I can't believe this quarter is nearly over. It's has gone quickly, however, I feel so much more prepared to do my student teaching.. now, I just have to get all my assignments done this for this week. Then, then I'll be home-free, or camp-free.
This past weekend, I went home for my sister's high school graduation. It was neat to see her accomplishments and to see the young men and women Amy and her friends have become. Commencement ceremony went well. Saturday we got everything ready for Amy's graduation party. We cleaned the house, planted flowers, mulched and mowed. Finally, yesterday, her party happened. It was great to see everyone at her party and the food was delicious.
Overall, it was really neat to see all the support she received from friends, family and community members.
Now, that this last blog post is complete, I'll be moving to the next item on my mile-long to do list...
Praying for sanity...
Monday, May 30, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Almost Unbelievable
As I sit here, overwhelmed about all I have to get finished before next week, I can't help but think about life.
3 years ago, I was about to graduate high school. I was worried about how I would wear my hair, practicing my speech and if I would be able to walk in my shoes.
I learned a lot of lessons that one night. On graduation night, I learned that I shouldn't pass slow moving vehicles. I learned that when you get pulled over for speeding by a state patrol, the worst feeling (besides all the people driving past you to get to the ceremony) is when that darn slow moving vehicle runs right past you. Stupid mocking hay wagon.
I can't believe it's been three years. Tomorrow night, my sister will graduate high school. She will begin the next phase of her life. It brings tears to my eyes when I think about all our times together growing up. We shared a room and it was ALWAYS messy. However, it was alway's Amy's fault. (Don't believe me, just ask my mom.) I think about us playing barbies, playing house, and playing school. I remember when we would play "farm" with my brothers. I remember dressing Amy and Joe up and them "getting married." I look back and smile on the times we played in our cattle water trough swimming pool, went on bike rides and played in the sandbox. Even now as I type this I'm listening to the sound track of Pocahontas, one of our very favorite movies.
As I go back, I see how our relationship grew and developed over the years. We were best friends when we were little, then we fought a lot. Then, as time went on we became closer. We would send funny texts during family reunions, laugh about everything and recite movie quotes. We would chat on myspace, which now has become facebook and more recently twitter. Our relationship has grown from playing barbies and house to encouraging each other toward success. We began as sisters and best friends, then hated each other, and now, I'd say we're back to the best friend stage.
I'm so proud of all she has accomplished, and will accomplish!
3 years ago, I was about to graduate high school. I was worried about how I would wear my hair, practicing my speech and if I would be able to walk in my shoes.
I learned a lot of lessons that one night. On graduation night, I learned that I shouldn't pass slow moving vehicles. I learned that when you get pulled over for speeding by a state patrol, the worst feeling (besides all the people driving past you to get to the ceremony) is when that darn slow moving vehicle runs right past you. Stupid mocking hay wagon.
I can't believe it's been three years. Tomorrow night, my sister will graduate high school. She will begin the next phase of her life. It brings tears to my eyes when I think about all our times together growing up. We shared a room and it was ALWAYS messy. However, it was alway's Amy's fault. (Don't believe me, just ask my mom.) I think about us playing barbies, playing house, and playing school. I remember when we would play "farm" with my brothers. I remember dressing Amy and Joe up and them "getting married." I look back and smile on the times we played in our cattle water trough swimming pool, went on bike rides and played in the sandbox. Even now as I type this I'm listening to the sound track of Pocahontas, one of our very favorite movies.
As I go back, I see how our relationship grew and developed over the years. We were best friends when we were little, then we fought a lot. Then, as time went on we became closer. We would send funny texts during family reunions, laugh about everything and recite movie quotes. We would chat on myspace, which now has become facebook and more recently twitter. Our relationship has grown from playing barbies and house to encouraging each other toward success. We began as sisters and best friends, then hated each other, and now, I'd say we're back to the best friend stage.
I'm so proud of all she has accomplished, and will accomplish!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Twitter, Facebook and Blogs... Oh My!
Twitter Account...Check!
Facebook Account...Check!
Old Myspace Account...Check!
StumbleUpon Account...Check!
BlogSpot Account...Check!
Weebly Account...Check!
Gmail Account... Check!
Buckeyemail Account... Check!
Skype Account...Check!
Is your head spinning? Mine is!
If I totalled up all the time I spent on these silly websites, I think I would be appalled. I could spend that time working out, and maybe lost that twenty pounds I've been hoping to. I could cook, I could clean, I could visit with friends, or God-forbid, I could do my homework and get ahead on assignments.
However, social networking has grown ridiculously. I remember back in elementary it started with ICQ and AOL Messenger, then MSN Messenger. When will it end? Now we each have cell phones, with a constant ... hold on, let me answer this text message... okay, where was I? Oh yes, we have a constant connection with the world. Texting, phone calls, words with friends (Are those people really your friends? Do you know them?) Smart Phones remind us that we are only a few wavelengths away from everything.
The last few summers have been a reminder that I can live without technology. Working at FFA Camp has become a passion of mine. Although it is late nights, early mornings, demanding situations, last minute changes in plans, silly campers, injured campers, frustrating moments, stress levels beyond belief, tornado watches, thunderstorms... it is the greatest job on earth!
However, technology is umm.. interesting at camp. I've always had electricity (thank God!) but the internet is completely different. Having high-speed internet at home and on campus has spoiled me, to say the least. Camp has satellite internet. Camp shares satellite internet. Therefore, we only can use so much band-with per 30 days, and when the clouds are covering... no internet. To add to my already ruining dependence on technology, there is no Sprint cell service on camp property. Last summer, if I was able, I could turn my phone at about a 45' angle on my front right bedpost with the antenna toward the window and be able to receive text messages. I also had to have it plugged into the charger. Sometimes...if I stood my phone up on its side I could get a text. However, I was never able to send texts. I suppose walkie-talkie's filled that void for me. Rest assured, I could be reached on those nearly anywhere!
So, as I sit here looking out the window, yearning to be laying in the sunlight, I'm actually here at work, on my computer. (Well, the computer I share with lots of other people, but for now, it's mine.) My realization of dependence on technology is nearly overwhelming. Between all the internet accounts I have, and my phone, my car is super smart (except that my darn keyfob doesn't work), I'm surrounded constantly by internet, cell phones, computers, I-pods, phones.... I am looking more and more forward to camp so that I can just BE. Just be.
Technology, best thing to ever happen, sometimes the worst thing.
Now... time to check stumble upon and look at those wedding pic's of my friend Amanda...
Facebook Account...Check!
Old Myspace Account...Check!
StumbleUpon Account...Check!
BlogSpot Account...Check!
Weebly Account...Check!
Gmail Account... Check!
Buckeyemail Account... Check!
Skype Account...Check!
Is your head spinning? Mine is!
If I totalled up all the time I spent on these silly websites, I think I would be appalled. I could spend that time working out, and maybe lost that twenty pounds I've been hoping to. I could cook, I could clean, I could visit with friends, or God-forbid, I could do my homework and get ahead on assignments.
However, social networking has grown ridiculously. I remember back in elementary it started with ICQ and AOL Messenger, then MSN Messenger. When will it end? Now we each have cell phones, with a constant ... hold on, let me answer this text message... okay, where was I? Oh yes, we have a constant connection with the world. Texting, phone calls, words with friends (Are those people really your friends? Do you know them?) Smart Phones remind us that we are only a few wavelengths away from everything.
The last few summers have been a reminder that I can live without technology. Working at FFA Camp has become a passion of mine. Although it is late nights, early mornings, demanding situations, last minute changes in plans, silly campers, injured campers, frustrating moments, stress levels beyond belief, tornado watches, thunderstorms... it is the greatest job on earth!
However, technology is umm.. interesting at camp. I've always had electricity (thank God!) but the internet is completely different. Having high-speed internet at home and on campus has spoiled me, to say the least. Camp has satellite internet. Camp shares satellite internet. Therefore, we only can use so much band-with per 30 days, and when the clouds are covering... no internet. To add to my already ruining dependence on technology, there is no Sprint cell service on camp property. Last summer, if I was able, I could turn my phone at about a 45' angle on my front right bedpost with the antenna toward the window and be able to receive text messages. I also had to have it plugged into the charger. Sometimes...if I stood my phone up on its side I could get a text. However, I was never able to send texts. I suppose walkie-talkie's filled that void for me. Rest assured, I could be reached on those nearly anywhere!
So, as I sit here looking out the window, yearning to be laying in the sunlight, I'm actually here at work, on my computer. (Well, the computer I share with lots of other people, but for now, it's mine.) My realization of dependence on technology is nearly overwhelming. Between all the internet accounts I have, and my phone, my car is super smart (except that my darn keyfob doesn't work), I'm surrounded constantly by internet, cell phones, computers, I-pods, phones.... I am looking more and more forward to camp so that I can just BE. Just be.
Technology, best thing to ever happen, sometimes the worst thing.
Now... time to check stumble upon and look at those wedding pic's of my friend Amanda...
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Ultimate Experience
FFA Camp Staff.
Pure Awesomeness.
The fun begins on June 6th.
This past weekend I went to FFA Camp with the other staffers for our final weekend of planning before camp begins! I'm really excited! We stayed in the new retreat center. It is just fabulous. (Other than bottoming out my car did on the way up there.) We then did some team building exercises (including blindfolds and mousetraps) and then finalized the schedule for camp.
Sunday Morning we started by seeing what is left of the nature center. It is amazing the destruction that fire can leave on an area. Hopefully it will all be cleaned up by time camp begins in two weeks.
Over all, camp will be great! I'm excited and can't wait to get started! <3 FFA Camp!
Pure Awesomeness.
The fun begins on June 6th.
This past weekend I went to FFA Camp with the other staffers for our final weekend of planning before camp begins! I'm really excited! We stayed in the new retreat center. It is just fabulous. (Other than bottoming out my car did on the way up there.) We then did some team building exercises (including blindfolds and mousetraps) and then finalized the schedule for camp.
Sunday Morning we started by seeing what is left of the nature center. It is amazing the destruction that fire can leave on an area. Hopefully it will all be cleaned up by time camp begins in two weeks.
Over all, camp will be great! I'm excited and can't wait to get started! <3 FFA Camp!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Scarlet and Gray Ag Day
Friday I was one of the lucky individuals who led a group of 5th graders around campus learning about different areas of agriculture.
The first class we went to was Chocolate Science. Here the students tasted White, Milk and Dark Chocolate and learned about cacao bean pods and how chocolate is made.
Our next session was the canulated cow. Students were able to feel the inside of the rumen of a live cow and feel and smell the rumen fluid and other contents. Students looked, felt, and smelt the feedstuffs used to feed dairy cattle, and were even able to look at a slide of rumen contents under a microscope.
One poor little boy was hit when the cow (Brownie) coughed and rumen fluid went all over him. He was not interested in feeling the rumen after that. No worries though, we got him cleaned up and right back into the session.
At the end of the session, the students learned about dairy products and how Ohio plays a role in the industry. Brownie took it upon herself to cough again causing the plug to fly out and even more students to be hit with small particles of rumen fluid.
Thank goodness there wasn't a third time to "charm" us with the insides of the rumen!
We then went to a session in the 4-H center on 4-H where the students performed a simple experiment in the area of food science. They learned about dehydrated foods and how they aid in our society.
Our group then ate lunch, and headed back over to Ag Campus. Students were in a session about bacteria and contamination relating to food safety.
Finally, our students went to the entemology lab where they saw walking sticks from Australia and the United States, as well as beetles, scorpions and even a trantula.
Overall, it was a great day and I'm thankful that teachers and students are interested to know about agriculture. One boy said on his way to the bus, "This is the best field trip EVER!"
I think that pretty much sums up the difference we can make through agriculture and education!
The first class we went to was Chocolate Science. Here the students tasted White, Milk and Dark Chocolate and learned about cacao bean pods and how chocolate is made.
Our next session was the canulated cow. Students were able to feel the inside of the rumen of a live cow and feel and smell the rumen fluid and other contents. Students looked, felt, and smelt the feedstuffs used to feed dairy cattle, and were even able to look at a slide of rumen contents under a microscope.
One poor little boy was hit when the cow (Brownie) coughed and rumen fluid went all over him. He was not interested in feeling the rumen after that. No worries though, we got him cleaned up and right back into the session.
At the end of the session, the students learned about dairy products and how Ohio plays a role in the industry. Brownie took it upon herself to cough again causing the plug to fly out and even more students to be hit with small particles of rumen fluid.
Thank goodness there wasn't a third time to "charm" us with the insides of the rumen!
We then went to a session in the 4-H center on 4-H where the students performed a simple experiment in the area of food science. They learned about dehydrated foods and how they aid in our society.
Our group then ate lunch, and headed back over to Ag Campus. Students were in a session about bacteria and contamination relating to food safety.
Finally, our students went to the entemology lab where they saw walking sticks from Australia and the United States, as well as beetles, scorpions and even a trantula.
Overall, it was a great day and I'm thankful that teachers and students are interested to know about agriculture. One boy said on his way to the bus, "This is the best field trip EVER!"
I think that pretty much sums up the difference we can make through agriculture and education!
Rain Rain, Go Away...
I was so thankful for the chance to make it home this past weekend. However, the dreary gray skies were only a reminder that it is May 15th and my Dad has yet to put one corn or soybean seed in the ground. I like to think of farming as a game of risk. A farmer buys land, takes out loans to purchase machinery, chemicals, nitrogen, and seeds with the hope that the harvest will pay enough to cover costs as well as provide enough money to survive for the next year.
People who don't have that direct connection to farming don't realize the risk farmers take everyday. One day could be the difference of a successful crop. Spraying too close to rain could end up costing the farmer twice as much, therefore cutting into profits.
And beginning to plant almost 500 acres during the middle of May... that's risky business. Not only does that signal numerous late nights (or nights with NO sleep) but it could also signal ruts in the ground causing erosion as well as many other detrimental facts. On a video I recently saw on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUggaD6Mr0 highlights that farmers have to be "Part agronomist, conservationist, meteorologist, economist and ALL optimist." It also highlights, "To succeed at farming, a thousand things have to go right. Failure usually requires only one thing to go wrong."
Pretty interesting thought, eh?
I'm thankful that I have been privileged enough to grow up and have a deep appreciation and passion for farming and the agricultural industry.
People who don't have that direct connection to farming don't realize the risk farmers take everyday. One day could be the difference of a successful crop. Spraying too close to rain could end up costing the farmer twice as much, therefore cutting into profits.
And beginning to plant almost 500 acres during the middle of May... that's risky business. Not only does that signal numerous late nights (or nights with NO sleep) but it could also signal ruts in the ground causing erosion as well as many other detrimental facts. On a video I recently saw on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUggaD6Mr0 highlights that farmers have to be "Part agronomist, conservationist, meteorologist, economist and ALL optimist." It also highlights, "To succeed at farming, a thousand things have to go right. Failure usually requires only one thing to go wrong."
Pretty interesting thought, eh?
I'm thankful that I have been privileged enough to grow up and have a deep appreciation and passion for farming and the agricultural industry.
Technology and Teaching
Throughout the last 8 weeks, we have been writing lesson plans. We've also heard the phrase, "Work smarter not harder," numerous times. I'm not sure what it was like to be a teacher back before the convenience of the internet. I do know now, that sharing lesson plans and ideas falls perfectly into the "work smarter not harder" phrase. Just last night while working on a lesson plan for today, I stumbled upon numerous web sites like www.ideas4ag-ed.com. This site has many lesson plans, ideas, units, quizzes, all that agricultural educators have developed or compiled.
What a GREAT resource! I'm thankful that technology has allowed us to have resources at our fingertips!
What a GREAT resource! I'm thankful that technology has allowed us to have resources at our fingertips!
Monday, May 16, 2011
E-Moments
Last week in Methods of Teaching, we learned about engaging moments or E-Moments. Engaging moments provide students a way to learn and engage in the material. My partner Beth and I had "Bob the Weatherman." During our E-moment, students worked in groups to develop an idea and then presented their idea to the class as a "Weather Report." They highlighted the "affected areas," (who would be affected by their idea) showed the "Doppler Radar," (the long term effects) and overall just had fun with it.
Probably one of my favorite E-moments is the "Bob Dylan Moment." During this, Matt Elsass and Meghan McHenry created a song to remember parts of the engine. It was priceless. To make this come to life, they changed the words of "Wild Thing..." At a wedding reception this past weekend, the song "Wild Thing" came on, and I sang "Valve Spring... you make my engine sing, you make everything run smooooothly."
One more credential to E-Moments and that they DO work!
Probably one of my favorite E-moments is the "Bob Dylan Moment." During this, Matt Elsass and Meghan McHenry created a song to remember parts of the engine. It was priceless. To make this come to life, they changed the words of "Wild Thing..." At a wedding reception this past weekend, the song "Wild Thing" came on, and I sang "Valve Spring... you make my engine sing, you make everything run smooooothly."
One more credential to E-Moments and that they DO work!
Random Conversations
Saturday morning I took my little sisters to swim lessons at the YMCA. I wasn't allowed to swim, so I went to the hot tub and struck up a random conversation with a guy named Brian. He told me about his family and throughout our conversation, I learned that his son has a learning disability. The education system has failed his son. He has refused to allow his son to have an IEP. When an IEP was written up, it wanted to curve his grades, not make him do better. He struggles with reading, therefore struggles in every other subject.
While hearing this story, I became very upset. How can we, as educators, ensure this does not happen? They are looking to put him in a co-op program in a construction area. I tried to get my foot in the door and tell him about agricultural education and how the hands on learning could be a benefit for his son. I hope he looks into it.
While I am passionate and believe in education, I realize that the system has flaws. What can I do to help every student succeed? This the question I intend to have posted in my classroom one day to remind me of my career. It's not just teaching students about agriculture, it's pushing them to succeed and learn on their own. It's about giving them the tools they need to accomplish their goals.
While hearing this story, I became very upset. How can we, as educators, ensure this does not happen? They are looking to put him in a co-op program in a construction area. I tried to get my foot in the door and tell him about agricultural education and how the hands on learning could be a benefit for his son. I hope he looks into it.
While I am passionate and believe in education, I realize that the system has flaws. What can I do to help every student succeed? This the question I intend to have posted in my classroom one day to remind me of my career. It's not just teaching students about agriculture, it's pushing them to succeed and learn on their own. It's about giving them the tools they need to accomplish their goals.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
State FFA Convention
Tomorrow marks the start of the 83rd Ohio FFA Convention. I had the opportunity to attend convention every year with my chapter. I enjoyed listening to the speakers, staying in hotels and all of the fun activities we would do while in Columbus. However the year that sticks out the most, is my senior year convention in 2008.
I remember it like it was yesterday. I was the only senior on the trip and I was running for state office. The first session was fine, I listened and was attentive but the only thing I could think about was what would happen when they announced the ballot. At the end of that session, they announced the ballot. I was a nervous wreck. My name was announced as a candidate for State FFA Treasurer! I was so excited!
I don't remember the question I answered, I don't remember much of being backstage, but what I do remember is that level of excitement.
The rest of the day and the next day were a blur. I was just going through the motions. When it came time for the last session, I was losing it. My stomach was churning and in my throat. I've never had those same emotions since. I was sitting between my parents, holding my Mom's hand.
Then, it came time to announce the new officers. I had to tell myself to breathe. I was sitting there. I can close my eyes and I'm right back in that situation. I'm sitting there, eyes closed, leaning over. I was so nervous.
They called my name as State FFA Treasurer! I jumped up, hugged my parents, breathed a sigh of relief, hugged my advisor and headed to the stage.
Friday evening, there will be 16 members sitting in the audience at convention waiting to hear their names called. They will have the same feelings of relief as I did. I can't wait to see the excitement on their faces!
I remember it like it was yesterday. I was the only senior on the trip and I was running for state office. The first session was fine, I listened and was attentive but the only thing I could think about was what would happen when they announced the ballot. At the end of that session, they announced the ballot. I was a nervous wreck. My name was announced as a candidate for State FFA Treasurer! I was so excited!
I don't remember the question I answered, I don't remember much of being backstage, but what I do remember is that level of excitement.
The rest of the day and the next day were a blur. I was just going through the motions. When it came time for the last session, I was losing it. My stomach was churning and in my throat. I've never had those same emotions since. I was sitting between my parents, holding my Mom's hand.
Then, it came time to announce the new officers. I had to tell myself to breathe. I was sitting there. I can close my eyes and I'm right back in that situation. I'm sitting there, eyes closed, leaning over. I was so nervous.
They called my name as State FFA Treasurer! I jumped up, hugged my parents, breathed a sigh of relief, hugged my advisor and headed to the stage.
Friday evening, there will be 16 members sitting in the audience at convention waiting to hear their names called. They will have the same feelings of relief as I did. I can't wait to see the excitement on their faces!
Watering Plants
Today at work, Trina asked me to water the large plant in her office. What should have been a five minute watering job turned into a 25 minute cleaning job. Things learned today:
- Don't put more than one full container of water into the plant barrel.
- The bottom pan has a crack (or more) somewhere.
- Recycling bins make great water catchers.
- Waterfall sounds are relaxing.
- Too much water makes Trina's office smell like a forest.
- Don't waste time getting paper towels, just pop the whole roll out of the dispenser and bring to the office. Much more efficient.
I think it's going to be one of those days!
Inspiration
Albert Einstein said, "Everybody is a genius. But if you only judge a fish by his ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life thinking it's stupid."
This quote, the more I think about it, applies to nearly every aspect of life. Whether in the classroom, meeting someone new, or encouraging someone to accomplish their goals, it still applies.
My first thought when I read this quote was how can I apply this in the classroom. When thinking about my future, I will have lots of different kinds of students. I will have students with different, backgrounds, home life, experiences, interests, ethnicities, IQ levels, motivation levels, learning styles... the list goes on and on. I HAVE to look at each student and tell them that they are special and they will make a difference, they will be successful! I can't judge their ability to climb trees, I have to look at their strengths and judge them on what they can do.
In thinking about this quote, it applies to meeting someone new. If we assume that they are a genius in something, and our conversation is like a game to discover their sweet spot, find out what makes them move, I think that we would have much more meaningful conversations.
Can anyone else think of ways that this quote might apply to other areas of life?
Sara
This quote, the more I think about it, applies to nearly every aspect of life. Whether in the classroom, meeting someone new, or encouraging someone to accomplish their goals, it still applies.
My first thought when I read this quote was how can I apply this in the classroom. When thinking about my future, I will have lots of different kinds of students. I will have students with different, backgrounds, home life, experiences, interests, ethnicities, IQ levels, motivation levels, learning styles... the list goes on and on. I HAVE to look at each student and tell them that they are special and they will make a difference, they will be successful! I can't judge their ability to climb trees, I have to look at their strengths and judge them on what they can do.
In thinking about this quote, it applies to meeting someone new. If we assume that they are a genius in something, and our conversation is like a game to discover their sweet spot, find out what makes them move, I think that we would have much more meaningful conversations.
Can anyone else think of ways that this quote might apply to other areas of life?
Sara
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Technology and Agriculture... at its Finest!
As Agricultural Education majors, we have all been introduced to the NAAE's Communities of Practice page. There we have the opportunity to find resources and chat with other people in our profession. Well, being a farmer's daughter, Farmer's have the same thing!
The website is http://talk.newagtalk.com/category-view.asp?showall=true
Here, you can choose different forums such as the "Machinery Talk" to learn more on that particular area.
My favorite is the AgTalk Cafe. Here farmers, their wives, and others post funny stories, pictures of their families, their farms, ask questions and so on. It's a lot of fun to see the farmers post pictures of their children and the cute things they are doing!
My Dad LOVES this site. He is always forwarding me emails from this website. I encourage each of you to check this out and learn about agriculture from across the nation! It's a great website! Enjoy it!
God Bless,
Sara
The website is http://talk.newagtalk.com/category-view.asp?showall=true
Here, you can choose different forums such as the "Machinery Talk" to learn more on that particular area.
My favorite is the AgTalk Cafe. Here farmers, their wives, and others post funny stories, pictures of their families, their farms, ask questions and so on. It's a lot of fun to see the farmers post pictures of their children and the cute things they are doing!
My Dad LOVES this site. He is always forwarding me emails from this website. I encourage each of you to check this out and learn about agriculture from across the nation! It's a great website! Enjoy it!
God Bless,
Sara
Home Sweet Home
I am thankful I had the opportunity to go home this past weekend for Easter.
While being home on the farm, I remembered the exact reasons I love farm life.
I helped my siblings mix Milk Replacer for our baby calves. I went out to the barn and looked at the 64 beef steers and heifers my brothers have recently invested in as a partnership with my Dad. (Which, I think is awesome! They are 15 and 12 years old. How many boys that age have that opportunity to make investments and develop those skills of selecting, feeding, breeding, etc.)
I stood on the front porch and watched the storm clouds roll in. I could actually open my car doors all the way. At night I played Phase Ten with my brothers and sisters.
Sunday morning, our whole family went to church and had lunch together.
I wish that critics of Agriculture and farming would take the opportunity to see the everyday happenings of farm life. They would see the little things that make a difference. On our farm, they would see my youngest sisters, Emily and Adi, ages 8 and 5 respectively, out in the chicken house gathering eggs by hand. They would see by brothers carrying grain and hay to their calves. They would see my Dad and Adi checking the pigs in the morning. As well as administering medication, if needed and monitoring water consumption from the night before. They would see the care and dedication that goes into ensuring the health and well-being for each animal.
Critics would also see that when the power goes out, the pigs are the first to have power, then the barns with the other animals and finally our house is hooked up to the generator. Our family is last in the line to get power, proof that we care about our animals!
Going home and driving down the country roads only helps me look toward finishing my degree and heading back to the place I love...
In closing... "Country Roads, take me home, to the place where I belong..."
While being home on the farm, I remembered the exact reasons I love farm life.
I helped my siblings mix Milk Replacer for our baby calves. I went out to the barn and looked at the 64 beef steers and heifers my brothers have recently invested in as a partnership with my Dad. (Which, I think is awesome! They are 15 and 12 years old. How many boys that age have that opportunity to make investments and develop those skills of selecting, feeding, breeding, etc.)
I stood on the front porch and watched the storm clouds roll in. I could actually open my car doors all the way. At night I played Phase Ten with my brothers and sisters.
Sunday morning, our whole family went to church and had lunch together.
I wish that critics of Agriculture and farming would take the opportunity to see the everyday happenings of farm life. They would see the little things that make a difference. On our farm, they would see my youngest sisters, Emily and Adi, ages 8 and 5 respectively, out in the chicken house gathering eggs by hand. They would see by brothers carrying grain and hay to their calves. They would see my Dad and Adi checking the pigs in the morning. As well as administering medication, if needed and monitoring water consumption from the night before. They would see the care and dedication that goes into ensuring the health and well-being for each animal.
Critics would also see that when the power goes out, the pigs are the first to have power, then the barns with the other animals and finally our house is hooked up to the generator. Our family is last in the line to get power, proof that we care about our animals!
Going home and driving down the country roads only helps me look toward finishing my degree and heading back to the place I love...
In closing... "Country Roads, take me home, to the place where I belong..."
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Advocate for Agriculture
In thinking about being an advocate for agriculture, the most obvious way is to talk to large groups of people about what agriculture is. It's not just a job, or a a way to earn money, it is a lifestyle.
However, I think the greatest advocating for agriculture occurs in our everyday lives. Just last week, I told a doctor that I was an agricultural education major. The conversation started when he told me he liked my boots. I then went on to tell him and the two nurses I was with about my future career. I told them everything that I wanted to do, and teach and how I planned to encourage students to do great things in the world, through agriculture. I could see his mind turning. "How does agriculture at all affect how kids these days can do great things?" So, I told him, very briefly as there were other things for each of us to do that day, his of course earning much more money than mine. I informed him that agriculture teaches students many lessons and as the the leading and most basic industry in our country, provides jobs for millions of people, teaching life skills, and encourages students to achieve their goals.
Just a brief conversation hopefully got his head spinning. Will I ever see him again? Chances are no, but if I can plant a seed in one person about agriculture every single day, that in itself is making a difference i our world and in our industry.
I think that so many people take our lives for granted. We don't think about how much people do so that we are able to go to school, fill our cars up with gasoline (and grunt about the never ending price increase), dream about diamond engagement rings, picture our futures. We too often forget about the farmer who worked hard to put food on our dinner table, to put the milk in our glasses. There too, at Ohio State, who thinks on a daily basis about the Neil Farm, on which our University was built? I know I don't.
In my car I have a bumper sticker that reads, "If you enjoyed a good meal today, Thank a Farmer." I think life is as simple as that, thank people for what they do for you. Say "Fiddlesticks" when you're upset, be thankful when little things in life go the way you wanted, and and above all, thank a farmer for providing us with food, fiber and fuel to live our daily lives.
However, I think the greatest advocating for agriculture occurs in our everyday lives. Just last week, I told a doctor that I was an agricultural education major. The conversation started when he told me he liked my boots. I then went on to tell him and the two nurses I was with about my future career. I told them everything that I wanted to do, and teach and how I planned to encourage students to do great things in the world, through agriculture. I could see his mind turning. "How does agriculture at all affect how kids these days can do great things?" So, I told him, very briefly as there were other things for each of us to do that day, his of course earning much more money than mine. I informed him that agriculture teaches students many lessons and as the the leading and most basic industry in our country, provides jobs for millions of people, teaching life skills, and encourages students to achieve their goals.
Just a brief conversation hopefully got his head spinning. Will I ever see him again? Chances are no, but if I can plant a seed in one person about agriculture every single day, that in itself is making a difference i our world and in our industry.
I think that so many people take our lives for granted. We don't think about how much people do so that we are able to go to school, fill our cars up with gasoline (and grunt about the never ending price increase), dream about diamond engagement rings, picture our futures. We too often forget about the farmer who worked hard to put food on our dinner table, to put the milk in our glasses. There too, at Ohio State, who thinks on a daily basis about the Neil Farm, on which our University was built? I know I don't.
In my car I have a bumper sticker that reads, "If you enjoyed a good meal today, Thank a Farmer." I think life is as simple as that, thank people for what they do for you. Say "Fiddlesticks" when you're upset, be thankful when little things in life go the way you wanted, and and above all, thank a farmer for providing us with food, fiber and fuel to live our daily lives.
Monday, April 18, 2011
A Tribute
This Blog post is to honor one of the greatest men I've ever known. My Grandfather was born on August 29th, 1931, in the early stages of the great depression. Although I only heard his life story once, I've come to appreciate everything that he has ever shared. He lived during a time that many of us could not imagine. With no cell phones, no internet, and probably no TV, he managed to gain valuable lessons.
My grandfather didn't go to high school. Instead he worked on the farm and aided in making a living. Then, farming and agriculture was much different. With much less technology and lots more hard labor, he never turned down an opportunity to help others.
At our last Christmas together, during a game of Rummy, I had the change to ask him about his first wife and my dad's mother, Agnes. She passed away after a losing battle with cancer in 1993. Grandpa told me that they were dating and when he was going to be shipped to Korea, as he was a part of the United States Armed Forces (I'm not sure which branch he was in), he and my grandmother decided not to get married in the case that he might not return. This decision was such an impact for me to hear, because it seems like just the opposite for so many military couples these days.
Grandpa Clete never had the chance to be a part of the National FFA Organization. However, he would have grown greatly from it. However, he was one of the most supportive people in my time as an FFA member. Every time he would see that blue jacket his eyes would light up and he would ask what I was doing, where I had been and how I was leaving an impact.
He and his second wife, Delores, whom most of us consider to be our grandmother as she has filled that role were the definition of servant leadership. Together the volunteered at the local hospital, helped at the local nursing home, and served on many committees in their community. Grandpa went to church every single day and was the first in line to help when needed. He loved helping others and did it without ever asking for anything, especially recognition, in return.
So many memories come flooding back as I write this tonight. I remember the good times of playing cards, and always losing at rummy. In all the years we played, I only beat him one time. But when we threw the new game Phase 10 out there, he could never seem to beat us. He always had fig newtons, which I thought were for old people, but I've learned that I really like. He would wear the same clothes two days in a row, "well, because they didnt get dirty yesterday so why wear a new set and wash these?' I remember the weeks in the summer when we would stay at his and Grandma Delores' house. They would make us delicious meals and peach cobbler, and take us swimming and watch Black Beauty with us over and over again. Then they would make us go to bed and I would always try to sneak in a playing of the harmonica without him noticing!
As I got older the memories became more meaningful. I remember working on the farm together. Loading and unloading wagons during harvest, running errands for Dad year-round, riding in his little red ford ranger. He truly loved working on the farm. I still go back to the very place where we were unloading a hopper wagon of grain at the home farm and I asked him if he missed farming. He said that he did, but it was nice to be able to stop at 5pm and head home. And he always carried that same ole' lunch box with him. All the time.
I remember him stopping by just to pick up eggs. And he ALWAYS insisted on paying for them. When he knew he didn't need to. How I'd give anything to have him walk through the back door of the house just dropping by to say hi.
One thing is for sure: He left an impact in his home and community. He provided leadership, service, and a passion for agriculture. He loved working on the farm. He showed us each and every time that family was important to him. We learned so many lessons: Always hold your cards close, laugh when you can, smell the candles, love your garden and it will grow, puzzles are relaxing, retirement is great (even though I'll argue that he never really retired.) He taught us that hard work pays off. He showed us what living a life of value means. He is a role model that I can base my life off of.
My grandfather passed away in one of those tragic accidents that you only hear about on the news on April 13, 2010. It seemed unreal and still does to this day. However, my good friend Luke sent a remarkable letter to me during that painful time. He said, "I didn't know your grandfather but I know that he accomplished two things in life that I hope to one day: He had a great family and second, He met the Father while wearing his work boots."
When I'm grieving, usually alone behind closed doors, I remember those words Luke said. I remember the outpouring of community support and all the people that came to the calling hours and the funeral to pay their respects to a man who made a difference in their life.
So, how does this relate to Agriculture and Technology. I'm not really sure. This class has allowed me to feel comfortable posting my thoughts on the internet. I know that there are people who truly care about me that read this. For those people who knew my grandfather, they could tell you hands down his passion for this industry and the lessons that he learned. They would also tell you about his passion for the FFA. I remember him being at State FFA Convention the year I was a State FFA Officer, he would cover his name tag and asked random FFA members who their State FFA President and Treasurer were. Then he would show them his last name and tell them that he was the great-uncle and grandfather to the two of us. He was so proud of the impact that we were making in the youth and our interest and passion for the industry.
He was a man that I intend to model my life and teaching career after. Show each person that you care, help others when needed, support those around you, be strict and ultimately love what you do. Oh, and there is no need to say bad words... "Fiddlesticks" has the same effect.
Forever and Always in our hearts, Clete Schmitz.
My grandfather didn't go to high school. Instead he worked on the farm and aided in making a living. Then, farming and agriculture was much different. With much less technology and lots more hard labor, he never turned down an opportunity to help others.
At our last Christmas together, during a game of Rummy, I had the change to ask him about his first wife and my dad's mother, Agnes. She passed away after a losing battle with cancer in 1993. Grandpa told me that they were dating and when he was going to be shipped to Korea, as he was a part of the United States Armed Forces (I'm not sure which branch he was in), he and my grandmother decided not to get married in the case that he might not return. This decision was such an impact for me to hear, because it seems like just the opposite for so many military couples these days.
Grandpa Clete never had the chance to be a part of the National FFA Organization. However, he would have grown greatly from it. However, he was one of the most supportive people in my time as an FFA member. Every time he would see that blue jacket his eyes would light up and he would ask what I was doing, where I had been and how I was leaving an impact.
He and his second wife, Delores, whom most of us consider to be our grandmother as she has filled that role were the definition of servant leadership. Together the volunteered at the local hospital, helped at the local nursing home, and served on many committees in their community. Grandpa went to church every single day and was the first in line to help when needed. He loved helping others and did it without ever asking for anything, especially recognition, in return.
So many memories come flooding back as I write this tonight. I remember the good times of playing cards, and always losing at rummy. In all the years we played, I only beat him one time. But when we threw the new game Phase 10 out there, he could never seem to beat us. He always had fig newtons, which I thought were for old people, but I've learned that I really like. He would wear the same clothes two days in a row, "well, because they didnt get dirty yesterday so why wear a new set and wash these?' I remember the weeks in the summer when we would stay at his and Grandma Delores' house. They would make us delicious meals and peach cobbler, and take us swimming and watch Black Beauty with us over and over again. Then they would make us go to bed and I would always try to sneak in a playing of the harmonica without him noticing!
As I got older the memories became more meaningful. I remember working on the farm together. Loading and unloading wagons during harvest, running errands for Dad year-round, riding in his little red ford ranger. He truly loved working on the farm. I still go back to the very place where we were unloading a hopper wagon of grain at the home farm and I asked him if he missed farming. He said that he did, but it was nice to be able to stop at 5pm and head home. And he always carried that same ole' lunch box with him. All the time.
I remember him stopping by just to pick up eggs. And he ALWAYS insisted on paying for them. When he knew he didn't need to. How I'd give anything to have him walk through the back door of the house just dropping by to say hi.
One thing is for sure: He left an impact in his home and community. He provided leadership, service, and a passion for agriculture. He loved working on the farm. He showed us each and every time that family was important to him. We learned so many lessons: Always hold your cards close, laugh when you can, smell the candles, love your garden and it will grow, puzzles are relaxing, retirement is great (even though I'll argue that he never really retired.) He taught us that hard work pays off. He showed us what living a life of value means. He is a role model that I can base my life off of.
My grandfather passed away in one of those tragic accidents that you only hear about on the news on April 13, 2010. It seemed unreal and still does to this day. However, my good friend Luke sent a remarkable letter to me during that painful time. He said, "I didn't know your grandfather but I know that he accomplished two things in life that I hope to one day: He had a great family and second, He met the Father while wearing his work boots."
When I'm grieving, usually alone behind closed doors, I remember those words Luke said. I remember the outpouring of community support and all the people that came to the calling hours and the funeral to pay their respects to a man who made a difference in their life.
So, how does this relate to Agriculture and Technology. I'm not really sure. This class has allowed me to feel comfortable posting my thoughts on the internet. I know that there are people who truly care about me that read this. For those people who knew my grandfather, they could tell you hands down his passion for this industry and the lessons that he learned. They would also tell you about his passion for the FFA. I remember him being at State FFA Convention the year I was a State FFA Officer, he would cover his name tag and asked random FFA members who their State FFA President and Treasurer were. Then he would show them his last name and tell them that he was the great-uncle and grandfather to the two of us. He was so proud of the impact that we were making in the youth and our interest and passion for the industry.
He was a man that I intend to model my life and teaching career after. Show each person that you care, help others when needed, support those around you, be strict and ultimately love what you do. Oh, and there is no need to say bad words... "Fiddlesticks" has the same effect.
Forever and Always in our hearts, Clete Schmitz.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Lots on my mind this week!
Last week our BLOCK group had the opportunity to spend time at Greene County Career Center (GCCC) with Mr. Dan Schroer. This trip allowed us to see the difference a career center makes in the lives of students. I recently read a study from Harvard where results showed that not all students are cut out to go to college. This provides a need for Vocational and Career Technical Education. Which is something that we already see a value for!
We also had the chance to go on Supervised Agricultural Experience visits with agricultural educators. I was with the advisor from Cedarville/Greenview. It is awesome to see the projects that high school students have. Their passion for their SAE's are just as motivating and inspiring. If only all adults could see the difference these students are making now and the potential for it in the future.
We had the opportunity to see a SmartBoard in action! AMAZING! Mr. O'Shaughnessy used the technology to his advantage. He was so smooth with it and helped us see the ways that it could aid in the classroom. He would be a great teacher to have present to us. In about 3 minutes, he had most of our group drooling and wondering, 'where could we possibly get a few thousand dollars to enhance learning in the classroom?!' Simply amazing!
BLOCK continues to be a learning experience every day!
We also had the chance to go on Supervised Agricultural Experience visits with agricultural educators. I was with the advisor from Cedarville/Greenview. It is awesome to see the projects that high school students have. Their passion for their SAE's are just as motivating and inspiring. If only all adults could see the difference these students are making now and the potential for it in the future.
We had the opportunity to see a SmartBoard in action! AMAZING! Mr. O'Shaughnessy used the technology to his advantage. He was so smooth with it and helped us see the ways that it could aid in the classroom. He would be a great teacher to have present to us. In about 3 minutes, he had most of our group drooling and wondering, 'where could we possibly get a few thousand dollars to enhance learning in the classroom?!' Simply amazing!
BLOCK continues to be a learning experience every day!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
FFA Camp...Welcome Home
With the amount of time I've spent and the experiences I've had at FFA Camp Muskingum, it feels like a second home. As an FFA member, I went to camp two years. I spent the summer at camp when I was a state officer. I also attending 1st session of camp after my state officer year. That camp is known as PSO or Past State Officer Camp. Last summer, I had the opportunity to serve as one of six summer staff members for FFA Camp. Being on camp staff is not an easy job. It is a lot of late nights, early mornings, dealing with ridiculous campers. However, I cannot wait to return to camp this summer as a staff member and as an advisor in the future.
This past weekend the BLOCK took a trip to camp. Here we learned about the history of camp, the facilities and had the chance to go out on the high ropes course. We also conducted the District Officer Training for District 8. It was a great experience to really allow us to evaluate our presentation techniques and work with real students.
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