When I started writing this little column, I figured it was just a lark that might last a year or two at best. That was almost 30 years ago.

No one was more surprised than me when, over the course of several years, newspapers and magazines from across the Midwest began contacting me and wanting to publish my bit of humor, and actually pay me for it. I can remember my father asking, “Why, in the world, would anyone be interested enough to pay for what you have to say?” He said that, lovingly, of course, but it was a question that has probably been asked by everyone who ever knew me.

After about 10 years of writing, I told myself that I wanted to cease writing the column before people started saying, “He’s just not as good as he used to be.” I can only hope those words haven’t been spoken by too many people up to this point, but I have come to the conclusion that it is time to call it quits.

Unique opportunity

Believe me when I say that I genuinely know how lucky I’ve been. I’ve had the unique pleasure to work with some of the absolute best publishers, editors and media people in the business. I’m convinced that my readers are the kindest and most loyal audience that has ever existed. Your comments, throughout my tenure, have been a constant source of inspiration and encouragement.

Writing this column has also provided the opportunity to be invited to speak at hundreds of meetings, conventions and banquets — from South Carolina to Wisconsin to Texas and all points in between. The good fortune to meet so many of you at these events has never been taken for granted. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

Still telling stories

Fading into the sunset is not my style, so if you have any interest in continuing to follow all my farming missteps, feeble attempts at humor and snippets of hillbilly philosophy, I encourage you to tune in to YouTube on your computer or smartphone, and search for Crown Cattle Company. There, I will try to continue to entertain you with stories from the past and present, for a few more years. After all, I never set out to be a writer, but I’ve always loved being a storyteller, and YouTube allows me to do just that.

In the meantime, if you see me at the local feed store, farm show, sale barn or county fair, please stop and say hello. I never get tired of seeing old friends — those I know, and those I meet for the first time.

Until then, keep your life simple.