Saturday, April 9, 2011

Our Little Cow Girl...

...I often compare Madelynn to Dr. Doolittle. There isn't a creature on this earth that she doesn't love, including Clarabelle. Clarabelle is a sweet little jersey cow and is Madelynn's 4-H project this year.  Calfs are born like all other animals they have to be trained.  In order for Madelynn to be able to show her, she has had to halter break her. This entails putting a rope halter on the calf and basically making her walk. The first few times were a challenge to say the least. Madelynn who only weighs 70lbs had to convince a calf who weighs 3xs that to walk on a rope. Here is what it looked like...


... A bit of a tug o' war.  It has been work, very hard work.  And at times a little defeating.  Especially every time Clarabelle decided that she was done and would just lay down...



...But eventually she got her to walk.  The key is for you and the cow to become friends.  There is no denying how much Madelynn loves her little cow....



...The real test came for Madelynn and Clarabelle at Buckeye Ag Days where they to some much needed "practice" in the ring.  It was even more special for Madelynn because her papa was the judge. Of course in order to keep things fair, he didn't judge her, but he was still there to be able to watch her shine.  I know it meant the world to her and I think she did him proud. 




...Madelynn and her sweet little friend Sheridan getting ready to show.



...Miss Clarabelle all clipped and ready to go.



...Heading into the ring for the first time.




...There was only one moment where Clarabelle decided that she was not going to walk anymore. Thankfully papa was right there to help coax her back up.




...She and Clarabelle won first place in her class.




...And reserve champion overall. 

...It was a fun day full of really great memories and good lessons. In just a few days she will be showing at County Fair and the excitement of it is just about to send her over the edge.  I am hopeful that she will do well.  All we can ever ask of her is that she do her best, and give it all she's got. I am so proud of my little cowgirl!

2 comments:

  1. Very cute! Great pictures, and an adorable little story to follow the pictures! Yay for Madelynn! Would love to be able to come to the County Fair the day she is showing and watch her.

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  2. Hi
    My name is Jenna and i came across your blog. kaden is a courageous, strong and determined fighter. he is a brave warrior, smilen champ and an inspirational hero. I am glad your daughter loves 4-h and animals, my cousins are both in 4-H and love it. They live on a farm. I was born with a rare life threatening disease, and I love it when people sign my guestbook. www.miraclechamp.webs.com

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