A Busy Weekend!

Our speed trip to Bozeman for the Bobcat home opener started off on Friday with some business meetings in Havre.  Since we signed the new farm lease, we had a few things to get in order before progressing to much farther with farming the new land.

First stop was FSA so Jeff could sign the necessary paperwork there.  I actually was not present at that meeting (I just dropped Jeff off and ran another errand) so I am not one hundred percent clear what he accomplished, just that he did what he needed to do.  I think just letting them know that we will be farming this land now.

Next, we visited with our insurance man.  We applied for crop insurance (on the wheat we haven't planted yet... kind of crazy, but hey I guess that's just how this all works) and got a pretty good guarantee there.

Third stop was the banker, who approved us for a loan basically of the same amount as our crop insurance guarantee.  This will be our operating money we will use to farm the new land-- buy seed, fertilizer, herbicide, etc.

Last, we visited with an accountant to see if we need to form a corporation yet or not.  At this point, our operation is pretty simple and straightforward, so we are better off not forming a corporation.  But at some point, it will be necessary.

All in all, there were no surprises anywhere, so I took that as a successful morning.  I learned a lot at each of the meetings and feel like I'm getting a better understanding of the business side of farming.  Credit is also due to Jeff and Tom for patiently explaining how things work, even after I probably ask the same questions over and over.

After we were done in Havre, we headed south to Bozeman.  Friday night, after stopping in at my old stomping grounds in the mall to see my former co-wrokers, was the Montana Brewer Association Beerfest, which was really neat.  Since I was still not feeling 100% better after being pretty sick earlier in the week, I didn't drink more than just a few sips of the beers Jeff really liked.  All the same, it was fun to see some friends I hadn't seen in a while.

Saturday, the Bobcats took the field against UC Davis.  The first home game this season, and with the stadium expansion, it was an easy sell-out and attendance record.  It was really cool to see all the fans so supportive of the team! Our season tickets are in the newly constructed end zone seating area.  It's a great place to sit to see plays develop.  I found that I liked the seats better than I anticipated.  The Bobcats won easily.

After the game, Jeff, Tom, and I left immediately and drove home while Carol stayed in Bozeman for a wedding.  I am spending today getting caught up after our short trip and watching football.  Tomorrow will be my first day at the new job!