![\"Lisa](\"https:\/\/mackinsondairy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/wpid-wp-1413853124503.jpeg\")
<\/a>Lisa Myers from Hampstead, Maryland<\/p><\/div>\n
I would like to introduce one of my best friends, Lisa Myers (age 30) from Hampstead, Maryland. I met Lisa in 2007 at the Illinois State Fair. Shortly afterwards, I moved to Northern Illinois and we lived 10 minutes apart. Some of my favorite memories are milking some really good Holsteins with Lisa, our Red Lobster dates or when she was a Bridesmaid in my wedding. Last summer, we took a road trip to Maryland to see Lisa and meet her family. While we might not talk or see each other very often, I am proud to call Lisa one of friends.<\/p>\n
Alban Farm milks about 100 head of Holsteins and Holstein crossbreds (Normandi and Swedish red) in a double 6 herringbone milking parlor. They are a conventional grade herd that is on pasture up to 10 months of the year depending on the Maryland weather. Lisa’s family grows all of their own feed, including corn, soybeans, alfalfa, grass hay and wheat. Their milk is picked up every other day and is shipped to Maryland & Virginia Milk co-op where the end product is fluid milk.<\/p>\n
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Lisa’s Story in her own words:<\/strong><\/h3>\nI currently farm with my parents and uncle, I do a majority of the milking, I take care of herd health, vaccinations, breeding, keeping barns clean and help with field work especially in the spring. My mother helps milk in the mornings and babysits for me the rest of the time. My father does field work, the daily repairs of equipment, some milking, and purchasing of equipment and seeds. My uncle does the feeding and helps with field work.<\/p>\n
![\"wpid-wp-1413852966764.jpeg\"](\"https:\/\/mackinsondairy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/wpid-wp-1413852966764.jpeg?w=300\")
<\/a><\/p>\nWhat has been the most rewarding part of farming for you? <\/strong><\/h4>\nThe most rewarding part of farming is the freedom to be your own boss and the feeling of accomplishment at the end of every day, especially in the spring when new crops are planted and watching fields turn green, or watching a new calf be born. Being able to be with my family and showing my kids a good way to grow up, while watching them every day experience life and understanding what responsibility is. <\/div>\n <\/div>\nWhat has been the most challenging part of farming for you? <\/strong><\/h4>\nThe most challenging part of farming can also be the freedom and being your own boss, because when you are sick the cows don’t understand the work still needs to be done, the same for bad weather like a severe snowstorm, the work still needs to be done the animals are counting on us. It’s also very hard when a lot of hard work is put into caring for animals, and something happens a cow can become sick and not be able to recover no matter how hard we try, it’s a emotional and financial hit all at once.<\/div>\nWho is your favorite cow?<\/strong> <\/h4>\nMy favorite cow is number 14, her nickname is Rebel. While for health records we use number 14,(just like everyone has a patient ID number at the doctor’s office) but everyone also knows her as Rebel. She isn’t special as far as winning any shows or making the most milk, it’s her personality and yes, every cow has a different and unique personality. I am pretty sure she could pass for a dog some days if she didn’t look like a cow. She loves a good head scratch, or even wrapping your arms around her neck, when she is in the milking parlor she has to stop and check everything out to see if anything has changed. My favorite part of Rebel is if I am in the barn she is in, no matter if I am on the other end she will find me just to see what I am up to. She has caught me off guard more than once with either the feeling of heavy breathing on the back of my neck or a lick of her tongue across the back of my arm. Rebel by far is my favorite cow, we didn’t do anything to make her this way, she just loves because she can, and is the highlight of most of my trips into the barn.<\/div>\n\n![\"wpid-wp-1413853101448.jpeg\"](\"https:\/\/mackinsondairy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/wpid-wp-1413853101448.jpeg?w=300\")
<\/a>Lisa’s favorite cow, Rebel!<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What is the biggest misconception about the dairy industry? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe biggest misconception about the dairy industry I find to be is large dairy farms, are “factory farms”, my family would be listed as a small farm, but I still believe the larger dairies have a place and they’re not “factory farms”. If I had several siblings who wanted to farm with me and make a living doing so, we would have to have more cows. So if a family has 5 siblings who all want to be part of the family farm, they have to have several hundred cows to make a living. Just because a farm is large doesn’t mean, they don’t care about the livestock it only means they are providing income for more families and creating more jobs in the agriculture industry. Each cow depends on us for food and water, clean bedding, and proper health care, in return they put a roof over our heads, food in our cupboards and clothing on our backs. If we didn’t care of our cows, we wouldn’t be able to pay our bills or make a living no matter the size of the farm.<\/div>\n <\/div>\nWhat is one message you\u2019d like to get across to the general public about what you do? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe one message I would like for the general public to understand is this isn’t just a job to us, to a farmer this is a lifestyle. We don’t punch a clock 9-5, we are 24\/7 for our animals. We take what we do very serious and want the world to know we care about what we do, our impact on the environment, our community, and our neighbors. We aren’t out to pollute the water, harm animals or make people sick as you can so easily find article that claim we are. Most farmers are generations into this and have been farming far before graduating school. Millions of dollars go into research before a product is used in agriculture. We eat the same foods you do, drink the same water, and fish the same streams. We are stewards to the environment, care takers to our animals, and parents to our children. We have a responsibility greater than most and have the most to lose, if we don’t care for our farms, we have nothing and our community has nothing also. Agriculture is the backbone of America and I would like to see the general public stand behind us and understand we all depend on farmers making good choices to feed our growing population.<\/div>\n\n![\"wpid-wp-1413852951715.jpeg\"](\"https:\/\/mackinsondairy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/wpid-wp-1413852951715.jpeg?w=236\")
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n What advice would you give to anyone interested in getting into farming? <\/strong><\/div>\nMy advice for anyone who is interested in getting into farming, spend time on a farm working, ask lot of questions and make lots of friends in the farming industry. A lot of good programs are available from extension offices for guidance with finances, but start saving money now because farming is a expensive business where money gets tied up in the spring and depending on weather, fall may not pay you back. The same for the dairy industry, cows, and feed can be expensive and the price of milk can change in a hurry. Having farming friends who can help in a pinch or loan a tractor when needed, may be a lifesaver.<\/div>\n What is your favorite dairy-filled Thanksgiving recipe?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\nHomemade Ice Cream to go with apple pie<\/div>\n1 qt. heavy cream<\/div>\n1 qt. sugar<\/div>\n1 tbsp vanilla<\/div>\nfill remaining room in ice cream maker with milk, process for 1 hour or until thick<\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n![\"Lisa](\"https:\/\/mackinsondairy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/wpid-wp-1413853536785.jpeg?w=300\")
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n
\nThank you Lisa for taking time to participate in our “30 Days of Dairy” series. If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to our blog (no spam, just an email when we post a new blog) so you don’t miss any posts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nEntire “Thirty Days of Dairy” Series:<\/em><\/h3>\nIntroduction<\/a><\/p>\nSarah & Andy Birch – Derby, VT<\/a> – the dairy farmers that were my inspiration for the 30 Days of Dairy!<\/p>\nMelissa Collman – Boring, O<\/a>R – an organic dairy farmer from the West Coast!<\/p>\nMacy Sarbacker – Belleville, WI<\/a> – a blogger, editor and dairy farmer from American’s Dairyland!<\/p>\nKaren Bohnert – East Moline, IL<\/a> – a very talented writer, Mom and Jersey lover from my state!<\/p>\nLisa Myers – Hamstead, MD<\/a> – one of my best friends that moved back home to run their dairy!<\/p>\nRebecca Schlehlein – Platteville, WI<\/a> – a dedicated farm employee that loves her Brown Swiss!<\/p>\nHeather Moore – Maquoketa, IA<\/a> – Special Events Coordinator turned Dairy Farmer!<\/p>\nKatie Dotterer-Pyle – Union Bridge, MD<\/a> – Spanish teacher and dairy farmer that makes sure her cows enjoy their stay!<\/p>\nBrent Pollard – Rockford, IL – <\/a>an innovative dairy farmer who loves to tinker with things.<\/p>\nKrista Stauffer – Washington<\/a> – a 1st generation dairy farmer and very talented AGvogate for the dairy industry!<\/p>\nDiane Loew – Byron, MI<\/a> – a writer, blogger and dairy farmer from Michigan!<\/p>\nNicole Fletcher – Southampton, MA<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks Holsteins & Jersey’s!<\/p>\nElinor Opitz – Maple Lake, MN<\/a> – a young lady just starting her Ayrshire dairy!<\/p>\nAlise Sjostrom – Brooten, MN<\/a> – one of the readheads behind Redhead Creamery!<\/p>\nTara McIntosh – Ontario, Canada<\/a> – our only dairy farmer featured from Canada!<\/p>\nJenna Kilgus – Fairbury, IL<\/a> – a Jersey dairy farmer that bottles their own homogenized milk!<\/p>\nWill Gilmer – Sulligent, AL<\/a> – our only dairy farmer from the “south”!<\/p>\nGene Zimmerman – Colby, WI<\/a> – our only dairy goat farmer featured this month!<\/p>\nDarleen Moore-Sichley – Oregon<\/a> – a Mom, AGvocate and Gurnsey dairy farmer!<\/p>\nMichelle Eilenstine – Mountain Grove, MO<\/a> – a dairy farmer & University of Missouri grad!<\/p>\nJenni Tilton-Flood – Clinton, Maine<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks 3400 Holsteins!<\/p>\nKalli Ehrhardt – Baldwin, MD<\/a> – A Mom and dairy farmer!<\/p>\nCraig Swenson – River Fall, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer who loves his red & whites!<\/p>\nKatie Harris – Washington<\/a> – a mom & dairy farmer from Western Washington!<\/p>\nAnnaliese Wegner – Ettrick, WI<\/a> – the Modern-day Farm Chick!<\/p>\nMorgan Kliebenstein – Darlington, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer, Genex employee, Mom & wife!<\/p>\nMatt & Joe Engel – Hampshire, IL<\/a> – the brother behind Luck-E Holsteins!<\/p>\nStephanie Aves – Popular Grove, IL<\/a> – a dairy farmer & agriculture teacher!<\/p>\nBeverly Donovan – Benton, Maine<\/a> – a dairy farmer & accountant!<\/p>\nSadie Frericks – Melrose, MN<\/a> – a dedicated AGvocate, dairy farmer, mom & wife!<\/p>\nGreg Schulte – Darlington, WI<\/a> – the cheesemaker at Brunkow Cheese!<\/p>\nKatie Deslippe – St Mary Ontario<\/a> – a young lady that loves everything about dairy!<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nWhat has been the most rewarding part of farming for you? <\/strong><\/h4>\nThe most rewarding part of farming is the freedom to be your own boss and the feeling of accomplishment at the end of every day, especially in the spring when new crops are planted and watching fields turn green, or watching a new calf be born. Being able to be with my family and showing my kids a good way to grow up, while watching them every day experience life and understanding what responsibility is. <\/div>\n <\/div>\nWhat has been the most challenging part of farming for you? <\/strong><\/h4>\nThe most challenging part of farming can also be the freedom and being your own boss, because when you are sick the cows don’t understand the work still needs to be done, the same for bad weather like a severe snowstorm, the work still needs to be done the animals are counting on us. It’s also very hard when a lot of hard work is put into caring for animals, and something happens a cow can become sick and not be able to recover no matter how hard we try, it’s a emotional and financial hit all at once.<\/div>\nWho is your favorite cow?<\/strong> <\/h4>\nMy favorite cow is number 14, her nickname is Rebel. While for health records we use number 14,(just like everyone has a patient ID number at the doctor’s office) but everyone also knows her as Rebel. She isn’t special as far as winning any shows or making the most milk, it’s her personality and yes, every cow has a different and unique personality. I am pretty sure she could pass for a dog some days if she didn’t look like a cow. She loves a good head scratch, or even wrapping your arms around her neck, when she is in the milking parlor she has to stop and check everything out to see if anything has changed. My favorite part of Rebel is if I am in the barn she is in, no matter if I am on the other end she will find me just to see what I am up to. She has caught me off guard more than once with either the feeling of heavy breathing on the back of my neck or a lick of her tongue across the back of my arm. Rebel by far is my favorite cow, we didn’t do anything to make her this way, she just loves because she can, and is the highlight of most of my trips into the barn.<\/div>\n\n<\/a>Lisa’s favorite cow, Rebel!<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What is the biggest misconception about the dairy industry? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe biggest misconception about the dairy industry I find to be is large dairy farms, are “factory farms”, my family would be listed as a small farm, but I still believe the larger dairies have a place and they’re not “factory farms”. If I had several siblings who wanted to farm with me and make a living doing so, we would have to have more cows. So if a family has 5 siblings who all want to be part of the family farm, they have to have several hundred cows to make a living. Just because a farm is large doesn’t mean, they don’t care about the livestock it only means they are providing income for more families and creating more jobs in the agriculture industry. Each cow depends on us for food and water, clean bedding, and proper health care, in return they put a roof over our heads, food in our cupboards and clothing on our backs. If we didn’t care of our cows, we wouldn’t be able to pay our bills or make a living no matter the size of the farm.<\/div>\n <\/div>\nWhat is one message you\u2019d like to get across to the general public about what you do? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe one message I would like for the general public to understand is this isn’t just a job to us, to a farmer this is a lifestyle. We don’t punch a clock 9-5, we are 24\/7 for our animals. We take what we do very serious and want the world to know we care about what we do, our impact on the environment, our community, and our neighbors. We aren’t out to pollute the water, harm animals or make people sick as you can so easily find article that claim we are. Most farmers are generations into this and have been farming far before graduating school. Millions of dollars go into research before a product is used in agriculture. We eat the same foods you do, drink the same water, and fish the same streams. We are stewards to the environment, care takers to our animals, and parents to our children. We have a responsibility greater than most and have the most to lose, if we don’t care for our farms, we have nothing and our community has nothing also. Agriculture is the backbone of America and I would like to see the general public stand behind us and understand we all depend on farmers making good choices to feed our growing population.<\/div>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n What advice would you give to anyone interested in getting into farming? <\/strong><\/div>\nMy advice for anyone who is interested in getting into farming, spend time on a farm working, ask lot of questions and make lots of friends in the farming industry. A lot of good programs are available from extension offices for guidance with finances, but start saving money now because farming is a expensive business where money gets tied up in the spring and depending on weather, fall may not pay you back. The same for the dairy industry, cows, and feed can be expensive and the price of milk can change in a hurry. Having farming friends who can help in a pinch or loan a tractor when needed, may be a lifesaver.<\/div>\n What is your favorite dairy-filled Thanksgiving recipe?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\nHomemade Ice Cream to go with apple pie<\/div>\n1 qt. heavy cream<\/div>\n1 qt. sugar<\/div>\n1 tbsp vanilla<\/div>\nfill remaining room in ice cream maker with milk, process for 1 hour or until thick<\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n
\nThank you Lisa for taking time to participate in our “30 Days of Dairy” series. If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to our blog (no spam, just an email when we post a new blog) so you don’t miss any posts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nEntire “Thirty Days of Dairy” Series:<\/em><\/h3>\nIntroduction<\/a><\/p>\nSarah & Andy Birch – Derby, VT<\/a> – the dairy farmers that were my inspiration for the 30 Days of Dairy!<\/p>\nMelissa Collman – Boring, O<\/a>R – an organic dairy farmer from the West Coast!<\/p>\nMacy Sarbacker – Belleville, WI<\/a> – a blogger, editor and dairy farmer from American’s Dairyland!<\/p>\nKaren Bohnert – East Moline, IL<\/a> – a very talented writer, Mom and Jersey lover from my state!<\/p>\nLisa Myers – Hamstead, MD<\/a> – one of my best friends that moved back home to run their dairy!<\/p>\nRebecca Schlehlein – Platteville, WI<\/a> – a dedicated farm employee that loves her Brown Swiss!<\/p>\nHeather Moore – Maquoketa, IA<\/a> – Special Events Coordinator turned Dairy Farmer!<\/p>\nKatie Dotterer-Pyle – Union Bridge, MD<\/a> – Spanish teacher and dairy farmer that makes sure her cows enjoy their stay!<\/p>\nBrent Pollard – Rockford, IL – <\/a>an innovative dairy farmer who loves to tinker with things.<\/p>\nKrista Stauffer – Washington<\/a> – a 1st generation dairy farmer and very talented AGvogate for the dairy industry!<\/p>\nDiane Loew – Byron, MI<\/a> – a writer, blogger and dairy farmer from Michigan!<\/p>\nNicole Fletcher – Southampton, MA<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks Holsteins & Jersey’s!<\/p>\nElinor Opitz – Maple Lake, MN<\/a> – a young lady just starting her Ayrshire dairy!<\/p>\nAlise Sjostrom – Brooten, MN<\/a> – one of the readheads behind Redhead Creamery!<\/p>\nTara McIntosh – Ontario, Canada<\/a> – our only dairy farmer featured from Canada!<\/p>\nJenna Kilgus – Fairbury, IL<\/a> – a Jersey dairy farmer that bottles their own homogenized milk!<\/p>\nWill Gilmer – Sulligent, AL<\/a> – our only dairy farmer from the “south”!<\/p>\nGene Zimmerman – Colby, WI<\/a> – our only dairy goat farmer featured this month!<\/p>\nDarleen Moore-Sichley – Oregon<\/a> – a Mom, AGvocate and Gurnsey dairy farmer!<\/p>\nMichelle Eilenstine – Mountain Grove, MO<\/a> – a dairy farmer & University of Missouri grad!<\/p>\nJenni Tilton-Flood – Clinton, Maine<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks 3400 Holsteins!<\/p>\nKalli Ehrhardt – Baldwin, MD<\/a> – A Mom and dairy farmer!<\/p>\nCraig Swenson – River Fall, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer who loves his red & whites!<\/p>\nKatie Harris – Washington<\/a> – a mom & dairy farmer from Western Washington!<\/p>\nAnnaliese Wegner – Ettrick, WI<\/a> – the Modern-day Farm Chick!<\/p>\nMorgan Kliebenstein – Darlington, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer, Genex employee, Mom & wife!<\/p>\nMatt & Joe Engel – Hampshire, IL<\/a> – the brother behind Luck-E Holsteins!<\/p>\nStephanie Aves – Popular Grove, IL<\/a> – a dairy farmer & agriculture teacher!<\/p>\nBeverly Donovan – Benton, Maine<\/a> – a dairy farmer & accountant!<\/p>\nSadie Frericks – Melrose, MN<\/a> – a dedicated AGvocate, dairy farmer, mom & wife!<\/p>\nGreg Schulte – Darlington, WI<\/a> – the cheesemaker at Brunkow Cheese!<\/p>\nKatie Deslippe – St Mary Ontario<\/a> – a young lady that loves everything about dairy!<\/p>\n
What has been the most challenging part of farming for you? <\/strong><\/h4>\nThe most challenging part of farming can also be the freedom and being your own boss, because when you are sick the cows don’t understand the work still needs to be done, the same for bad weather like a severe snowstorm, the work still needs to be done the animals are counting on us. It’s also very hard when a lot of hard work is put into caring for animals, and something happens a cow can become sick and not be able to recover no matter how hard we try, it’s a emotional and financial hit all at once.<\/div>\nWho is your favorite cow?<\/strong> <\/h4>\nMy favorite cow is number 14, her nickname is Rebel. While for health records we use number 14,(just like everyone has a patient ID number at the doctor’s office) but everyone also knows her as Rebel. She isn’t special as far as winning any shows or making the most milk, it’s her personality and yes, every cow has a different and unique personality. I am pretty sure she could pass for a dog some days if she didn’t look like a cow. She loves a good head scratch, or even wrapping your arms around her neck, when she is in the milking parlor she has to stop and check everything out to see if anything has changed. My favorite part of Rebel is if I am in the barn she is in, no matter if I am on the other end she will find me just to see what I am up to. She has caught me off guard more than once with either the feeling of heavy breathing on the back of my neck or a lick of her tongue across the back of my arm. Rebel by far is my favorite cow, we didn’t do anything to make her this way, she just loves because she can, and is the highlight of most of my trips into the barn.<\/div>\n\n<\/a>Lisa’s favorite cow, Rebel!<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What is the biggest misconception about the dairy industry? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe biggest misconception about the dairy industry I find to be is large dairy farms, are “factory farms”, my family would be listed as a small farm, but I still believe the larger dairies have a place and they’re not “factory farms”. If I had several siblings who wanted to farm with me and make a living doing so, we would have to have more cows. So if a family has 5 siblings who all want to be part of the family farm, they have to have several hundred cows to make a living. Just because a farm is large doesn’t mean, they don’t care about the livestock it only means they are providing income for more families and creating more jobs in the agriculture industry. Each cow depends on us for food and water, clean bedding, and proper health care, in return they put a roof over our heads, food in our cupboards and clothing on our backs. If we didn’t care of our cows, we wouldn’t be able to pay our bills or make a living no matter the size of the farm.<\/div>\n <\/div>\nWhat is one message you\u2019d like to get across to the general public about what you do? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe one message I would like for the general public to understand is this isn’t just a job to us, to a farmer this is a lifestyle. We don’t punch a clock 9-5, we are 24\/7 for our animals. We take what we do very serious and want the world to know we care about what we do, our impact on the environment, our community, and our neighbors. We aren’t out to pollute the water, harm animals or make people sick as you can so easily find article that claim we are. Most farmers are generations into this and have been farming far before graduating school. Millions of dollars go into research before a product is used in agriculture. We eat the same foods you do, drink the same water, and fish the same streams. We are stewards to the environment, care takers to our animals, and parents to our children. We have a responsibility greater than most and have the most to lose, if we don’t care for our farms, we have nothing and our community has nothing also. Agriculture is the backbone of America and I would like to see the general public stand behind us and understand we all depend on farmers making good choices to feed our growing population.<\/div>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n What advice would you give to anyone interested in getting into farming? <\/strong><\/div>\nMy advice for anyone who is interested in getting into farming, spend time on a farm working, ask lot of questions and make lots of friends in the farming industry. A lot of good programs are available from extension offices for guidance with finances, but start saving money now because farming is a expensive business where money gets tied up in the spring and depending on weather, fall may not pay you back. The same for the dairy industry, cows, and feed can be expensive and the price of milk can change in a hurry. Having farming friends who can help in a pinch or loan a tractor when needed, may be a lifesaver.<\/div>\n What is your favorite dairy-filled Thanksgiving recipe?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\nHomemade Ice Cream to go with apple pie<\/div>\n1 qt. heavy cream<\/div>\n1 qt. sugar<\/div>\n1 tbsp vanilla<\/div>\nfill remaining room in ice cream maker with milk, process for 1 hour or until thick<\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n
\nThank you Lisa for taking time to participate in our “30 Days of Dairy” series. If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to our blog (no spam, just an email when we post a new blog) so you don’t miss any posts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nEntire “Thirty Days of Dairy” Series:<\/em><\/h3>\nIntroduction<\/a><\/p>\nSarah & Andy Birch – Derby, VT<\/a> – the dairy farmers that were my inspiration for the 30 Days of Dairy!<\/p>\nMelissa Collman – Boring, O<\/a>R – an organic dairy farmer from the West Coast!<\/p>\nMacy Sarbacker – Belleville, WI<\/a> – a blogger, editor and dairy farmer from American’s Dairyland!<\/p>\nKaren Bohnert – East Moline, IL<\/a> – a very talented writer, Mom and Jersey lover from my state!<\/p>\nLisa Myers – Hamstead, MD<\/a> – one of my best friends that moved back home to run their dairy!<\/p>\nRebecca Schlehlein – Platteville, WI<\/a> – a dedicated farm employee that loves her Brown Swiss!<\/p>\nHeather Moore – Maquoketa, IA<\/a> – Special Events Coordinator turned Dairy Farmer!<\/p>\nKatie Dotterer-Pyle – Union Bridge, MD<\/a> – Spanish teacher and dairy farmer that makes sure her cows enjoy their stay!<\/p>\nBrent Pollard – Rockford, IL – <\/a>an innovative dairy farmer who loves to tinker with things.<\/p>\nKrista Stauffer – Washington<\/a> – a 1st generation dairy farmer and very talented AGvogate for the dairy industry!<\/p>\nDiane Loew – Byron, MI<\/a> – a writer, blogger and dairy farmer from Michigan!<\/p>\nNicole Fletcher – Southampton, MA<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks Holsteins & Jersey’s!<\/p>\nElinor Opitz – Maple Lake, MN<\/a> – a young lady just starting her Ayrshire dairy!<\/p>\nAlise Sjostrom – Brooten, MN<\/a> – one of the readheads behind Redhead Creamery!<\/p>\nTara McIntosh – Ontario, Canada<\/a> – our only dairy farmer featured from Canada!<\/p>\nJenna Kilgus – Fairbury, IL<\/a> – a Jersey dairy farmer that bottles their own homogenized milk!<\/p>\nWill Gilmer – Sulligent, AL<\/a> – our only dairy farmer from the “south”!<\/p>\nGene Zimmerman – Colby, WI<\/a> – our only dairy goat farmer featured this month!<\/p>\nDarleen Moore-Sichley – Oregon<\/a> – a Mom, AGvocate and Gurnsey dairy farmer!<\/p>\nMichelle Eilenstine – Mountain Grove, MO<\/a> – a dairy farmer & University of Missouri grad!<\/p>\nJenni Tilton-Flood – Clinton, Maine<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks 3400 Holsteins!<\/p>\nKalli Ehrhardt – Baldwin, MD<\/a> – A Mom and dairy farmer!<\/p>\nCraig Swenson – River Fall, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer who loves his red & whites!<\/p>\nKatie Harris – Washington<\/a> – a mom & dairy farmer from Western Washington!<\/p>\nAnnaliese Wegner – Ettrick, WI<\/a> – the Modern-day Farm Chick!<\/p>\nMorgan Kliebenstein – Darlington, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer, Genex employee, Mom & wife!<\/p>\nMatt & Joe Engel – Hampshire, IL<\/a> – the brother behind Luck-E Holsteins!<\/p>\nStephanie Aves – Popular Grove, IL<\/a> – a dairy farmer & agriculture teacher!<\/p>\nBeverly Donovan – Benton, Maine<\/a> – a dairy farmer & accountant!<\/p>\nSadie Frericks – Melrose, MN<\/a> – a dedicated AGvocate, dairy farmer, mom & wife!<\/p>\nGreg Schulte – Darlington, WI<\/a> – the cheesemaker at Brunkow Cheese!<\/p>\nKatie Deslippe – St Mary Ontario<\/a> – a young lady that loves everything about dairy!<\/p>\n
Who is your favorite cow?<\/strong> <\/h4>\nMy favorite cow is number 14, her nickname is Rebel. While for health records we use number 14,(just like everyone has a patient ID number at the doctor’s office) but everyone also knows her as Rebel. She isn’t special as far as winning any shows or making the most milk, it’s her personality and yes, every cow has a different and unique personality. I am pretty sure she could pass for a dog some days if she didn’t look like a cow. She loves a good head scratch, or even wrapping your arms around her neck, when she is in the milking parlor she has to stop and check everything out to see if anything has changed. My favorite part of Rebel is if I am in the barn she is in, no matter if I am on the other end she will find me just to see what I am up to. She has caught me off guard more than once with either the feeling of heavy breathing on the back of my neck or a lick of her tongue across the back of my arm. Rebel by far is my favorite cow, we didn’t do anything to make her this way, she just loves because she can, and is the highlight of most of my trips into the barn.<\/div>\n\n<\/a>Lisa’s favorite cow, Rebel!<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What is the biggest misconception about the dairy industry? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe biggest misconception about the dairy industry I find to be is large dairy farms, are “factory farms”, my family would be listed as a small farm, but I still believe the larger dairies have a place and they’re not “factory farms”. If I had several siblings who wanted to farm with me and make a living doing so, we would have to have more cows. So if a family has 5 siblings who all want to be part of the family farm, they have to have several hundred cows to make a living. Just because a farm is large doesn’t mean, they don’t care about the livestock it only means they are providing income for more families and creating more jobs in the agriculture industry. Each cow depends on us for food and water, clean bedding, and proper health care, in return they put a roof over our heads, food in our cupboards and clothing on our backs. If we didn’t care of our cows, we wouldn’t be able to pay our bills or make a living no matter the size of the farm.<\/div>\n <\/div>\nWhat is one message you\u2019d like to get across to the general public about what you do? <\/strong><\/div>\nThe one message I would like for the general public to understand is this isn’t just a job to us, to a farmer this is a lifestyle. We don’t punch a clock 9-5, we are 24\/7 for our animals. We take what we do very serious and want the world to know we care about what we do, our impact on the environment, our community, and our neighbors. We aren’t out to pollute the water, harm animals or make people sick as you can so easily find article that claim we are. Most farmers are generations into this and have been farming far before graduating school. Millions of dollars go into research before a product is used in agriculture. We eat the same foods you do, drink the same water, and fish the same streams. We are stewards to the environment, care takers to our animals, and parents to our children. We have a responsibility greater than most and have the most to lose, if we don’t care for our farms, we have nothing and our community has nothing also. Agriculture is the backbone of America and I would like to see the general public stand behind us and understand we all depend on farmers making good choices to feed our growing population.<\/div>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n What advice would you give to anyone interested in getting into farming? <\/strong><\/div>\nMy advice for anyone who is interested in getting into farming, spend time on a farm working, ask lot of questions and make lots of friends in the farming industry. A lot of good programs are available from extension offices for guidance with finances, but start saving money now because farming is a expensive business where money gets tied up in the spring and depending on weather, fall may not pay you back. The same for the dairy industry, cows, and feed can be expensive and the price of milk can change in a hurry. Having farming friends who can help in a pinch or loan a tractor when needed, may be a lifesaver.<\/div>\n What is your favorite dairy-filled Thanksgiving recipe?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\nHomemade Ice Cream to go with apple pie<\/div>\n1 qt. heavy cream<\/div>\n1 qt. sugar<\/div>\n1 tbsp vanilla<\/div>\nfill remaining room in ice cream maker with milk, process for 1 hour or until thick<\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n
\nThank you Lisa for taking time to participate in our “30 Days of Dairy” series. If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to our blog (no spam, just an email when we post a new blog) so you don’t miss any posts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nEntire “Thirty Days of Dairy” Series:<\/em><\/h3>\nIntroduction<\/a><\/p>\nSarah & Andy Birch – Derby, VT<\/a> – the dairy farmers that were my inspiration for the 30 Days of Dairy!<\/p>\nMelissa Collman – Boring, O<\/a>R – an organic dairy farmer from the West Coast!<\/p>\nMacy Sarbacker – Belleville, WI<\/a> – a blogger, editor and dairy farmer from American’s Dairyland!<\/p>\nKaren Bohnert – East Moline, IL<\/a> – a very talented writer, Mom and Jersey lover from my state!<\/p>\nLisa Myers – Hamstead, MD<\/a> – one of my best friends that moved back home to run their dairy!<\/p>\nRebecca Schlehlein – Platteville, WI<\/a> – a dedicated farm employee that loves her Brown Swiss!<\/p>\nHeather Moore – Maquoketa, IA<\/a> – Special Events Coordinator turned Dairy Farmer!<\/p>\nKatie Dotterer-Pyle – Union Bridge, MD<\/a> – Spanish teacher and dairy farmer that makes sure her cows enjoy their stay!<\/p>\nBrent Pollard – Rockford, IL – <\/a>an innovative dairy farmer who loves to tinker with things.<\/p>\nKrista Stauffer – Washington<\/a> – a 1st generation dairy farmer and very talented AGvogate for the dairy industry!<\/p>\nDiane Loew – Byron, MI<\/a> – a writer, blogger and dairy farmer from Michigan!<\/p>\nNicole Fletcher – Southampton, MA<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks Holsteins & Jersey’s!<\/p>\nElinor Opitz – Maple Lake, MN<\/a> – a young lady just starting her Ayrshire dairy!<\/p>\nAlise Sjostrom – Brooten, MN<\/a> – one of the readheads behind Redhead Creamery!<\/p>\nTara McIntosh – Ontario, Canada<\/a> – our only dairy farmer featured from Canada!<\/p>\nJenna Kilgus – Fairbury, IL<\/a> – a Jersey dairy farmer that bottles their own homogenized milk!<\/p>\nWill Gilmer – Sulligent, AL<\/a> – our only dairy farmer from the “south”!<\/p>\nGene Zimmerman – Colby, WI<\/a> – our only dairy goat farmer featured this month!<\/p>\nDarleen Moore-Sichley – Oregon<\/a> – a Mom, AGvocate and Gurnsey dairy farmer!<\/p>\nMichelle Eilenstine – Mountain Grove, MO<\/a> – a dairy farmer & University of Missouri grad!<\/p>\nJenni Tilton-Flood – Clinton, Maine<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks 3400 Holsteins!<\/p>\nKalli Ehrhardt – Baldwin, MD<\/a> – A Mom and dairy farmer!<\/p>\nCraig Swenson – River Fall, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer who loves his red & whites!<\/p>\nKatie Harris – Washington<\/a> – a mom & dairy farmer from Western Washington!<\/p>\nAnnaliese Wegner – Ettrick, WI<\/a> – the Modern-day Farm Chick!<\/p>\nMorgan Kliebenstein – Darlington, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer, Genex employee, Mom & wife!<\/p>\nMatt & Joe Engel – Hampshire, IL<\/a> – the brother behind Luck-E Holsteins!<\/p>\nStephanie Aves – Popular Grove, IL<\/a> – a dairy farmer & agriculture teacher!<\/p>\nBeverly Donovan – Benton, Maine<\/a> – a dairy farmer & accountant!<\/p>\nSadie Frericks – Melrose, MN<\/a> – a dedicated AGvocate, dairy farmer, mom & wife!<\/p>\nGreg Schulte – Darlington, WI<\/a> – the cheesemaker at Brunkow Cheese!<\/p>\nKatie Deslippe – St Mary Ontario<\/a> – a young lady that loves everything about dairy!<\/p>\n
<\/a>Lisa’s favorite cow, Rebel!<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Thank you Lisa for taking time to participate in our “30 Days of Dairy” series. If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to our blog (no spam, just an email when we post a new blog) so you don’t miss any posts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Introduction<\/a><\/p>\n Sarah & Andy Birch – Derby, VT<\/a> – the dairy farmers that were my inspiration for the 30 Days of Dairy!<\/p>\n Melissa Collman – Boring, O<\/a>R – an organic dairy farmer from the West Coast!<\/p>\n Macy Sarbacker – Belleville, WI<\/a> – a blogger, editor and dairy farmer from American’s Dairyland!<\/p>\n Karen Bohnert – East Moline, IL<\/a> – a very talented writer, Mom and Jersey lover from my state!<\/p>\n Lisa Myers – Hamstead, MD<\/a> – one of my best friends that moved back home to run their dairy!<\/p>\n Rebecca Schlehlein – Platteville, WI<\/a> – a dedicated farm employee that loves her Brown Swiss!<\/p>\n Heather Moore – Maquoketa, IA<\/a> – Special Events Coordinator turned Dairy Farmer!<\/p>\n Katie Dotterer-Pyle – Union Bridge, MD<\/a> – Spanish teacher and dairy farmer that makes sure her cows enjoy their stay!<\/p>\n Brent Pollard – Rockford, IL – <\/a>an innovative dairy farmer who loves to tinker with things.<\/p>\n Krista Stauffer – Washington<\/a> – a 1st generation dairy farmer and very talented AGvogate for the dairy industry!<\/p>\n Diane Loew – Byron, MI<\/a> – a writer, blogger and dairy farmer from Michigan!<\/p>\n Nicole Fletcher – Southampton, MA<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks Holsteins & Jersey’s!<\/p>\n Elinor Opitz – Maple Lake, MN<\/a> – a young lady just starting her Ayrshire dairy!<\/p>\n Alise Sjostrom – Brooten, MN<\/a> – one of the readheads behind Redhead Creamery!<\/p>\n Tara McIntosh – Ontario, Canada<\/a> – our only dairy farmer featured from Canada!<\/p>\n Jenna Kilgus – Fairbury, IL<\/a> – a Jersey dairy farmer that bottles their own homogenized milk!<\/p>\n Will Gilmer – Sulligent, AL<\/a> – our only dairy farmer from the “south”!<\/p>\n Gene Zimmerman – Colby, WI<\/a> – our only dairy goat farmer featured this month!<\/p>\n Darleen Moore-Sichley – Oregon<\/a> – a Mom, AGvocate and Gurnsey dairy farmer!<\/p>\n Michelle Eilenstine – Mountain Grove, MO<\/a> – a dairy farmer & University of Missouri grad!<\/p>\n Jenni Tilton-Flood – Clinton, Maine<\/a> – a Cabot Creamery dairy that milks 3400 Holsteins!<\/p>\n Kalli Ehrhardt – Baldwin, MD<\/a> – A Mom and dairy farmer!<\/p>\n Craig Swenson – River Fall, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer who loves his red & whites!<\/p>\n Katie Harris – Washington<\/a> – a mom & dairy farmer from Western Washington!<\/p>\n Annaliese Wegner – Ettrick, WI<\/a> – the Modern-day Farm Chick!<\/p>\n Morgan Kliebenstein – Darlington, WI<\/a> – a dairy farmer, Genex employee, Mom & wife!<\/p>\n Matt & Joe Engel – Hampshire, IL<\/a> – the brother behind Luck-E Holsteins!<\/p>\n Stephanie Aves – Popular Grove, IL<\/a> – a dairy farmer & agriculture teacher!<\/p>\n Beverly Donovan – Benton, Maine<\/a> – a dairy farmer & accountant!<\/p>\n Sadie Frericks – Melrose, MN<\/a> – a dedicated AGvocate, dairy farmer, mom & wife!<\/p>\n Greg Schulte – Darlington, WI<\/a> – the cheesemaker at Brunkow Cheese!<\/p>\n Katie Deslippe – St Mary Ontario<\/a> – a young lady that loves everything about dairy!<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n What is your favorite dairy-filled Thanksgiving recipe?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\nEntire “Thirty Days of Dairy” Series:<\/em><\/h3>\n