Why do Farmers Precondition?

Posted on by mlball2014

14225621_10209542843121644_7296698390012844330_nFirst and foremost, I would like to give a shout out to my mom! Happy Happy Birthday!! This weekend was full of fun and laughter. I truly feel blessed to have such amazing people around me.

Part of the crazy exciting weekend was spent down on the farm! I was feeling very cattle deprived so spending a morning getting dirty couldn’t have gone any better!

On Saturday we took our weaned calves to the veterinarians office to be preconditioned.

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The definition of precondition is “the preparation of 4 to 8 months old, recently weaned beef calves for entry into a feedlot. Includes castration, dehorning and all vaccinations before sale or entry to the feedlot.” 

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The morning began at 6:30 am. We rounded up all of the cows and calves to be sorted. Once the calves were weaned (separated and switched to grain and/or grass diet) we let the cows out to a new pasture and hauled the calves to the vet’s office.

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Jessica (our vet) began vaccinating and pouring (prevention of lice and grub) the calves while we kept track of records, directed calves into the chute, and assisted with gates. Proof of vaccinations are determined by a green tag in the calves ear. Green tags require vaccinations for 7 different diseases but only 2 shots are given. 1 of the 2 vaccinations cover 7 other diseases. It is important to prevent cattle from getting sick and stressed before they enter the feedlot system.

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Green tags also require calves to be castrated and dehorned.

Castrated: turning a bull into a steer (a non-reproductive male) is a mandatory action due to the high levels of testosterone in bulls. Steers are less likely to be aggressive towards humans and towards one another. Dehorning is the process of removing horns from the calf’s head. Removing horns helps by once again decreasing the risk for humans but predominantly by protecting the calves from hurting one another.

We choose to band (similar to castrating but a rubber band is used to cut off circulation) at birth. Every farm is different but we find it to have less risk of infection, less stress, and faster healing rates.

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After all of the calves were preconditioned- we made the trek back home and made the calves comfortable in their new pen. We will feed the weaned calves for a little over a month before selling.

We are hoping to sell a few of the calves for showing. If you are interested please message me! All of the calves are bred from a Simmental bull.

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Farmers precondition calves to protect the health of the calves and humans.

For more information on Green Tags:

http://digitalmag.iacattlemen.org/article/Green+and+Gold+Tag+Programs/2236822/268128/article.html

Don’t Worry! Be Happy!

Posted on by mlball2014

mbjblHappy Friday Picking Wild Flowers! This week I began the daunting but exciting task of looking for a job. I hope to find a career that allows me to express my passion for agriculture through writing and hands on work.

Worry started to seep into my thoughts and the more I tried to push it away, the more it continued to grow . Before I knew it I had a huge weight on my shoulders. This is when I decided to turn to God.

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I began a study on my bible app called Worry-Finding Peace. The study focuses on the what and why behind worry.

“Ultimately, worry comes down to two things: fear and a lack of trust.”

“God wants us to face the future with confidence.”

Proverbs 3 states: Trust on the Lord with all your heart and don’t rely on your own intelligence.

God has provided for me up to date so I am going to trust God with this next huge chapter of my life. He has a plan for me and I need to learn to trust more.

I am letting my worry go by praying to God and focusing on the small things that bring me joy! We have many blessings in life and right now I am very thankful for Fall.

It is FALL!!!!! EEEEKKK

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“Hoodies, Hot cocoa, boots, jeans, cuddling, crisp air, flushed cheeks. I live for Autumn!” Who else is excited to consume all things pumpkin???

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I am very excited to announce that there may be a few changes occurring on my blog, Picking Wild Flowers, in the coming weeks. As I mentioned above; I am beginning to think about my future which includes praying to God about all all of my options.

Below is a little sneak peak.

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I am very excited about this addition to the blog! Can anyone guess what it might be?? Comment below. 😉

My first Farm Progress Show

Posted on by mlball2014

Good Morning Picking Wild Flowers and Welcome Back! 

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This weeks marks my first appearance at the Farm Progress Show. I was thrilled to be part of such an empowering event! This morning I am sitting here sipping my coffee and meditating over what took place this week!

14224886_10209468393500450_522510907362628833_nI have had the privilege to work with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Agriculture for going on three years. This Summer Lisa, WIA Communications Specialist, was hard at work interviewing and capturing the story of 8 amazing #WomeninAg. During the Farm Progress Show I had opportunity to connect with the women. I have never met 8 women more deserving of this award. The Impacting the Land recognition was about finding women that made great contributions to managing and protecting their land.

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I made a lot of memories at the 2016 Farm Progress Show. Working in the Iowa State University Tent really opened my eyes to future possibilities. I am excited to enter such an amazing industry. Farmers are some of the most humble and hard working people I know. I could feel the passion radiating off each individual as they shared their own story. This week was particularly special because my dad was able to join me at the show.

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I was able to walk around with Dad and Bruce for a little while before heading off to my Beef Science Lab. The FPS is a great place to get ideas and motivation. I loved seeing all of the innovation and excitement! There are a lot of great things taking place in agriculture.

One thing I question is the absence of livestock farming at the FPS. I advocate that we bring in livestock producers; trailer companies, hoop buildings, feeding systems, etc. Being a cattle farmer; I was looking for ways to improve our own herd. Crop farming ties in with livestock production, but it may be beneficial to have both! 🙂

Besides that small rant, I could not have asked for a better FPS! It is in a lovely location and the staff are very dedicated to producing a beautiful agriculture show!

Impacting the Land, Julie Walters, said “Morgan you have the whole world in front of you, don’t let anyone tell you that women can’t farm.” 

 

God’s Nature is My Nurture

Posted on by mlball2014

It was nice to have the week off before heading back to Ames. I was able to focus on packing and really taking time to myself. This week I completed a section on God’s powerful nature.

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God’s Nature is really my Nurture. Looking at the stars at night, walking/running down gravel paths, watching the sun set, hearing the birds sing, examining wildlife footprints on freshly fallen snow- All of this he has done for us.

The study was centered around: introducing the world, diving into the great depths, and finishing by showing praise and appreciation.

In Genesis: God created humans to rule over the birds, mammals, and every creeping thing. All was for us; to be in the image of him.

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We were not there when earth was created; so how could we possibly have an understanding to how vast and wonderful the world really is?

Job 38: Who holds in the seas borders? Who Commands morning and night? Do we know the depths of darkness?

God is the only one who controls nature. He uses sarcasm in Job to get his point across. The world was not created in seconds. God took his time and added a lot of details.

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Job 39: The ostrich leaves its eggs in the ground and lets them be warmed by the earth. Letting God and the world take the fate of the eggs in their hands.

Seeing new birth and the cycle of life really shows God’s nature at work. How could something so perfect and pure be created in the midst of floods, wild fires, elections, and everyday world news? The answer: its possible with God’s help and doing.

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Psalm 8: Praise for the creator

Psalm 8 really focused on praising God. The verse uses the term majestic. I personally have never used that word to refer to God but it fits everything I have read about nature to a tee. The section goes into depth about entering into a harmony, one that is of a delicate balance.

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Its remarkable how even the sun and moon provide for us everyday. I tend to take a lot of the things God has blessed us with for granted and this passage has really made me think about slowing down and literally smelling the roses. Many things about God’s Nature is my Nurture. I have grown to love running, playing with my dog outside, tending to cattle chores, and taking a nature walk down to our creek.

All of this was provided for me; just like nature was provided for all of you.

Enjoy the last bit of summer!! 🙂

“Breath In & Breath Out”

Posted on by mlball2014

“Good Afternoon” Yoga! Yesterday I wrapped up my summer internship with a fitness and health camp. It was fun watching the kids enjoy yoga, boxing, healthy snacks, and learning about sugar intake, serving sizes, and “MyPlate.”

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“Downward Dog”

Megan was able to join me this week! Megan, Katie (Washington Co. volunteer) and I had a blast interacting with the kids and gearing them up to make smarter food choices. We enjoyed a book called “Fast Food.” Fast food does not always have to be greasy and full of empty calories. There are healthier options on the menu and being prepared ahead of time will help you to make the best choice.

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We discussed ways to prep and enjoy vegetables on the GO. Making healthier options OUR “Fast Foods!”

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I asked the campers to dish out their typical plate of spaghetti. Most plates were filled with pasta; as mine would have been! The kids were surprised to learn that 1/2 cup was one serving of spaghetti. Looking at me with wide eyes, I explained that we should vary our meals. If we have only one serving of pasta than we should add 1 piece of toast (garlic bread), a side of broccoli or side salad, and a fruit or dairy side (peaches/cottage cheese).

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We walked to the community garden in Brighton. I hoped the kids enjoyed the time outside as much as I did! It was fun looking at all of the different colors. I love how enthusiastic they became when we discovered vegetables, flowers, bees, butterflies, and much more.

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What’s your move? The youth had the opportunity to try tag, yoga, and boxing. I really believe in the importance of varying your exercises. I am training for a half marathon https://pickingwildflowers.org/2016/07/24/training-for-a-12-marathon/  and I am realizing first hand how important it is to mix things up. I want to ensure that I am not going to get burnt out before I compete. Just moving your body is one of the key things a person can do to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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A few of the kids really found their inner peace. 🙂

Above: Lydia is concentrating on “breathing in & breathing out.” The kids had some quiet time where they had the opportunity to concentrate on breathing.

I enjoyed coordinating the Fitness and Health camp. I am very passionate about finding the balance between what we eat and how we move.

Missed out on all of my summer adventures? Here is the link to most of my summer posts. https://pickingwildflowers.org/tag/farm/

My senior year at Iowa State starts in 1 week!!!!! EEEEEEK Stay tuned for all things Fitness, Farm, Faith, and Food related!

Thanks for reading!

 

 

 

7 Back to School Snack Ideas!

Posted on by mlball2014

This morning I graduated 25 youth from Babysitting Basics. It was a bittersweet moment. Maybe it has to do with the fact that the time to pack up my car and head back to Ames is approaching a little faster than I had expected, maybe it means my warm summer days are coming to an end, or it could have something to do with completing my summer with Extension! Most likely it has something to do with all three! I have learned so much from my time with Washington, Iowa, and Johnson County. The kids have really made my summer full of fun and laughter. I have one week left of camps- stay tuned for next week’s Fitness and Health Camp recap. 🙂

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But, this summer has not been all Picking Wild Flowers (see what I did there!? instead of roses?? haha); there is always a MESS involved with Summer Day Camps!! If only you could imagine… blue frosting on noses and hands, cookie crumbs all over the floor, and just wait for it… gold fish smashed into the sidewalk. :O!!

So here I go with 7 very cute but messy snack ideas.

1. Fish Bowls: Crackers, Blue Frosting, and Gold Fish13882509_1125773530795244_5831566013821876651_n

2. Individual Dirt Cups: Pudding, Oreos, and Worms

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3. Grape Trees: Grapes and Pretzels

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4. Zucchini Bites: Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes Baked in Coconut Oil and Parmesan Cheese

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5. Homemade Chex Mix: Pretzels, M&Ms, Goldfish, Cereal

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6. “Feed Mix:” Cheerios, Pretzels, M&Ms, and Rasins

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7. Vegetable Test Tasting: Make it Interesting by Adding a Few Unique Veggies

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Your kids will love all of these great summer or Back to SCHOOL snack ideas. Introducing foods in a unique way is a great option for adding variety into your child’s meals. Comment below or like my blog by following me. Let me know if you would like to see more posts like this one.

Have a great weekend! Until next time!

 

 

 

Diver by Day & Fair Goer by Night

Posted on by mlball2014

Happy Friday Picking Wild Flowers! This week I was a diver by day and a fair goer by night. I have really loved working for extension this summer. I can see myself very happy in an extension profession.

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The #CloverU theme; Oceans of Fun, had me searching for ways it was connected to agriculture- agriculture is about curiosity and passion. Then Ryker asked me, “why do you always wear a clover on your shirt to camps?” It hit me hard; I wear the clover because it holds a lot of empowerment in such a simple shape. I represent the clover through my actions, and I can say I am proud to demonstrate Head, Heart, Hand, and Health by the coordination of STEM camps this summer.

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Oceans of Fun Day Camp in Kalona

 

I am no longer a 4-Her but I am striving to be a mentor and role model to those who are and to the kids I interact with. Attending the Johnson County fair this week brought back a lot of great memories. The photo below popped up on my news feed. It is not the trophies and the ribbons that will last a life time but it is the sweat, tears, pictures and people that truly made the fair feel like a family.

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Baylie is now in Clover Kids! It is really fun to see the passion of showing pass to the next generation.

I see many connections between STEM and 4-H. Both create learning, curiosity, and life lessons.

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My cousin Delaney did a great job in this years rabbit show!

“Oceans of Fun”was a very creative camp. The youth explored ocean creatures, types of water, depths of the sea, and pollution.

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All of the campers enjoyed creating stuffed fish. “Did you know, fish have slime on them to protect their scales and that is why they don’t get wrinkly like we do,” one camper commented; just about melted by heart!!

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Ada explored oil pollution

I had a wonderful week fishing for ocean creatures in Washington and reminiscing about my good O’l days showing at the Johnson County Fair.

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Fish Bowl- cracker, frosting, and gold fish.

Check out how cute this fish bowl is! Stay tuned, I may write a summer snack post 😉

 

 

 

 

Training for a 1/2 Marathon!

Posted on by mlball2014

WOW it is HOT!! This weekend a bunch of girls and I went camping. Mind you we had this on the calendar a month in advance! The first night we stuck it out and slept in the 90 degree weather. On Saturday we went on a float trip down the Skunk River. Seven cheery and excited ladies started the journey while seven tired and burnt ladies left the float haha. Needless to say we did not spend a second night. Next time we will be camping in the fall, but memories sure do last a lifetime.

It has been miserable running weather, but Megan and I have decided to train for a half marathon and we need all of you to help us stay motivated. I have decided what better time than the present to compete?

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Above is the training schedule. Ideally I would like to be ready by early spring. We have completed week 1. Week two is a maintenance week but it will be a very good opportunity for my muscles to recover. I have never ran more than 6 miles and I am feeling a little nervous.

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My daily routine has morphed to accommodate my training schedule. I am realizing that I have to make running a major priority if I plan to run 13 miles. Both my eating and mental habits need to improve.

I am working to live an 80/20 lifestyle. Eating healthy 80% of the time and splurging the other 20%. It is all about training my mind and body to have self control.

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Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a chore. This week we made a shrimp and fruit salad with a lemon dressing. The salad was a recipe that I found on “Iowa Girl Eats.”

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The next day I used the left over ingredients to make a simple salad with shrimp and avocados.

Stay tuned for updates on all things Farm, Faith, Fitness, and Food related!

 

A Long Way Down: Designing Parachutes

Posted on by mlball2014

Good Morning Picking Wild Flowers!

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Today is “my” Friday as I finish up evaluations and press releases before driving down to Missouri for a beautiful wedding ceremony.

Wow Lots to do before we take off at 1:30 PM! Are you having that kind of summer too!? One where it feels like time is flying??

To Do List:

  1. Finish blog post (A passion of mine) 🙂
  2. Pack!!!!
  3. Go for a quick run- Need to get those steps in before a riding in a car for 5 hours 😉
  4. Laundry
  5. Check cows

But back to the reason that brought you here!

A Long Way Down: Designing Parachutes

This week the kids kept me on my toes! Campers enjoyed the story, “Paulo’s Parachute Mission,” where they learned that engineers design parachutes for spaceships; connecting the art of designing to purposeful invention. Youth had the opportunity to explore their five senses, play with a giant parachute and build group/individual parachutes that we launched from the top of the slide.

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Above: Abby and Keaton built a parachute with three different suspension lengths. They were able to design a replicate of their sheets with coffee filters, string, and a bull clip.

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Working with our awesome volunteers is one great part of coordinating day camps! Katie encouraged the girls to follow the directions as they created three parachutes with different canopy sizes. It has been rewarding to see the County Council interact with the campers.

13631380_1116177281754869_4636272745583035885_n Hailey tested her parachute before walking down to the park to release and time.

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We had a little bit of a weather scare yesterday. The kids really impressed me as they gathered their bags and lined up at the door. They were calm and collected as we headed to the conservation center.

Lets hope the rest of our camps have sunny and cool temperatures but if not I know we have a great group of kids in Washington County that can handle it! 🙂

Good luck with the fair Washington County- Stay tuned for the last two weeks of Day Camps. #CloverU

 

Youth goes Mania over Bugs!

Posted on by mlball2014

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30 Washington County campers explored insects, habitats, and all things bug related at the 2016 Bug Mania Day Camp. To be honest; this was one topic I felt a little queasy about. I am not a fan of bugs, insects, or anything that could be considered a “pest,” but these kids really made me feel like I jumped to judge the topic. At the end of the day; this was one of my favorite camps to teach.

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Mya was working on creating her own bug from three different head, thorax, and abdomen choices. The campers could be creative and imaginative as they cut and glued the pieces. I learned that the abdomen can include up to ten segments. The kids were surprised to hear this as well. As you can see on Mya’s sheet; she has a couple pieces that have six to eight segments.

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The day consisted of many art projects including large group habitats, coffee filter butterflies, insect hats, and finger puppets.

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Mariah holds up her insects as she prepares to adventure into a imaginative story plot line for her puppets.

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I would say my favorite part of Bug Mania was the variety. The campers had the opportunity to enjoy insect puzzles, BINGO, Bug Hunts, and relay races. I had a great time mingling with the kids and learning all about their adventures with lady bugs, lighting bugs, and caterpillars. Each student had a story to share and it was fun to see them exploring nature on such a beautiful day.

Ask your child what they learned! I learned that grasshoppers have the strongest legs of all insects. Thanks Sam! 😉

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