The view from my office is the best I’ve had this week, even though speaking has taken me to Santa Monica, California, central Illinois and a video connection with Rome, Italy.  What makes it so special?  My view is rural America at its best – and a tribute to the people I serve in the food and farm business. The scene involves Holsteins, newly green grass (thank you, rain!), our neighbor’s grazing operation and golden corn/soybean fields in the distance. Our pumpkins and indian corn are ripe in the garden and will be shared on a hay ride this weekend. And there’s a buzz of activity for harvest in the air.

This is tranquility for our family – just as it is for so many on farms across the country. In today’s crazy world, we often miss the time to simply reflect on what makes rural America wonderful. Pictures bring that to life, so I’ll let them speak for me in celebration of “A Day in Ag“.  Why not take a moment and reflect on what’s right in this wonderful business – and then share it with others?

Inspiration happens at many levels. This one is up for your intrepretation, but it's important to remember that much of agriculture is about legacy.

A world apart? It takes both to relate to people around the food plate, I've learned. I'll always be a farm girl, but I love cute shoes.

Innovation blended with a rich history best describes today's farms. Yesterday's images are lovely, but Charlotte's Web needs a makeover.

Even cows are amazed by the opportunity to "moo" with millions through social media. Won't you join me in sharing your story? If your voice isn't a part of the conversation, who is going to speak for you?

A great view on my way to the gym this morning. Harvest season offers the perfect opportunity to post a few pictures and talk about what you're doing. It's a novelty to 98.5% of people not on a farm!