’s calf crop and a good majority of their cow herds. Many livestock were out on Summer and Fall ranges, sometimes miles from winter pastures where shelter is better suited for winter storms. Even horses and livestock in pens closer to the house perished in the feet of snow, strong winds, and cold that came this early in the season. Many cattle trailed with the wind and when they found shelter, many were buried when snow drifted and covered them. In most cases, there wasn’t much that could be done. (Now if you are thinking, What?! What do you mean not much could be done, please stop and continue with this post.)
 
Now one would think, OMG, this is devastating, heart wrenching, something that our nation needs to know about. These people need help! Somebody call CNN, FoxNews, MSNBC, CBS, Wall Street, anybody with a pen and paper!

Well instead of covering stories about the actual people of this country and more importantly, the people that are feeding this nation, our national media is more interested in our dysfunctional government. Who is actualy no help to these ranchers. We have no farm bill, farm service agencies are shut down, and no government assistance due to the shutdown.

But since a good majority of our national media doesn't seem interested in doing their job, the agriculture community will do it for them.

A single glance threw your Facebook news feed and I am sure you will find tons of links to blog posts by brave ranchers sharing their stories of survival and loss. Thousands and thousands of cattle were lost in that intense blizzard. Cattle that are the heart and soul to many ranchers. These people have spent years building their herds and they care for their livestock with all they have. These animals are their livelihood. So for their entire lifestyle to basically be wiped out overnight, is devastating. And for people to be brave enough to come forward and talk about their loss, is truly honorable.

I love being part of the agriculture community not just because of what we stand for and what our purpose is but because of how we band together in times of need. No matter our differences of opinion, when one of us falls, we help to build each other up and support our brothers and sisters in ag.

Last week,while the north west corner of Nebraska was getting pounded by a blizzard, our north east part of the state was getting ripped apart by a EF4 tornado. immediately after, pictures started rolling in of fellow farmers helping rebuild fence, collecting tin and metal from corn fields, cleaning up debris from collapsed farm buildings, and cattlemen showing up to grill several thousand hamburgers for clean up volunteers.

This blizzard is no different, fellow ag-peeps are coming out of the wood works to help share the story of these affected ranchers and help gain the attention of the public, the media, and our government. Neighbors helped neighbors dig out of the snow and search pasture after pasture hoping to find live cattle and helping each other cope with the heartbreak of finding cattle buried under feet of snow.

That is plain proof, that the agriculture community is strong and no matter what storms blow our way, Odds Are That We Will Probably Be Alright.

We are proof that even when our country is in a bit of government shambles, we take care of our own. There has been a Ranchers Relief Fund established to aid the S.D. folks impacted by this storm. Here in Nebraska, the Chadron Community Foundation has created the Cattlemen Relief Fund in which donations can be sent to  PO Box 1125, Chadron NE 69337.

You can read stories of the storm posted by real people here, and here, and here, and here, and here, and here, and here, and here, and my favorite, here. 

So in closing, I would just like to tell all the ranchers affected by Atlas, that you will be alright. You will get through it. It won't be an overnight fix, but only time will help rebuild from this disaster. But don't fret, because we got your back! 

...that's what she said

Pumpkin Makes Me Happier Than A Camel On Wednesday

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The other day I got asked the question, don't you ever get tired of pumpkin. I just kind of smiled and said no, do you ever get tired of breathing? They laughed and said no because I need that to live, and I replied, exactly.  Needless to say, pumpkin makes me happier than a camel on Wednesday. (HUMP DAY!)

Now before I continue on my rant about how amazing pumpkins are I suppose I better quick explain, my oldest brother owns The Country Pumpkin. A unique fall display store which offers over 50 varieties of pumpkins, squash, gourds and other ornamentals that overflow our colorful displays. In addition, we carry antiques, primitives, scented candles, handmade wares, florals, decorated pumpkins and other autumn accents to warm your home. We also have things to warm your tummies like our Pumpkin Valley Farms Pumpkin Puree, pumpkin cheesecakes, pumpkin cupcakes, pumpkin pies, and pretty much any other tasty goodness that may show up in our store. And last but not least, our  holy grail of all pumpkin yummyness, SOFT SERVE PUMPKIN PIE ICE CREAM.

 So why are pumpkins so epic? Well think about it. What other fruit (yes, pumpkins are a fruit) can you sit on your porch,

 

carve a light up face into,

 

cover in glitter,

cover in mustaches,

 bedazzle,

 

and straight up eat?

 

well you could maybe do similar with a grape, but it just wouldn't be the same. 

So now that we have that settled, lets talk about the hidden awesomeness of pumpkin, its healthy!

1. Pumpkins are an antioxidant and an anti inflammatory food! This means it helps with joint health, organ health, stress relief and soft tissue injuries!
2. Pumpkins can help protect the eyes from cataracts and degeneration with their Vitamin A content.
3. The high levels of Vitamin C help the immune system and encourages collagen production for the skin to maintain its beautiful glow and elasticity.
4. Pumpkin is a great source of fiber to help wash out any toxins and keep your body running smoothly.
5. Pumpkins hold enough carotids to give them their lovely orange color and help prevent premature aging and cardiovascular disease.
6. Pumpkin seeds are high in protein and plant based fatty acids, which help regulate cholesterol levels, protect against arthritis, promote healthy skin, and improve brain function.
7. The pulp and the seeds are rich in magnesium required for bone and tooth health.
8. Pumpkin contains lots of potassium and zinc to prevent the onset of cardiovascular disease and hypertension (high blood pressure). Zinc is also great for the immune system, skin and fertility.
9. The fruit contains L tryptophan, a chemical compound that triggers feelings of well being that aid depression in a smooth and natural way.

So in conclusion, pumpkin is actually really good for you.... who knew. ;-)

 

...that's what she said

 

 

And if you are truly in love with pumpkin everything, then you may get a kick out of this little list. I know I did.  http://www.buzzfeed.com/joannaborns/23-stupid-pumpkin-recipes-you-should-make-if-you-really-love 

No more Panera for this girl.... #PluckEZChicken

Oh Panera, why oh why did you have to go and show your pure ignorance about where your food comes from. I sure did enjoy eating there but I guess I will have to find myself a new lunch time establishment. I'm sure I can find a place that supporters hard working American farmers.

To find out why myself and MANY other farm family supporters are deciding to spend our dollars elsewhere, check out Dairy Carrie's latest post DEAR PANERA BREAD COMPANY.
 

...that's what she said

Thank You Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Farmers!

So I always knew I liked Culver's, but after today, its probably a super bad thing that I live 2 minutes from this tasty restaurant.

Today I learned that Culver's has teamed up with the National FFA Organization to thank American farmers and the future of American agriculture, FFA members! In a world where it sometimes seems that hardworking farmers and ranchers are constantly the target of misguided information and radical untruths, to see something as simple as a photo on Facebook being shared and liked thousands of times can put a smile on the face of anyone involved in agriculture.

And beyond the fact that Culver's is proud to shout their support of farmers from the social media roof tops, they are also helping others thank a farmer by sending thank you notes, which in turn Culver's will donate $1 to the National  FFA Foundation for every note sent.

Click the photo to Thank A Farmer!

Then after you write your note, head on over to Culver's and divulge your taste buds in a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Concrete Mixer. Well, that's what I did anyway. And let me just take this moment to say thank you to the "Reese's Peanut Butter Cup farmers" for providing me with a tasty relief from my work day. Your Peanut Butter Cup farming is much obliged. :-)

Hey brother bears and poppa Lyle, to thank you for being super great farmers, I ate ice cream in your honor. You're welcome :-)

But before I sign off, I would just like to share a little diddly of information about other restaurants and food services companies that, shall we say, do not support American farmers. These places support groups such as The Humane Society of the United States and have been bullied by this radical anti-agriculture group to eliminate buying products raised by certain methods of production that HSUS does not agree with. Methods that American farmers use to produce the safest and healthiest food products in the most humane and efficient ways possible.

The list of places include:

• McDonald’s
• Wendy’s
• Burger King
• Sonic
• Safeway
• Harris Teeter
• Winn-Dixie
• Carl’s Jr.
• Hardee’s
• Quiznos
• Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
• Chipotle
• Whole Foods
• Wolfgang Puck
• along with many other businesses.

But, there is one restaurant that I will not be throwing under the bus like the above mentioned, and that is Domino's! After last year's Ag Pizza Party, Domino's scored major brownie points in the supporting American Farmers category. And now I can happily add Culver's to that category.

So I guess it looks like my diet from now on will consist of Domino's pizza and Culver's concrete mixers. Well, maybe just today's diet anyway.

...that's what she said

Where In The World Has Ashley Been?

I just today realized that I have not only not posted anything in almost a month, but I have not even been on here to look in the past month. Can you say FAIL! Don't worry I just slapped my own wrist for that one. 

But in my defense I have been rather busy the past couple weeks. I may have jetted off to Nashville TN for a week of fun then as soon as I returned I took off for Valentine NE for our Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear Meeting for a few days and then I have had a few evening meetings and events to cover since then.  And I just now realized that tonight is the first night in almost 4 weeks that me and the puppy have sat at home alone on the couch just catching up on some TV time. If you have ever met my pup Peyton, you know that she is as spazy as they come, so the fact that she is just sitting here helping me write this is a testament to how much she has missed me the past few weeks.

So since me writing about my trip to Nashville and the County Music Festival would probably result in me blabbing on and on and on and you all falling asleep, I will let some pictures explain the awesome epicness that was CMA Fest.

SO MUCH AWESOMENESS I ABOUT LOST IT!

Lenny Kravitz and Jason Aldean... can you say AWESOME!

Heyyyyyy, its Mountain Mand!

GOLLY JEEPERS he's good lookin

just chillin back stage waiting to go to the front row

Kinda freakin out about going to CHURCH!

He sang straight into my soul!!

Oh hey Craig Campbell

Joe Joe Joe JOE DIFFIE!

Lady A sounds like angels when they sing. Is that weird?

Can you say, HAIR FLIP! Jake Owen

Oh Thomas Rhett, it goes like this...

Hey Handsome, why you gotta be so quiet and shy?

Joe Joe Joe.. Joe Diffie!

Thats right Kieth Urban...

Jon Pardi, or what I like to call...eye candy.

Lenny Kravitz showed up as a surprise!

Holy Jack Daniels, its Eric Church!

The boys of Lady Antebellum playin a little ping pong

What did I say, AWESOME EPICNESS, that it was for sure!! Oh ya, and I guess I also have a new distraction to occupy my free time now too. Since its finally "Facebook Official" I guess I can share to the maybe 5 people who actually read this thing....Say hello to "The Boy". Ya, he's cute, be jealous :-P

...that's what she said

Ashley

Aw Naw! Its about to get Country Music Crazy!

Country Music Monday

So guess who is going to be spending the next few days in Music City partying it up with country music's finest? Umm, this girl right here! Yes be jealous.

Thank god for having a bestie who lives in good ole Nashville to give me an easy reason to venture off to CMA Music Festival, right? Well Jessica and I have been somewhat game planning for our 4 day music experience and I have decided to come up with my "Bucket List" for this trip. Jessica has not seen this yet, so Jess "if" you read this, get your junk together because I'm on a mission!

1. Upfront and foremost, and the top of every sane person's list... TOUCH ERIC CHURCH!
2. After 1 is complete and security has removed me from his leg, have him sign "These Boots".

3. Shake it with Luke Bryan, or better yet, just have him "Shake It For Me" and I'll just watch.

4. Do the dougie with Blake Shelton and his "Boys 'Round Here".

5. "Get My Shine On" with the Florida Georgia Line boys.

6. Find out "What Liquor Makes My Tooshy Move" with Blackjack Billy!

7. Find Jason Aldean and ask him why he keeps asking me to "Take A Little Ride", I mean seriously, I scream YES! at the radio every time he asks but yet he just keeps asking.

8. Take Lady Antebellum "Downtown" so they stop whining and moaning about how nobody takes them downtown anymore.

9. Buy a shot of patron for Chris Young, because "Aw Naw", you know he just might have to stay then.

10. And finally, take some good ole corn feed Nebraska beef, and throw it at Carrie Underwood!!! nah, I'm just kidding, I have way to much class to wast delicious steak like that. ;-)

...that's what she said

March Against Monsanto. Remind me what you're mad about again?

The other day I was at our local farmers market and I overheard a conversation between the leaders of our buy local foods groups talking about the recent March Against Monsanto. Now after about 15 seconds of hearing what she was saying, lets just say my blood was boiling. But before I go on, let me clarify, I have no beef with people who choose to raise or consume organic, grass feed, antibiotic free, etc etc. types of food products, we need selection and choices for all types of consumers, but what I do have a problem with is people who choose to attack and create criticism off of false claims that hinder others from making educated decisions. My ultimate wish in life is that we would have a culture full of educated consumers who had the freedom to dictate their buying habits off of educated research, but because of ridiculous activist formations like "March Against Monsanto" I don't think that is happening anytime soon.

On Saturday May 25, thousands of people across the globe organized a March Against Monsanto. The group claims  that GMO foods are not sustainable and cause harm through causing cancer tumors, infertility, and birth defects. The group believes that chemicals produced by Monsanto are poisoning our environment and they strongly dislike government and FDA support and approval of GMO foods. This group also says they want to unveil the truth about GMOs, boycott Monsanto, and increase research on the harm caused by consuming GMO foods.

http://erinehnle.com/blog/

So after reading all their claims and missions, I still ask "So you're mad about what again?"

All of the things they are yelling and chanting about, science has conclusively refuted consistently over the past several decades that companies like Monsanto have been submitting these products for approval by the USDA and FDA. So even though these foods have been proven safe and healthy time and time again, people still find a reason to stand up and make a scene.

Since this group is so steaming mad about...well I'm still not sure what exactly, let me walk you through alittle thing I like to call "Farmer Logic".

My dad is a farmer, my uncles are farmers, my brothers are farmers, my friends are farmers, all of these people plant seeds that are GMOs. The leader of March Against Monsanto claims she was inspired to start the movement to protect her two daughters. She was quoted saying "I feel Monsanto threatens their generations health, fertility and longevity."

So "Ms. I'm Steaming Mad And I Don't Know Why", your daughters and myself consume the same GMO foods that my dad is raising and you are saying that he is causing me to be unhealthy, infertile, and live a short life? Well lets think about this, I'm pretty sure my dad loves me just as you do your daughters, so do you really think that he would raise crops that are going to kill me? You are not the only ones who consume these products that farmers are raising. Farmers and their families eat from the same table you do so do you honestly believe that farmers would produce foods that are unsafe for their own family? No, they would not, it's simple "Farmer Logic".

 ...that's what she said

That's What She Said...But Why Did She Say That?

So I have linked up with this gang of Nebraska bloggers and this is my first attempt at joining the weekly blog theme party. This week everyone is sharing why and how you picked your name for your blog.

Well, when I started my blog I decided I wanted a theme or purpose for my blog. And of course that was a simple decision, AGVOCACY.  I mean, agriculture is my life, so what else am I going to ramble about on this thing. So now that I had my purpose, I needed a name. I tossed around names involving Farmers Daughter, Country Kid, Dirt Road Diaries, Agriculture Impressions, etc etc. But it just wasn't clicking for me.
 
Then I was watching one of my all time favorite shows, The Office, and Micheal Scott spouted off the famous one-liner, "that's what she said", and BAM! name found.

If you ask anyone who knows me at all, they will probably tell you I am a straight up jokster and a touch of smart ass, well, maybe more than a "touch" ;-). I love to bop around and make others laugh and sarcasm is a language I speak rather fluently. So having the title That's What She Said was a perfect fit. Plain and simple.

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