Hey there everybody! We “Moooved”!

Sorry, I just had too, this picture turned out way too cute. Anyhow, I decided to move my blog and start fresh. It is the new year after all, so why not? I’ve learned an awful lot from the past year.

I decided to name my blog “Dare to Cultivate” because I loved the word. To cultivate means to prepare the ground for planting. Cultivate also means to develop something. l am a firm believer that we should be constantly improving and educating ourselves to develop into a more well rounded person. Not just about agriculture (though I love it and this is probably what most of my posts will be about) but about all things. Anyhow it just sounded perfect to me.

I might as well introduce myself here. My name is Lauren Schlothauer. I’m attending New Mexico State University and am pursuing a major in agricultural communications and minor in livestock production. I’m in my second year. I have a passion for telling people where their food comes from (que the eyes glazing over). But I actually really love it! It might not sound incredibly fun  to most people but I really enjoy it. It gives me the opportunity to tell stories and write and photograph. I absolutely love how creative I can be while at the same time advocating for agriculture. I also love green chile, my little hound dog, my wonderful family and taking photos.

In the spirit of the new year, I wanted to share with you one of my resolutions: I want to be a better agvocate (advocate for agriculture). For a resolution to be effective you have to have a plan. You can say “I want to lose 10 pounds” or “I want to make the world a better place” and yes, while those are inspirational and all – we must actually take steps to accomplish them. Consistent steps. Yes, this can be a bit overwhelming. It can be as easy as talking with someone or sharing a status that’s positive and informative.

Sometimes the most difficult part of starting towards a goal or a resolution is just that – to start. I had a peer approach me last semester and she asked me if it felt awkward starting to advocate for agriculture. She expressed her resignations. Starting new things is weird. I didn’t feel entirely comfortable advocating for agriculture when I started. It’s a touchy subject for many because not only are most so far removed from it but unfortunately there’s a lot of misinformation online. Plus, I learn more everyday. I’m not going to say I know all there is to know. Agriculture is always moving forward, always changing and that means that as new information becomes available perspectives and opinions are going to evolve as well. On the bright side once you begin towards your resolution (I’m not saying it has to be full fledged leap into the pool but just dipping your toes and testing the water first never hurts) it only takes 21 days to make a habit. So whatever your resolution – get crackin’!

Happy “Moo”/New Year!!!

-Lauren