In the complex world of ranch succession, unexpected yet common realities can disrupt the most meticulously planned transitions. It’s a safe assumption that all of us have known someone affected by mental or physical impairment, such as disease, dementia or addiction. However, when one of these realities occurs on a working family ranch, it can […] Read more
Ranch succession part 2: Preparing for the unexpected
When illness, addiction or dementia strikes, bringing in a team of professionals and remaining compassionate can help the family remain resilient
Ranch succession part 1: Sibling dynamics and ‘cousin consortiums’
Transitioning the ranch is complex enough with siblings. How do you do it when cousins are involved?
When it comes to passing the ranch down, the biggest obstacle may not lie between parents and children but rather between siblings. While researching this story, I learned that families are focusing on the next next generation and that “the cousin consortium” refers to a messy web of competing interests and unspoken expectations that can […] Read more
Love on the farm: A recipe for successful relationships
Healthy relationships are key to a successful farm and fulfilling life. So how can couples ensure their marriage remains strong?
When my husband and I kid around about what makes us happiest in our marriage, his answer will always be cookies and me letting him buy more cows, and mine would be “more holidays.” While there’s some truth to this good-hearted humour, I wanted to dig deeper and ask folks from farming and ranching lifestyles […] Read more
When the farmhouse crumbles part two: Protecting the farm’s legacy from divorce
What do farmers and ranchers need to consider before getting married, or during a divorce?
In my previous article, I wrote about things to be aware of when marrying into a family farm. But just as someone marrying into a family farm has things to consider, the farmer also has considerations before bringing someone into the mix. Today, most people believe that divorce implies that it’s a basic division of […] Read more
When the farmhouse crumbles: Divorce on the farm
If you’re marrying into a farming or ranching family, what do you need to consider?
For several years since becoming a farmwife myself, I have sat at the kitchen tables with farm women, interviewing them for my first two published books — and having candid, off-the-record conversations. My Farmwives book project was a two-book series highlighting mostly long, happy marriages and advice for women marrying farmers today. I’d be lying, […] Read more
Canadian Cattlemen Presents: Depth of Field
