Kids and family: the big picture

I am sitting in Kansas City watching the Trifecta of Junior National cattle shows; Maine Anjou, Chianina and Charolais. It is still early in the week but every parent here looks like they just finished a marathon and the kids don't look much better. It is impossible for anyone not involved to even imagine the work that goes into getting these kids here and the support that goes into putting on an event like this. These kids work their tails off and will leave at the end of the week with memories to enjoy for the rest of their lives.

I love watching the fitting contests and especially enjoy sitting in the stands and listening to the parents spew advice from the rail. Oh what I would give to see the parents out in the ring doing the same thing their kids are doing. Most of these kids, even the youngest ones, could run circles around us big kids!

Every kid here is going to leave exhausted but the motivation levels should skyrocket! This just reinforces that winning is not always the ultimate goal in this business. This kids, and hopefully their parents, are learning the value of the learning experience and the social and responsibility skills we are giving our kids. Positive life experience far outweighs standing in the winners circle in my book. We can still set and achieve goals. At the end of the day they should all be able to crawl back to the motel with pride in what they do and a passion for their work.

Monopoly X Gigolo Joe/Irish Whiskey Heifer

I never got along very well with this heifer's mother but she is the pasture pet this year. Brad has her spoiled! I love her look, her attitude, her color and her potential! Watch for her on our pasture sale this fall.

Why I love Maines: Lesson #1

Gigolo Joe: six year old Maine Anjou bull. He is a gentleman in every aspect of the term.

Consistent Donors: That's the key!

Black Betty hit a home run again this year with her second calf. Her Heat Wave heifer is truly a Diva and we are pleased to say that Black Betty has earned her way into the Donor lineup for this year. Once again, Cowpower has paid off and "Diva" will most likely be hunting for her place in the purple in the near future.