What does it mean to be thankful? The dictionary definition says, “conscious of benefit received; expressive of thanks; well pleased.” It is human error to lack in thankfulness. Some incidents in life may trigger an onset of thankfulness for our quality of life and the blessings we have. We hope everyone can be reminded during this holiday season of how far we have come in this beautiful country and be thankful for all of the freedoms we have.
My husband and I come from two very different backgrounds but agriculture has brought us together, literally! I am from a dairy-farming family in California that has been in business, thankfully, since 1913. There are no words to describe the appreciation for what my family’s relationship with cows and the land has done for us. My great-grandparents, poor Italian immigrants, were able to achieve the “American dream” and to be a part of that is absolutely wonderful.
The farm vet, my husband, started out loving animals and wanting to work with cattle. Since he has been practicing veterinary medicine in California, I have had the opportunity to watch his love and appreciation for agriculture grow strong. He has transformed from being an English foreigner to part of the agricultural community here. He serves as an integral part of the food system day in and day out.
We are extremely thankful to be involved in agriculture every day. It is a way of life for us and we would not have it any other way. We get to be involved in the process of producing food for people across America and the world! It is a great feeling to contribute to something which is so important to our existence. Here are a few things we appreciate:
Starting work before the sun is up and having the road to yourself….peace and quiet; the sweet smell of fresh silage; buying butter at the store, knowing that our family contributed to that; working with dedicated farmers with good values; watching calves stand for the first time….wobbly; steaks, wine, cheese and chocolate – all together or separate, doesn’t matter, they’re great; watching cowboys roundup cattle on horses; tractors harvesting crops – amazing; working outdoors with animals; getting fresh sweet corn at the end of summer; being a part of “rural America,” a supportive community; daily challenges in our careers; saving an animal’s life.
Have a wonderful THANKSgiving!
Thank you so much to Tessa Hall for sharing this great post. You can find Tessa through her blog or on Twitter sharing more about her story and her “farm vet”. Want to hear more great stories like this? Tune in for the month of November to hear many more reasons why others are Ag-Thankful. Leave me your comments, suggestions, idea on here or email me (agricultureproud@hotmail.com).
