Why I recommend Leaving Columbus
Finding Home on the High Plains: My Life as a Newcomer in Western Kansas
Two years ago, my family packed up everything we knew and left Ohio for a place I’d never really imagined myself living—Western Kansas. I was born and raised in Southern Ohio, in a town where my family had deep roots, living on land my great-great-grandmother once called home. Moving to Kansas felt like stepping into the unknown. But now? I’m grateful beyond words that we took the leap.
From the City to the Plains
Before Kansas, I worked in Columbus—a busy city with endless career opportunities, long commutes, and a fast-paced lifestyle. That experience gave me valuable skills, and I’ll always be thankful for the knowledge I gained there. But what I didn’t realize back then was how different life could be, and how much more opportunity could exist in a place where jobs aren’t always posted online, and where community is the heartbeat of everything.
In Western Kansas, jobs aren’t just about resumes and applications—they’re about relationships. If you put yourself out there, show what you’re capable of, and become part of the community, opportunities open up in ways I never saw coming. If I could go back and talk to 18-year-old Kerissa, I’d tell her: Forget the job boards. Go where the strong communities are. Go where there’s room to grow. Take the risk and stand on your own two feet.
What Kansas Taught Me About Life (and Myself)
Living here has taught me so much more than how to adjust to a new zip code. It’s taught me the difference between needs and wants. It’s shown me that strength comes from within, and that the best friendships aren’t about convenience—they’re about showing up for each other, again and again.
Western Kansas also taught me something I never expected: you have to put yourself out there. In small towns, people invest in people. When you step forward, offer your skills, and become part of the fabric of the community, doors open that you never even knew existed.
The Practical Perks of Prairie Life
Beyond the life lessons, the practical side of living here has been a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. Daycare? Homemade meals, no need to pack lunch, and lower costs. Preschool? Free, with transportation for just $2 a day. Healthcare? Today I went to my nurse practitioner, got a mole removed, and was out the door in 20 minutes, still in time for school pickup. Same-day appointments are normal here—not a luxury.
Oil change? They pick up your car and bring it back. Trash service? $25 a month. Internet? Affordable and reliable. Housing? Lower rent, lower cost of living, and you can even get a grant to help you build your first home here—up to $50,000 if you’re moving from out of state.
Slower Pace, Bigger Life
Out here, weekends aren’t for errands and shopping—they’re for family and experiences. Many local businesses close on Saturdays and Sundays because family time matters. The culture prioritizes what truly matters: people, memories, and quality of life.
Traffic? The only “rush hour” is harvest season or school drop-off, where waiting at a stop sign for a full minute feels like a long time. Class sizes are small, and if you want to pick up extra work, there’s always someone looking for help.
What about rules and red tape? They’re practically non-existent. You can build, create, and innovate without drowning in permits and regulations. It’s a place that trusts its people to make good decisions.
More Opportunity, Less Anxiety
If you had told me five years ago that a town of 2,000 people would give me more career opportunities, less stress, and more personal growth than any corporate job ever could, I wouldn’t have believed you. But Western Kansas has given my family a better start, a stronger foundation, and a clearer sense of what matters.
This place has shaped me into a better mom, a stronger wife, and a more confident woman. It’s shown me that sometimes the greatest opportunities aren’t in the places where everyone else is looking—they’re in the places willing to invest in people brave enough to show up.
So if you’re sitting in a crowded city, drowning in student loans, and wondering if there’s another way—there is. And if you’re willing to trade the noise for the wide-open sky, you just might find that a smaller place can offer you the biggest life of all.

Beef Tri-Tip Steak: The Steak You Won't Find
You won’t find a cut labeled "tri-tip steak" at the store. Legally, it's labeled a tri-tip roast—but here’s the secret: it's best cooked and served as a steak.Meal Ideas from a Whole Brisket
10 meals ideas for a whole brisket, how to use the meat and maximize the budgetWhy should you make a WHOLE Brisket?
By preparing your brisket in the oven, you save time, money, and effort while still enjoying the rich, mouthwatering flavors that make brisket a favorite. Whether you're feeding a crowd or planning meals for the week, oven-roasted brisket is the smart, budget-friendly choice for delicious home-cooked meals.What is a Tri-Tip Roast and how do you cook it?
Tri-Tip Roast: The tri-tip roast is actually not a roast at all, it is a triangular cut of beef from the bottom sirloin, that is cooked like a steak. It is known for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. It's a favorite for grilling and roasting due to its marbling and versatility.What is a Teres Major & How do you Cook it?
Teres Major Cut: The teres major, also known as the shoulder tender, is a small, relatively unknown muscle located on the shoulder blade of the cow. It's a hidden gem due to its tenderness and flavor, often compared to the more popular filet mignon but at a fraction of the cost.Why You Should Choose Farm-Raised Dry-Aged Ground Beef
When you buy our dry-aged ground beef, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re supporting local agriculture and small-scale farmers dedicated to raising nutritionally dense, clean American meat. Your purchase helps maintain local economies, ensures the survival of small scale farming, and fosters a closer connection between you and the source of your food.
How to find sustainable meat in my area
Sustainable meat is about more than organic labels and non-GMO stamps. It’s about local sourcing, economic viability, environmental responsibility, and transparency. At Covey Rise Farms, we are committed to these principles, raising prime Angus beef that nourishes our families and supports our community. By understanding and embracing true sustainability, we can make informed choices that benefit both people and the planet.
How to Raise High Quality Angus Beef & Heritage Pork
Experience the Best with Prime Angus Beef from Covey Rise Farms
At Covey Rise Farms, we believe that quality begins with the best genetics. When it comes to producing prime Angus beef, starting with superior genetics is non-negotiable. Our commitment to high-quality Gardiner Angus genetics ensures that our beef consistently reaches prime grade, boasting marbling that often rivals wagyu.
The Importance of Quality Genetics in your Farm or Homestead
Whether you are raising cattle for personal use or to sell high-quality beef, the foundation is critical. Investing in top-tier Angus genetics is the first step towards achieving prime beef. Unlike farms that settle for cattle from the sale barn, we prioritize genetic excellence to produce beef that surpasses grocery store quality. At Covey Rise Farms, I want the beef I raise to be something that I am proud of, one that I know is in the top 1% off beef, and at the end of the day top quality beef starts with genetics.
Raising Quality Pork
While we specialize in Angus beef, we understand the importance of quality in all aspects of livestock farming. If you’re considering raising pork to sell and support your family’s meat supply, avoid breeds like the Kunekune pigs pig. Despite their smaller size, they are not cost-effective. Porkchops from this breed will be toddler size, by that I mean it will never produce enough pork. Anyone who has these breeds never stays with them for meat production. Instead, opt for classic breeds such as Hereford, Old Spot, or Berkshire pigs. These breeds not only produce better meat but are also known for their gentle temperament when properly handled. Pigs and cattle require work and time for them to be gentle. If you don't develop a relationship with them, don't expect them to be gentle.
Feeding for Prime Marbling
Producing prime Angus beef goes beyond genetics. The feeding process plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect marbling. At Covey Rise Farms, we feed our cattle slower than conventional methods. This approach allows the fat to develop evenly, creating well-spaced marbling that melts in your mouth like butter.
Sustainable Finishing Practices
The final step in producing prime Angus beef is the finishing process. Whether opting for a grass-fed or grain-fed finish, the quality of the soil and the sustainability of the feed are paramount. Exceptional soil quality is essential for a grass-fed finish they areas that have this are rare, and the money it takes to achieve this is not something most people have. Most beef producers finish on a corn or barley ration. This can provide an excellent alternative to a grass-finished beef and is more sustainable. One mistake we made early on in our business and our homestead was sourcing rare feed not available in our area. This will cost your business long term. Trucking in feed not grown in your area isn't a long term solution. Instead source as locally as you can. We prefer locally sourced feeds that may not have a white washed Non-GMO or Organic label, but we know and can insure how the crop was raised, grown, treated, and harvested. Carbon foot prints look so different compared to where you live. We make it a priority to buy grain, and quality ingredients such as distillers and minerals to help our cows live happy long lives, and our beef to finish sustainably. For a cow to be raised sustainably, there needs to be a balance between the environment, equity, and economy. It's based on the idea that humans and nature need each other to survive, and that sustainability is about creating and maintaining conditions that allow them to do so in harmony.
Why Choose Covey Rise Farms?
At Covey Rise Farms, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Angus beef. Our focus on superior Angus genetics, optimal feeding practices, and sustainable finishing methods sets us apart. We guarantee that our beef will deliver the tenderness, flavor, and marbling you expect from prime Angus beef and you will get to know your rancher and farmer along the way.
Experience the difference that quality makes. Choose Covey Rise Farms for your prime Angus beef and taste the excellence that starts with the best genetics and ends with exceptional farming practices.

Transforming the Kitchen: A Journey to Love Cooking and Create Family Memories
I want to share my journey into cooking while providing practical tips for easy, cost-effective meals that won't break the bank. My cooking experience has transformed not only our meals but also our family dynamics. Embracing the imperfections and turning the kitchen into a joyful space has allowed us to create lasting memories. By sharing my experiences and practical tips, I hope to inspire others to discover the joy of cooking, making their kitchens the heart of their home.
Do you ever have FREE Shipping?
Free shipping on premium dry aged prime beef shipped to your door! Shop directly from the rancher and skip the butcher case! Our prime selection of 21 day dry aged beef will not disappoint.
Last minute Mother's Day Gifts
Mother’s Day is around the corner, aka this weekend and if you’re still scrambling for the perfect gift, fret not! I’ve curated a list of kitchen must-haves that any mom would adore. Plus, I've hunted down some irresistible deals just in time for the occasion. Let’s dive in!
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Breville Espresso Machine As a mom of two, I know how crucial that morning caffeine fix can be. That’s why my go-to recommendation is the Breville Espresso Machine. It’s not just any espresso machine; it’s a lifesaver. And guess what? It’s currently 20% off—a rare find for this top-tier appliance. Trust me, this investment will keep you fueled for years to come. Grab it here!
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Silpat Baking Mats Say goodbye to parchment paper and greasy pans with Silpat Baking Mats. These gems are a game-changer in the kitchen. They ensure even baking, prevent burning, and make cleanup a breeze—all while maintaining your bakeware in pristine condition. And the best part? They’re currently 40% off for Mother’s Day. Don’t miss out on this steal! Get yours here!
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Lodge Cast Iron Cleaners Keeping your cast iron cookware in top shape is essential, and Lodge Cast Iron Cleaners make it a cinch. With these cleaners, you can bid farewell to harsh chemicals and tedious scrubbing. The Lodge Cleaner I swear by is perfect for everyday use, while the second one is ideal for tackling tougher cleaning tasks. Stock up on these must-haves for a sparkling kitchen! First cleaner here! Second cleaner here!
There you have it—your one-stop-shop for last-minute Mother’s Day deals. Treat yourself or the special mom in your life to these kitchen essentials, and make this Mother’s Day one to remember!