Discussions

I would like to hear from Brandon and area farmers (grain, cattle and hog) and know their opinion on how their lives have been in the Manitoba economy. I don't know if Adam allows multiple posts (hence the X-post title), but I am posting as well on Brandon Chatter.  
 
Why do they get a bum rap?  
Why do people always hear them complain, then see a lot of them driving brand new vehicles?  
 
I am not judging here , but just saying it's always been like that in rural Manitoba.  
 
What do non-farmers need to know about farming and the difficulties you may face in this Province?  
 
I know a 40 something couple who farm grain and cattle and they were apparently having a super tough year the year before last. Everyone that knew them was very sympathetic toward their situation - to the point where they were falling under charity. This year they could not put off their trip to Mexico.  
 
I am a private sector worker and I cannot afford to go to Mexico. BTW, these people are not known as "stupid spenders".  
 
I just want to get a farmers opinion.  
I respect them and they are our bread and butter, but in the hard years, these particular people are making more purchases than I ever will working the the private sector.  
 
Would the market fluctuate that much that in one year you are a charity case and the next you are going to Mexico?