Tomorrow, my dad will walk me down the aisle and give me away to another great man. It seems like just yesterday I was five years old and feeding the bulls with an ice-cream bucket full of corn because I wanted to do chores with Dad. Time sure flies from the first time my dad taught me how to read EPDs as a kid, and soon I was reciting them to bull customers when they would come to look at our cattle. Through the years, my dad has been my best friend and supporter. Together, we shared many great memories, and it seems all those memories involve our Limousin cattle in one way or another. Of course, I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
When I asked my dad about his secret to a long, happy marriage, he said it’s all about finding someone who supports you and wants the same things. For our family, I think that means you have to find someone who is willing to help with cattle chores, chase cows, fix fence and battle winter storms. I think it also means finding that special someone who will work hard alongside you each day, but will also remind you to have fun and enjoy life. I think I have found that someone with my soon-to-be-husband, Tyler. With both of our parents celebrating their 25th wedding anniversaries in 2010, we feel fortunate to have such great examples of marriage to emulate.
Although Dad tried to make boys out of his three daughters, he will finally have a son to help him around the farm and tinker in the shop fixing things. Last December, I announced my engagement and told all of you that I would be changing my last name. Tomorrow is that day, and I will begin a new chapter as Amanda Radke. While my byline will change, my goals will not. I'm still going to work hard each and every day to serve as an advocate for farmers and ranchers. And, I'm still going to ask all of you for advice as we navigate the turbulent waters of the beef-cattle industry. Thanks for sticking around for the ride. Your support and continued readership means the world to me!
Last request, what's your secret to a happy marriage? Is it true that a couple who works cattle together stays together? For those married couples out there, how long have you been married, and what have you learned along the way? Your advice, your stories and your experiences are what makes this blog a truly rich experience for anyone who tunes in, including myself! Thanks again!
