Tonights status update is going to be simply a repost a thank you written to us on Saturday, November 2, by the first family to be recipients of cattle, Jacob and Melanie Rausch - Words can not explain how thankful we are for the gift that we received. Yesterday was a very happy/emotional day for us, especially for Jacob. He has put his whole life into ranching and after the storm hit, it wasnt just his livelihood that was lost, it was a large part of his family. Since we met, Jacob has always impressed me, without ever having to look at his calving book or any papers, he could tell you the whole history on every cow that was on our place, from how old they were, the day that some were born, what kind of calf they raised, as well as markings that no one would ever notice. (He also gave them names once in a while .) There was one cow in particular that we will all remember forever, ear tag #600, she raised a wonderful calf, and LOVED cake. She would come up to the pickup and eat cake from the kids hands and if the window was up, she would stand there and lick the window until we rolled it down. Unfortunately, she didnt make it through the storm. Ranching is not a career for us, it is our life and I enjoy being home and working at my husbands side every day. Along with our kids, this is where we want to be and what we want to do. We were to the point of having to decide whether or not it would even be a possibility to continue ranching, or sell the few cows/calves that survived. These last few weeks have been an emotional roller coaster for us and Jacob has stayed so strong through this whole process. Our 4 children have also helped us to stay strong and helped to keep us going. He may be my husband, but he is a strong, hard working man that deserves a second chance. Thanks to Heifers for South Dakota, all of the wonderful donors, Zoetis (Amy Shafer Pravecek), the two families that took time out of their lives to deliver the heifers, the brand inspector, our wonderful supportive neighbors, and everyone else that has made it possible for us to have another chance to continue ranching. It is absolutely amazing how everyone has come together to help out and we will someday be able to help others in need a well. Thank you so much for all of your support. Sincerely, Jacob and Melanie Rausch Family Tomorrow more families will feel this very same hope. This weekend will be a fire, the fuel has been stacked, the tinder bundled, the match struck. Tomorrow the flame touches kindling and as the blaze erupts the light will be shone on the difference we will make.
Posted on: Thu, 21 Nov 2013 05:20:39 +0000