I got a phone call from my buddy Schoovy.  Best that I have heard him sound in a while.  Although, there is still some road to travel, things are looking up for Mama Schoovy.  Power of prayer and positivity.  Keep it up.

He was bragging on family and friends.  Very upbeat.  I like it.  He has also had time to study some online sales.  SCARY!

I thoroughly enjoy showing a grand animal.  Always have, always will.  But those critters that we show are not who defines me.  I enjoy the journey, the study of the genetics, the feeding program, the exercise, the showmanship and most importantly, the people involved.  I don’t even care what species it is.  Yes, I like the chase, the journey and the end story.  But the main characters are what brings the story to life and makes it real.

I’ve been dealing with a lot of kids lately.  If you watch or listen to our current news media, they will have you believe that kids aren’t of much account.  I’m here to tell you the truth.  I’m in the trenches and seeing this next generation…first hand and up close.

I can start with my own two progeny.  Yes, the daughter has done well and her parents are proud.  But, she isn’t without fault.  No, the son isn’t perfect and could do some things better.  But here is the truth.  Both kids are better than their parents.  WAY BETTER!  And that is our goal.

This may be stupid.  Maybe not.  I don’t really care.  For years now, I have made every 8th grader learn the photosynthesis equation.  If you don’t know it, well, you should.

6H2O + 6CO2 (in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll)  yields C6H12O6 + 6O2

It is the basis of life.  PERIOD.

For a grade, these kids have to get up in front of class and say it.  Oh yeah, I kind of like the public speaking. They will have to do it at some point.  Why not in front of their peers?  Plus, no papers to grade.

We did this today.  Some knew it and rocked it.  Some had to study a bit more.  29 8th graders in class.  None.  I mean NO negativity.  Encouragement, high fives, clapping and truly wanting to see their class mates get it done.  Regardless of gender, race, intelligence level, clothing, whatever the he!!.  If someone missed a part, they corrected them and coached them to try again.  I wasn’t the teacher.  I was just lucky to be there.

Good news.  Look around and listen.  It’s there.

Have a good one and a way better tomorrow.  Please and thank you.