Harvest Update
So far, so good. We started the 2023 Harvest last Thursday by harvesting a field of corn. Soybeans were not quite ready, so we decided to start with corn. After harvesting corn for two days, we switched to soybeans, which is where we are now. Yes, two days makes a difference.
Other than a few minor issues, we haven’t had any delays due to mechanical issues. Weather has been extremely hot and and dry. Combining soybeans has been a challenge due to all the dust, especially after dark. Check out my Facebook video to see what I mean.
Harvesting by the moonlight
GLP Podcast
I had the strangest thing happen to me last week. I was on my way to town to pick up a few groceries. Typically, I listen to podcasts when I am driving. One of the podcasts I was listening to was with Dr. Kevin Fulta. Dr. Fulta is a professor from the University of Florida. He feels it is important for scientists to communicate science to the consumer in a way that they understand and it is a mission to help scientists with consumer education. Most notably - GMOs and the technology behind it. I love what he says and I always learn something from him.
Unbeknownst to me, I was listening to the GLP Podcast Facts and Fallacies. All of a sudden, my name is mentioned. They talked about my blog, Minnesota Farm Living, and how I had written a post about GMOs. They were complimentary (thank goodness!)
I could not believe it. It was the weirdest thing ever. If interested, here is the Podcast:
Customer Service
Okay, I know things are not the same as they once were. But as a whole, customer service has really taken a hit. For example, this past Sunday we were in need of a part. Our local John Deere dealership has always been open on Sundays during harvest. My husband drove to the dealership Sunday morning and it was not open. In the past, there has always been a sign on the door that shows hours available and a phone number for emergency. Nothing. Nada. I get it. Everyone is short workers and customer service is the one are taking the blunt of it. I just miss customer service.
This is only one example. And we are not the only ones talking about the lack of customer service. The latest Podcast from Barn Talk, talked about the same thing in one of there segments. I do love their podcasts and here is the one with the segment on customer service, as well as other pertinent issues. Here is the podcast:
Do you listen to podcasts? If so, I would love to know which ones. Please leave a comment to let me know!
I use Facebook on a regular basis to share my farming story. I have been dealing with difficulties on this platform. When I share my farming story, I do not stay away from the hot topics. I am not sure if that has anything to do with my difficulties. I went for days without being able to comment or like any post. And when you have a community you are communicating with, it makes it impossible when you can’t comment. I talked to their tech support and no one could tell me what was happening or was able to fix it. I literally felt like I had my hands tied behind my back.
It is better now, but I am so glad I have this Substack to share my story also!
Kids
School is back in session. We all know reading is very important. I love that there are accurate ag-related books available for kids to read. I created a list of 40 children’s books that I personally like and recommend. Feel free to browse and order if you would like.
You know what else I like? Taking kids out to the farm, especially during harvest. Kids love riding in the combine. What a great opportunity! Just remember to take safety precautions. Here is a very cute video with my grandson. Yes, I am biased.
Well, I am going to sign off for now as we will be heading out to the field. We had to load a truck load of hogs first thing this morning. (Fortunately) I don’t have to help with that task!
— Wanda