4-H Achievement Day

Today I washed and clipped cattle, packed up my tack box, and ironed my show jeans. This is my usual preparation procedure for a cattle show, but this isn't just any other show. Tomorrow I will be showing at my very last 4-H Achievement Day. For all of you non 4-Her's out there, let me explain what Achievement Day is. It is club show in which members compete against each other's 4-H projects. The show showcases members hard work from the past 4-H year, recognizes the club leaders, and appreciates the sponsors. It works just like any other show with overall grand and reserve champion animals, as well as showmanship awards.

My 4-H club has beef, sheep, and photography projects. The beef and sheep members will show their projects and be judged, while the photography members will put their best photos on display. It has always been an exciting day for me as well as many other members. For our club, Achievement Day is the final club activity before our regional show, 4-H on Parade. I have always enjoyed showing against my fellow club members, and seeing how our projects stack up. It is a special time where members can appreciate their hard work, and enjoy the rewards received.

I have had every beef project offered in my club through out the years- market steer, yearling heifer, 2 year old cow/calf, and 3 year old cow/calf. One year, I was even able to bring a whole Breeder's Herd project to town, an accomplishment I was very proud of. Tomorrow, I will be showing a steer, heifer, and 2 year old cow/calf pair. I think that this Achievement Day will be the most special as it is going to be my last one. I look forward to tomorrow and what is yet to come in my last 4-H year!

Me and my 2 year old cow Ruby, Achievement Day 2009