Never underestimate the power of establishing clear expectations and accountability. It may take a little extra time in the beginning but will save you a lot of time and heartache in the long run.

It was one of those awful, bright, beautiful, bitterly cold days where every exhaled breath seemed to hang in the air on the verge of turning into a block of ice before it finally decided to dissipate and drift off into the frigid atmosphere.

It was early in the afternoon at the tail end of calving season when my dad mercifully showed up at school to pull me out of my grade 11 history class. I remember thinking what a gorgeous day it was. An unseasonably warm stretch had melted most of the snow, the grass was starting to green up and, though I wasn’t sure, I thought I may have caught a snatch of meadowlark song.

As a farmer with over 56 years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and potential pitfalls of succession planning for family-owned agricultural operations. While the process is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition to the next generation, it is often loaded with emotional complexities and the risk of family feuds if not approached with care and foresight.

My husband is a faithful, hard-working man. He always has been. I know he loves me. Even so, I know I’m not the only love in his life.