In recent news and to no surprise the Brazilian bad actors have been lax and not really forth coming with informing their global market about their cases of BSE, also known as mad cow disease.

It is so exciting to watch men and women with roots in the ranching community go on and chase their dreams at the highest levels. No one is cheering louder than little wranglers sitting back here in the heartland watching their idols and heros on the big screen.

During this busy season I think it is important to remember that kids really do not need a lot. It reminds me of a few years back when our school principal stood in front of the audience at the little school Christmas program and said, “Your presence is the best gift you can give your child!”

I see the best of rural America every day, but it is right now during the holiday season where small town America shines the brightest! The people of our small towns truly extend themselves in effort and time to creating magic and spirit at every turn, if you look for it!

The beef supply chain is moving product at a healthy clip. Front end of feedlot supplies have tightened especially in the north giving feeders the leverage they have long needed to take back some control. Packers have hefty holiday orders to fill and for the first time in awhile they are having to get out and about to compete for some cattle. While $1.40 fat cattle is no doubt a move in the right direction it doesn’t even begin to compete with the rising inflationary costs of inputs. So before we all break out the cowbell and have a party, let’s keep in mind the bottom line of the cash flow sheet and what it takes to get fat cattle to their end point.

I got to roll through some small towns that I have never visited in my state. Literally the types of little towns where the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker are still in business.

Today I want to take you on a little journey with me reliving a road trip I took earlier this week. Next to staying home on my own ranch this was as close to a perfect day as anything I need to make me happy.

BIG Thursday Price Discovery Edition of the Hot Barn Report!

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

If you have young kids like we do, this month becomes a busy blurr! Christmas programs at church and at school. Christmas parties in classrooms and with various groups and clubs. Add in the usual chores around the ranch and the fact that we start kidding 4-H goats this month and it all piles up fast! But, as the song says, “Its the most wonderful time of the year!”

Today I’m sharing my Basic Buckaroo Donut recipe. This recipe is so simple anyone can whip it up. If you love baking, I totally recommend getting a donut pan. I like the metal, non-stick one. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can probably just use a muffin tin for this recipe instead. Try it, live on the edge.