4-H Kids: Journey to the Fair
Princess Twilight Sparkle: Culling Cattle Names in a 4-H Family
Every spring, the kids pick out their favorite calf to show at the local fair. We have tried picking out the calf for them because, well, you want your farm to be well represented, but that didn't work.
The kids have their favorites and that is who they want to take. There is no changing their minds. We do however have some influence on the names. We have saved some calves from some very interesting names like "Princess Twilight Sparkle" named after a My Little Pony character.
Like with all young things, cattle need to be protected against diseases. Check out our cattle health section online here.
Three 4-H Kids, Three Cattle Shows and "Tiny" the Calf
Our daughter took her first fair calf Rose to the fair three years ago. The following year, her brother joined her by bringing his heifer, Jake. Last year our youngest joined them by bringing his calf Tiny to show. Tiny was a jersey calf from a first calf heifer. So Tiny was pretty small. Perfect size for a three-year-old.
They stole the show as she kicked and bucked around while our son's pants fell down. He received a participant trophy.
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4-H Drive: Serious Cattle Competition
Our daughter however is very competitive. Her wall is filling up fast with some big colorful ribbons. Those that show dairy cattle are required to wear all white. She is very concerned about her clothes staying clean prior to showing.
Looking for show gear? We've got clippers, halters and more right here.
She loves animals, so training them to lead is no problem for her. In fact, she trained all three calves last year. Such a blessing for this momma. She pays attention to the older kids as they show and listens to every word the judges say. Each year she has done nothing but improved. She strives to do well; she is motivated to be the best.
You can check out the Washington, Idaho or Montana 4-H extension programs by click these names.
Each year the kids have taken a new calf to show. This year is different. Our daughter is taking her heifer Tony back this year even despite the fact that her brother's heifer Tina beat Tony last year, she doesn't care. She just "knows" that Tony is a winner and has been leading her all over the farm.
The Journey Begins: Prepping for 2016 4-H Dairy Cattle Circuit
This summer she will be attending a fitting & showing class to help her learn the proper way to trim her heifer. In addition, she will learn tips & tricks on showing her heifer. She is so excited.
We will also be seeking out a 4-H group for her to join. Kids in our area are allowed to join a 4-H group when they enter the third grade. The kids have an exciting year ahead in the world of showing. I am sure that Tony, Thing 1 and Thing 2 will enjoy all the attention they will be receiving along the way.
Follow us online, or sign up to our mailing list, for updates on Tierra and family's journey to the fair. You can visit the national 4-H website here.
Krista is a first generation dairy farmer in eastern Washington... You can read more of her stories here.