“Test-Tube Hamburger”
A friend of mine on Twitter sent me a link to an article titled “First ‘test-tube’ hamburger to be produced this year” and wanted to know my thoughts, so…
The idea of being able to take bovine stem cells, growing muscle tissue in a lab and then taking that tissue and turning it into “hamburger” is an intriguing idea. It makes me think of a science fiction movie or even Star Trek.
Those who know me and have followed my blog also know that I am a supporter of utilizing technology to improve the ability of agriculture to provide safe and wholesome food in the most efficient manner possible while also being environmentally friendly. This endeavor could potentially provide an option for people to choose, when it comes to choices of “meat.”
After being intrigued by the initial presentation of the idea, I then reached the point in the article where the author begins describing the “benefits” of having being able to create “hamburger” in a test-tube. Yes, I am putting the word hamburger in quotations…I just have a tough time calling something hamburger that comes from lab.
Some of the benefits listed included:
“Conventional meat and dairy production requires more land, water, plants and disposal of waste products than almost all other human foods.”
It is important to realize that most of the land utilized to raise cattle is of very poor quality and not land that is favorable for growing “human foods.” Particularly in the west, cattle run on mountain and dessert range, where elevation and length of growing season limits production to grasses. Additionally, where cattle have been managed properly, beneficial grasses actually increase, for both the cattle and wildlife, fuel loads are reduced and organic material in the soil is increased. Read more…
Happiness…Through the Actions of a Child
Making It To The Stump Was A Start
Happy – characterized by or indicative of pleasure, contentment, or joy
Last week, while I was heading someplace, I was listening to John Stossel, on my XM, “What Really Makes People Happy.”
I spent the next few days thinking about this question. I thought about myself and what makes me happy?
Late Saturday afternoon, my son could not have provided a better example.
I was loading the truck with hay when Kyle came running in the front of the barn Whooping and Hollering.
“What’s up buddy?” I asked.
“I did it daddy! I did it! I did it all by myself!” He yelled exuberantly.
“Did what?” I asked. (I was smiling from ear to ear seeing his expression and enthusiasm.)
“I climbed two trees (pause for breath) all by myself (pause for breath) without any help!” he exclaimed.
“Awesome, big guy, that’s great!” I said, still grinning.
“Can you do it again?” I asked.
“You bet I can! Come on dad, I’ll show you!” he said, as he pulled me down from the hay stack.
I proceeded to follow him to the lower horse pen and watched the HAPPIEST boy climb two trees, again, without help.
My son defined happiness through his expression and the emotion he brings out in me.
Getting Up To The Fork Was The Accomplishment!
Happiness cannot be bought; it is not achieved through accumulation of things, is not achieved by making more money and does not result from a handout.
Happiness is taking pleasure in being able to accomplish something through your own effort and energy, without interference from the outside.
Happiness is being able to achieve an endeavor, through ingenuity, creativity and determination.
Happiness is the joy in knowing that God has a plan for you and has you in the palm of his hand.
‘He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.’ Proverbs 16:20
I Have Great Respect For Clint Eastwood, but…
I’m curious what other folks thought about the Chrysler advertisement at half time of Super Bowl 46, starring Clint Eastwood.
First, I thought it was very well done…elicited emotion response, focused on the importance of being an American, the importance of working together, the importance of the individual, a powerful ad.
Then, when Clint Eastwood made the statement that “it’s halftime in America too,” a little switch flipped in my head. This was a political advertisement, a campaign message supporting President Obama.
In my mind I started connecting the dots….
We spent 14 billion dollars bailing out Chrysler and Chevrolet…saved around 100,000 jobs…that is about 1 million dollars per job.
Was this advertisement a way for Chrysler and Chevrolet to thank the President for not forcing them to go through bankruptcy and aid him in his campaign for a second term?
Perhaps I am wrong, but after watching it a second time, I have the perception and believe this is a clear example of why the government should not be involved in private business and bailouts.
What do you think? Here is the video. Watch it again. Am I wrong?
Versatile Blogger Award
First, I would like to thank Tracy (@NEwheatie), author of NebraskaWheatie and Cheryl (@DayAngus), author of farmchiclogic, for nominating me for the Versatile Blogger Award. It is an honor to be thought of in this way.
What is the Versatile Blogger? In my opinion, it is a neat way to recognize blogs and share appreciation. Here are the “rules” for participating:
- Thank and link the person/people nominating you.
- List and pass the nomination on to 15 of your favorite bloggers.
- Share seven tidbits about yourself.
- Copy this picture to your blog.
Lego Break!
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We had to take a quick break after lunch and feed the imagination, before continuing with ranch work.
