On the wrong side of the rain cloud...

Drought continues to grip our entire trade area - the kind of drought even some of the old timers say they have never experienced. Uncertainty is the order of the day, and decisions are made only to be undone soon after with the changing forecast. Our phones have been flooded with farmers looking for advice, or at times just affirmation that the choices being made are the right ones.

Through this whole spring, the one thing that stands out the most to me is the incredible spirit and tenacity of our farmers and ranchers. In the midst of all the stress and doubt and fear and worry, I am reminded again and again that we work with and for the best people in the world. One particularly rough morning a farmer’s wife told me that every day is one day closer to rain - and we just have to keep going one day at a time. Bless her faith. I needed a bit more of it that day.

We are here with you, no matter what this year has in store for all of us. Maybe It’s a generous return policy. Maybe it’s a quick delivery for a last-minute change of plans. Maybe it’s just an ear when you need one.

Last but not least, depression is deadly. If you or someone you love is struggling, don’t wait to get help. The national hotline for farmers is 800-FARM-AID (800-327-6243), and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255.

Whichever side of the rain cloud you are on, we are praying for you. We are one day closer to the rain.

Bonnie