---

Becky Sonberg
Osage, Iowa
Mitchell County
135 cows

Family: My husband, Shawn, and children, Easton, Jasper, Lyla and Oliver.

Tell us about your farm. We have recently taken over sole ownership of the farm this year from my husband’s parents. They help with chores. Our nephew also helps on the farm along with our kids. We also have chickens that lay eggs as a side business for the kids.

What is a typical day like for you on the dairy? I take care of milking duties in the mornings and fill in with milking at night. The older boys help in the mornings while I make sure the younger ones are up for school. I fill in for vacations and illnesses at the hospital in the medical records department during the day or take care of bookwork for the farm along with all the household chores. After school is crazy with the kids’ sports activities and making sure everyone is where they are supposed to be. Some days it is hard to know which way I’m going.

What decision have you made in the last year that has benefited your farm? Taking over the business has been a big change.

Tell us about your most memorable experience working on the farm. The first time I had to milk alone was probably the most memorable experience. I also enjoy when I find my favorite cows and form a special bond with them.

What have you enjoyed most about dairy farming or your tie to the dairy industry? The newborn calves are always fun. I enjoy seeing my kids work hard and learn to work together.

What is your biggest accomplishment in your dairy career? Taking over the bookkeeping this year was intimidating to me, but so far, everything seems to balance. Hopefully I survive tax season.

What are things you do to promote your farm or the dairy industry? I love showing family and friends around the barn. We also have people stop who want a quick tour. My nephew is working on getting a dairy vending machine put in the school.

What advice would you give another woman in the dairy industry? It really helped me when I joined the Dairy Moms Facebook group and started following Dairy Carrie. I love the information and the ability to relate to others in the industry in an honest way.

When you get a spare moment, what do you do? I love to spend time with my family and friends. A group of us try to get together to make Quilts of Valor each year. I also enjoy going to my kids’ sports activities.

---