Our New Normal

It's been one week since my father in law passed away in a farming accident.  This past week has been pretty blurry for most of us.  It's easy to forget what day it is because the days seem to blend together.

Ernie farmed and ranched with two of his brothers, his son, nephew, and close cousin.  The day to day operation of the farm will continue but Ernie's passing has changed life for all of them.  The huge hole that we are left won't ever be completely filled.  The guys are doing what needs to be done and taking it one day at a time.  

Ernie also helped so many people other people.  He had a huge impact on his two son-in-laws, his nephews, brother-in-laws, and countless others.  He helped those he loved by cutting firewood, fixing machinery, moving cattle, building machine sheds, and pretty much anything that needed done.  As his daughter Kate has said many times, Ernie had the spiritual gift of giving.

Yesterday was a hard day for some of us.  It was the first day of our "new normal."  The guys have shifted chores around and are taking care of Ernie's cattle herd south of Barnes.  Ernie's cows have had a good year so far, two sets of twins!  We upgraded sprayers a few years ago and Ernie was our sprayer operator.  He practically lived in the sprayer and loved that responsibility, and was actually the only one of the guys that knew how to run it.  Our local CASH IH dealer came out yesterday and showed Dan and Jason some of the basics.  Dan said it would have been fun to learn how to run the sprayer if Dad was going to be gone on vacation for a few weeks, but unfortunately that's not the case.  Like I said before, we are taking it one day at a time.  

The family has been overwhelmed by support from our community.  There are too many people to thank for their generosity and kindness during this difficult time. ~ Lydia