It's been a year since I started with the Stephenson County 4-H Program and all I can think is what a whirlwind it's been. I have loved every moment since my arrival to Freeport. I have enjoyed getting to know the Stephenson County 4-H Program and all the 4-H'ers and families that come with it. It has been great experience for me and I look forward to the upcoming year, where I will be able to continue to grow with the 4-H program. I have had so many new experiences this year, from Super Saturday to General Projects Day, and from the Fair to Awards Judging. It has all been great and memorable. I love all of the excitement each event has brought.

I would like to thank all of those that have helped make my first year here so great! All of the staff, leaders, volunteers, 4-H'ers, and their families have made me feel very welcome. I have enjoyed getting to know everyone and look forward to getting to know more. I truly enjoy the feeling of family the Stephenson County 4-H Program brings.

As we start a new year, I would like to challenge each 4-H family to step out of the box with 4-H. Try something new and you could be surprised at how much you enjoy it. We are starting fresh, so anything goes! Maybe start thinking about how you can enhance your family's 4-H experience. It only takes a little effort to make the 4-H program work for you. There are so many benefits to the 4-H program and I know, I would not be where I am today if I had not been in 4-H. I went from a shy 7-year-old to a talkative 24 year-old. Without 4-H, I would not have had the practice to speak in front of a group of people or know how to fill out a scholarship application for college. 4-H can do so much for a person, but only if they want it and work at it. I look forward to seeing what the new year brings and I hope you do, too.

~Pam