Without fail, every time I put my brand-new Farm Bureau calendar up on the wall, I get a few butterflies in my stomach. With every page turn comes a set of experiences, covering everything incredibly familiar and routine to moments that come completely out of left field. Although starting a new year might bring about some jitters, I try to see every page as a challenge to make both my life and the lives of those around me better at every opportunity. more

Though I’ve not heated with wood for 15 years or so, this time of year I really miss backing up to a woodstove, toasting on one side and then the other, just like in the old days. more

Fair Grove’s mill was built for John Frederick Boegel and Joseph W. Hine in 1883. Although it was owned and operated by numerous individuals down through the years, the best-known owner was Clifford Wommack, who passed away in 1969. Thus, the mill now goes by the name “Wommack Mill.” more

They say you never forget your first. When it comes to curse words, that’s certainly true for me. But let the record show, I was completely innocent! And I was probably framed by Bette Midler. Let me explain. more

Have we been isolated to the point that our relationships suffered through the pandemic? Then, the country was tearing itself apart with significant issues with polar opposite opinions, from Black Lives Matter to the Jan. 6 insurrection. Many people are afraid to state their views due to the backlash of harsh words and voided friendships. more

In the Missouri and Arkansas Region, Red Cross disaster response volunteers have also provided relief and comfort after home fires and other local disasters, including responding to tornadoes that ripped across the two-state region, and flooding that impacted the St. Louis area. more