God has blessed me in many ways: a wonderful healthy family, abundant friends, and beautiful land to raise crops and animals. I am proud that I join fellow Corn Growers to produce more than 9,000 pounds per acre. I am proud to produce 48 pounds of protein-enrich meal and 11 pounds of oil from each 60 pounds of soybeans. I am proud to produce a premier naturally nutrient-rich food, Beef, packed with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, vitamin B, and protein.

Over the weekend, I learned that I was selected as Monsanto’s Farm Mom of the Year for the Midwest Region. I was extremely blessed to learn that my precious daughter with assistance of my loving husband submitted the nomination.

When I received the call, I could not wrap my mind around the announcement. At the time I was joining fellow women in agriculture to kick-off the first annual Women Changing the Face of Agriculture – a career exploration event for women of all ages in Illinois. I was so committed to making sure I did my part to give attendees from high school through college a positive network that my reaction was hidden in the flurry of activities.

Now with the voting underway, it is started to sink in. I am blessed to have such a supportive family. All Farm Moms are Priceless. Each mom has her own role on the farm and a story to tell. I am honored to represent the Midwest Region Farm Moms who go the extra mile everyday for her own family, friends, community, and more importantly for agriculture. 

I urge everyone this busy spring farming season to remember to give each family member an extra hug, thank your parents-spouse-grandparents-kids, be safe, and take the time to share a meal on the tailgate. For parents with child[ren] in your home do not forget to seize the opportunities to educate your child about agriculture every day, explain why you farm, and how important your farming and/or ranching operation is to your community, state, and the world. Together we can bridge the agricultural information divide.  

You can read my nomination at http://www.monsanto.com/americasfarmers/moms/vote.asp and if you so incline show your support.