While at the American Junior Simmental Association National Classic, the kids had to compete in at least 3 of the 5 events, one of them had to be public speaking. They chose livestock judging, Cattlemen's Evaluation Quiz, and a prepared Speech. There were three topics to chose from for their speech, and they both chose the same topic... "How can cattle producers better prepare and manage their herds for extremes weather conditions."
This was the best choice for them for a variety of reasons. The main one, was that they know what we do to prepare for drought, or an extreme weather condition. If you follow us on social median, you will know that I periodically talk about and show how we implement rotational grazing. The kids regularly help out moving the cows from paddock to paddock. They both stepped out of their comfort zones and we are so proud of them.
Show Days! Tuesday was show day for Sydney. Jackson showed on Wednesday. Neither of them got the placing that they wanted, and that is perfectly ok. We explained to them, this is a National Show with over 35 states present, 600 youth and around 1,200 head of cattle. They both did a great job and we are both so very proud of them both. They met new friends and tried new things.
The rest of the summer will be a few shows before ending at the Iowa State Fair...followed by the start of school. I am just not ready to think about that yet...
Here's to holding onto summer as long as possible...
~Elly
