If spring was a color it would be green and there is no doubt that right now spring greens are popping up in gardens across America. As the days warm up and we all turn to being more active and outside, it is natural that we all pivot from those fall and winter comfort foods to lighter eating fair.

It is an American classic and sometimes you just need a recipe that will make a really batch! It is Chocolate Chip Cookie Day here on Ranch Raised.

As I look around our communities, they are abuzz with spring activities. And while I am a master homebody, ranch hermit, having kids active in these activities forces me to step up.

Like many this wind has me sort of beaten and battered. Personally, I am having a hard time finding the will to work in my garden.

To be honest, I have to admit, it has been a rough few weeks for many farmers and ranchers across the Midwest.

This time of year we are all looking for those classic spring flavors and sides. Asparagus has got to be one of those iconic veggies that I think of this time of year. Long stalks of tender greens grilled on the side of a juice steak. Leftovers thrown into pasta dishes or with other roasted veggies. And who doesn’t like pickled asparagus as a change of pace?

Batters up! I’m not talking baseball but instead next week will be a big week in the beef and cattle industry, with all eyes on Washington DC. We better have some lawmakers and stakeholders prepared to swing for the fences on behalf of rural America!

THEE Hot Barn Report! Heard ONLY on American radio stations across the nation and online at hotbarnreport.com!

Karina Jones is a real-life ranch wife in the Nebraska Sandhills and one of the most highly sought-after speakers in the cattle industry nationwide!

Just back from the farm in Illinois last week. I always love to plant my feet on that rich soil. It was too wet to plant. Hope we can get that corn and bean seed in the ground soon.