I was born to a farmer who considered working 50 hours a week at a telephone company for 38 years an “on-the-side” job. So, that meant I spent weekends riding the fender of a John Deere 4000 tractor. Back then, it was all about the “pre-Jimmy Carter years” soybeans and cotton, and the “post-Jimmy Carter years” hay. If you’ve spent any time around a farmer from the 70s, then you know exactly what that means. If not, I’ll spare you, because that’s a different story.

The purpose of this post is not only to give you my small glimpse into that world but to say thank you to the great men and women of this country whose sacrifices feed so many. Whenever I have the opportunity, I like to express my gratitude because a simple thank you goes a long way.

Heroes come in many forms: policemen, firemen, teachers, nurses, and more. But I think there is a lack of appreciation for the farmers of yesterday and tomorrow; the farmers who you can tell apart by their calloused hands, faded jeans, John Deere hat, and that you’ve probably only seen in town at the café or co-op.

As someone who works closely with those farmers, I believe that, somewhere along the way, people misconstrued what land agents do as just wanting to sell off and break up every farm they could.

I’m here to tell you that could not be further from the truth. See, I enjoy putting new farmers on the right ground, selling land that may no longer be a good fit for its previous owners, and working side by side with folks who are building up farms. I make sure to put land with a steward best suited for it and see it as a process of appreciation. I take great satisfaction in knowing I not only helped the owner but the land itself.

Last year, I sold a nice farm to a great family. They sent me a picture of them taking their two tractors and equipment down the road to start work on the farm. As I pictured the grandfather plowing and teaching his grandson while his father watched, the images flooded my mind with memories of my childhood.

At National Land, we appreciate our farmers and stewards of the land. Whether it’s a farm, timberland or a getaway spot with a cabin, we enjoy our time with each client and hearing about their land dreams.

Let us help you find that place to keep creating memories of your own.