13 Comments

Really enjoyed this week’s column. It is the story of life - Human or animal. Crazy legs had a great life and I think she appreciated the warmth and care both of you gave her.

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Thanks to this column, I’m now reliving some of the experiences growing up on our family farm in NE Iowa. As a tomboy until my years in high school, I was at my dad’s side for daily chores with our cattle. I learned that you can’t ride your pet calf; I got thrown and still have a visible scar on the inside of my left upper arm from the barbed wire I grabbed as I was being tossed. I loved our cattle though I learned one of our roosters was unfriendly during a battle when I was 3 years old. I lost the fight, though my dad rescued me and wrung the rooster’s neck. Life on the farm! Your story about Crazy Legs and your relationship with her brought a smile… and tears. RIP Crazy Legs!

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Thanks Mary for your kind words. You are a wonderful writer too - thanks for sharing about your life too.

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So many lessons to be learned from growing up on a farm, not the least of which is a tremendous work ethic. I am perpetually astonished at your tenacity and bravery to achieve what you are doing at Whippoorwill Farms. When you are growing up, you are unaware of the skills and perspective you take into your adult life. I always wanted to save them all as well. Thank you.

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Thanks so much Debra for your support and for letting me know how much you like the posts!! I so appreciate the kind messages.

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I save your posts to read in my morning meditation time. Thank you

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Yes, we often have a false sense of control when it comes to our pets, and our livestock. Farm life forces us to respect Mother Nature, and the cycle of life. Thanks!

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Beautiful column, Beth. You have a very wide range as a writer—from a page turner gem like Bet The Farm to a heart tugger like Crazy Legs.

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Thanks Richard!! You are Pres of the fan club for sure.

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Wow, Beth! This is one of your best, right-to-the-heart-of-farming insights. It's sad, beautiful and real -- all at once. I think I met Crazy Legs, didn't I?

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You likely did meet her, Chuck, and gave her a scratch between the horns! She was one of the most friendly ones out there. Thanks for reading, and for all your support!

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Actually Crazy Legs led a charmed life. Thank you both for taking such care of her. And for such thoughtful writing. Makes us remember all the little calves and big cows we have nursed along only to be reminded that we are not in control….

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Thanks Josiah. I appreciate it.

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