Maybe the secret to life is to stay in 4-H

I was a 4-H kid for many years. I was a proud member of the Whitepine Happy Workers. I did photography and sewing and cooking projects, but no animals, even though we raised cattle and had horses at home.

When I was a sophomore in high school, something had to give. Between school and work and sports and 4-H, I had to let something go, and I decided to let 4-H go.

Several times over the weekend at the Sanders County Fair, I told myself that I should have stayed in 4-H thorugh high school. I couldn't really let school go and I worked at the Ledger, which turned out to be a life-changing experience, but I wish I would have made 4-H more of a priority.

My mom and I judged 4-H home ec projects again this year. It's not a tough job, sampling cookies and other baked goods. I love learning about the kids' projects and see the new and creative things they learn. One 4-H member stood out to me this year because he improved so much from last year. He came into the fair this year with more confidence and enthusiam.

4-H is such a valuable program. It's not just about raising animals or taking photos. It teaches communication skills and leadership and so many other great skills.

The year I quit 4-H, I got my first C in a class. Coincidence? Maybe. But the skills and knowledge gained from being a 4-H kid helps these young people succeed long after the last steer is shown and the last cookie baked.

Congratulations to all the 4-H leaders, members and parents for incredible effort at the Sanders County Fair.

— Annie Wooden