farm fireworks

This has been a challenging spring and early summer for farmers and ranchers throughout Missouri. When what seemed like constant rain throughout the months of April and May finally gave way to more temperate conditions in early June, the winds shifted again and delivered blazing heat and dry conditions that have actually thrown much of the state into a mini-drought. Everything from getting crops into the ground to maintaining the safety and health of all types of animals has kept me and many others up at night.

When the Fourth of July comes around, it’s usually a relief after busy planting and hay seasons. Burgers, fireworks and family all gathered around picnic tables and coolers just feels right. But unfortunately, it seems like nothing is easy or pure fun these days.