1. Mikenzi Schulze
Hands Like Hooves
The fresh sun peeks its face over the horizon and the daily morning groans arise into the
thin chilled air. It is a day-to-day routine that everyone goes through. As limbs are
stretched and yawns are released, they all begin to get ready for the day. Their hair is
washed, brushed, and groomed. They slurp and chow down on nutritious substances to
gain energy for the day ahead. They all have a duty to fulfill before dinner is served and
the sun goes down.
As they sleep under the night stars, they are provided a path of light that is round, and
rather large. These grain eating, furry and four legged creatures are sensitive, courageous
and friendly. Those who participate in either 4-H or Future Farmers of America (FFA),
depend on these stock show animals, such as goats, pigs, lambs, rabbits and steers to lead
them to victory. However, there is no result without a few cups of effort and a couple
bales of patience.
There are many participants in the 4-H and FFA programs. Some are newcomers and
others have been caring for animals ever since they could walk on their own two feet. For
junior Stephanie Stokes, showing her animals is nothing new; she knows stock life like
the back of her hand. The 4-H colors of green and white and the FFA program have been
a part of her life since she wore size youth small in boots.
“I have raised and shown livestock since before the 3rd grade, over 10 years,” Stokes
said. “I have shown sheep and goats for 10 years and steers for 4.”

2. Stokes has a busy life aside from her many different animals at home. Over the years she
learned that there is a lot of preparation that goes on behind the scenes from day to day in
tending to these mammals.
“Time wise at our house, most of it is spend out at the barn more than anything. School
and livestock are mostly the main priorities at our house. We start our day at 5am going
out to feed and take care of everything.” Stokes said. “Since we have cattle we take to
hair shows, like Fort Worth, we have to rinse them everyday and keep their hair
growing.”
Animal loving is something Stokes has always been accustomed to; she not only shows
animals but in her spare time she juggles extra curricular activities such as sports.
However, Stokes has learned a lot from her busy lifestyle.
“Time management was something I've learned at an early age and sometimes can be
challenging juggling sports, academics, and other activities, but in the end it all works out
and I feel that things are accomplished successfully. Early mornings and late nights are a
daily thing, but I enjoy what we do and I wouldn't have it any other way.”
Making yourself work hard to get into shape, and gaining muscle can be hard as it is, try
pushing an animal to such actions. In the world of dealing with livestock, working them
is key. They need to be fit, and looking their best for competition.
“We exercise our lambs and goats everyday by working them with a dog on a track and
on showmanship skills. Since my brother and I are both involved in different

3. extracurricular activities after school, we mostly exercise and work with the lambs and
goats in the evenings.” Stokes said.
From the soles of boots to the hardness of hooves, animals walk, breathe and eat just like
humans. Those who learn and grasp the concepts of the way an animal reacts in certain
situations can form a bond with it and know its next move before it happens.
In the eyes of some, an animal is no more than a juicy burger or a “dummy” that is used
for training to make oneself look prosperous. However, to those whose lives revolve
around livestock, an animal means much more to them; they are more like their babies
who need attention, love and patience.
“When you're doing something you are passionate about, you want to work hard and be
successful at that! The FFA program is one that I have high expectations for and the
people involved in it as well, we're working to be the next leaders of this world and teach
others about agriculture. I am proud to be involved in it and the agriculture industry and I
love my animals.” Stokes said.