I remember the first meeting. Chase was 7 (but 2nd grade) and Cierra had just turned 9. For those of you that know me, you know I am somewhat shy and not a fan of going someplace new with new people. But I did and it was all good. We were welcomed into the 4H Club with open arms.
Their first year was interesting. Learning the pledge. Understanding what 4H was all about. Supporting the club activities. We knew we had made a great choice.
Year two both Cierra and Chase wanted to participate in the livestock program which meant changing clubs. Oh lordy….here we go again =)
They joined the Country Clovers and it has been an awesome journey. Club activities. Community support. 4H Camp. The county fair. Parades. Monthly meetings. Just so much fun and meaning.
They learned about breeding, caring for and showing animals –
Chase and Cierra were taught responsibility. Participation. Public speaking.
Project commitment. Pig, Goat, Lamb showing. Caring for others. Being a ‘club’. And being a part of the Country Clovers became their new norm.
Chase was always active in Baseball, Cub/Boy Scouts, Soap Box Derby. You name it and he did it.
Cierra not so much so. This really was her first rodeo and there was even concern with her ‘quiet personality’ and lack of talking but whew! look at her now. 4H has been so good for her and we have watched her blossom. She even learned how to stay away from home by attending 4H camp. (yes, it was a little rough but she made it! and Chase?! He didn’t want to leave, LOL) She found her niche and has continued to shine.
She has been the President of her Club for the past 5 years. She received the Citizenship award a few years ago. She is frequently recognized by her ability to work with everyone and her ‘teaching’ genes that help others that may not be as outgoing or know what to do.
Because 4H is such a great program, it was just natural to give back. Volunteering, building things, donating, fair support, whatever was underway we were there. Without question. Without wanting recognition.
Once Cierra got her license, we rarely go to the meetings. We continue to support whatever activity the club or county is working on and truly enjoy doing so. Ronnie loves buying animals at the fair and winning that bake auction item/basket that helps the club give back to the community.
The annual Achievement night was last week. It’s always great to see the children receive their awards and recognition for their hard work throughout the prior year. The accomplishments are amazing and the support from alumni 4H’ers, local businesses and families is awesome.
Our family attended – Ashley and the girls, Blake, Ronnie’s Mom and Dad – it was a family affair. And how perfect when Cierra received the “2016 Outstanding 4H Member” award?!
Oh but wait – Ronnie and I were also recognized as 4H Friend of the Year for 2016. How awesome!? Geez – I would have at least worn something more presentable, lol. We are so honored to receive this award. All for doing something we are passionate about. Easy stuff =)
So there you have it! Looking for some great friends? Some awesome activities? Want your kids to learn about breeding, feeding, basics of raising farm animals? Quality morales for your young ones? Just some down home kind of fun? Well 4H is for you and you won’t find a better county. Feel free to check out the opportunity here!
