by Heather Lang
Imagine waking up each day to wide open spaces, the sound of a creek running, views that belong on postcards, wildlife in your backyard, and a hot cup of coffee in hand.
Picture the "simpler" lifestyle where cowboys are all on horseback; they say "yes, sir" and "yes, ma'am," and they hold deep respect for God, our country, and their freedoms. It's a place where rising before the sun is a rule, your word (and a handshake) is worth more than gold, homecooked meals are a staple, families work together, and everyone is always welcome. The relaxing sound of boots walking across a wooden floor, the welcoming comfort of a log cabin, and quilted comforters draw you back in time to what many consider a simpler era. These are the things that draw us in.
Medora has been an annual tradition for me since I was young, and it is a tradition that we still carry on today. People from around the world come to visit Medora, not for the luxuries, but for the quieter, peaceful, breathtaking views and, yes, the incredible food and unique experiences Medora provides.
My kids getting a tethered balloon ride at Medora during the annual festival.
But what people don’t often notice are the callused hands, the limp in their walk, and the daily struggle for the peaceful, beautiful life that cowboys and cowgirls live. It's a life where nature and God provide all, and through hard work and dedication, they can help preserve their lifestyle.
Fancy houses, big boats, and well-manicured lawns are not their priorities. God, this country, and their freedoms are. Those who live in Medora year-round have exquisitely built a life they love; they’ve built a life they don’t need a vacation from to be happy. This is what draws so many to Medora, N.D.
Medora masterfully shares the story of the town, the people who built it, and why it is such a beautiful place to preserve and showcase. Medora is a charming destination for anyone who wants to experience the history and culture of the American frontier.
Farming and ranching are comparable to Medora in the sense that people often only see the picturesque moments of our lives. They get to experience farm tours, petting zoos, U-pick businesses, or fantasize about holding a gathering at a pristine farm or ranch. However, behind these moments lies a story of hard work, dedication, and a deep connection to the land and community.
My family shares our personal journey in a number of ways. Farm tours allow us to be completely transparent while offering visitors an opportunity to experience a working farm, and we get to share our history. Social media allows us to reach a wider audience bridging the gap between consumers and the origins of their food, fostering a deeper appreciation for the agricultural lifestyle.
Advocating is a necessity to continuously fight for what we believe in. God provides, and through hard work and dedication, we can help preserve our lifestyle. Having conversations with customers about our locally grown meats is a powerful way to connect them with the roots of their food and foster a sense of community while building relationships.
Follow us on Instagram @ndpiggytales if you want to learn more about our journey through life.
Heather is the former NDFB District 7 Promotion and Education Committee member and is also a former American Farm Bureau Federation P&E member. She currently serves as the president of Burleigh County Farm Bureau. Heather and her husband, Lucas, raise animals and crops on a 5th generation farm near Bismarck.