Farmer School

January is over?  I'm not sure what happened, there, but apparently 2018 is going to go FAST.

Farming most definitely does not stop over the winter.  Lately, we have a lot of meetings, or, 'Farmer School.' These meetings are for our own good to learn more about what research is going on, or other ways to manage what we are already doing.

My goal for this year is to learn more about the farm finances.  I'm lucky to have some awesome Women in Ag Extension classes to attend nearby:  Annie's Project and Women Managing Farm Finances.

I get to do some pretty fun things while I'm attending these 'school' days, too :)

Duane Murley, KWMT radio, interviews Kellie Blair during the #ISAFRC18. The Blairs participate On-Farm Network trials to improve their farming operation near Dayton. pic.twitter.com/lIB3XXIEBd

— Iowa Soybeans (@IowaSoybeans) February 7, 2018

Other posts on this topic:
Tis the Season for Meetings

Leadership

I received a New Leader Award last night from the Iowa Soybean Association (sponsored by DuPont Pioneer). I am very honored and humbled to get it. But, I'd like to talk about everyone in my life that has made a difference and been a leader to me.

Obviously it starts at my roots: my grandparents and parents. They were the ones to teach me about hard work, humility, commitment, and faith.

I've had a lot of mentors in school along the way that have reminded me for every step back, you must start over and take that step forward again.

My friends and peers. They've taught me to believe in the good in the world and to BE the good in the world. They have taught me to use critical thinking skills. To think about the big picture to further yourself. To educate yourself.

My husband and kids. They are teaching me that all that I will ever try and work for is worth it. They are my blood, love, and life.  (Note the beginning and end are my family. Those closest to me.)

I may have the tools to be a leader in agriculture, but I can't be a leader without any of the above. This award means I have a lot of hard work ahead of me. This is only the beginning.

I am motivated to become a leader. 

Photo courtesy of Joe Murphy, Iowa Soybean Association