Snap, Crackle, Pop

The final stop of my Iowa and Wisconsin conquest took me to Biddick, Inc., near Livingston, Wis. Founded in 1906 by Elmer Biddick, today it serves as a top crop seed and Angus producer in the area.Brian Nodolf, president, greeted me in the office and after an interview we hopped into the truck to look at the feedlot cattle and walk through the popcorn processing shed.From pasture checks to dumping grain to the cows, cleaning pens and spotting bulls, popcorn processing to visiting the retail store in town, I had a fun time taking it all in.Driving through the pasture gates to help pour grain to the cowherd, I could not help but take in the countryside’s natural beauty. Being a Minnesota girl, I can admire this area of Wisconsin. The rising sun was gleaming through the long blades of prairie grass, and the new day’s sunlight reflected from cow to cow. It’s moments like these that remind me that there is nothing more beautiful than the simple complexity of agriculture.  Before hitting the road to head back home, I was sure to take a look at the popcorn production plant and retail store. Rural Route 1 Popcorn is a typical small town novelty store filled ceiling-high with seasonal trinkets and popcorn. The popcorn containers are displayed proudly on a seemingly mile-long counter top with samples begging to be tasted.I may or may not have obliged.While each stop along my road trip provided me with new insight, I am glad that I ended with Biddick, Inc. From the snapping of long grass as we wandered through the field, to the crackling of fresh straw bedding and the popping of corn kernels, I left with a newfound appreciation.

Here they are, my last three takeaways. This time, I present to you 3 Lessons from Livingston:

1) Appreciate the connections within all agricultural sectors. Not many consumers directly correlate popcorn with agriculture. Thank a farmer when you sit down and eat a steak, and when you have your popcorn and movie night.

2) Be grateful for each day and the beauty it holds.

3) Take time to explore around the farm. Chances are, you will discover something new and refreshing that you have always overlooked.

As we approach this 4^th of July weekend, I would like to extend a special thank you to all the men and women who have served our country. As I write this blog, my good friend happens to be on her way home from U.S Air Force training camp. I salute the dedication and courage of all men and women in our armed forces whose sacrifices allow us to do what we love.

– Becky