I still believe in Iowa.

Iowa has had a tough few weeks...

but I don't feel sorry for Iowa.

I feel sorry for the families of the individuals affected by

the recent tragic events -- so devastating that I don't want to

tarnish my blog by mentioning any of the specific details.

I raise my kids here intentionally.

I LOVE this state.

I love how the seasons change.

I love how we rank in agriculture and cattle.

I love the beauty that can be found in the uncommon...rustic barns, bales of hay, baby calves...

and until recently I loved how safe I felt residing here.

I'm not giving up on humanity... not yet.

Without sounding like a corny country song... I still believe most people are good.

I still believe that the odds are in our favor to live a full life with minimal tragedy.

I still love Iowa and want to be buried in Iowa soil.

Mourn the losses.

Unite in love.

Believe in people.

Be the good.